How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Peoria, Illinois

The growth of Illinois communities like Peoria relied heavily on German immigrants in the 19th century immigration surge in America. The most tangible result of German influences in Illinois are the Oktoberfest activities that take place from September through October. Peoria, Illinois features its own celebration of Oktoberfest at the end of September on the Peoria River Front.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Camera
• Umnbrella

Engage in Oktoberfest Activities in Peoria, Illinois

1. Map out the best path toward the Peoria riverfront as you enter the city. There are a variety of parks and docks on the river that can be confusing for travelers unfamiliar with Peoria. The Peoria Park District acts as one of the co-hosts of Oktoberfest and you can use their online map to locate River Front Park, which is #46 on the map (see Resources below).
2. Listen to the polka music performed by local bands like Ratskeller Brummers. This band has performed authentic German music at regional German festivals and events for years. You can celebrate with the Brummers all weekend long as they perform throughout Peoria's version of Oktoberfest.
3. Experience German music from the veteran members of the Heidelberg Quartett of Five. This brass quintet hails from Germany and travels around the world to help millions of people celebrate Oktoberfest. Go up on stage and dance to get in the Oktoberfest spirit.
4. Observe the skill and marksmanship of the Sports Verein Peroia Schutzen's air gun experts. This sporting club meets regularly to sharpen their marksmanship with cross bows and air guns. You can watch a display of their skills throughout the weekend and learn about traditional German sports.
5. Celebrate the mixture of American and German musical traditions by watching Die Spitzbaum during Oktoberfest Peoria. This band works out of St. Louis and provides a hybrid style of music that shows the evolution of German music in American Midwest enclaves.
6. Keep an eye on your Oktoberfest Peoria budget to save money for quality souvenirs. Children under 12 receive half price admission off of adult tickets. You should set aside some money to purchase a hand crafted souvenir like a nutcracker or beer stein.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that the last Sunday of the Elgin, Illinois Oktoberfest celebration doesn't begin until 11 a.m. On this day, festival participants typically pack a lunch and picnic on outdoor grasses as the ceremony closes.