PEKIN MARIGOLD FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 9-13, 2026
Theme Announced for the 2026
Pekin Marigold Festival
The Pekin Marigold Festival Committee is excited to announce the theme for the 54th Annual Pekin Marigold Festival: Marigold Roots & Country Boots! This year’s theme celebrates Pekin’s hometown roots, warm hospitality, and the friendly family fun that make our festival and community so special.
The committee looks forward to welcoming the community for another unforgettable celebration filled with fun for all ages, live entertainment, and marigold pride as we honor our roots and kick up our boots in 2026! Long standing traditions including the festive foods, carnival, parade, and Art in the Park will return and new events will be revealed in the coming weeks! Business sponsorships are available. Contact info@pekinchamber.com to learn more.
Always the weekend after Labor Day, the festival Dates are September 12 & 13, 2026. Follow pekinmarigoldfestival.com and @PekinMarigoldFestival on social media. Check back often as information will be updated as plans are finalized.
Pekin Marigold Festival Grand Marshal
Nominations for the 2026 Marigold Festival Grand Marshal are now closed. Thank you for your submissions.
The Pekin Marigold Festival Grand Marshal is an honorary role awarded to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to the Pekin community. Selected for their positive impact and dedication, the Grand Marshal serves as a symbol of community pride and tradition.
The Grand Marshal is recognized during festival events and typically leads the Marigold Festival Parade, representing the spirit and heritage of Pekin while helping to celebrate one of the community’s most cherished annual traditions.
This year’s Grand Marsal will be announced soon!
The Marigold Festival began in the 1973 to honor Pekin native, Senator Everett McKinley Dirksen. The Senator played an influential role in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and it is with great pleasure the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce continues to hold the festival in his honor.
While in Congress, Dirksen championed the cause to make the marigold the national floral emblem. While unsuccessful in his efforts, his hometown of Pekin became known as the Marigold Capital of the World. The Pekin Marigold Festival is held annually on the first weekend after Labor Day.
The festival has grown to showcase area businesses, community outreach programs, and serves as a fundraising platform for area non-profits.
PAST MARIGOLD FESTIVAL THEMES
Here in the Marigold Capital of the World, we take pride in the celebration of our City. Take a look at some of the past themes of the Pekin Marigold Festival.
Did you know...
The first Marigold Festival was held in 1973 to honor Pekin's favorite son, Everett McKinley Dirksen.
Advertise your business in the 2026 Marigold Festival Souvenir Booklet!
Deadline to submit an ad is June 1st.
Questions? Contact amy@pekinchamber.com today!
Art In The Park Application Is NOW OPEN!
Saturday, September 12th – from 9 AM-6 PM
Sunday, September 13th – from 9 AM-5 PM
Returning Vendors:
Returning Vendors submit payment below.
(Returning vendors are those that participated in 2023, 2024 and/or 2025.)
New Vendors:
New Vendors may register below.
(New vendors are those that are new to the festival or those returning from before 2023.)
