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.
2026 Grand Marshal
Brian Carroll
For many throughout Central Illinois, Brian Carroll is synonymous with community spirit. Whether supporting local charities, emceeing beloved hometown traditions, or using his musical talents to benefit those in need, Brian has spent years making a positive difference in the lives of others.
A longtime supporter of the Pekin Marigold Festival, Brian has helped bring the community together through his service as emcee of the Miss Marigold Pageant and co-emcee of the Marigold Festival Parade alongside Mark Matthews. He has also volunteered countless hours working with the festival committee, including helping shape and promote Dragon Jam, one of the festival’s newest and most successful attractions.
Brian’s community involvement reaches far beyond the festival. Since 2015, he has served as a St. Jude Pekin to Peoria Runs Coordinator, helping lead one of Central Illinois’ most meaningful charitable traditions in support of the children and families of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Through music and public service, he has also supported numerous nonprofit organizations, church ministries, and community fundraisers, often donating his time and talents to help others.
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.Â
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.
Registration now open!
Thursday, August 27th, 2026
Marigold Golf Outing
Lick Creek Golf Course
The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to host the Marigold Golf Outing! Join us for an afternoon of fun, networking and fellowship. Prizes will be awarded. Mulligans available. Get your foursome together and plan to join us on Thursday, August 27, 2026 at Lick Creek Golf Course for a day of fun.
Tickets On sale Now!
Friday, September 11, 2026
Roots & Boots Dragon Jam
Avanti's Event Center Fields
Are you ready to JAM? Dragon Jam is back and it’s real country themed this year!! Enjoy Roots & Boots Dragon Jam, an evening of live entertainment kicking off the 2026 Pekin Marigold Festival Weekend!! Bands performing will be Taylor Bruninga and the Bandits, Stone Cold Cowboys, Brushville, and Nashville Recording Artist Jake Clayton.
Tickets are just $15 (plus fees) until July 1st! Beverages and food trucks will be available. Bring your lawn chairs. No coolers or outside beverages.
Did you know...
The first Marigold Festival was held in 1973 to honor Pekin's favorite son, Everett McKinley Dirksen.
Attention Vendors!
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.)



