STAY TUNED!
PEKIN MARIGOLD FESTIVAL
SEPTEMBER 12-13th, 2026
Mark your calendars for the 2026 Pekin Marigold Festival!
Keep an eye out for more information and for this year’s theme reveal.
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.)
Pekin Marigold Festival Grand Marshal Nomination
Nominations close on May 1, 2026
The Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for Grand Marshal of the 2026 Pekin Marigold Festival.
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.
The Marigold Festival Committee is seeking nominees who have demonstrated their passion and dedication by giving generously of their time and talent to a variety of charitable and community organizations and activities.
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. What do you think will be the 2026 theme? Keep an eye out for the big reveal!
