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Annual Events

Throughout the year, Princeton hosts festivals and events that are enjoyed by many. There is something for everyone and another reason to visit Princeton, Illinois

February

Annual Beer & Wine Tasting

Bureau County United Way’s Annual Fundraiser featuring a variety of drink offerings, silent auction and live entertainment.

MARCH

Eat, Shop & Be Lucky

The Princeton Chamber of Commerce holds a St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Shopping Event for the north and south shopping districts.

June

Shrimpfest & Brew Hullabaloo

Kick-off the summer with an event fun for all ages, hosted by the Princeton Rotary Club. Grilled and Fried Shrimp Boats, Drinks and Entertainment all day at Rotary Park.

June

Beef & Ag Festival

Beef & Ag Festival Cattleman serving food all day. A bunch of activities for all ages throughout the afternoon. Live music in the evening. 

June

Summer Solstice Shopping Event

Enjoy sips of summer and shop Princeton’s two historic shopping districts. Coupons and promos available at local businesses for this special events. 

June

Z Tour Bike Ride

The Z Tour Bike Ride provides you a chance to enjoy some of the best bike roads that northwest Illinois has to offer beginning and ending at Princeton’s beautiful Zearing Park. 

June-September

Down on Main Street Concert Series

Princeton Tourism presents the Main Street Concerts Series right in the heart of Princeton’s historic south shopping district. A diverse line-up of musicians take the stage from June-September with food, drinks and fun for all ages. 

July

July 4th Celebration

Celebrate the 4th of July holiday with an entertaining fireworks display at Zearing Park. Come early and enjoy other activities happening before the big show. 

August

Bureau County Fair

The Historic Bureau County Fair, started in the 1800’s, is a five-day event with a variety of activities and entertainment for all ages to enjoy.

June-August

Festival 56

Festival 56 presents a wide selection of the most memorable plays and musicals throughout history, from the plays of William Shakespeare to the new generation of Broadway composers.

September

Homestead Festival

The annual Homestead Festival honors Reverend Owen Lovejoy and his contributions to our nation’s history. Enjoy a weekend full of activities. 

October

Shadows of Blue & Gray

Shadows Of The Blue & Gray is an annual Civil War living history event that is held the second weekend of October in City County Park. 

September-October

Oktoberfest

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Princeton’s Rotary Park with German music, drinks and great food!

October

Witches Night & Parade

Spooky season is upon us with the popular Witches Night Out shopping event and the Nightmare Haunted Attraction Parade down Main Street.

November

Christmas Walk

Celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season with the annual Christmas Walk Weekend. Shopping and a variety of Christmas activities will be happening for everyone to enjoy. 

November-December

Home for the Holidays Light Show

The new Home for the Holiday Light Show is a family drive-thru experience featuring light displays and a few special guests to greet you. 

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City Hall, 2 Main Street S
Princeton, Illinois 61356

815-875-2631
vyepsen@princeton-il.com

Princeton Tourism is a department of the City of Princeton

"The Best Small Town in Illinois for a weekend escape"

-World Atlas