3 of Illinois’ Most Unique Annual Festivals

Illinois has its fair share of county fairs and festivals to enjoy each summer, but if you crave a good festival with a unique twist, here are three to add to your must-see-in-Illinois list.

Festivals You'll Only Find in Illinois

Whenever I'm on a mission to discover some interesting things to know, see, or do in Illinois, the Enjoy Illinois website is one of my first stops. Today I wanted to find out if there were any unusual summer festivals that I have never been to before in Illinois, and these three immediately peaked my interest:

1. Superman Celebration - Metropolis, Illinois Each June

If you love Superman and/or all things comic books, Metropolis, Illinois is the place to be for 4 straight days every June. Metropolis' Superman Celebration features costume contests, live entertainment, food, even the chance to meet comic book and superhero movie celebrities!

2. Popeye Parade and Picnic - Each September in Chester, Illinois

Enjoy Illinois says;

Popeye creator Elzie Crisler Segar was born in Chester. So, naturally, the town celebrates their famous son every year with a three-day celebration of the famed spinach-loving sailor.

This festival has live music, food, a parade, fireworks, games, and more!

3. The Great River Tug Fest Every August in Port Byron, Illinois (and LeClaire, Iowa)

This three day celebration features everything you would expect from a good festival; carnival rides, music, food, games, etc., but this festival also features a massive tug-of-war competition that takes place across the Mississippi River in two states!

These three festivals are just a taste of the unique experiences Illinois has to offer. So, next time you're planning a road trip, you should totally add one of these festivals to the itinerary.