This weekend in Peoria, IL

Peoria Riverfront Market sets the scene for lively shopping and music. Browse stands filled with fresh produce, baked goods, tasty treats, and handcrafted art from local vendors. Shawn “Smitty” Smith performs on Stage 2 near Suwanee’s Pretzels, adding an easygoing set of feel-good songs to the market atmosphere. Bring a lawn chair, settle into the shaded area across from the stage, and enjoy a cup from Faire Coffee before continuing your exploration of everything the market has to offer.

Crochet with Cats returns to River Kitty Café for a relaxed crafting experience in the company of friendly felines. The session welcomes both newcomers and seasoned makers, with instruction led by Jolean Laming, owner of Southern Moons Creations, a name seen at PeoriaCon and Illinois Game Con. Attendance is capped at 15 participants, with space for 6 beginners and 9 experienced crafters. Beginner tickets are $30 and include all materials plus guidance for the craft of the month. Experienced tickets are $15 and suit those bringing a work in progress or tackling the monthly project independently with minimal assistance. Every ticket includes a complimentary 16 ounce drink of your choice. Tickets are available online.

A single day celebration of literature brings readers and storytellers together. Talk with authors from the community, explore vendors offering book related goods, and connect with fellow readers and writers. Whether you hope to discover your next favorite book or develop your craft as a writer, this gathering is for you.

Rooted in the 1960s under the guidance of visionary community leaders, this long-standing fair has become a cornerstone of cultural life in Central Illinois. Now nationally recognized and welcoming thousands each year, it unfolds along the Peoria Riverfront with fine art, live music, and local food creating a lively atmosphere. Hands-on activities invite participation from all ages, bringing creativity and community spirit together by the water.

Get Saturday underway with a group hike at Robinson Park. This monthly outing welcomes every pace and experience level. Participants split into small groups and choose routes that match their fitness, creating an approachable way to be active while meeting new people. The series takes place on the last Saturday of each month and rotates among different locations, encouraging everyone to enjoy local park resources and the many health benefits of time on the trail. For questions, call or text 858-367-3520.

Family Time features kids crafts, alongside open studio access for hands-on creating. Choose from more than 25 projects, including macrame, painting, leather, concrete and more. Craft cocktails, mocktails, and other beverages are available to enjoy while you work. Reservations are recommended but not required.

A meetup for Central Illinois real estate investors gathers at Thyme Kitchen & Craft Beer for practical discussions and meaningful networking. Whether you are new to investing or already closing deals, the focus is on connecting with active investors, learning creative financing approaches, and finding potential partners to help move more transactions to the finish line. Seating is limited.

This Pokemon League gathering focuses on casual matches and card trading. Tournaments take place occasionally, and there may be video game activities as well. Weekly specifics, including tournament information, are available through the Play! Pokemon Access app.

Film Club brings movie lovers together at the Main Library on the last Saturday of the month. Enjoy a feature on the big screen in the auditorium, then shift to a smaller, more relaxed space for a post-film discussion. Registration is optional and simply helps with snack planning. The lineup spans titles such as Monsoon Wedding directed by Mira Nair, Joy Ride directed by Adele Lim, The Bikeriders directed by Jeff Nichols, Get Out directed by Jordan Peele, Children of Men directed by Alfonso Cuaron, Better Off Dead directed by Savage Steve Holland, The Omen directed by Richard Donner, Blue Velvet directed by David Lynch, and The Matrix directed by Lana and Lily Wachowski, with ratings that range from PG to R.

Peoria Public Library North Branch offers a Saturday Hatha yoga class led by a certified instructor. Sessions last about an hour and blend yoga poses, focused breathing, and meditation. Please bring your own yoga mat, which is required, and a water bottle if you like. This program is for adults and is free to attend. The series pauses during the summer and resumes afterward.

Casa de Arte hosts an outdoor Latin dance night, weather permitting. It begins with a bachata lesson with no partner required, followed by a social featuring salsa, bachata, merengue, and more. Cover is $5, paid at the bar upon entry. Street parking is available. Guests are encouraged to dress up and wear shoes that allow safe, easy movement, avoiding flip flops or high-traction soles.

Explore a bustling flea market at Northwoods Mall, where shoppers can browse antiques and collectibles, handmade creations, and one of a kind treasures from a variety of vendors. Look for it on the upper level near the down escalator. Admission is $2 at the door. For vendor information, contact Aaron McCarty at 309-825-1223.

At Crafted, the kids menu is available throughout open hours, and every craft option is offered. Explore more than 25 projects, with choices like macrame, concrete, leather, painting, and more, so everyone in your party can work on something different. Reservations are suggested but not necessary.

This gathering offers casual play with the possibility of an occasional tournament. For full event details, follow the store on the Play Ravensburger Hub website. When possible, register there in advance to reserve a seat.

A welcoming meetup at the Peoria Public Library Lakeview Branch offering a space to share resources and find support, with a focus on neurodivergent adults. Adults are welcome to participate. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions and ideas to discuss.