39th Annual Festival of Lights

Welcome to the 39th Anniversary of the Festival of Lights in East Peoria.

I am confident you will enjoy this year’s parade as well as the many attractions the Festival of Lights has to offer.

FOLEPI would not be possible without the dedication of all our volunteers and staff members who put in hundreds of hours to assure the floats and displays are illuminated from the time the parade begins to the end of the Festival. This year, I would like to give a special thanks to Virgil Hauk, who has stepped down from his role in volunteering for FOLEPI. Virgil has been volunteering since 2012 and has been an intricate part of all the improvements made to our floats throughout his tenure. A sincere thank you to Virgil from everyone at FOLEPI! To all of you, residents or visitors, please enjoy this great East Peoria tradition and for being part of our celebration! We look forward to seeing you soon!

Kory Brown Chairman, Festival of Lights

On behalf of the City of East Peoria, we welcome you to this year’s Festival of Lights. Thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, the East Peoria City Council (l. to r.)

Festival of Lights Commissioner Dan Decker, will be the best Commissioner Mark Hill, ever! The Festival of Mayor John Kahl, Lights includes sevCommissioner Seth Mingus, eral events in which and Commissioner Michael Sutherland you are invited to participate: the Festival of Lights Parade, Winter Wonderland, and FOLEPI’s Gifts Galore Shop & Stroll! We invite you to shop in the numerous stores we have to offer and dine in our variety of restaurants. Thank you for visiting and welcome to the 39th Annual Festival of Lights!

East Peoria City Council

A special thank you to the FOLEPI Construction Crew: John Broshears, Virgil Hauk, John Durst, John Shank

FOLEPI Welcomes You! “Folepi” (pronounced F0-LEE-PEE) is the wooden soldier whose name is an acronym for the Festival Of Lights, East Peoria, Illinois.

This year, we are celebrating 39 years with Folepi! A symbol of volunteerism in East Peoria, Folepi represents the pride in our community by the people who volunteer for this event every year.

The East Peoria holiday displays create a delightful festival, but the real magic is the hard work and community spirit that radiate from the volunteers. From all who volunteer with the Festival of Lights, we would like to say “Thank you for visiting the Festival of Lights and Welcome to East Peoria!”

www.epcc.org

East Peoria Chamber of Commerce 201 Clock Tower Dr. East Peoria, IL 61611-2449 Phone 309-699-6212 www.welcometoeastpeoria.com Email: epcc@epcc.org

Design, advertisements and printing: Limelight Communications, Inc. Photographs: City of East Peoria, East Peoria Festival of Lights Commission, East Peoria Chamber of Commerce, and Eastlight Theatre. *Some information has been reprinted with permission of the City of East Peoria from www.cityofeastpeoria.com.

Folepi 2023  Page

3

Page

4  Folepi 2023

OFFERING Merry Christmas SHIPWRECK and Happy New Year!

SHAKES!!

99 2246 Richard Dierker State Farm 429 S. Main St Creve Coeur, IL 61610 309 699 2246 Richard Dierker State Farm 429 S. Main St Creve Coeur, IL 61610 309 699 2246

r!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

NOW OFFER 99 2246 Richard Dierker State Farm 429 S. Main St Creve Coeur, IL 61610 309 699 2246 Richard Dierker State Farm 429 S. Main St Creve Coeur, IL 61610 309 699 2246 SHIPWR SHAKE r!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Welcome to East Peoria!

Bring the FOLEPI Guide into Costco and you’ll receive a guest pass along witha special offer just for you!

HOURS M-F 10AM-8:30PM Sat 9:30AM-7PM Sun 10AM-6PM

We are located across from the Enchanted Forest: 301 W Washington St. East Peoria, IL 61611

309-427-2930

NOW OFFERING

SHIPWRECK SHAKES!!!

Shipwreck ShipwreckBloody Bloody Marys MarysAvailable Served Daily Daily

Shipwreck Bloody Marys Available Daily

A NEW SHAKE EVERY M A NEW SHAKE EVERY MONTH FULL SERVICE BA

RESTAURANT FULL SERVICE BAR & OPEN YEAR ‘ROU 99 2246 Richard Dierker State Farm 429 S. Main St Creve Coeur, IL 61610 309 699 2246 Richard Dierker State Farm 429 S. Main St Creve Coeur, IL 61610 309 699 2246 RESTAURANT OPEN YEAR ‘ROUND

Op Tues @ 11

Vid Gam

UFTRING AUTOMALL IN EAST PEORIA

PE-4686891_V2

Open 309-427-3000 Wed - Sun @ 11 am

DRIVE ANYWHERE,

ANY TIME.

Video Gaming PE-4686891_V2

INVENTORY IS IN STOCK AND INBOUND. RESERVE OR CUSTOM ORDER TODAY.

579 Wesley Rd Creve Coeur, IL

309-427-3000 309-427-3000

Kuchies.com • 579 Wesley 579 Wesley Rd Rd. • Creve Coeur, IL

Creve Coeur, IL

Kuchies.com

Bessler Welding, Inc. - East Peoria, IL - Phone 309-699-6224

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE EAST PEORIA FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

UFTRINGAUTOMALL.COM 500 FAIRLANE DRIVE • EAST PEORIA • (309) 694-0700

For All Your Welding Needs!

Folepi 2023  Page

5

Kuchie

THE ORIGINAL We have a wide variety of sandwiches and sides, homemade tenderloins and original Wonderdogs!

(309) 839-1535

2430 E. Washington St., East Peoria

(309) 406-1499

8807 N. Knoxville, Peoria

happy holidays WISHING YOU A SEASON OF PEACE AND JOY FROM

Page

6  Folepi 2023

Folepi 2023  Page

7

East Peoria’s Festival of Lights:

A Proud History

F

or the last 39 years, the holiday season has been a big part of East Peoria’s history due to the amazing displays of the Festival of Lights. What started in 1984 as a one-time event has grown into one of the largest nighttime holiday celebrations in the Midwest.

One of the most exciting developments happened in 2020 when the Festival of Lights was named Heavyweights Champion on ABC TV’s The Great Christmas Light Fight! The Festival competed nationally against three other cities for top prize of a coveted trophy and serious bragging rights.

How did it all start? Way back in 1984, the original organizers of the Festival wondered what the reaction would be to an outdoor nighttime parade and other light displays placed around the city. Would people go out in the cold to see them?

So, they got to work and created some amazing works of light.

And what did the people of the community do? They came, in droves, so much so that before the first festival ended the organizers were already planning what they could do the following year. The organizers and volunteers knew they had Page

8  Folepi 2023

a yearly festival for East Peoria. Initially the Parade of Lights consisted of daytime floats with lights attached, but as the creativity and ingenuity flowed, the floats and displays became more amazing. During the festival’s third year our first pencil steel float, the E.P. Noel Riverboat, made its debut, and it was a hit. From that point, all floats were made from pencil steel with lights attached. This is the method our dedicated volunteer Folepi Construction Crew continues to use today and, as lighting effects have improved, we have enhanced our floats with animated features.

Folepi’s Winter Wonderland drive-through display started in 1993 and hosts an average of 25,000 vehicles annually. All the parade floats, as well as many other lighted and animated displays, are part of the attraction in VFW Park.

The Festival Wreath, which sits high above the city on Fon du Lac Drive, was a Ferris wheel with fluorescent light

Photos by Soaring Badger Productions

tubes attached to the frame for the Festival’s first 29 years.

The current all LED wreath, unveiled in 2014, has a welded frame and 80 tube-shaped lights, 1,000 light bulbs, and rope lights.

A star shining over the City has been part of the Festival since 1985, and since has become a community favorite. In 2017, the old wood and fluorescent light star was replaced with one made of aluminum and illuminated with LED lights. This display was named the Henricks Star to honor the memory of festival volunteers Andrew and Cecelia Henricks. The star, located on the bluff of VFW Park, overlooks the City and Interstate 74. Son Alan Henricks says, “It is high and bright to inspire people.”

We hope you enjoy and are inspired by all the lighted displays and take in all the activities surrounding the joy of the East Peoria Festival of Lights.

Folepi 2023  Page

9

Happy Holidays from CityLink!

Why Ride CityLink?

• Convenient service across the Greater Peoria Metro Area!

• It’s GREEN! Three battery-electric zero-emission buses are on the streets & all diesel-powered buses act as clean-air filters that produce emissions that are CLEANER than the air they take in.

• It’s economical - a 30-Day Pass offers unlimited rides for 30 consecutive days for just $40!

www.ridecitylink.org • 309-676-4040

Happy Holidays from Elevate!

Locations in Peoria & East Peoria

Page

10  Folepi 2023

309.444.1000 O n e Co u n s e l i n g a n d We l l n e s s . c o m

FREEZE THE DAY! Rely on Sikich for professional services this holiday season and beyond

CullinanProperties.com Hover camera over code to learn more

309.694.4251

INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES AND DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL REAL ESTATE

SIKICH.COM

201 Clock Tower Dr., 3rd Floor, East Peoria, IL 61611

Folepi 2023  Page

11

Area Businesses Power The Festival Floats The East Peoria Festival of Lights Commission thanks the many businesses and organizations that reflect their pride in the community by serving as 2023 Festival of Lights sponsors: North Pole Sponsors AARP Adams Outdoor Advertising Carle Health Caterpillar Visitors Center IBEW Local 34 Illinois Central College Leeway Ceramic Tile Midwest Engineering Associates, Inc. Rescue Roofing Soaring Badger Productions Springfield Electric Stratus Networks Jingle Bell Sponsor Basic ITS Caterpillar - East Peoria Cullinan Properties Gift of Hope Miller, Hall & Triggs Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino Sunflower Realty Rudolph Sponsors ATS-Advanced Technology Services Busey Bank CEFCU Chick-fil-A East Peoria Concentric Integration Consociate Inc. Covenant Heating & Air Conditioning Elevate Trampoline Park Farnsworth Group German-Bliss Equipment

Jtec Industries Kuchie’s On The Water Kuhl Insurance Maurer-Stutz One Counseling OSF HealthCare / Children’s Hospital of IL Peoria Area Association of Realtors Remmert Funeral Home Saxony Court Senior Living & Accolade Healthcare Sikich Steamfitters Local 353 Tazewell County Asphalt TWM Uftring AutoMall Mistletoe Sponsors Ameren Illinois Aupperle Construction Bessler Welding Carpenters Local Union #237 CityLink Commercial Irrigation and Turf Community Foundation of Central Illinois Costco Culver’s of East Peoria Eggcellent Café Enercon Engineering, Inc. Eureka Et Cetera Shop Federal Companies Firehouse Pizza & Pub Fondulac Banking Center Fondulac District Library

G-Inspired Automall, LLC. General Power Construction Habitat for Humanity Heart Technologies Kuna Foodservice Lakeview Veterinary Clinic, LLC Legacy Wealth Partner Midwest Technical Institute OSF OnCall Peoria Civic Center Performance Welding Potbelly Sandwich Shop River City Construction S&S Signs Lighting & Electrical State Farm Insurance - Rich Dierker TNTs Sports Bar & Grill Trinity Heating & Cooling Winter Insurance an Unland Company Wonderdog Friends of FOLEPI Allegra Marketing, Print & Mail FamilyCore Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church Limestone Township Ice Skating Rink Michael’s Subs, Salads, & Hot Sandwiches Miller Custom Welding Noodles & Company—East Peoria Peoria Symphony Orchestra Progressive Careers and Housing Veterans Cuts Washington Chamber of Commerce WMBD-TV

In-Kind Sponsors

Brewers Distributing • EastSide Centre • East Peoria Chamber of Commerce • Fon du lac Park District • Jimmy John’s Midwest Communications • Oberlander Electric • Road Safe Traffic Systems • State Farm • WEEK-TV

Televised Parade

Watch the replay of the Parade Saturday, December 9th at 6 p.m. on WMBD and Monday, December 25th at 5 p.m.

2023 Floats and Estimated Number of LED Lights 57 Chevy, 14,000 lights Baby Puff, 8,000 lights Baby Shamu, 4,000 lights Batmobile, 12,000 lights Bear on Sled, 16,000 lights Bunny, 7,000 lights Chinese Dragon, 21,000 lights Chopper, 15,000 lights Clydesdales, 50,000 lights D10 Tractor, 1,400 lights Dinosaur, 35,000 lights Discovery, 13,500 lights Duck & Ducklings, 19,500 lights 1934 Duesenberg, 13,000 lights E.P. Noel Riverboat, 14,000 lights Enloader, 4,000 lights Enterprise, 48,000 lights Flag and Military, 4,000 lights Guitar, 2,000 lights Helicopter, 4,000 lights Holiday Living Room, 2,364 lights Hook & Ladder, 27,500 lights Monster Truck, 5,000 lights Puff the Dragon, 17,000 lights Purple People Eater, 5,000 lights Reindeer, 7,000 lights Santa, 4,000 lights Snowman, 9,200 lights Starfighter, 18,000 lights Steam Train, 65,000 lights Ti-Fighter, 6,500 lights Toy Tank, 4,000 lights Toy Train, 18,000 lights Triceratops, 25,000 lights Trolley, 14,000 lights Virgil’s Dirigible, 20,000 lights Welcome, 4,500 lights Whale, 15,000 lights

2023 Festival Events Parade of Lights 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 18

Folepi’s Winter Wonderland drive-through display nightly Nov. 24 through Jan. 1 Saturday, Nov. 25 FOLEPI River Trail Classic Dec. 1–10 Eastlight Theatre’s Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Saturday, Dec. 2 Breakfast and Photos with Santa at Quail Meadows (Registration: https://bit.ly /FOL-Breakfast-Photos-with-Santa)

Friday, Dec. 1 Christmas in the Village at Peoria Riverfront Museum (Details: RiverfrontMuseum.org)

Saturday, Dec. 9 Folepi’s Gifts Galore Shop & Stroll Saturday, Dec. 9 Historic Holiday Traditions Wednesday, Dec. 20 FOLEPI Library Night at Fondulac District Library Sunday, Dec. 31, 9pm–midnight Get Lit New Year’s Eve Celebration

Learn more at folepi.org and on social media:

Folepi 2023  Page

13

Happy Holidays!

Building Business.

Growing Wealth.

Since 1868.

Page

14  Folepi 2023

Saturday, December 9th

Noon - 3 p.m.

East Peoria’s Original Downtown

Winter Wonderland, East Peoria, IL Open Nov. 24, 2023 - Jan. 1, 2024

T

he 100% LED drive through park is the Festival of Lights’ signature event! Folepi’s Winter Wonderland features the majority of the Parade of Lights floats and many other lighted displays.

This year will feature the return of some favorite displays from the past 39 years.

Location: • Fon du Lac Park District’s VFW Post 2078 Park off Springfield Road, East Peoria (Entrance address: 123 Par 3 Lane, East Peoria) Winter Wonderland Times: • 5 - 9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5 - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday • 5 - 9 p.m. December 24th - January 1st • Open Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s night.

Admission Fees: • C ars, trucks and vans - $10 • Small bus (party, shuttle, mini or school) - $30 • Full-size buses - $150

E

njoy shopping, lunch and free carriage rides during Folepi’s Gifts Galore Shop & Stroll in the Historic Four Corners District and adjacent areas. Those who spend $25 or more at a participating business will receive a coupon for free admission to the Folepi’s Winter Wonderland drive-through display. Find a map and complete details at folepi.org.

Call 309-397-0962 for reservations to visit the Doering House.

Storytime with Santa

FOLEPI NIGHT AT THE LIBRARY DECEMBER 20 AT 6 PM

Specials at Folepi’s Winter Wonderland: • M onday: Chick-fil-A • Tuesday: Santa • Wednesday: Elevate Trampoline

December 31st | 3 - 5:30PM

Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Halls

Fun for the whole family!

Activities & Performances from 3-5:30PM Parade to the Ball Drop at 5:30PM

FREE ADMISSION

& Parking! Concessions Available

Ball Drop & Fireworks at 6PM Scan for the full list of activities and stage performances

Folepi 2023  Page

15

HAPPY

HOLIDAYS

Stop in with this ad for a FREE cookie Happy Holidays to your family from ours!

200 National Road – East Peoria, IL 61611 – 309-694-4500 www.Federalcos.com

318 W. Washington Street • 309.698.2100

Seasons Greetings FROM LAW OFFICES OF 416 MAIN ST., SUITE 1125 PEORIA, Illinois 61602 Telephone: 309-671-9600 E-mail: mht@mhtlaw.com Page

16  Folepi 2023

Life is unexpected. And when it comes to your health, Carle Health will be here to help you through it all. With everything from neurological care to the latest rehabilitation methods, you can count on Carle Health for whatever comes your way.

carle.org

Folepi 2023  Page

17

Have a holiday in Washington Events November-December - Holiday Passport Shop local and small this holiday season and win prizes. Show the difference local dollars make!

Nov 23 • Griswold Way Lights Open Located on Jaden’s Way. Open Thanksgiving through the new year with a nightly light display to music Nov 26 • Small Business Saturday Shop small around town. Ambush giveaways in local shops throughout the day Dec 2 • Breakfast with Santa Hosted by Washington Park District and held at Five Points Washington Dec 7 • Candlelight Stroll Shops Open Late, Carriage Rides around Historic Washington Square, Community Tree Lighting and Community Sing.

Dec 12 • Christmas Walk Hosted by the Washington Historical Society, tour a variety of homes with their stunning Christmas décor

Support Everything Local in Washington for a Holly Jolly Holiday!

Looking for a unique gift? A timeless treasure? Or that item everyone is buzzing about? Head to Washington, where you will find gifts and experiences for everyone. Eat, drink, shop and be merry while you spend the day in Washington! @WashingtonChamberofCommerce on Facebook or @Washington_COC_ for more on Instagram.

Washington Chamber Bucks Looking for a gift that fits everyone?

Washington Chamber Bucks are the answer.

Available online or at the Washington Park District Office, Washington Chamber Bucks are accepted at over 50 different businesses!

105 S. Spruce St, Washington, IL 309.444.9921 info@washingtoncoc.com www.washingtoncoc.com

Proud Sponsor of the East Peoria Festival of Lights

Happy Holidays!

WWW.UNLAND.COM

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM

AGE IN PLACE WITH ALL THE AMENITIES

Independent * Assisted Living * Skilled Care Activities & Outings, Restaurant Style Menu, Outpatient Therapy, Nursing Care, Wound Care, IV Treatment, On Site Respiratory Care, Medication Management Folepi 2023  Page

19

Find what you love here in Central Illinois

Learn how you can put your time, knowledge and talent to use by volunteering with AARP in Illinois.

Help make the communities where you live, work and play the best they can be while engaging with others who share your passion for service. The time commitment is flexible and the returns are great!

Get to know us at aarp.org/IL or contact Ellen Acevedo at eacevedo@aarp.org or (312) 513-7326. /AARPIllinois

@AARPIllinois

Grab some colored pencils, crayons if you can find them, or maybe those half-used pens hiding in your top drawer — IT’S TIME TO COLOR!

®

ACROSS:

5

6 7 8

9

10

11

13

12

14

DOWN:

15

16

17

19

Page

22  Folepi 2023

18

1. small baked treats 3. something people plan with family 4. something that goes on before a shoe 7. white and cold 11. something a horse pulls 12. rounded glass lights 13. cake with candied fruit 15. I love a ______ 18. milk and spice beverage

ACROSS:

4

2. Santa’s guide 5. goes with root beer 6. sing once a year 7. top of the tree 8. naughty or nice 9. top of a present 10. something Thomas Edison invented 14. Jingle _____ 16. round garland 17. peppermint stick 19. a type of tree

2. Rudolph 5. Float 6. Carols 7. Star 8. List 9. Bow 10. Lights 14. Bells 16. Wreath 17. Candycane 19. Evergreen

3

DOWN:

2

1. Cookies 3. Holiday 4. Stocking 7. Snow 11. Sleigh 12. Bulbs 13. Fruitcake 15. Parade 18. Eggnog

1

FAMILY FUN PACK 2 Concerts for the Family & 1 for Date Night!

Rock your family's socks off this festive season with the ultimate gift of live music! Grab the PSO's Family Fun Pack and score awesome seats for the Home for the Holidays, Hollywood Old & New, and the annual Romance concerts, all with an exclusive discount. peoriasymphony.org 309.671.1096

Home for Hollywood Romance the Holidays Old & New Peoria Civic Center Theater December 17, 2023 3:00 PM

Create Holiday memories with your loved one’s at the PSO’s 2023 Holiday concert. Enjoy a melody from Holiday favorites like Charlie Brown, the Nutcracker, Christmas carols, and more!

Peoria Civic Center Theater January 28, 2024 3:00 PM

A concert the whole family can enjoy! Featuring music from the Epics to the Golden Age of movies depicting the endless struggle between the villains and the heroes we all love!

Peoria Civic Center Theater February 17, 2023 7:30 PM Enjoy the PSO’s popular annual Romance concert featuring a romantic evening filled with live music, drinks, and dancing. You’ll fall in love with the romantic pieces by Surinach, Lalo, Tchaikovsky, and Rimsky-Korsakov.

Folepi 2023  Page

23

Food Offerings Listed below are food offerings from members of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce Avanti’s of East Peoria, Inc.

2320 E. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-6200 • avantispeoria.com

Barrack’s Hospitality Group

1224 W. Pioneer Pkwy., Peoria, IL 61615 Ph: 309-692-3990 • caterinn.com

Brewer’s Distributors

2421 W. Townline Rd., Peoria IL 61615 Ph: 309-692-2883

Burkland Distributing

2500 N. Main St. Suite 3, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-1900

Carl’s Bakery & Restaurant

819 E. Camp Street, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-7275 • facebook.com

Chick-fil-A

250 W Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-1044 • chick-fil-a.com

Costco Wholesale East Peoria #1126

301 W. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-427-2930 • costco.com

Crumbl Cookies

406 W. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 801-368-4361

Culver’s of East Peoria

901 W. Camp St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-9240 • culvers.com

Dairy Queen

E Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Opening Spring 2024

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers 134 Spinder Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-322-0625

Holy Crab

205 River Road, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-966-1145

Jason’s Deli

112 Spinder Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-5400 • jasondeli.com

Jimmy John’s

242 W. Camp St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-1500 • jimmyjohns.com

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse

101 Holiday St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-692-3887 johnnysitaliansteakhouse.com

Jonah’s Seafood House & Oyster Bar 2601 N. Main St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-0946 • jonahsseafood.com

Kona Ice of Peoria

110 Woodlands Point, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-258-9135 • kona-ice.com

Kuchie’s on the Water

579 Wesley Rd., Creve Coeur, IL 61610 Ph: 309-427-3000 • kuchies.com

Kuna Food Services

701 Pinecrest Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 618-286-4000

McDonald’s Restaurant

608 W. Garfield Ave., Bartonville, IL 61607 Ph: 309-697-3872 • echovalleymeats.com

2601 E. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-0721 • mcdonalds.com AND 161 Spinder Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-8000 • mcdonalds.com

Eggcellent Cafe

Michael’s Subs, Salads & Hot Sandwiches

Echo Valley Meats, Inc.

322 W Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-643-1218 • eggcellentcafe309.com

Firehouse Pizza and Pub

1302 Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-370-3734 • michaelsitalianfeast.com

Moe’s Southwest Grill

240 S. Main St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-9111 • firehousepizzail.com

130 Spinder Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-6637 • moes.com

Five Star Water

Noodles & Company

106 Harvey Ct., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-3169

358 W. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-8640

Panera Bread

496 E Washington St., East Peoria, IL Ph: 309-694-2222 • www.panerabread.com

Pho Noodle House / Dragon Wok

206 W. Camp St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-5668 • phonoodlehouseep.com

Potbelly Sandwich Shop

318 W. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-2100 • potbelly.com

ROC Ice Cream and Golf

220 Farmdale Rd., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-369-7618 • facebook.com

Social Taco

900 Riverside Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-966-2442

The 5th Quarter Sports Bar & Pizzeria 1110 N. Main St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-713-3436 • 5qsportsbar.com

Tin Lizard Bar & Grill

at Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino 21 Blackjack Blvd., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-7711 • paradicecasino.com

TCRC

21310 State Route 9, Tremont, IL 61568 Ph: 309-347-7148

The 520 Café

520 Bloomington Rd., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-839-1416

The Waterhouse

316 SW Washington Street, Peoria, IL 61602 Ph: 309-494-9100

Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill

at Bass Pro Shops 1000 Bass Pro Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-427-3300 • restaurants.basspro.com

William B’s

at Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino 21 Blackjack Blvd., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-7711 • paradicecasino.com

Wonderdog

2430 E Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-839-1535

For shopping, services, and other attractions go to www.epcc.org

Area Attractions

Offer Visitors a Wide Range of Entertainment The following venues are members of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce 17-Foot Lighted Star

Fon du Lac Park District

Quail Meadows Golf

Off Springfield Rd.

201 Veterans Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-3923 • fondulacpark.com

2215 Centennial Dr., Washington, IL 61571 309-694-3139

Bass Pro Shops 1000 Bass Pro Shops Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 309-427-3400 • basspro.com

Caterpillar Visitors Center 110 SW Washington St., Peoria, IL 61602 Ph: 309-675-0606 • caterpillar.com

Clumsi Yogi 2503 North Main St., East Peoria IL, 61611 331-422-9130

Comic Confections 2516 E Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 563-459-8841

Fondulac District Library

RC Outfitters

400 Richland St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-3917 • fondulaclibrary.org

311 S.W. Water St., Peoria, IL 61601 Ph: 309-676-6378 • rcoutfitter.com

Folepi’s Winter Wonderland

ROC Ice Cream & Golf

Intersection of Springfield Rd. and Par 3 Lane, 123 Par 3 Lane

220 Farmdale Rd., East Peoria, IL 61611 309-369-7618

Fun on the Run

ShaZam Racing

721 NE Adams St., Peoria, IL 61603 Ph: 309-693-9475 • funontherun.com

311 S.W. Water St., Peoria, IL 61601 Ph: 309-282-8686 • shazamracing.com

Giant Holiday Wreath

Shoppes At Grand Prairie, The

Fondulac Drive

5201 W. War Memorial Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 Ph: 309-692-3672 • shoppesatgrandprairie.com

Craftology

Narrated Nativity

131 East Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 309-326-0781

Intersection of Springfield Rd. and Taylor St. (Bottom of Springfield Rd. hill)

Eastlight Theatre

NHS Property Management

P. O. Box 8055, East Peoria, IL 61611 309-699-7469

810 W. Trailcreek Dr., Peoria, IL 61614 309-689-1700

The Levee District 360 W. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-999-1700 • theleveedistrict.com

The Picker’s Daughter 125 E Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-712-1453 • thepickersdaughter.com

East Peoria Historical Society

Par-A-Dice Casino

326 Pekin Ave., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-4711 • eastpeoriahistoricalsociety.com

21 Blackjack Blvd., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-7711 • paradicecasino.com

Ph: 309-370-6811 • theuniquetwist.com

EastPort Marina

Peoria Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Bass Pro Drive • Opening Spring 2024

701 Mariners Way, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-3034 • eastportmarinail.com

EastSide Centre 1 EastSide Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-5437 • eastsidecentre.com

Elevate Trampoline Park 105 North Main St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-966-4444 • elevateeastpeoria.com

Five Points Washington 360 N. Wilmor Rd., Washington, IL 61571 Ph: 309-444-8222 • fivepointswashington.org

Folepi’s Enchanted Forrest at Levee Park 401 W. Washington St., East Peoria, IL 61611

The Unique Twist The Put Club

456 Fulton St., Suite 300, Peoria, IL 61602-1220 309-676-0303

Wheels O’ Time Museum

Peoria Chiefs

1710 W. Woodside Dr., Dunlap, IL 61525 Ph: 309-243-9020 • wheelsotime.org

730 SW Jefferson St., Peoria, IL 61605 Ph: 309-680-4000 • peoriachiefs.com

Wildlife Prairie Park

Peoria Civic Center

3826 N. Taylor Rd., Hanna City, IL 61536 Ph: 309-495-6712 • wildlifeprairiepark.org

201 SW Jefferson Ave., Peoria, IL 61602 Ph: 309-673-8900 • peoriaciviccenter.com/home

WTVP Public Media

Peoria Riverfront Museum

101 State St., Peoria, IL 61602 Ph: 309-677-4747 • wtvp.org

222 SW Washington St., Peoria, IL 61602 Ph: 309-686-7000 • peoriariverfrontmuseum.org

Pleasant Hill Antique Mall 315 S. Pleasant Hill Rd., East Peoria, IL 61611 309-694-4040 Folepi 2023  Page

25

Helping All Leaders Excel Excel Helping All Leaders Helping All Leaders Excel Helping All Leaders Excel

Area Hotels

Helping All Leaders Excel

Offer Visitors a Wide Range of Amenities The following hotels and motels are members of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce

Greg Hale Jr. - (217) 412-5722 Greg Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723 Greg Hale Jr. - (217) 412-5722 Greg Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723 Greg Hale Jr. - (217) 412-5722 Greg Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723 Greg Hale Jr. - (217) 412-5722 Greg Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723

Hale Jr. - (217) 412-5722 Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723 Greg Hale Jr. - (217)Greg 412-5722 Greg Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723 Welding Welding 412-5722 - (217) 412-5723 Hale Jr. - (217) GregHale Hale Sr. -Sr. (217) 412-5723 ale Jr. - 412-5722 (217)Greg 412-5722 Greg Hale Sr. - (217) 412-5723 Welding

Welding America’s Best Value Inn Machine Moving Welding Machine Moving 104 W. Camp St., East Peoria, IL 61611 Machine Moving Machine Moving Ph: 309-699-7283 • redlion.com/americas-best-value-inn Contact us at: us info@pwllc.com Machine Moving Contact at: info@pwllc.com Contact us at: info@pwllc.com Contact us at: info@pwllc.com Embassy Suites by Hilton East Peoria ntact us at: info@pwllc.com

Welding Welding Welding Welding

Machine Moving Machine Moving Riverfront Hotel & Conference Center chine Moving Machine Moving

100 Conference Center Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 800-EMBASSY or 694-0200 • embassysuiteseastpeoria.com

tact us at: info@pwllc.com Contact us at: info@pwllc.com s at: info@pwllc.com tact us at: info@pwllc.com Fairfield by Marriott

200 Eastlight Court, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-4300 • fairfield.marriott.com

OPEN 6:30-2:30 M-F • 6:30-3:00 Sat & Sun

Four Points Sheraton 500 Hamilton Blvd., Peoria, IL 61602 Ph: 309-306-3424 • fourpoints.marriott.com

Hampton Inn 11 Winners Way, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-0711 or 800-426-7866 • hamptoninn3.hilton.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites East Peoria - Riverfront 1100 Bass Pro Dr., East Peoria, IL 61611 309-694-9800 • ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

from

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites 101 Holiday Street, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-698-3333 • ihg.com/holidayinn

Par-A-Dice Hotel & Casino 21 Blackjack Blvd., East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-699-7711 or 800-547-0711 • paradicecasino.com

Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette 501 Main Street, Peoria, IL 61602 309-637-6500 • marriott.com

EAST PEORIA

240 FARMDALE ROAD • EAST PEORIA, IL

309-699-3977

www.allegraeastpeoria.com Page

26  Folepi 2023

Residence Inn by Marriott 201 Eastlight Court, East Peoria, IL 61611 309-698-4011 • marriott.com

Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center 101 Mariners Way, East Peoria, IL 61611 Ph: 309-694-1300 • stoneycreekhotels.com

Share the light.

Save a life.

Merry Christmas One person can save up to 8 lives through organ donation and improve 25 or more through tissue donation.

Register your decision to donate life today.

Go to giftofhope.org or scan the code.

Take a photo with our float and share on social media #SayYestoDonation

Folepi 2023  Page

27

Wishing You a Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays From Our Family to Yours

Scott Mohn Owner

Cell: 309.645.4105 Page

28  Folepi 2023

Office: (309)645-ROOF (7663) E-mail: scott@rescueroofingpllc.com Website: rescueroofingpllc.com

23rd Annual Get Lit Celebration Saturday, November 25, 2023

R

un” in the holidays at the 33rd annual FOLEPI River Trail Classic, set for Nov. 25 on the River Trail of Illinois. The 4-mile competitive run is at 9am and a 2-mile walk is at 8:30am. Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female finishers in each age division of the run, and a post-pace party featuring pizza, and beer for those over age 21, will occur at Mickie’s Pizzeria. For details and entry information, visit folepi.org.

“

New Year’s Eve Folepi’s Winter Wonderland

R

un, walk or ride the lighted Trolley float through the lighted displays of Folepi’s Winter Wonderland during the 23rd annual Get Lit New Year’s Eve Celebration. Events occur from 9:15pm until midnight Dec. 31. Families can celebrate New Year’s Eve among the lighted floats and enjoy treats by the fire pits. For complete details and how to register, visit folepi.org.

W I S H I N G YO U A V E R Y

Carpenter’s Local Union #237 www.Carpenters237.com

Proudly Publishing the FOLEPI Guide for 20 Years!

309-681-4418 • www.limelightlink.com 2001 E Hartman Rd, Chillicothe, IL GRAPHIC DESIGN | MARKETING | WEBSITE DESIGN | PUBLISHING

Heating Air Conditioning & Plumbing Specialists Pekin: 309.346.2714 Peoria: 309.699.2988 www.yourcovenant.com

INTEGRITY • RELATIONSHIPS • EXCELLENCE • INNOVATION

Folepi 2023  Page

29

Solving Problems Is Our Passion

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER FOR GETTING THE JOB DONE RIGHT.

f ro m

East Peoria, IL 61611 (309 698-8404

For 77 years, TWM has been solving the most complex infrastructure challenges our clients face by providing cost-effective, innovative, and efficient solutions. We believe in client-focused relationships and center our services on five core areas to provide the highest level of technical expertise: • Geospatial / Surveying • Transportation • Structural • Land Development • Water Infrastructure EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. NOTHING LESS.

618.624.4488 • www.twm-inc.com

we have you covered!

LOOKING FOR A NEW HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

EAST PEORIA LOCATION:

TREMONT LOCATION:

100 N. MAIN ST. #100 EAST PEORIA, IL 61611

22200 STATE RT 9 TREMONT, IL 61568

WWW.SUNFLOWERHOMES.INFO • 309.925.5000 Folepi 2023  Page

31

CARE WHEN AND WHERE YOU NEED IT.

osfoncall.org/urgentcare

AmerenIllinois.com

Bright tomorrows start with doing good today.

Through our mission to power the quality of life, Ameren is building and maintaining strong community relationships, supporting economic development and lifting up those in need – because empowering our communities is just as important as powering them.

Remmert Funeral Home East Peoria, IL 61611 (309) 699-9613

Celebrate the season of giving with us. #liveheregivehere 309-674-8730 www.communityfoundationci.org Page

32  Folepi 2023

ICE SKATING RINK DEC 8-17, 2023 ALPHA PARK - BARTONVILLE, IL BASKETBALL COURT 1605 W. Garfield Ave. Bartonville, IL 61607

SUN-FRI: 4-8PM SAT: NOON - 8PM $5/HOUR INCLUDES SKATE RENTAL MORE INFO:

limestonetownship.org

All Proceeds Benefit the Limestone Township Swimming Pool

Hurry! Offer expires 1/31/24

Folepi 2023  Page

33

from

(309) 427-7000 | www.heart.net

Merry Christmas from

Proud Sponsor of the 39th Annual East Peoria Festival of Lights (800) 218-8831

Merry Christmas Lakeview.vet (309)699-6443

Page

34  Folepi 2023

EnerconPower.com

OVER 100 YEARS OF CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE 309-266-7460 | 309-676-8831 | info@aupperle.org

Connectivity Solutions

THAT BOOST YOUR BUSINESS & NETWORK PERFORMANCE DATA • VOICE • CLOUD Contact Us To Transform Your Business Today

800.990.9093 www.stratusnet.com

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS QUEENS Winners of the Festival of Lights Queen Pageant: • Magge Cowen 2022-2023 • Chloe Rogers 2019-2022 • Abby Eggemeyer 2018-2019 • Jerelyn Joos 2017-2018 • Nicole Moore 2016-2017 • Ashlyn Kahl 2015-2016 • AsiaKai Dang 2014-2015

• Lakin Smith 2013-2014 • Megan Stafford 2012-2013 • Demi Broderson 2011-2012 • Shannon Mulhern 2010-2011 • Jessica Stake 2009-2010 • Kiersten Sames 2008-2009 • Alyssa Lewellen 2007-2008

• Amanda Reinhart 2006-2007 • Jessica Howat 2005-2006 • Rachel Thomas 2004-2005 • Shannon Bradford 2003-2004 • Kristin Bell 2002-2003 • Melissa Mustain 2001-2002 • Ashley Phillips 2000-2001 • Brook Davis 1999-2000 • Miranda Thompson 1998-1999 • Kathryn Graham 1997-1998 • Megan Stiles 1996-1997

• Amanda Altamirano 1995-1996 • Erin Cannon 1994-1995 • Lorrie Eeten 1993-1994 • Stephanie Lambert 1992-1993 • Allyson Graham 1991-1992 • Amy Terry 1990-1991 • Libby Burger 1989-1990 • Tiffany Freeze 1988-1989 • Heather Zenk 1987-1988 • Leann Ingwerson 1986-1987

Have a

Lucky Holiday!

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling referral services can be counseling accessed byand calling 1-800-GAMBLER If you or someone you know hasand a gambling problem, crisis referral services can (1-800-426-2537). be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

Page

36  Folepi 2023

NARRATED NATIVITY SCENE RECREATES FIRST CHRISTMAS

E

njoy the artistry and beauty of the inspiring scenes of this nativity and tune in to radio station 87.9 FM for a 2-minute narration of the original Christmas story! The narrated Nativity Scene at the intersection of Taylor Street and Springfield Road is open 24 hours a day throughout the holidays. It features five realistic scenes. The original structures were created on plywood by local artists for the first Festival of Lights in 1985. Because of deterioration in storage, the scenes were restored as vinyl prints mounted to aluminum backing in 1999, giving the added advantage that the displays take on a three-dimensional appearance at night.

Unlike the rest of the Festival of Lights, the nativity project is funded exclusively by private donations through the Nativity Display Association. The maintenance annually is about $1,200.

Those wishing to contribute to the upkeep of the scenes can mail a check payable to Nativity Display Association to: John Salzer, 105 Reinders Rd., East Peoria, IL 61611.

Proud to support East Peoria’s Festival of Lights!

cefcu.com Federally Insured

by NCUA

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM

CALL BLAKE FOR YOUR HEATING + COOLING NEEDS (309) 696-2264 | www.trinityheatandcool.com Folepi 2023  Page

37

Folepi 2023  Page

39

Proud to be a sponsor of East Peoria’s Festival of Lights!

www.springfieldelectric.com