Good morning, Peoria.

The Prairie Wind Ensemble will perform a free concert on March 19 at Five Points Washington, showcasing classic marches and modern medleys by professional and hobbyist musicians from across Central Illinois.

Pekin switched from monthly to biweekly recycling on March 2 and will soon implement measures to ease concerns.

City Manager Dossey announced that residents filling the 64-gallon bin can request a free 96-gallon tote until May 31 + seven residents billed for the larger bin will receive refunds.

Illinois law does not set a fixed age for leaving kids home alone so parents need to consider maturity, safety skills, and the length of unsupervised time as spring break begins; experts advise using a checklist to ensure children are ready for home-alone responsibilities.

Residents at Sterling Towers are voicing frustration over long-delayed maintenance and accessibility needs as the Peoria Housing Authority faces an ongoing financial investigation after its CFO was fired last month.

A recent study names Peoria as the top city for first-time homebuyers with housing costs at 25% of income and a mix of affordable living with stable job prospects; other metros also show solid market trends for new buyers.

Peoria Manual beat Tolono Unity 62-57 in the state semifinal at State Farm Center in Champaign on Thursday & will play in the state championship game Saturday at noon against either Quincy Notre Dame or Chicago Farragut.

2026 Blarney Blitz

8 AM – 2 PM — Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery — Entry fees apply — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a festive themed race in downtown Peoria.

Organic Chip and Dip Dish Clay Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Includes materials — Craft a unique organic-shaped dish perfect for entertaining.

Ladies' Night: Gal Pals and Glazes

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 — Unwind with friends while sipping drinks and painting pottery in a relaxing atmosphere.

Salsa Night at Contemporary Art Center

9:30 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5 for members, $8 for non-members — Dance the night away with Salsa, Cha Cha, and more in a lively setting.

Beginner Stained Glass Workshop

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — $85 — Create your own stunning stained glass art in a fun, hands-on workshop.

Mud and Music Event

2-4 p.m. — The Clay Den — $5 entry — Enjoy live local music while crafting pottery in a cozy, artsy atmosphere.

Fairy Tale Storytime

6:00-6:30 p.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Enjoy an enchanting storytime filled with fairy tales, crafts, and treats designed for young children.

Fused Glass Cross Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee applies — Create a stunning fused glass cross with personalized colors and floral details.

Murray State Racers vs. Bradley Braves Men's Baseball

6 p.m. — Dozer Park — Ticketed event — Feel the thrill of college baseball as Murray State takes on Bradley Braves at Dozer Park.

Spring Chicken Canvas Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Paint a cheerful scene of adorable chickens in a blooming meadow with step-by-step guidance.