Good morning, Peoria.

On Friday, the public library hosted a naturalization ceremony where 90 new U.S. citizens from 29 countries took their oaths, with officials including U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood and U.S. Magistrate Judge Ronald L.

Hannah leading the proceedings. The event celebrated new residents’ commitment to civic duties.

Rhythm Kitchen Music Cafe on Southwest Water Street is temporarily closed after a grill fire on Friday afternoon caused about $10,000 in damage and allowed employees to evacuate safely before firefighters arrived; the restaurant will reopen after passing a health department inspection.

Peoria’s newest Cajun Creole seafood restaurant Kouzens, owned by local restaurateurs Tremayne Branch and Jeff Moore, opened in fall 2025 at 718 W.

Glen Ave and hosts live bands on the first and third Fridays — it serves lunch and dinner at varied hours, closing on Mondays.

Peoria Park District dedicated a new, permanent bronze sculpture by acclaimed artist Preston Jackson in upper Bradley Park on Friday, March 20.

The installation honors Indigenous heritage and replaces a removed Columbus statue — the project cost over $150,000 including park upgrades.

Gas prices in Illinois were high on Friday, March 20 as AAA noted an average of $4.12 per gallon with regional variation + including $4.00 in Peoria and $4.46 in Chicago.

Nationwide, Gas Buddy reported prices reached a three year high at $3.92 amid rising spring break travel demand.

USA TODAY Shopping released a guide on March 20 explaining how memberships, wholesale clubs + cash-back apps can help drivers save on fuel costs in Peoria.

The guide covers discounts at Walmart+ and Amazon Prime and offers tips for maintaining vehicle efficiency to stretch every gallon.

Local food producers and businesses can apply for $3.6 million in state grants offered by the Department of Agriculture until March 27.

Funds will be disbursed in June to upgrade cold storage, processing, and transportation systems (including refrigerated delivery).

Peoria International Airport remains busy despite TSA challenges due to a partial government shutdown.

Director Gene Olson said lines are slightly longer during spring break and urged travelers to arrive two hours early.

Trillium Place relocated its East Peoria facility to a new 6,000 sqft medical office on River Road when a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Friday with state Sen. Dave Koehler and Mayor John Kahl in attendance.

The move aims to expand access to behavioral health and addiction recovery services.

OSF HealthCare CEO Bob Sehring was honored at a retirement reception held Thursday at the OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria with Mayor Rita Ali, Bishop Louis Tylka, and State Sen. Dave Koehler in attendance.

He will retire on Friday, Apr. 3 and be succeeded by longtime OSF leader Michelle Conger.

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.

Fused Glass Spring Flower Basket Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Craft a colorful fused glass flower basket masterpiece in a fun, hands-on workshop.

Spring Break Mini Clay Camp for Kids

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — The Clay Den — Registration required — Explore ceramics with hands-on activities like hand building and wheel throwing for kids ages 7 and up.

Kids Spring Break Art Camp – Pottery

10:00-11:30 a.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Kids can unleash their creativity with fun pottery projects during spring break.

6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Unleash your creativity and learn pottery techniques in a hands-on wheel throwing class.

Morning Grace Canvas Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Paint a serene sunrise scene symbolizing hope and renewal with guided instruction.

A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation

Direct from Off-Broadway and starring former World Irish Dance champions from productions like Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Taste of Ireland is a high-energy celebration of Irish music, dance, and storytelling that brings Ireland’s history to life with wit and heart. Featuring live singing and dancing, reimagined Irish classics, and electrifying tap battles, the show blends tradition and modern flair into an unforgettable night of Celtic entertainment.