Good morning, Peoria.

The Central Illinois Flea Market attracted bargain hunters at Peoria Speedway Sunday, July 12, 2026, with vendors offering antiques, collectibles and unique finds + food trucks serving refreshments as organizers expect more attendees at the next event.

Liberty Steel & Wire spokeswoman confirmed that workers at the Bartonville plant will be furloughed in staggered groups starting Monday, July 13 + some will be furloughed the following week as a downturn in industrial wire products hits the company, which expects to recall employees once business recovers.

The White Sox selected 18-year-old Landon Thome, son of local Hall of Famer Jim Thome, as the 34th pick in the MLB draft.

The top high school hitter from Nazareth Academy earned 2026 Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year honors with a .535 average, seven homers & 49 stolen bases.

Peoria County Fair

Various times — Exposition Gardens DMC HEADQUARTERS — Admission fee may apply — Saddle up for deep-fried delights, live entertainment, and exciting motorsports.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry

8-10 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5-$12 — Experience an inspiring night of poetry from diverse artists in a welcoming atmosphere.

Stoneware Glazing Class

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Unleash your creativity with hands-on stoneware glazing techniques to create stunning, functional ceramics.

Paws to Read Session 2

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Kids can read with friendly therapy dogs from the Peoria Humane Society to enhance their reading experience.

Ice Cream Social and Ceramic Bowl Painting

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 includes ice cream — Enjoy a creative afternoon painting your own bowl while savoring local ice cream.

Beginner 6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Dive into pottery and learn wheel throwing while creating functional art pieces.

3-Day Summer Camp: Week 6 - Summer Vibes

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — $185 per week — Explore creative projects in glass fusing, ceramic painting, and more with the Summer Vibes theme.

Under the Sea Pottery Summer Camp

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — The Clay Den — Check event page for costs — Dive into ocean-themed pottery creations designed for young artists aged 7 and up.

2026 River and Rails Festival - Thursday

Festival Hours — Three Sisters Park — Tickets support local non-profit — Enjoy live music, carnival rides, and food vendors in a vibrant summer celebration.

Clay Hand-Built Garden House Workshop

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Build a charming miniature garden house using creative hand-building techniques.