(Photo By Flickr User Bart)

The very first Pekin Marigold Festival was held in 1973, and now, young and old look forward to this yearly, after Labor Day weekend event.

The 2017 Pekin Marigold Festival will be held at Mineral Springs Park in Pekin, IL starting this Thursday, September 7th and ending on Sunday, September 10th.

Pekin Marigold Festival History:

The Marigold Festival was first held in 1973 as a way to honor one of Pekin’s favorite sons, Senator Everett Dirksen. While in Congress, Dirksen championed the cause to make the marigold the national floral emblem. While unsuccessful in his efforts, his hometown of Pekin soon became known as the Marigold Capital of the World. The Pekin Marigold Festival is held annually on the first weekend after Labor Day.

This year’s festival theme: “Marigolds On Patrol!”

This year’s festival will feature Actor Erik Estrada (who played Officer Francis (Frank) Llewelyn “Ponch” Poncherello on CHiPs), the Miss Marigold Pageant, live entertainment, a sand volleyball tournament, the Marigold 5k Run/Walk, a carnival, a parade, kids activities, food, plus much more!

For complete details and schedule on the festival, visit www.pekinchamber.com/MarigoldFestival.html or give them a call at 309-346-2106.