By TIM ALEXANDER
Illinois Correspondent

PEORIA, Ill. — The 28th Greater Peoria Farm Show takes up residence at the Peoria Civic Center and Exhibition Hall from Dec. 1-3. Many farmers and their families visiting from out of town make it a tradition to stay overnight in the “big city” during the event, knowing there is a lot more to Peoria than just ADM, Caterpillar and the Illinois River.

Peoria offers a plethora of fine and casual dining, entertainment options and special events to choose from while visiting the city. The first and most logical stop for the newcomer (or occasional visitor) is the Peoria Riverfront Visitors Center (110 NE Water Street), located at the foot of Main Street near the Illinois River and the Spirit of Peoria riverboat.

The center is staffed with friendly local volunteers who can offer recommendations to visitors regarding attractions,
accommodations, restaurants and special events. Open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. all days of the farm show, it also has a large selection of local maps, brochures and Peoria-themed merchandise.

Susan Galloway, communications director for the Peoria Convention and Visitors Bureau, said there are a number of special events going on in Peoria during the time the farm show is in town.
“Those arriving early to the Greater Peoria Farm Show with their families may want to take in the YouTheater performance of A Christmas Carol at the Peoria Civic Center Theater on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.,” said Galloway.

This adaptation of the Dickens classic is particularly geared toward children grades K-5 and features a magnificent score.

Art lovers may wish to stop by the Forest Park Nature Center (5809 N. Forest Park Drive, Peoria Heights) to check out quality nature art represented in a variety of media, created by talented local artists.