Things to Do in Peoria in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Peoria
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Prime outdoor weather for exploring Peoria's riverfront and parks - with minimal rainfall (only 2.5 mm or 0.1 inches all month) and comfortable morning temperatures around 23°C (73°F), you can actually plan outdoor activities without constantly checking radar
- Festival season hits full stride - December brings the Festival of Lights along the riverfront and various holiday markets throughout downtown, giving you authentic local experiences rather than just tourist attractions
- Shoulder season pricing on accommodations - you're looking at 20-30% lower rates compared to summer peak, especially mid-week, though weekends around Christmas see a bump as locals book staycations
- River Bluffs Trail conditions are ideal - the 15 km (9.3 miles) of trails are neither muddy from spring thaw nor scorching hot, and the reduced foliage actually improves views across the Illinois River valley
Considerations
- Temperature swings of 15°C (27°F) between morning and afternoon mean you're constantly layering and unlayering - that 23°C (73°F) morning becomes a sticky 38°C (101°F) by 2pm, which catches first-timers off guard
- Holiday closures affect local businesses - many family-owned restaurants and shops close December 23-26, limiting your dining options during what might be your actual travel dates if you're visiting over Christmas
- The 70% humidity makes that 38°C (101°F) feel closer to 43°C (110°F) in afternoon sun - this isn't dry desert heat, and the Illinois River valley traps moisture in a way that makes midday outdoor activities genuinely uncomfortable for about 3-4 hours daily
Best Activities in December
Illinois River Valley Cycling Routes
December gives you the best cycling conditions of the year in Peoria. Morning temperatures around 23°C (73°F) are perfect for the 45 km (28 miles) of paved trails connecting downtown to the surrounding bluffs. The Rock Island Trail section offers flat terrain ideal for casual riders, while the bluff climbs provide elevation gains of 90-120 m (295-394 ft) for those wanting a workout. With minimal rainfall and reduced humidity before 10am, you can cover serious distance without the oppressive heat that makes summer cycling miserable here. The bare trees also mean better sightlines across the river valley.
Grandview Drive Scenic Overlooks
Theodore Roosevelt called this 4 km (2.5 mile) route one of the world's most beautiful drives, and December weather makes it actually enjoyable to explore on foot. The overlooks provide 60-90 m (197-295 ft) elevation views across the Illinois River without the summer haze that typically obscures the valley. Morning visits before 11am avoid both the afternoon heat spike and the direct sun that makes the UV index 8 genuinely dangerous. The variable December weather means you might catch fog rolling through the valley or dramatic cloud formations - conditions that create better photography than the flat blue skies of summer.
Downtown Holiday Market and Festival of Lights
Peoria's riverfront transforms in December with the Festival of Lights running most of the month. Unlike summer festivals that start at 6pm to avoid heat, December events begin at 4pm and run through 9pm, taking advantage of the 5pm sunset and cooler evening temperatures that drop to 26-28°C (79-82°F). The holiday market features 40-50 local vendors selling everything from pottery to baked goods, with prices ranging 5-50 USD for most items. The lighting displays extend 2 km (1.2 miles) along the riverfront trail, making for an easy evening walk without the mosquitoes that plague this area May through September.
Peoria Riverfront Museum Complex
This becomes your afternoon refuge when that 38°C (101°F) heat and 70% humidity make outdoor exploration unpleasant from noon to 4pm. The museum complex includes planetarium, art galleries, and regional history exhibits - enough variety for 3-4 hours of climate-controlled exploration. December brings special holiday-themed planetarium shows and rotating exhibits that change monthly. The museum's location right on the riverfront means you can easily transition from morning outdoor activities to afternoon indoor exploration without driving across town.
Wildlife Prairie Park Nature Trails
This 809-hectare (2,000-acre) park 24 km (15 miles) west of downtown offers 8 km (5 miles) of trails through reconstructed prairie and woodland habitats. December weather makes this actually hikeable - summer temperatures regularly hit 35-38°C (95-100°F) here with zero shade on prairie sections. The native wildlife (bison, elk, wolves) are more active in cooler December weather, and you'll avoid the crowds that pack this place during summer weekends. Morning visits between 8-11am give you the best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures before the afternoon heat arrives.
Warehouse District Food and Brewery Tours
Peoria's revitalized Warehouse District packs 15-20 breweries, distilleries, and restaurants into a 6-block walkable area. December evening temperatures around 26-28°C (79-82°F) make the 1-2 km (0.6-1.2 mile) walk between venues comfortable rather than sweaty. Many establishments offer holiday-specific beers and seasonal menus in December that you won't find other months. The district comes alive after 5pm when the afternoon heat breaks, with most venues offering happy hour pricing from 4-6pm.
December Events & Festivals
Festival of Lights
The riverfront transforms into a 2 km (1.2 mile) walking path lined with light displays, running most of December. This isn't just decorative lights - it includes synchronized music, interactive displays, and nightly lighting ceremonies at 6pm. The event draws locals more than tourists, giving you authentic community atmosphere. Free to walk through, with optional paid activities like horse-drawn carriage rides for 20-30 USD.
Downtown Holiday Market
Local artisans and food vendors set up in the Warehouse District for weekend markets throughout December. This is where Peoria residents actually shop for gifts rather than heading to big box stores - you'll find pottery, woodwork, locally roasted coffee, and baked goods. About 40-50 vendors typically participate, with inventory changing weekly. Runs Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm.