The City of Centralia is proud of our heritage and is eager to share our history, recreational resources, and festivals with others.
More information about local events and activities can be found on the Centralia Tourism Website: See Centralia Tourism Website
Some of the local Centralia festivals and activities include:
Balloon Fest – This annual event brings thousands to the area and has been enjoyed for over 30 years.
Locust Street Historic Fair – Each year during May portions of Locust Street are closed for historic walking tours, crafters, artisans, food vendors, antique car shows, and historical presentations.
Carillon Park – The Centralia Carillon towers 165 feet and is the sixth-largest bell tower in the world. It can be heard during concerts and routinely throughout the week.
Fall Festival and Parade – The last Saturday in October in Downtown Centralia, this all-day event is packed full of special events for the whole family. There are food, fun, and entertainment featuring the Centralia Halloween Parade in the evening with floats, bands, and fun for all.
Historic Downtown - Visitors can explore downtown by taking a self guided walking tour . Historically significant buildings are marked with plaques near their main entrances along the sidewalk. These plaques identify buildings that have preserved their original massing and character-defining architectural features.
Lakes – With Raccoon Lake and Lake Centralia, there is plenty of opportunity for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying time on the water.
Trains – Centralia was formed in 1853 by Illinois Central Railroad. You can get up close to a steam engine in Fairview Park’s Railroad Village and also see two airplanes.
Parks – Centralia is blessed with beautiful parks and recreation areas. Fairview Park, Laura Leake Park, the Bark Park, and Point Park are great recreational opportunities for families.
Water Tower – One of the water towers for the City shows a few images of what we are known for, 1) an image of our Orphans, the winningest High School basketball team in the United States, 2) a train, and 3) a hot air balloon.