PEKIN, Ill. – Pekin’s Marigold Festival is back for its 53rd year…kicking off Wednesday night with the Taste of Pekin.

This year’s theme is Marigold Pep Rally: Team Spirit.

Event Chair Val Springborn says that means tailgating, a pep rally, a carnival and food. Plus, there’s something completely unexpected.

“This year we’re trying something brand new….we’re bringing in water skiers, professional water skiers, and they’re going to do a show at 3 p.m. on Saturday afternoon,” Springborn says.

Saturday’s schedule also includes the Marigold Mile, the Marigold Festival Parade and a Kids experience.

Marigold Festival favorites are back, including Art in the Park, the cardboard boat race, and a pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday.

Another event is back…Iron Spirit Pro Wrestling.

“They w

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