About Peoria’s 2nd Saturdays

Launched in 2021, Peoria’s 2nd Saturdays was created to bring people back to the heart of the city — not just to pass through Old Town, but to experience it. Held October through April, this free monthly festival celebrates the best of Arizona’s creative culture with local art, live music, food trucks, artisan goods, and interactive experiences. Each event transforms Old Town Peoria into a vibrant gathering place where community, creativity, and small business all come together.

A Historic Heart with New Energy

Old Town Peoria is where the city began — a once-rural crossroads with roots dating back to the late 1800s. Many of its original buildings still stand today, including the Peoria Central School Museum, Peoria Presbyterian Church, and the historic firehouse, now home to Lucidi Distilling Co. These landmarks speak to the area's deep agricultural and working-class history, where church steeples, school bells, and community dances shaped the rhythm of everyday life.

Now, that same spirit is finding new expression.

The City of Peoria has invested significantly in the revitalization of Old Town, from public art installations and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes to gathering spaces, updated infrastructure, and cultural programming. The goal is to reimagine Old Town as a walkable, thriving cultural district — one that honors the past while building something bold and creative for the future.

2nd Saturdays plays a central role in this effort. By spotlighting local artists, musicians, and makers, the event not only brings people into the district — it brings it to life. With each passing season, more people are discovering the charm, character, and creative momentum of Peoria’s original downtown.