Corn is king in Illinois and nowhere is this more evident that in the small farming community of Morris during the annual Grundy County Corn Festival. Every September for the past 60 years, the city has been celebrating their bounteous harvest with a celebration that includes everything from an antique tractor and farm machinery show to a crackerbox derby. The week-long festivities also include photo and art shows, kiddie water fights, hobby and handicraft shows, farm fairs, fireworks, queen and court coronations, baby shows, and an extensive schedule of live music performances that this year includes Bucky Covington of American Idol fame.

Thousands line the parade route during the Grundy County Corn Festival

Queen and her court

There’s also plenty of good stuff to eat at the Corn Festival. In addition to (of course) corn on the cob, First Presbyterian Church sponsors a chili supper, First United Methodist Church has a ham and bean dinner, pork burgers are served up by First United Methodist Church, the Lions Club sponsors a chicken dinner, and anyone who is still hungry can sign up for the pie eating contest. And that doesn’t even take into account the scores of mouth-watering treats available at street vendors and in tasting tents scattered around town.

Barbeque is a favorite festival food

On Sunday, September 27th the festival culminates with one the state’s best and largest parades, featuring floats, marching bands, equestrian units, antique cars, and Shriners. Thousands of spectators line the parade route, dressed in their best jeans and flannels, to pay homage to King Corn.

Photo credits: barbeque by Barbara Weibel; all others Grundy County Corn Festival

Article by Barbara Weibel of Hole In The Donut Travels

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