Episode
Gin Blossoms, Fireworks & Family Fun at the 2026 Petunia Festival
- Podcast
- Along The Rock
- Published
- Jun 22, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 719
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
Season 3, Episode 114 Join host Emma Watts on this episode of Along the Rock as she sits down with Rob Bates and Leah Nelson from the Dixon Petunia Festival to discuss everything happening during the 62nd annual celebration. Learn about the history of one of the Sauk Valley’s biggest summer traditions, the return of the carnival, parade, live entertainment, fireworks, family activities, and the community support that keeps the festival going year after year. The guests also discuss newer additions to the festival, including the popular dog parade, sensory-friendly carnival hours, volunteer opportunities, and this year’s connection to America’s 250th anniversary celebration. Plus, hear about this year’s entertainment lineup featuring Gin Blossoms, Grand Barham, Two Hyped Crew, and more. For festival schedules, volunteer opportunities, and additional information, visit: https://petuniafestival.org 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 0:00 Intro 00:34 What is the Petunia Festival? 00:59 Celebrating the 62nd Annual Festival 01:36 Family fun, entertainment, and community traditions 01:59 What's new for 2026? 02:07 America's 250th Birthday celebrations in Dixon 02:25 The Dog Parade returns 02:51 Sports tournaments and new festival activities 03:18 Quiet Hours at the Carnival for sensory-sensitive children 03:47 Where to find festival information online 04:04 Festival schedule breakdown: Wednesday through Sunday 04:37 Parade, entertainment, and fireworks highlights 04:55 America-themed fireworks show with synchronized music 05:11 Best places to watch the fireworks 06:18 New pedestrian bridge viewing opportunities 06:51…