The first Pekin Marigold Festival was held in 1973 to honor Pekin’s favorite son, Everett McKinley Dirksen, who continues to be honored each year at the festival. Dirksen, at the strong urging of David Burpee from the Burpee Seed Company, tried to make the marigold the national floral emblem. In support of Dirksen, the community began growing marigolds. While Dirksen […]

Pekin Marigold Fesitival Opening Ceremonies after the PCHS Football Game