This past week, Mattoon celebrated 41 years of Bagelfest! This community staple features days of fun and entertainment for the whole family. The festival celebrates the town’s claim of the largest bagel factory in the world. The event features days of events, live shows and, of course, many bagels.
Leading up to the main events is a carnival beginning July 1. The local Coles County Speedway hosts a race alongside the Bagelfest, followed the next day by the Battle for the Bagel powerlifting competition. The town then hosts Miss Bagelfest pageants, Baby Bagel Contest and the Bow Wow Contest featuring dogs in costumes winning prizes. Another bagel-themed event is the 39th annual Run for the Bagel, featuring a 10k race, 5k race and a fun walk. Those who finished the race celebrate with bagels at the finish line. The climax of the Bagelfest is a parade and concert on July 18, which draws thousands from the surrounding counties.
Bagelfest is a cherished Mattoon tradition that celebrates local industry and small businesses while proudly showcasing the community’s hometown spirit.
