Ditch the crockpot and head to downtown Utica to enjoy a fresh bowl of traditional burgoo stew and community festivities from Oct. 10-11 at the 56th Annual Burgoo Festival hosted by the LaSalle County Historical Society.
The event’s signature dish, burgoo stew, dates back to the 19th century when early settlers used this meal to feed large groups. The ingredients for this stew include beef, carrots, potatoes, hominy, celery, tomatoes, cabbage, onions, peppers and other vegetables blended with spices and herbs.
Roughly 400 vendors will line the streets and fill the Canal Market Building where visitors can browse antiques, artisan crafts and delicious foods. On Saturday, the festival runs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., though visitors are invited to return at 9 p.m. to watch the overnight burgoo cooking begin. Volunteers assist throughout the night with the preparation of this dish, which includes chopping vegetables and stirring the kettles. The festival reopens Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the fresh stew ready to enjoy starting at opening.
In 2025, the festival drew more than 90,000 attendees. To keep crowds entertained, this year’s event features a dynamic lineup, including live music throughout the weekend, blacksmithing demos and children’s activities.
Whether you come for a bowl of burgoo stew or a classic antique find, the Burgoo Festival promises a perfect start to this year’s fall season.
