US Recently ended

Pawpaw Festival

The third annual Pawpaw Festival is a free, family-friendly event celebrating the pawpaw, North America’s largest native tree fruit, and the community of Paw Paw, Illinois. Held at Paw Paw Veterans Park on Saturday, September 26, the festival features tastings, pawpaw-inspired foods and drinks, live music, and activities for all ages.

Date
Sep 26, 2026
Location
Paw Paw
Status
Recently ended
+ Add ICS
Pawpaw Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Fresh pawpaw fruit and trees for sale
  • Free pawpaw tastings
  • Pawpaw beer, ice cream, and cheesecake from Eli's Cheesecake
  • Live music performances
The Pawpaw Festival offers a unique opportunity to explore North America's largest native tree fruit. This free, family-friendly event celebrates the pawpaw, known for its tropical, custard-like flavor that is often compared to a blend of mango, banana, and pineapple. Attendees can purchase fresh pawpaw fruit and trees, enjoy free tastings, and sample various pawpaw-inspired culinary creations including beer, ice cream, and cheesecake from Eli's Cheesecake of Chicago. Other pawpaw-themed food and drinks from local makers are also available.

Beyond the culinary delights, the festival provides a full day of entertainment and activities starting at 10 a.m. Visitors can browse dozens of local vendors and artisans, listen to live music, and bring children to the Kids Corner which features bounce houses and other activities. Educational programming about America’s native fruits and tram tours highlighting local pawpaw trees are also available, offering insights into this unique fruit. The Pawpaw Festival is hosted by the Paw Paw Lions Club.

Practical details

Location described by the source
Paw Paw Veterans Park
www.shawlocal.com
Area for browsing nearby events
Paw Paw

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

Check these references for event announcements and updates before attending.

Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

Keep exploring

Use this event as a starting point for nearby places, matching topics, and calendar paths.

Similar events

More events connected by topic, style, or cultural theme.

View all
Paw Paw calendar Open local events and dates. More in Michigan Browse the wider area. Food Festival events Follow this theme across the calendar. United States calendar Browse the national event calendar.