Over 250,000 visitors. More than 300 artisans. Three days of live music, carnival rides, food, and fall festivities in historic downtown Frankfort. The 58th Annual Frankfort Fall Festival runs September 5–7, 2026 — and Heritage Knolls residents are just minutes away.
Labor Day weekend in Frankfort means one thing: the Frankfort Fall Festival. Now in its 58th year, this iconic three-day event is one of the top-ranked craft shows in the entire nation, drawing over a quarter million visitors to historic downtown Frankfort every year. Coordinated by the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce, it’s a celebration of art, community, food, and music that Heritage Knolls residents are lucky to have just down the road.
Festival dates & hours
| SATURDAY
Sept. 5 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. |
SUNDAY
Sept. 6 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. |
MONDAY
Sept. 7 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
What makes it one of the best in the nation
The Frankfort Fall Festival has earned its reputation as one of America’s premier outdoor craft shows. Here’s what awaits Heritage Knolls residents this Labor Day weekend:
Arts & Crafts — 300+ National Artisans
Handmade goods from over 300 artisans across the United States — jewelry, pottery, woodwork, fine art, and much more.
Live Music — Multiple Stages
The Garden Stage and Main Stage both feature live performances throughout the weekend. Note: some evening acts (21+) may have a separate admission fee.
Family Fun — Carnival & Parade
A large carnival keeps kids entertained all weekend, and the Sunday afternoon parade is a festival tradition not to be missed.
Food Court — Local Favorites
From walking tacos to funnel cakes, the festival food court is a celebration of classic fair food done right.
“The Fall Festival is one of those events that reminds you how special it is to live in Frankfort. It’s world-class, it’s free to walk in, and it’s three days of pure community joy right down the street from Heritage Knolls.”
— Rachel McKay, President, Heritage Knolls HOA
Getting there & practical tips
With over 250,000 visitors across three days, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s what to know before you go:
Location: Kansas & White Streets, historic downtown Frankfort, IL
Admission: FREE — festival entry is free. Some evening performances (21+) may have a separate fee.
Parking: Primary lot at U.S. Route 45 (LaGrange Rd) & Nebraska St. A parking donation of ~$15 benefits the local Boy Scout Troop. Additional street parking nearby.
Pets: Due to large crowds, leaving pets at home is recommended. A Tented Rest Area may be provided for attendees.
Heritage Knolls tip:
Sunday afternoon draws the biggest crowds thanks to the parade. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, Saturday morning or Monday are great times to browse the artisan booths without the rush. And bring cash — many vendors prefer it.
A festival worth planning around
The Frankfort Fall Festival isn’t just a local event — it’s a regional destination. Visitors come from across Illinois and beyond specifically for the artisan show, making it a genuine point of pride for our community. As Heritage Knolls residents, we get to enjoy it as our Labor Day tradition, just minutes from home.
For the latest lineup announcements, vendor information, and schedule updates, keep an eye on the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce and festival websites as Labor Day approaches.
58th Annual Frankfort Fall Festival
September 5–7, 2026 · Kansas & White Streets, Downtown Frankfort · Free admission
Coordinated by the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce
Learn more at frankfortfallfestival.com
For more local event highlights and community news, visit heritageknolls.org or contact the HOA Board at info@heritageknolls.org.
See you at the festival!
Warm regards,
The Heritage Knolls HOA Board of Directors