Paul Vinnedge, Peoria Real Estate Agent
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Morton IL Area Guide

Morton is a village located in Tazewell County, Illinois, and is a popular suburb of the city of Peoria. As of 2007, Morton’s population was 16,700. Morton is known as the “Pumpkin Capital of the World” and is also famous for their annual Pumpkin Festival. Morton is the home of a Caterpillar facility and a Libby’s Pumpkin Plant.

Morton captures the essence of the Midwestern lifestyle. There is a great sense of community pride, involvement, and safety. The schools, parks and library all show the community’s commitment to a high quality of life and excellence in service. Here visitors are welcomed by friendly faces and are shown what small town commitment and pride is really like.

Morton Parks and Recreation

The Morton Park District maintains eight parks and offers many recreational programs and activities for everyone in the community. During the summer you can participate in activities such as swimming lessons, tennis lessons, softball, aerobics, golf lessons, and more. In the fall and winter, you can take part in youth basketball, indoor soccer, and, volleyball leagues, just to name a few.

The Morton Park District is a member of the Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association. They support the spirit and intent of the Americans with Disabilities Act by providing recreational activities in the least restrictive setting possible to people in their park districts. The Heart of Illinois Special Recreation offers dance, fitness, arts, crafts, nature activities, golf, swimming, day camp, and softball.

Morton Events and Attractions

The Bertha Frank Performing Arts Center is currently under construction but will provide a hometown setting especially designed for cultural events. It will serve as an extension of the educational opportunities available to Morton’s young people. The Performing Arts Center will benefit every student in Morton. There center will be available for music recitals, school plays, educational programs, and Christmas Pageants. The Performing Arts center will also provide a comfortable setting for community cultural events, business training, seminars and lectures.
Other fun activities located in Morton are the Botanical Gardens, Glen Oak Zoo, McGlothlin Petting Zoo, Wildlife Prairie Park, Forest Park and its Nature Center and much more.

Pumpkin Festival
More than 80% of the world’s canned pumpkin is processed in Morton. Morton celebrates the canning season every September with the Pumpkin Festival. From opening day ceremonies to the giant festival parade, the Morton Pumpkin Festival delights all ages with family-friendly entertainment, carnival rides, foot races, food tents, merchant’s tent, craft show, parade and pumpkins.