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Itinerary · 4 stops · Half Day

Explore Downtown Fulton During Dutch Days

Fulton, Illinois is a quaint Mississippi River town with a strong Dutch heritage. During the first weekend of May, the townspeople celebrate their heritage with the annual Dutch Days festival. The downtown areas become one big pedestrian zone full of street activities during the weekend.

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During Dutch Days, downtown Fulton spills into the streets with music, costumes, crafts, food, and generations of local tradition, all within a stroll of the windmill and the Mississippi River.

  1. 4th Street

    Fulton

    4th Street is one of Fulton's main veins during a typical day beyond the festival. The street is lined with charming, brick buildings filled with an array of small town shops and cafes. During the Dutch Festival, this street is blocked off from traffic and becomes the main performance area. On Saturday, you'll find makeshift benches and bleachers set up for everyone to enjoy the festival attractions. Be sure to keep an eye on the event schedule to grab a seat before the traditional Dutch shoe dances, street sweeping, and parades begin. Address: 4th St, Fulton, IL

  2. 10th Avenue

    Fulton

    10th Avenue runs adjacent to 4th Street, making up the north side of the Dutch Days activities. 10th Avenue beginning at 4th Street is closed to traffic during the festival. At the corner of the two streets, you'll find the start of the food courts. You'll find lots of fair-style foods like corn dogs, funnel cake, hamburgers, and shaved ice. Further down, the vendors turn into craft vendors selling all sorts of things, from home decor to clothing, candles, artwork, and more. Pro tip: Most vendors take either credit cards or cash. Address: 10th Ave, Fulton, IL

  3. 11th Avenue

    Fulton

    11th Ave is located on the south side of 4th Street and is an additional pedestrian area throughout the Dutch Days festival. During normal operating hours, this is where you'll find the local butcher and several local restaurants. For the festival, this is where you can find portable toilets, a kid's play zone, and a petting zoo, plus additional food vendors. Pro tip: All kids activities and the petting zoo are free! Address: 11th Ave, Fulton, IL

  4. Lock and Dam 13 Fulton

    Fulton

    Regardless of whether or not the Dutch Days are in progress, Lock and Dam 13 is a great local attraction to check out. There is a paved walking area on top of the dam which overlooks the Mississippi River on one side and the town of Fulton on the other. It's a great spot to watch birds and boats! Address: Lock Rd, Fulton, IL