Peoria is the seat of Peoria County and the center of an urban complex including Peoria Heights, West Peoria, Bartonville, Bellevue, East Peoria, Creve Coeur, and Pekin. It is the oldest continuously inhabited American community west of the Allegheny Mountains. It has a wide range of temperatures with June and September being the most pleasant months. It experiences a spell of dry weather during late October and early November. Peoria performing arts organizations include the Peoria Symphony, Peoria Ballet Company, Opera Illinois, Peoria Area Civic Chorale, and a chapter of the Sweet Adelines.

Area: 40.9 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 652 feet above sea level

Average Temperatures: January, 22° F; July, 76° F; annual average, 50.7° F

Average Annual Precipitation: 36.25 inches of rain, 25.10 inches of snow

Population: 112,685 (as on July 2005)

Attractions

• Peoria Historical Society
  
  
• Glen Oak Park
  
  
• Glen Oak Zoo

Festivals

• Heart of Illinois Fair, the largest annual event in Illinois
  
  
• Independence Day on the 4th of July
  
  
• Oktoberfest in Septeber