BATAVIA | Windmill City Festival Batavia 2025: July 11-13 Schedule

Windmill City Festival Returns to Batavia This Weekend

Join the fun at Windmill City Festival Batavia July 11-13! Live music, pet competitions, food trucks, and family activities on the Riverwalk

BATAVIA–Get ready for three days of music, food, and family fun as the Windmill City Festival returns to Batavia this July 11-13. This beloved community celebration transforms the historic Riverwalk into a vibrant hub of entertainment, featuring everything from tribute bands to pet competitions.

The festival kicks off Friday evening and continues through Sunday, offering something special for every member of the family. Whether you're looking to enjoy live music, test your skills at carnival games, or simply soak up the summer atmosphere with delicious food truck fare, this weekend promises memorable experiences for all.

Friday Night Sets the Stage

The Windmill City Festival Batavia opens Friday, July 11, with an evening lineup that perfectly captures the spirit of summer festivals. The festivities begin at 5:00 pm at the Main Stage located at the Peg Bond Center on the Riverwalk.

Music lovers will be treated to two fantastic performances. The Fortunate Sons take the stage from 6:00-8:00 pm, delivering an authentic Credence Clearwater Revival tribute complete with vintage gear and period costumes. Their attention to detail brings the classic CCR sound to life.

Following them, Sixteen Candles cranks up the nostalgia from 9:00-11:00 pm with their extensive repertoire of 1980s hits. This energetic band captures the decade's distinctive sound and style, perfect for dancing under the stars.

The Golf Challenge sponsored by Feagans Law Group runs from 5:00-8:30 pm, giving visitors a chance to test their skills by hitting golf balls toward targets in the Depot Pond. Meanwhile, carnival rides on Houston Street and the beer garden provide additional entertainment options.

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Saturday Brings the Full Festival Experience

Saturday, July 12, transforms into the festival's main event day, packed with activities from noon until late evening. The day begins with the always-popular Pet Competition at noon on the Main Stage.

Pet owners can register their furry (or not-so-furry) friends for five different categories: Best Kisser, Best Trick, Highest Jump, Best Costume, and Most Unusual. The first 50 participants receive complimentary "doggie bags" to take home. Registration takes place near the Main Stage, so arrive early to secure your spot.

The musical entertainment continues throughout the day with three distinct acts. Liz & Hala, an acoustic duo, perform from 3:00-5:00 pm, covering everything from 1950s classics to contemporary hits across multiple genres.

The evening entertainment ramps up with Libido Funk Circus from 6:00-8:00 pm. This over-the-top tribute band specializes in 1970s disco and rock spanning the 1960s to today, promising an energetic performance.

Saturday night concludes with Radio Gaga from 9:00-11:00 pm, delivering a high-energy Vegas-style production featuring Queen and Lady Gaga hits complete with costumes and choreography.

Interactive Fun for All Ages

Beyond the musical performances, Saturday offers numerous interactive activities. The Sidewalk Chalk Contest runs from 2:30-4:30 pm at the South Riverwalk Plaza, welcoming artists of all ages to create artwork celebrating what they love about Batavia. Winners will be chosen through "People's Choice" and "Best of Batavia" categories, with voting conducted on the Batavia Park District's Facebook page.

The Football Toss at 1:30 pm provides a free activity where families can test their throwing skills in a friendly competition. These activities create opportunities for community members to participate actively rather than simply observe.

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Sunday's Family-Friendly Finale

The festival concludes Sunday, July 13, with a schedule perfectly designed for families. The day features more intimate programming, running from noon to 6:00 pm.

Musical entertainment begins with Totally Taylor from 1:00-3:00 pm, a Taylor Swift tribute band performing everything from heartfelt ballads to high-energy anthems. This performance appeals to Swift's multi-generational fanbase.

The Simple Remedy closes out the festival from 4:00-6:00 pm, playing a mix of country, Americana, and soul music featuring both popular covers and original compositions.

Special Events and Unique Attractions

One of Sunday's most adorable highlights is the Diaper Derby at 3:00 pm. This crawling race for babies ages 6-15 months, presented by the Batavia Mother's Club Foundation, creates heartwarming moments for families and spectators alike. Registration occurs between 2:30-2:45 pm near the Main Stage.

Other Sunday activities include Friendship Bracelet Making from noon to 1:00 pm and Windmill City Bean Bag Tic-Tac-Toe at 2:00 pm, where participants compete on a giant game board.

Food, History, and Comfort

Throughout the weekend, diverse food trucks serve everything from classic festival fare to specialty cuisines. The beer garden provides adult beverages for those 21 and older, with IDs checked at entry.

The Batavia Depot Museum at 155 Houston Street remains open during festival hours, offering visitors a chance to explore local history and shop for unique Batavia merchandise. The museum currently features a special exhibit celebrating its 50th anniversary, running through July 20.

The festival also provides a SootheSpace behind the Peg Bond Center, adjacent to the playground. This quiet sensory space, provided by Fox Valley Special Recreation Association, offers a peaceful retreat for anyone needing a moment of calm during the bustling festivities.

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Planning Your Visit

The Golf Challenge, sponsored by Feagans Law Group, runs throughout the weekend during festival hours, providing consistent entertainment for those wanting to test their accuracy. The carnival on Houston Street operates during the same extended hours, offering traditional festival rides and games.

Most activities are free, though some attractions like the carnival rides and Golf Challenge require payment. The festival's central location on the Riverwalk makes it easily accessible, with the Main Stage at the Peg Bond Center serving as the primary hub for performances and announcements.

Make This Weekend Memorable

The Windmill City Festival Batavia represents more than just a weekend event—it's a celebration of community spirit and summer traditions. From Friday evening's classic rock tributes to Sunday's family-focused activities, the festival creates lasting memories for residents and visitors alike.

Whether you're drawn by the diverse musical lineup, excited about the pet competition, or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, the Windmill City Festival delivers. Mark your calendars for July 11-13 and join your neighbors for three days of entertainment, food, and community celebration along Batavia's beautiful Riverwalk.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of the area's premier summer festivals. With free admission and activities for all ages, the Windmill City Festival offers the perfect way to kick off your summer festival season.