The countdown to the 2026 Delavan Fall Festival continues, and excitement is building as organizers unveil more of the activities planned for the community’s annual celebration. Scheduled to begin on Saturday, September 5, the festival will once again bring together residents, families, visitors, local businesses, and community organizations for a weekend of fun, fellowship, and hometown pride.

In this second installment of our weekly Fall Festival preview series, we’re highlighting several events that showcase the variety of activities available for all ages, from competitive races and baking contests to live entertainment and family-friendly fun.

Tour De Delavan Kicks Off Saturday Festivities

Cyclists are encouraged to start the festival weekend on two wheels during the annual Tour De Delavan Bike Ride/Race.

Festival organizers recently announced that Clark and Mary Zumwalt are sponsoring this year’s event through a generous donation that helps make the ride possible.

Whether participants are serious cyclists looking to race or simply want to enjoy a leisurely ride through the community, organizers are inviting everyone to take part.

The ride will begin on Main Street at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 5, providing an energetic start to the festival’s opening day activities.

Organizers encourage riders to dust off their bicycles, grab their helmets, and join friends and neighbors at the starting line as the festival gets underway.

Bingo Is Back at the Fall Festival

One of the biggest announcements for this year’s festival is the return of a fan favorite that has been absent for several years. 
The Booster Club Bingo Tent is officially making its comeback to the Delavan Fall Festival.

Festival organizers say community members have repeatedly requested Bingo’s return, and this year attendees will once again have the opportunity to test their luck, compete for prizes, and support local students through the Booster Club.

Bingo will be offered at the following times:

• Sunday, September 6, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Monday, September 7, Noon to 3 p.m.

The Bingo Tent will be located at Delavan Lake Park near the food pavilion.

Organizers hope residents will gather friends and family, fill the tent, and help welcome back one of the festival’s most beloved traditions.

Abraham Lincoln Coming to Delavan

One of the most unique additions to this year’s festival lineup will take place on Monday, September 7, when Abraham Lincoln visits the Delavan Fall Festival.

President Lincoln will arrive at Delavan Lake Park at 2:30 p.m. and address festival attendees at 3 p.m. Following his presentation, he will remain available for family photographs and conversation.

Of course, the appearance comes courtesy of internationally recognized Lincoln presenter Fritz Klein, whose portrayal of the 16th President has earned acclaim across the country and around the world.

Klein has extensively researched Lincoln’s life and performs a one-man presentation that captures the stories, wisdom, humor, and character of America’s most famous president. He has portrayed Lincoln in 38 states and internationally, and now resides with his wife, Linda, in Springfield, Illinois, where he frequently performs at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum.

Something for Everyone

In addition to these featured events, visitors can enjoy food vendors, community organizations, local businesses, shopping opportunities, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities throughout the festival weekend.

The Delavan Fall Festival continues to serve as a celebration of community spirit, bringing together generations of residents and visitors while showcasing the people and organizations that make Delavan special.

From a morning bike ride and apple pie contest to paddle boat racing, Bingo, local talent, and glowing foam-filled fun, the 2026 festival is shaping up to offer something for everyone.

Reminder: This Fall Festival preview series will appear weekly until the 2026 Delavan Fall Festival on September 5, with each edition featuring additional activities, contests, entertainment, and special events planned for this year’s celebration.

With each passing week, excitement continues to grow as organizers and volunteers prepare for another successful festival weekend.