Belleville festivals adopt new rules, close earlier for safety

BELLEVILLE, Ill. - Unsupervised juveniles showing up in mass numbers and causing fights have become an issue for some festivals and events in the Bi-State region.

In Belleville, Illinois, two upcoming festivals are closing their doors hours earlier.

“This year, we’re going to go three days,” said Bud Jacobs, Oktoberfest Board Member.  “We’re going Sept. 19, 20 and 21. Friday 11 to 8. Saturday 11 to 8 and Sunday 11 to 5.”

Oktoberfest in Belleville is just a week and a half away, and organizers are closely monitoring the festival's schedule. For the upcoming Oktoberfest (Sept. 19-21) and the Belleville Chili Cook-Off (Oct. 10-11), both are moving up closing times. 

“It is a big deal, especially on a Friday night and people are getting off work at 5 or 6 and changing clothes and we’re closing by the time they get up here,” Jacobs said.  “Hopefully people will get up here earlier in the day and spend some time with us.”

Belleville police are taking to social media to remind people that face masks are not permitted. Belleville City Council also revised rules, banning backpacks, satchel bags or any bag bigger than 9 X 12 inches.

For Belleville Books owner Robert Eckman, a festival into the evening brings business into this converted bank, with a must-see vault.

“I respect the city’s decision,” Eckman said. “It’s unfortunate because everyone does love a good festival or parade, especially in the evening hours. But if it’s in the name of public safety, then I can respect that, and the show shall go on.”