FREEPORT — Celebrate National Pretzel Day in style by joining the community of Freeport, known proudly as “Pretzel City, USA,” in an exciting and record-breaking event on Saturday, April 26. Together, festival goers will create the “Largest Pretzel Image Created by Humans” and make history in pretzel-loving spirit.

Participants will gather at the FAM Art Plaza (15 S. Douglas Street, Freeport) for check-in beginning at 10 a.m., where they’ll receive commemorative pins for being part of the record-breaking attempt. At 10:30 a.m., a drone will capture the aerial image of our pretzel masterpiece formed by participants as they gather in the outline of the pretzel created in the park. This once-in-a-lifetime photo will forever symbolize Freeport’s identity as the true Pretzel City.

But the fun doesn’t end there! Stick around after the record attempt for Pretzel Fest, an annual celebration bursting with pretzel-themed vendors, talented entertainers, and family-friendly activities. Savor local flavors, explore creative pretzel-inspired offerings, and enjoy the lively atmosphere throughout downtown Freeport. Then enjoy the best polka band in the Midwest, the Zweifel Brothers, at Pretzel City Polka Fest from 4-6 p.m. The final show of the pretzel-packed day is Winnie Rock City with four bands performing at the Winneshiek Playhouse.

“Freeport will forever be the home of the pretzel, and it is time we own a record to prove it. The current record is 443 people making a pretzel shape in Germany — we know Freeport and all our Midwestern friends will show up to blow that record out of the water,” said Katie Gentz, events and engagement manager at the Greater Freeport Partnership.

For additional information and updates, visit greaterfreeport.com/pretzelfest or contact the Greater Freeport Partnership at 815-233-1350. 

The Greater Freeport Partnership hosts Pretzel Fest and the record-break attempt to support community pride and the long-standing nickname as Pretzel City. In addition, the Partnership is a catalyst for dynamic economic growth fostering an inclusive environment where businesses thrive, and Freeport and Stephenson County prosper.

Event Details:

●  Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025

●  Check-in Time: 10 a.m.

●  Record Attempt: 10:30 a.m.

●  Location: Downtown Freeport

●  Pretzel Fest 11 a.m. — 3 p.m.: Chicago Avenue, Downtown Freeport

●  Pretzel City Polka Fest 4-6 p.m.: Freeport Masonic Temple

●  Winnie Rock City 7-11 p.m.: Winneshiek Playhouse