Paris, Illinois, is a city located in Edgar County, in the eastern part of the state. The population of Paris as of the 2020 census was 8,952. The city has a total area of 2.9 square miles and a population density of 3,017.3 people per square mile. As of the 2020 census, the racial makeup of the city was 95.9% White, 0.4% African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.8% of the population.
Culture:
Paris is known for its beautiful historic downtown area, which features a variety of unique shops, boutiques, and eateries. The city also hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year, including the annual Paris Wheat Festival, which takes place in August and features live music, a carnival, and plenty of food and drink. The Paris Public Library also offers a variety of programs and events for people of all ages.
Special Event:
One of the most notable events in Paris is the annual Paris Wheat Festival, which celebrate the area's rich agricultural heritage. The festival takes place in August and features live music, a carnival, and plenty of food and drink. The festival also includes a parade, a 5k run, and a pageant. Additionally, the city hosts a Christmas parade in December, which features festively decorated floats, live music, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Local attractions:
Paris has a number of unique local attractions that are worth visiting. The Edgar County Courthouse, built in 1894, is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Paris Museum, located inside the historic train depot, features exhibits on local history, in addition to a model train display and a collection of vintage train cars.
Food:
Like much of Illinois, Paris is known for its agricultural products, particularly corn and soybeans. The city is also home to a number of unique eateries that serve a variety of cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, and American comfort food. The city is also home to several family-owned farms that offer tours and the opportunity to pick your own fruits and vegetables.
People:
As of the 2020 census, the population of Paris was 8,952. The city has a population density of 3,017.3 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the city was 95.9% White, 0.4% African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.0% Pacific Islander, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.8% of the population. The median household income in Paris was $51,750. The median age in the city was 41.9 years.
History:
The area that is now Paris was first settled in 1821 by Joseph A. McFarland, who built a cabin near the site of the present-day city. The city of Paris was officially founded in 1835, and it was named after the French city of the same name. The city grew rapidly, thanks in part to its location along the Vermilion River, which allowed for easy transportation of goods and people. The city's early economy was largely based on agriculture and manufacturing, and it was home to a number of factories that produced everything from grain to furniture.
If you are considering a visit to Paris, Illinois, be sure to explore the historic downtown area, attend one of the city's festivals or events, and sample some of the local cuisine. You might even want to book a stay at one of the city's many bed and breakfasts!