The Pioneer City Rodeo and Festival take place  Labor Day Weekend in Palestine, Illinois. The Labor Day festival began more than 45 years ago as a railroader's picnic. In 1967 the first professional rodeo was held in a makeshift arena on the men's baseball diamond. Since that time the event has grown to become one of the finest rodeos east of the Mississippi River. During Labor Day Weekend the Village of Palestine will host well over 20,000 visitors as they enjoy the street fair, Chuck Wagon Breakfast, carnival, parade, free entertainment, clown lunch, and 4 performances of the PIONEER CITY RODEO.