When Do Leaves Change Color This Year | Peoria News

Peoria News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Sep 1, 2026 · 1m

Autumn’s real magic is just around the corner—meteorological fall starts September 1, but the true show begins with the equinox on the 22nd. Peak foliage? Usually late October in Central Illinois, earlier up north, later down south. This year? Expect the best colors to blaze in late October or early November, depending on whether summer lingers—or if cooler temps arrive sooner. Rain’s helping keep leaves vibrant longer. And why the explosion of color? Simple: less sunlight means chlorophyll fades, revealing hidden reds, oranges, and yellows beneath. Nature’s masterpiece is about to unfold…