Located along the Illinois River, East Peoria residents enjoy the perks of living in a small, community oriented city within the large Central Illinois metropolitan area. East Peoria is in Tazewell County and has a population of 23,402 residents (2010 census). The city is home to an award-winning athletic complex hosting national softball tournaments, one of the largest nighttime holiday festivals in the Midwest, a regional community college, fine hotels and dining, excellent city services and a healthy business climate. The city’s scenic hills and bluffs offer outstanding sunset views. The City of East Peoria government includes the departments of Accounts and Finance, Police, Fire, Public Works, Planning and Community Development, and Tourism and Special Events. There are approximately 180 employees, full-time and part-time.