Because the Billerbeck Bakery, established 1869, flooded Freeport with pretzels, the pretzel became the trademark for Freeport.


Freeport was called “Pretzel City” over 100 years ago. Freeport High School’s athletic teams adopted the name “Pretzels” and is now on ESPN’s Hall of Fame list of unusual mascots.

The Mid Summer Pretzel Festival… Free circus acts! Chevrolet given away! Popularity contest! 3 days of FUN!

The mission of Pretzel City USA is to promote the City of Freeport to as broad a circle as possible. The organization shall make maximum use f the city’s unique name- Pretzel City USA to carry out this mission.