Ottawa Downtown Association

2nd Annual Krampus Cookie Crawl
2025-12-13 16:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Downtown Ottawa
Join us for the Second Annual Krampus Cookie Crawl as part of Ottawa’s enchanting Chris Kringle Market on Saturday, December 13! This unique, adults-only holiday experience invites guests to follow Krampus’ mischievous path through historic downtown Ottawa, stopping at nine festive locations. Along the way, you’ll collect 6 deliciously decadent cookies and confections crafted to bring a twist to holiday flavors and warm up with three delicious holiday-themed cocktails. With only 50 tickets available, this intimate event is sure to sell out quickly again. Embrace the magic and mystery of the season—Krampus style! Must be 21+ to participate.

Participants can pick up their cookie box at the Info Booth at Chris Kringle Market at Jordan Block (across from Santa’s Hut) on Saturday, Dec. 13, starting at 4 pm. 21+ only, must show ID at pickup. This is a rain-or-shine event with no refunds.

Family Photos with Santa
2025-12-07 09:00 - 12:00 | Cat’s Eye Wine Bar, 724 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Capture the magic of the season with a professional family photo session with Santa at CatsEye, right in the heart of downtown Ottawa.

What’s included:-A 10-minute photo session with Santa and Brickstreet Studios-3 professionally edited photos delivered in your personal client gallery-A built-in print shop & holiday card ordering system right inside your gallery—making it easy to choose your favorite shots and turn them into timeless keepsakes or festive holiday cards.

Date & Time: 9 AM – Noon Location: CatsEye, Downtown Ottawa

Spots are limited! With only a handful of 10-minute slots available, this is the perfect opportunity to create holiday memories your family will treasure.
Reserve your Santa session today and make this holiday season picture-perfect!

Santa Shuffle 5k
2025-11-30 09:30 - 12:00 | Ottawa Township High School Visitor Parking Lot, 216 E Main St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Kick off the holiday season with a festive fun run in downtown Ottawa! Join us on Sunday, November 30 for the First Annual Santa Shuffle, a spirited event for runners, walkers, families, and friends of all ages.

Start Time: 9:30 AM (Check-in begins at 7:00 AM)
Location: Ottawa Township High School Visitor Parking Lot
Registration: $30 per participant (discounts available for families and groups)

Every participant will receive a custom bib, a cozy Chris Kringle beanie, and a cup of hot cocoa at the finish line. The event features a timed finish, so you can challenge yourself—or simply enjoy the holiday cheer at your own pace.

Costumes and ugly Christmas sweaters are highly encouraged—so bring your holiday spirit and make it festive!

Come for the run, stay for the fun, and help us make this first Santa Shuffle a holiday tradition in Ottawa!

Festival of Lights Parade
2025-11-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Festival of Lights Parade Friday, November 28, 2025 • 6 PMDowntown Ottawa, IL

Kick off the holiday season in dazzling style at Ottawa’s beloved Festival of Lights Parade! Join us in the heart of downtown as festive floats, sparkling lights, and holiday music fill the streets with cheer. This magical tradition brings families and friends together to celebrate the season, with a joyful procession that lights up the night and hearts alike.
Bundle up, bring the cocoa, and make your way downtown for a holiday experience you won’t want to miss!

Downtown Ottawa Parade starts at 6 PM Special appearance by Santa Claus & Mrs

Let’s light up the Middle of Everywhere together!

Mistletoe and Mulled Wine: Late Night Shopping
2025-11-22 21:00 - 23:59 | Cat’s Eye Wine Bar, 724 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Stay up late for a little holiday shopping magic! Selected downtown shops will reopen late for Mistletoe & Mulled Wine, a festive night of twinkling lights, local charm, and merry shopping. Sip on something warm, find the perfect gifts, and enjoy exclusive in-store specials all night long.

The first 50 guests to check in at CatsEye will receive a swag bag packed with valuable coupons and treats from your favorite downtown businesses! This is a FREE event, but swag bags are first come, first served, with no holds.

It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season—shop local, sip something cozy, and soak up the sparkle of downtown Ottawa.

Community Christmas Tree Decorating Day
2025-11-15 11:00 - 14:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
It’s time to deck the park! All Ottawa Community Christmas Tree sponsors are invited to join us on Saturday, November 15, from 11 AM–2 PM in Washington Square Park to decorate your tree for the season.

This is your day to bring your creativity to life — add your weather-resistant ornaments, ribbons, and festive touches to make your tree shine! We’ll have your tree and signage ready for you when you arrive, and our team will be on hand to help with questions as needed.

When we’re done, Washington Square Park will be transformed into a beautiful holiday display for the entire community to enjoy all season long.

Event Details: Washington Square Park, Downtown Ottawa Saturday, November 15 11 AM – 2 PM Trees will remain on display through the Christmas season

Send Day
2025-11-15 10:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Ottawa
When you shop local, you might just get sent somewhere new! On Send Day, every time you make a purchase at a participating downtown business, you’ll get to draw a special chip from the Send Day bucket. Each chip reveals a surprise deal, discount, or freebie from another downtown shop, restaurant, or boutique.

It’s a fun and festive way to discover new favorites, share some local love, and keep your holiday dollars circulating right here in our community.

How it works:-Shop at any participating Send Day business.-After checkout, pull a chip from the Send Day bucket.-Each chip sends you to a different downtown business with a special promo—maybe a free treat, a discount, or a surprise gift!

Keep exploring, redeem your deal, and enjoy discovering more of downtown Ottawa. The more you shop, the more surprises you can uncover!

Exploreum Sparkle Spectactular
2025-11-07 - 2025-11-21 | Jeremiah Joe Coffee-Downtown Ottawa, 807 La Salle St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Exploreum Sparkle Spectacular A Tree Auction Fundraiser for the Ottawa Exploreum Children’s Museum
Jeremiah Joe Coffee – 807 LaSalle Street, Ottawa, IL Starts: Thursday, November 7, 2025 Kickoff: 5:00 PM Bidding closes: Thursday, November 21, 2025

Get ready to step into a holiday wonderland at the Exploreum Sparkle Spectacular—a festive fundraiser benefiting the future Exploreum Children’s Museum in Ottawa! Wander through a whimsical display of fully decorated, themed Christmas trees created. Then, bid to bring one home!

What’s in store: Dozens of stunning, one-of-a-kind trees Festive music and cozy vibes Picture-perfect photo ops Delicious drinks & treats Bidding is silent and open through November 21—highest bid wins!

All proceeds go directly to helping us build the Exploreum—a hands-on, play-based children’s museum in the heart of Ottawa.

Come sip, stroll, and support something TreeMendous

A Victorian Haunting: Murder at the Mansion
2025-10-25 14:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Step back in time to a shadowy night of intrigue, secrets, and suspense at A Victorian Haunting: Murder at the Mansion. Someone has met an untimely end inside the grand Reddick Mansion… and it’s up to you to uncover the truth.
Follow a trail of clues hidden throughout downtown Ottawa. Each stop reveals another piece of the puzzle—and brings you closer to solving the mystery. Experience even more Victorian parlor activities, from palm readers to mediums and more. Don your finest Victorian attire and be entered to win a $100 Discover Ottawa Gift Card in our Second Annual Costume Contest!

What’s New This Year?
🕰️ Extended Hours!We’re starting earlier—festivities now begin at 2 PM, giving you even more time to explore Victorian-era Ottawa and immerse yourself in the mystery.
📲 Skip the Check-In Line!No need to wait in line! Just show your pass and start your haunting adventure.
🎩 Now Open to Ages 13+!This year’s event is designed for guests 13 and older, so teens and adults alike can join in the mystery, thrills, and Victorian fun!
🍴 Enjoy a Gourmet Snack!Grab a gourmet charcuterie cup filled with easy-to-eat snacks. Savor the flavors while you sleuth!

Ottawa Fall Fest and Parade
2025-10-05 12:00 - 17:00 | Jordan Block, 101 W Main St, Ottawa, Illinois
Celebrate the season at Ottawa’s annual Fall Fest & Parade! This family-friendly event brings the heart of autumn to downtown with a day full of festive fun. Enjoy the lively Fall Parade, which kicks off the celebration with colorful floats, community groups, and local entertainment. The festival continues with live music, kids’ activities, a vendor market, delicious fall treats, and more. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the day, Fall Fest is the perfect way to welcome autumn in Ottawa!

Ottawa Scarecrow Festival
2025-10-04 | Downtown Ottawa
Get into the spirit of the season at Ottawa’s annual Scarecrow Festival! Stroll through downtown to see dozens of creatively decorated scarecrows made by local businesses, organizations, and families. Held on Saturday, Oct. 4, throughout downtown Ottawa, Illinois.

Bill's Barktoberfest
2025-09-27 11:00 - 14:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Mark your calendars! Bill’s Barktoberfest is back for another tail-wagging good time, celebrating our beloved four-legged friends. Join us on Saturday, September 27, from 11 AM to 2 PM at Washington Square Park for a fun-filled day for pups and their people!

Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival
2025-09-12 - 2025-09-14 | Ottawa, Illinois, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival

Plein Air painting or drawing in any medium outdoors, from direct observation of the subject matter.

The City of Ottawa Arts Committee announces the first annual Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival in Ottawa, IL. Plein air artists are invited to use their vision and talents to capture picturesque scenes. Nestled just 80 miles southwest of Chicago, Ottawa, Illinois, is a hidden gem for artists seeking inspiration. With its beautifully landscaped downtown, historic churches, historic architecture, and vibrant public parks, the city offers a diverse and dynamic backdrop for plein air painters. Framed by the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers, Ottawa boasts breathtaking waterfront views, lush nature preserves, and charming streetscapes making it the perfect setting for an immersive outdoor painting experience.

Join us for Paint the Town, a premier en plein air festival where artists of all levels come together to capture the beauty of Ottawa, one brushstroke at a time. Over three days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore, create, and compete for $5,000 in prizes graciously donated by Bob and Cheryl Nelson, while connecting with fellow artists and art lovers in a welcoming, inspiring environment.

Whether you’re drawn to the rich textures of historic architecture, the soft light reflecting off the river, or the serenity of our natural landscapes, Ottawa has a scene for every artistic vision. Come paint with us and let the town become your canvas!

September 12-14, 2025 | Ottawa, Illinois

For more details and to apply: https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=15690&fbclid=IwY2xjawL0fjdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaSXFEUFlSMGhoVG9lSE5UAR7mhAt1CCXBLtkLFaPGvAkBtmgneq5JQUhfFmtVUoFGiU8r-Vd5zSV-CtXWQA_aem_dsxoWmb3jGIJMVwvSX5klA

United Way Day
2025-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us for United Way Day—a celebration of the incredible work we do together to strengthen Eastern LaSalle County!

Sip coffee, enjoy donuts, and connect with fellow community members as we highlight the collective impact we’ve made over the past year. Hear inspiring stories, celebrate our shared accomplishments, and get a glimpse of the exciting possibilities ahead as we continue building a stronger, healthier community—together.

Music in the Park presents: The Sumthins
2025-09-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us on Saturday evenings from 5-7 PM in the serene setting of Washington Square for an unforgettable series of live musical performances!

Since 2015 The Sumthins have been writing, recording and performing songs. Playing a wide array of mostly covers live while throwing in some originals. “We play a wide array of music that WE enjoy playing. We want to be excited to play our set each night, and I believe we do!”

Don’t forget to tag your friends and spread the word – Music in the Park is where it’s at this summer in Ottawa!
See you there!

Walk to End Alzheimer's
2025-09-06 08:30 - 12:00 | Jordan Block, 101 W Main St, Ottawa, Illinois
Event Details

Time:
Festivities Begin at 8:30 am
Ceremony at 9:30 am
Walk at 10:00 am

Add to calendar

Location:
Jordan Block
101-123 W Main St
Ottawa, IL 61350
Map it

Contact:
Kayli Rizzo
815.373.5114
klavelle@alz.org

Court Street Pub's Block Party
2025-08-31 12:00 - 21:00 | Court Street, 2612 Cherie Lane, OTTAWA, IL, 61350-1041, United States
It’s BACK…Labor Day Block Party 2025
Save the Date: Sunday, August 31st, 2025

We’re shutting down the block for a full day of fun you won’t want to miss!
Live Music kicks off at 12 PM Bags Tournament starts at 1 PM Local vendors & kid-friendly activities all day Outdoor bar serving up ice-cold drinks Restaurant will be open and serving food to keep you fueled all day long!

Come for the fun, stay for the party – it’s the ultimate way to wrap up summer!

Music in the Park Presents: The Silhouettes
2025-08-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us on Saturday evenings from 6-8 PM in the serene setting of Washington Square for an unforgettable series of live musical performances!
If you like good music and having fun, you will love The Silhouettes!!

Don’t forget about the amazing food too!

Tone Capone’s Tacos
Popcorn Cart
Aussem Dogs Hotdog Stand

Bring your friends, grab some bites, and enjoy the music!

Don’t forget to tag your friends and spread the word – Music in the Park is where it’s at this summer in Ottawa!
See you there!

Wildflowers Market-August
2025-08-16 09:00 - 14:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Come shop til you drop with our small business vendors. They’ll be all set up and ready for you to check out their crafts, boutiques, pieces of art, jewelry and so much more! Food trucks will be available as well. This is a family event! We will have fun activities goingon throughout the day.
Come support our local businesses!

4th Annual Children's Business Fair
2025-08-09 10:00 - 15:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
It’s that time again! Head to www.prairiefoxbooks.com/events to sign up for the 4th Annual Children’s Business Fair! We are taking it back to Washington Park this year, so get ready.
If you are between the ages of 5 and 15 and have a great business idea, sign up and be a part of this outdoor kids vendor fair! Can’t wait to do it again!

National Night Out
2025-08-05 17:00 - 20:00 | Peck Park, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Mark your Calendars!! Please join us this year for National Night Out!!

Family-friendly activities, including bounce houses, face painting, games, food, and more! Hosted by the Ottawa Police Department, Ottawa Fire Department, and the LaSalle County Sheriff’s Department.

If you are interested in being a sponsor for this years fun, please reach out to us!!

Friendship Days FREE Pool Party
2025-08-03 12:00 - 17:00 | Riordan Pool, 600 Utica Dr,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join Us for the Grand Finale of Friendship Days!

The City of Ottawa Special Events Committee is excited to close out our annual Friendship Days with a FREE Pool Party at Riordan Pool on Sunday, August 3, from 12–5 pm!
Enjoy a live DJ setting the mood for an epic end-of-summer bash, plus FREE entry, FREE lunch (including pop, water, and pizza), and live entertainment for all ages. It’s fun for the whole family—don’t miss it!

Riordan Pool | 500 E Norris Drive, Ottawa, IL
Sunday, August 3 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Come make a splash with us and celebrate the season in style!

41st Annual Car Show
2025-08-02 08:00 - 13:00 | 234 Albi Sevens Dr, 234 Albin Stevens Dr, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us in celebrating our 41st Car Show and the club’s 41st year.
We are changing things up a bit with being more involved with Ottawa’s Friendship Days.

We are also hosting a food truck festival along with a large craft show with over 50 large vendors. This gives the whole family a day of fun and entertainment.
There will be a variety of food trucks with some offering breakfast options and switching to lunchtime fare. There will also be a coffee truck available.
The food trucks and craft show will run until 4pm and the craft show will run on Sunday also.
This year we will have a new sound system setup that will be a huge improvement.
Registration is a low $10 and as always spectators are free.

We hope to see you all there!

Jordan Block Jams: Harmonix
2025-08-01 19:00 - 22:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Our Jordan Block Jams Summer Series ENDS with HARMONIXS! Join us for an unforgettable night of music, food, and fun!

Date: August 1 Time: 7-10 PM (Music begins @ 8PM) Location: Jordan Block Ottawa

We are Harmonix! Your ultimate up-tempo, diverse, and dynamic party band. Specializing in hits from every genre and era, we ensure there’s something for everyone on the dance floor.

Imagine putting your favorite playlist on shuffle – that’s the vibrant and exciting experience we bring to every event. So, lace up your dancing shoes and join us for an unforgettable musical journey!Don’t miss out on an evening filled with great music and unforgettable moments!

Bring your friends, family, and neighbors for a fantastic evening of live music and community vibes. Plus, admission is FREE! Don’t forget your lawn chairs or blankets!

Kids Fishing Rodeo
2025-07-31 17:00 - 19:00 | Old Central School Lot, 400 Clinton St, Ottawa, Illioins
Calling all young anglers! Join us for the Kids’ Fishing Rodeo on Wednesday, July 31, from 5–7 pm, where the Illinois and Fox Rivers meet! It’s a great way for kids to cast a line, enjoy the outdoors, and make some summertime memories in the Middle of Everywhere! Free and fun for kids of all skill levels Beautiful riverside location Plenty of fish stories waiting to happen!Special thanks to Commissioner Eichekraut, Ottawa Park and Recreation, Ken Katrein, and Shoreline Boat & Ski Club for sponsoring this great event. VisitOttawaIL.com for more info!

Downtown Ottawa Sidewalk Sales
2025-07-31 - 2025-08-02 | Downtown Ottawa
Get ready for three days of shopping, sunshine, and unbeatable deals during Downtown Ottawa’s Annual Sidewalk Sales! From Thursday, July 31 to Saturday, August 2, our charming downtown comes alive with open-air displays, deep discounts, and fun surprises from your favorite local shops.
Stroll the streets and discover special offers on everything from fashion and home goods to handmade items, gifts, and more. Whether you’re a bargain hunter or just love supporting small businesses, you won’t want to miss this summertime tradition.

Touch a Truck
2025-07-27 11:00 - 15:00 | Old Central School Lot, 400 Clinton St, Ottawa, Illioins
Touch a Truck will be held Sunday, July 27, from 11 am to 3 pm, along the Riverfront, 400 Clinton St., Ottawa, IL.
Hosted by Illinois Valley Building and Construction Trades Council and Illinois Valley Contractors Association .

Drinkin' with Lincoln
2025-07-25 - 2025-07-26 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Drinkin’ with Lincoln Brewfest is almost here — and you won’t want to miss this lineup!Raise a glass with these amazing breweries, wineries, and distilleries: Tangled Roots Brewing Company Nik & Ivy Unpossible Mead August Hill Whiskey Acres Star Union Obscurity Noon Whistle Maplewood Revolution Firestone Walker Go Brewing
Dates & Times:Friday, July 25: 5 PM – 9 PMSaturday, July 26: Noon – 9 PM
Early Bird Ticket Pricing: $25 for 28 tasting tickets — get yours now!At the door: $1 per ticket.
Sampling Details:2 tickets = 3 oz. beer sample or 1 oz. spirit sample7 tickets = 16 oz. beer or 5 oz. spirit
Grab your tickets and get ready to sip, sample, and savor downtown Ottawa! https://www.visitottawail.com/drinkin-with-lincoln

Wildflowers Market-July
2025-07-19 09:00 - 14:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Come shop til you drop with our small business vendors. They’ll be all set up and ready for you to check out their crafts, boutiques, pieces of art, jewelry, and so much more! Food trucks will be available as well. This is a family event! We will have fun activities going on throughout the day. Come support our local businesses!

Jordan Block Jams: Tailgate Confessions
2025-07-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Our Jordan Block Jams Summer Series continues with Tailgate Confessions! Join us for an unforgettable night of music, food, and fun!

Date: July 18 Time: 7-10 PM (Music begins @ 8PM) Location: Jordan Block Ottawa

Tailgate Confessions- Modern Country and Classic Rock

Join us for a night of modern country and classic rock with Brittany Ralph from Ottawa, Timothy Mattern, and Rachel Corsale from Spring Valley! Formed in the winter of 2023, we bring the sounds of Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, and more to life. Our journey has taken us from local gigs to sharing the stage in Terra Haute, Indiana, alongside Nashville songwriters at a special “Storyteller” showcase in 2024. With over 100 shows under our belt, we’ve entertained a diverse range of clients and audiences. Don’t miss out on an evening filled with great music and unforgettable moments!

Bring your friends, family, and neighbors for a fantastic evening of live music and community vibes. Plus, admission is FREE! Don’t forget your lawn chairs or blankets!
