Ottawa Downtown Association

A Victorian Haunting
2026-10-24 14:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Reddick Mansion, 100 W Lafayette St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
The Third Annual Victorian Haunting Returns… Escape from the Asylum
The doors are creaking open once again for the Third Annual Victorian Haunting, and this year’s theme will test your nerves like never before. Escape from the Asylum invites you into a twisted Victorian-era experience filled with dark secrets, unique characters, and surprises around every corner.
Guests can expect brand-new elements, immersive scenes, eerie encounters, and exclusive special events throughout the evening. Dress to impress (or distress) for our costume contest, capture chilling memories at curated photo opportunities, and explore historic spaces through themed tours that blur the line between history and horror.
This beloved downtown experience will return bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before—but for now, we’re keeping some of the madness under wraps.
More details, tickets, and reveals coming soon.Until then… start planning your escape.

Community Steak Fry
2026-10-08 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us for the Illinois Valley Contractor Association’s Community Steak Fry!
Thursday, October 8, 2026
Washington Square + Jackson Street

Fall Fest
2026-10-04 | Downtown Ottawa
Join us for Fall Fest on Sunday, Oct. 4 in downtown Ottawa. More information coming soon!

Walk To End Alzheimer’s
2026-09-26 08:00 - 11:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us at the Jordan Block on September 26, 2026, from 8-11 am for the Walk To End Alzheimer’s. More information coming soon!

Ottawa's Third Friday-September
2026-09-18 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Ottawa’s Third Friday in Downtown Ottawa, Illinois
Dates: May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, and September 18
Location: Madison Street, Downtown Ottawa, Illinois
Create memories that last a lifetime at Third Friday in downtown Ottawa, Illinois, a lively monthly street festival celebrating local makers, music, and community. Held on Madison Street in the heart of historic downtown Ottawa, Third Friday brings together artisans, musicians, small businesses, and families for a fun, relaxed night out.
Each month features a rotating lineup of local makers and artists, live music, hands-on crafts, family-friendly activities, and pop-up experiences from downtown businesses. Stroll the street market, discover handmade goods, enjoy live entertainment, and connect with the creative spirit that makes Ottawa, Illinois such a vibrant destination.
Whether you’re looking for a unique handmade gift, a fun outing with the kids, or a reason to explore downtown Ottawa shops, restaurants, and galleries, Third Friday is the perfect way to kick off your weekend.
Come experience the energy of Downtown Ottawa, Illinois events and support local artists, makers, and small businesses all summer long.
Admission: Free

Music in the Park Presents: Cadillac Grove
2026-08-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Music in the Park 2026
Join us on Saturday evenings, 6–8 PM, in the beautiful Washington Square for an incredible lineup of live music all summer long! From local favorites to special guest performers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Bring your friends, your family, and your picnic blankets – let’s make this summer unforgettable in Ottawa!
Don’t forget to tag your friends and share the love. Music in the Park is the place to be this summer!

Music in the Park Presents: Rosie and the Rivets
2026-08-22 08:00 - 17:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Music in the Park – Extended Edition!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 22 – Music in the Park is getting a special extended evening from 6–9 PM! Come enjoy extra time of live music, summer vibes, and community fun in the beautiful Washington Square.

Bring your friends, your family, and your favorite picnic blankets – let’s make this a night to remember!

Ottawa's Third Friday-August
2026-08-21 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa

Music in the Park Presents: Rays Rockets
2026-08-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Debate Days
2026-08-15 - 2026-08-23 | Downtown Ottawa
Relive the most famous debate in history.
Step into history as our community transforms into a scene from the past!
Throughout Debate Days, you’ll find exciting events, live entertainment, and experiences that bring Ottawa’s rich history to life, including:

Lincoln-Douglas Debate Re-Enactment: Relive the world’s most famous debate on the very grounds where it first took place in 1858.
Debate Days Parade: March through downtown Ottawa in celebration of community, history, and pride.
Historic Tours & Experiences: Explore Ottawa’s landmarks and learn how our city helped shape the nation’s story.
And so much more!

Jordan Block Jams: Hotel California
2026-08-14 08:00 - 17:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
LIVE AT JORDAN BLOCK JAMS: HOTEL CALIFORNIA An Eagles Tribute Experience

Date: August 14 Time: 8:00 – 10:00 PM Location: Jordan Block, 101 W Main St.
FREE CONCERT
For over three decades, HOTEL CALIFORNIA has been recreating the legendary sound of the Eagles, thrilling audiences around the world with one of the most authentic tribute shows in rock ’n’ roll.
Since setting the bar in 1986, Hotel California has become the industry-leading Eagles tribute band—playing massive outdoor stages and arenas, sharing bills with rock legends, and going places no tribute band has gone before.

What sets them apart? Incredible lead vocal similarity Intensely accurate instrumentation Soaring harmonies A top-flight live performance backed by over 100 years of collective professional experience

Their show is a masterful celebration of the Eagles’ iconic catalog—one of the most game-changing song collections in the history of rock ’n’ roll—performed to perfection before your eyes and ears.
Hotel California has performed across North America and internationally in India, Bermuda, Dubai, Japan, and Tahiti, and has shared the stage with legendary acts including The Doobie Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Styx, Gretchen Wilson, and REO Speedwagon.

If you love the Eagles, welcome to the Hotel California — you’ve just found the next best thing.

Bring your friends, lawn chairs, and your best Eagles sing-along voice for a summer night of classic rock at Jordan Block Jams!

Music in the Park Presents: Claremont Drive
2026-08-08 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Music in the Park Presents: Radium City Rebels
2026-08-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Music in the Park Presents: The Stingrays
2026-07-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Music in the Park Presents: Four C Notes
2026-07-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Ottawa's Third Friday-July
2026-07-17 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa

America the Beautiful: A Gospel Hymn Sing & Ice Cream
2026-07-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
America the Beautiful: A Gospel Hymn Sing & Ice Cream
Sat., July 12 at 6 pm in Washington Square Park
In celebration of 250 years of faith and freedom… bring the family for a fun afternoon in the park filled with classic gospel hymns and ice cream.
In case of rain, the concert will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 110 W. Jefferson St., Ottawa, IL.
For more information, contact Diane Chapman: chapmand952@gmail.com

Music in the Park Presents: Southtown Soul & Groove
2026-07-11 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Jordan Block Jams Presents: Sarah's Place
2026-07-10 20:00 - 22:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Exciting News! Our Jordan Block Jams Summer Series kicks off with Sarah’s Place! Join us for an unforgettable night of music and fun!

Date: July 10 Time: 8-10 PM Location: Jordan Block, 101 W Main St.

Sarah’s Place- A Zach Bryan and Noah Kahan Tribute
From Zach Bryan’s rustic, Americana vibes to Noah Kahan’s indie folk charm – Sarah’s Place recreates their powerful and poignant songs with authenticity and passion … Brought to you by members of American Pie Chicago!

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!

Ottawa's 4th of July Fireworks
2026-07-04 20:30 - 22:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Join us for an epic fireworks show celebrating America’s 250th birthday! Details coming soon!

Music in the Park Presents: Libido Funk Circus
2026-07-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
4th of July Kickoff Party – Music & Fireworks!

This July 4th, join us for an evening of FAMILY FUN at the Jordan Block! From 6–8 PM, enjoy the incredible sounds of The Libido Funk Circus as we get the celebration started before the City of Ottawa 4th of July Fireworks light up the sky.

Think of it as the ultimate fireworks kickoff party – music, fun, and summer vibes all in one spot!

More details coming soon – you won’t want to miss it!

Music in the Park: Mary and the Troublemakers
2026-06-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

Run Today for Tomorrow Wellness Fair and 5k Run/Walk
2026-06-27 08:00 - 13:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Run Today for Tomorrow’s 7th annual 5K is back, and as of December of 2025, Run Today for Tomorrow, Inc. is officially a 501c3!!

All proceeds will stay in the community and provide financial assistance to community members in getting the help they need as well as a mental health scholarship for local students in the Mental Health field of study. We are partnered with the Starved Rock Country Community Foundation to make this happen. The goal of Run Today for Tomorrow, Inc. is to bring hope and provide help to those affected by suicide. We’re running today because we believe in a Tomorrow where everyone is here to see it
Join us on June 27th for our in-person race or virtually you can run around your neighborhood, on a trail, or on a treadmill, post your results, and help share our message with the world!
Another exciting update for 2026; we will be hosting our very first LaSalle County Wellness Fair! The Wellness Fair is a free, family-friendly event that is all about celebrating health, wellness, and community connection. Please stop on by during or after race time.

Whether your participation is in support of the cause, in honor of a loved one, your personal health, or your personal struggles, we encourage you to participate and let your reason drive you to the finish line.

Registration Fee – $30 (thru 5/27/26 includes t-shirt)*
Registration Fee – $35 (5/27/26 – 6/27/26)
Packet Pickup will be held on Friday June 26th from 3pm-7pm at Small Dog Candle Co 619 La Salle St, Ottawa, IL 61350
Registration Addon – $10.00 to ship your packet to you
*T-Shirt sizes are S, M, L, XL, XXL, 3XL and 4XL

The race will be held rain or shine. No refunds are allowed after registration is completed. T-shirt sizes guaranteed for all participants registered by May 27th.
Feel free to check out our website at runtodayfortomorrow.org or follow us on Facebook at “Run Today for Tomorrow, Inc.” for more updates about race day!

Ottawa Farmers and Makers Market
2026-06-27 08:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-20 08:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-13 08:00 - 12:30 | Jackson Street, 100 W Jackson Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
The Ottawa Area Farmers & Makers Market is returning this season, and we couldn’t be more excited! Join us every Saturday from 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM, May 30th through October 17th, at 100 W. Jackson St.
Our market is more than just fresh produce — it’s a celebration of local farmers, talented makers, and the incredible small businesses that keep our community thriving. From garden-fresh vegetables to homemade goods, there’s something for everyone.
Admission: Free

Music in the Park: Jonny Lyons & the Pride
2026-06-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us for music in the Park on Fri, June 20 from 6-8 pm for Jonny Lyons & the Pride. Free and family-friendly event! Sponsored by the Ottawa Special Events Committee.

28th Annual Cruise Night
2026-06-19 18:00 - 22:00 | LaSalle St.
Celebrate America’s 250 at Cruise Night!

Help us celebrate the 250th birthday of our great country at our 28th Annual Ottawa Cruise Night.
Friday, June 19th from 6-10 pm. We are still keeping our registration at a low $10. Goodie bags and dash plaques to the first 300 vehicles registered.
Music provided by the famous 3D Sound.

We have chosen the Ottawa River Rescue as the 50/50 beneficiary this year. They will utilize the funds for much-needed replacement of their ice rescue gear. Be sure to watch for the people out and about that evening with tickets available. There will also be a ticket booth set up at the corner of LaSalle St and Jefferson St.

Event shirts will be available from S&S Shirts N More. They will also be set up at the corner of Jefferson St and LaSalle St

Come hungry and check out the food options from some of your favorite local non-profit organizations. Some of our generous sponsors will have booths set up for you to check out, too. This will all be located on West Jefferson St

Sponsored by the City of Ottawa and the Ottawa Special Events Group. We are honored to have their support to make it possible to put on a great event every year.

Ottawa's Third Friday-June
2026-06-19 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa

Lions Club Carnival
2026-06-17 - 2026-06-20 | Lincoln Douglas Park, E, 600 Utica Dr, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us for the Lions Club Carnival!

New location: Lincoln Douglas Park
$30 armbands each session (unlimited rides). Advance armbands are $25 each.
Wed-Fri: 6-10 pm, Sat: 1-5 pm, and 5-9 pm
1 ticket good for 1 armband session

Rides * Games * Food * Fun
