Bill's Barktoberfest
2025-09-27 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | 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!

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.

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!

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!

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

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!

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

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.

Ottawa Chris Kringle Market
2025-11-28 12:00 - 2025-12-21 16:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Holiday traditions start here!
Join us under the glistening lights of historic downtown Ottawa, Illinois for the Chris Kringle Market. This open-air holiday market features nearly 100 small makers, bakers, and artisans, family-friendly activities, Santa, and so much more! Mark your calendar and plan your trip to the Ottawa Chris Kringle Market.
Opening Day: Friday, Nov. 28. Special extended hours: Noon-7 pm
Regular Hours:
Fridays: 4-8 pm
Saturdays: 11 am-7 pm
Sundays: 11 am-4 pm
The market runs Friday, Nov. 28-Sunday, Dec. 21 in downtown Ottawa, Illinois.

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!

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!

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!

2nd Annual Krampus Cookie Crawl
2025-12-13 16:00 - 20:00 | 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.

Donuts with Santa
2025-12-14 09:00 - 11:00 | Floret Plants and Provisions, 610 Court Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Kick off a sweet holiday morning with Santa himself! Join us at Floret (610 Court Street) on Sunday, December 14 for Donuts with Santa — a fun and festive experience for kids.

Each 45-minute session (9 AM or 10 AM) includes a delicious donut, a hands-on holiday craft, and special time with Santa to share Christmas wish lists and snap a few photos.

Space is limited to 30 kids per session, so grab your spot early for this magical morning treat!

Plaid-urday!
2025-12-20 11:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Pull out your plaid and join the fun!

Saturday, December 20, is Plaidurday at the Chris Kringle Market — a community day dedicated to flannel, fun, and festive spirit. Come cozy and colorful as you stroll the market, shop local vendors, and enjoy Christmas ambiance on every corner!

Let’s make downtown Ottawa plaid and proud this holiday season!

2nd Annual Sweet Stroll
2026-02-07 11:00 - 14:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Indulge your sweet tooth and create lasting memories at the Downtown Ottawa Sweet Stroll! Join us on Saturday, February 7, from 11 am-2 pm for an afternoon of delicious fun the whole family will love.
Stroll through charming downtown Ottawa and visit a variety of local businesses, each offering a unique confection or cookie for you to collect.
Your ticket includes:

Delightful confections and cookies from all participating businesses
One keepsake ceramic mug
Photo ops

Want extra mugs to share or collect? No problem—additional mugs are available for just $5 each.
Bring your family and friends to experience a cozy, sweet-filled adventure that showcases the heart of our community. Don’t miss out—tickets are limited, so secure yours today!
We can’t wait to see you on the Sweet Stroll!
Please note:

The Sweet Stroll is a rain-or-shine event, so dress accordingly and embrace the cozy vibes, no matter the weather!
No refunds can be issued, but we’re confident the sweet treats and warm memories will be worth it.

Coldest Night of the Year
2026-02-28 | Jordan Block, 101 W Main St, Ottawa, Illinois
Walk + Fundraise February 28, 2026
The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is a family-friendly winter walk that raises vital funds for local organizations serving people experiencing homelessness, hunger, and hardship.
When you join CNOY, you’re not just walking – you’re fundraising to help your neighbors find warmth, safety, and support.
Each February, thousands of people across the country step outside their comfort zone to show compassion and solidarity with those who are struggling in the cold. Your participation – and your fundraising – make a real difference in your community.

Restaurant Week
2026-03-09 - 2026-03-21 | Downtown Ottawa
Don’t forget to pick up your Restaurant Week Passport at the Ottawa Visitors Center before the festivities begin. During Restaurant Weeks, collect a stamp at each participating location you visit, the more stamps you earn, the better your chances of winning!This year’s Restaurant Week drawing prize is now over $200 in gift cardsOnce you’ve collected your stamps, simply return your passport to the Visitors Center. You’ll receive one entry ticket for every stamp collected to place in the drawing.Start planning those dining stops, we can’t wait to see you out enjoying Restaurant Weeks!

Pack the Place at the Lone Buffalo!
2026-03-11 17:00 - 21:00 | The Lone Buffalo, 808 - 812 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us for a Pack the Place fundraising night supporting the Ottawa Downtown Association!

On March 11, The Lone Buffalo will donate 10% of all sales from 5–9 PM to the Ottawa Downtown Association, an organization dedicated to supporting local businesses, events, and the continued growth of downtown Ottawa.

Enjoy great food, craft beer, and community while giving back to the heart of our city.

The Lone Buffalo March 11 5:00–9:00 PM 10% of sales donated to the Ottawa Downtown Association

No tickets required—just stop by, dine in, and help us pack the place for downtown Ottawa!

Startup Starved Rock Lunch and Learn: Realtors and Property Owners
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:00 | IVCC Ottawa Center, 321 W Main St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Realtors and Downtown Storefront Property Owners: Join us for a Lunch & Learn on our new Business Incubator Program: StartUp Starved Rock!

Sponsored by the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce and the Ottawa Downtown Association, the StartUp Starved Rock Incubator Program is designed to support new and early-stage businesses in Ottawa, Illinois by providing seed funding, education, mentorship, and access to local business resources.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself! RSVP today!

If you have any questions, please email us at c.tucker@ottawachamberillinois.com or give us a call at 815-433-0084!

2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt
2026-04-04 09:00 - 12:00 | Allen Park, 400 Courtney Street, Ottawa, 61350, United States
We’re egg-cited to announce our 2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt!

Sponsored by the Special Events Committee, this family-favorite event is hopping back to Allen Park!

April 4, 2026 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Allen Park

Hunt for eggs, enjoy springtime fun, and don’t miss FREE professional photos with the Easter Bunny

More details coming soon—including food/drink trucks + egg hunt times by age group—so mark your calendars now for a morning full of smiles and sweet surprises!

Operation Clean Sweep: Clean Up Your Town!
2026-04-25 10:00 - 13:00 | 807 Building, 807 La Salle St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us as we team up to clean up Ottawa! We’ll meet at the 807 Building in downtown Ottawa and split up to tackle trash in garden beds, parks, and other high-traffic areas. This is a great event for groups looking to give back, youth organizations, and civic-minded individuals! Plus, there’s a pizza party afterwards! This event is organized by Justine Larabee.

Tom Nauman Memorial Midwest Morel Fest & Burger Bash
2026-05-02 07:30 - 12:30 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
In loving memory of Tom Nauman—our founding father from Morel Mania—this event exists because of his passion and vision. Without Tom, none of this would be possible.
Join us at Washington Square Park, where you can shop and peruse a large Botanical Market and Morel Market featuring everything… You guessed it… MUSHROOMS! We’ll even host MOREL UNIVERSITY, where you’ll learn to identify morels, so you know exactly what to look for on your guided hunt. (Please note: The educational hunt has limited availability.)
Schedule:

7:30 am: Hunt and Morel Market sign-in
8-8:30 am: Morel University
8:45 am: Busses depart for guided hunt
9 am-3 pm: Morel Market – morel mushrooms only
8 am-3 pm: Vendor Market
9 am-11:30 am: Guided Hunt
12:30 pm: Awards

Starved Rock Country Marathon
2026-05-09 06:00 - 14:00 | Downtown Ottawa
The 2026 Starved Rock Country Marathon, Half-Marathon, 10K, and 5k are a “must-do” event for runners in central Illinois and beyond. These races blend challenging courses with awe-inspiring scenery, making them an annual favorite in the running community.

Race Date: May 9, 2026

Register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/il/starvedrockcountrymarathon

Ottawa's Third Friday-May
2026-05-15 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 18Location: 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

Cars and Coffee
2026-05-23 07:00 - 12:00 | Old Central School Lot, 400 Clinton St, Ottawa, Illioins
Join the LaSalle County Cruisers for Cars and Coffee on May 23 from 7 a.m. to noon at the old Central School Lot in Downtown Ottawa. More information coming soon!

Ottawa Farmers and Makers Market
2026-05-30 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.

Rotary Drive-Thru Dinner Fundraiser
2026-06-04 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us for the Ottawa Noon Rotary’s Drive-Thru Dinner Fundraiser on June 4, 2026, in Lincoln Place!

Ottawa Farmers and Makers Market
2026-06-06 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

Night of Remembrance
2026-06-12 18:00 - 22:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us on June 12, 2026, from approximately 6-10 pm for the Night of Remembrance event in Washington Square Park. More information coming soon.
