Plaid-urday!
2025-12-20 11:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | 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!

Tom Nauman Memorial Midwest Morel Fest & Burger Bash
2026-05-02 07:30 - 12:30 | Jordan Block, 101 W Main 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 the Jordan Block (100 Main Street), 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.

Ottawa Farmers and Makers Market
2026-06-06 08:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-13 08:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-20 08:00 - 12:30, 2026-06-27 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.

Ottawa's Third Friday-June
2026-06-19 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: 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.

Music in the Park: Mary and the Troublemakers
2026-06-27 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: 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!

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!

Music in the Park Presents: Southtown Soul & Groove
2026-07-11 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

Music in the Park Presents: Four C Notes
2026-07-18 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: Radium City Rebels
2026-08-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois

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

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!

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!
