Ottawa Downtown Association

Bill's Barktoberfest
2024-10-06 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Bill Walsh Sr. was an avid dog lover and a huge supporter of anything that had to do with man’s best friend. Join us as we honor his legacy to the community of Ottawa with the second annual Barktoberfest!
Join us for the second annual Bill’s Barktoberfest 2024, featuring vendors, food, dog games, and contests to honor the legacy of Bill Walsh Sr. Funds raised will support Bill’s Barking Lot, the new city dog park in Ottawa! The event starts at 11 am on Sunday, Oct. 6 at the Jordan Block.
All proceeds will be donated to Bill’s Barking Lot, the new city dog park in downtown Ottawa. The park is located at 401 E Lafayette St.

LaSalle County Out of the Darkness Walk
2024-10-12 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
The Community Walks, held in hundreds of cities across the country, are the core of the Out of the Darkness movement, which began in 2004. These events give people the courage to open up about their own connections to the cause, and a platform to create a culture that’s smarter about mental health. Friends, family members, neighbors and coworkers walk side-by-side, supporting each other and in memory of those we’ve lost.
Now, more than ever, it’s important to be there for one another and take steps to safeguard our mental health and prevent suicide.
Join the LaSalle County Out of the Darkness Walk on Saturday, Oct. 12, starting at 10 am in Washington Square Park.
Register today and be part of the movement to walk #OutOftheDarkness.

Arukah Institute of Healing's 5K Hope Run
2024-10-12 07:00 - 11:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us for the Arukah Institute of Healing’s 5K Hope Run, in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Together, we are dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. This event supports Arukah’s impact on mental health and substance use in Bureau, Putnam, Marshall, and LaSalle counties.

Race Details:
Date: October 12th Location: Washington Park, Ottawa IL Registration: 7am | Race starts at 8am 5K Race: Timed, with awards for the top 3 finishers Registration: $30 (Includes a race t-shirt) –>
https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Ottawa/arukah5KForHope

Your participation and donations help support educational programs, and advocacy for suicide prevention, and provide critical support for individuals and families affected by suicide.
Together, we can work towards greatly reducing the national suicide rate!

*Following this event, the AFSP “Walk with Us” Suicide Prevention Walk will take place, with registration opening at 10 AM and the walk starting at 1 PM.*

Ottawa Farmers and Makers Market
2024-10-12 08:00 - 12:30 | Jackson Street, 100 W Jackson Street, Ottawa, Illinois
Don’t Miss the Farmers and Makers Market on October 12th!

Kick off your Saturday morning with an exciting market experience from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Enjoy fresh produce, local honey, handmade crafts, and delectable local treats.

Savor a variety of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables.
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from talented local artisans.
Delight in mouthwatering baked goods and tasty treats from food stalls.

Bring your family, friends, and even your pets for a day of fun and community spirit. Let’s come together to celebrate and support our local farmers and makers. See you there!

Ottawa's Smoketoberfest
2024-10-12 12:00 - 17:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us on Saturday, October 12, 2024, for Ottawa’s Smoketober Fest & BBQ Competition at the Jordan Block in beautiful downtown Ottawa, from 12 PM to 5 PM. Enjoy live music, rib tasting, whiskey, and bourbon tastings, and an exciting BBQ competition. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce brisket to the competition, with competitors starting their cooking on Friday night. Stay tuned for potential plans to add a tailgate party on Friday, October 11. Don’t miss out on this delicious and fun-filled event!
Old Rip Van Winkle Bourbon raffle, $20 per entry An interesting 10-Year-Old Bourbon, bottled at 107 proof and brimming with complex and often contrasting flavors, Old Rip van Winkle’s 10-Year-Old Bourbon is a scintillating and spicy expression of the Kentucky distiller’s versatility and willingness to push boundaries. Not satisfied with resting on their laurels and the “Pappy” prototype, the 10-year-old is a punchier and more pronounced bourbon that brings forth a bounty of complex flavors, boldly toeing the line between spice and sweetness. On the nose, a nuanced blend of butterscotch, caramel, and ginger is enticing before the palate bursts with spice, nutmeg, and tobacco with a faint burnt caramel aroma that gives way to a warm, oaky, and slightly dry finish. Another groundbreaking release from the van Winkle brand, and one that should gain cult status among fans of punchier bourbon whiskeys.

Help Us Decorate the Community Christmas Tree!
2024-10-15 15:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studio, 223 W Madison St, Ottawa, Illinois
Families are invited to create unique ornaments from recycled materials to adorn this year’s community Christmas tree at the Chris Kringle Market. Our tree theme, “Gingerbread Lane,” will shine even brighter with your handmade creations!

This is a perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones, get creative, and make lasting memories that will be a part of downtown Ottawa’s holiday celebration. All materials will be provided, so just bring your holiday spirit and imagination!

Let’s make this Christmas tree one to remember!

Date: October 15, 3-8 PM
Location: Open Space Art Gallery & Studios

Ottawa Farmers and Makers Market-Final Market for the Season!
2024-10-19 08:00 - 12:00 | IL
Don’t Miss the final Farmers and Makers Market for the season on October 19th!

Kick off your Saturday morning with an exciting market experience from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Enjoy fresh produce, local honey, handmade crafts, and delectable local treats.

Savor a variety of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables.
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from talented local artisans.
Delight in mouthwatering baked goods and tasty treats from food stalls.

Bring your family, friends, and even your pets for a day of fun and community spirit. Let’s come together to celebrate and support our local farmers and makers. See you there!

A Victorian Haunting: A Taste of Ottawa and Its Spirits
2024-10-19 16:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Embark on a journey through time and taste with “A Victorian Haunting: A Taste of Ottawa and its Spirits.” Prepare to be transported to the elegance and charm of the Victorian era as you indulge in chef-curated appetizers, sip on hand-crafted cocktails, and immerse yourself in a world of Victorian parlor activities, such as palm reading, tarot card readings, and aura photography, scattered throughout downtown Ottawa.

“A Victorian Haunting” promises an unforgettable evening of gastronomic delights and historical immersion!

Tickets available soon.

Trick or Treat on Court Street
2024-10-26 12:00 - 14:00 | Floret Plants and Provisions, 610 Court Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Everyone is welcome to join Floret at Trick Octor Treat on Court Street!
There will be a dunk tank, magician, train rides, axe throwing, bounce house, and so much more!
Costumes are encouraged.

Make an Ornament at Trick or Treat on Court Street!
2024-10-26 12:00 - 14:00 | Court Street, 2612 Cherie Lane, OTTAWA, IL, 61350-1041, United States
Families are invited to create unique ornaments from recycled materials to adorn this year’s community Christmas tree at the Chris Kringle Market. Our tree theme, “Gingerbread Lane,” will shine even brighter with your handmade creations!

This is a perfect opportunity to gather with loved ones, get creative, and make lasting memories that will be a part of downtown Ottawa’s holiday celebration. All materials will be provided, so just bring your holiday spirit and imagination!

Let’s make this Christmas tree one to remember!

Date: October 26, Noon-2 pm
Location: Court Street, Downtown Ottawa

Holiday Open House
2024-11-08 16:00 - 2024-11-10 17:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Kick off the holiday season with Downtown Ottawa’s Holiday Open House! From November 8-10, our charming local shops will offer an exclusive Christmas shopping preview, filled with festive finds and special deals. Stroll through the beautifully decorated streets, get a head start on your gift list, and discover unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted goods, seasonal décor, or the perfect stocking stuffers, Downtown Ottawa has it all. Join us for a weekend of holiday cheer, great shopping, and a festive atmosphere to make your season bright!

Pink Friday
2024-11-22 | Downtown Ottawa
Pink Friday is a nationwide event celebrating and supporting small and local businesses. Established in 2020, it takes place annually on the Friday before Black Friday, encouraging shoppers to discover and support small retailers first during the holiday season.
Pink Friday highlights the value of community, urging shoppers to invest in the vibrancy and diversity of their local economies before turning to big-box retailers.
Participation in Pink Friday is free for all types of small business retailers.

Ottawa's Chris Kringle Market- Opening Weekend
2024-11-29 12:00 - 2024-12-01 16:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Step into the magic of the holiday season at Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market, a charming Old-Fashioned Christmas market set in the heart of historic downtown Ottawa. Enjoy festive shopping from local artisans, indulge in seasonal treats, and experience family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Don’t miss the beautifully decorated Gingerbread Lane Christmas tree, live entertainment, and the warmth of holiday traditions. Perfect for all ages!

Fri: Noon-7 pm
Sat: 11 am-7 pm
Sun: 11 am-4 pm

The market will be open each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov 29 thru December 22.

Festival of Lights Parade & Deck the Park
2024-11-29 18:00 - 19:30 | Downtown Ottawa
Join us for the 37th annual holiday parade, a time-honored tradition of making cherished memories! The parade will kick off at LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Jackson Street, with festive floats and performances winding their way south on LaSalle, culminating at Main Street. After the parade, the celebration continues with lively entertainment by the Friendly City Sound and the Shepherd Choir, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. To top it all off, witness the magical lighting of the tree in the Jordan Block, marking the start of the holiday season! Don’t miss this joyful evening of community spirit and celebration.

Ottawa's Chris Kringle Market
2024-12-06 16:00 - 2024-12-08 16:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Step into the magic of the holiday season at Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market, a charming Old-Fashioned Christmas market set in the heart of historic downtown Ottawa. Enjoy festive shopping from local artisans, indulge in seasonal treats, and experience family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Don’t miss the beautifully decorated Gingerbread Lane Christmas tree, live entertainment, and the warmth of holiday traditions. Perfect for all ages!
Dec. 6, 7, 8

Fri: 4-8 pm
Sat: 11 am-7 pm
Sun: 11 am-4 pm

The market will be open each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov 29 thru December 22.

Krampus Cookie Crawl
2024-12-13 16:00 - 20:00 | Floret Plants and Provisions, 610 Court Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us for the First Annual Krampus Cookie Crawl as part of Ottawa’s enchanting Chris Kringle Market on Friday, 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. Embrace the magic and mystery of the season—Krampus style! Must be 21+ to participate.
Participants pick up their cookie box at the Floret hut at Chris Kringle Market at Jordan Block on Friday, Dec. 13, starting at 4 pm. 21+ only, must show ID at pickup. This is a rain or shine event with no refunds.

Ottawa's Chris Kringle Market
2024-12-13 16:00 - 2024-12-15 16:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Step into the magic of the holiday season at Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market, a charming Old-Fashioned Christmas market set in the heart of historic downtown Ottawa. Enjoy festive shopping from local artisans, indulge in seasonal treats, and experience family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Don’t miss the beautifully decorated Gingerbread Lane Christmas tree, live entertainment, and the warmth of holiday traditions. Perfect for all ages!
Dec. 13, 14, 15

Fri: 4-8 pm
Sat: 11 am-7 pm
Sun: 11 am-4 pm

The market will be open each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov 29 thru December 22.

Ottawa's Chris Kringle Market-Final Weekend!
2024-12-20 16:00 - 2024-12-22 16:00 | Downtown Ottawa
Step into the magic of the holiday season at Ottawa’s Chris Kringle Market, a charming Old-Fashioned Christmas market set in the heart of historic downtown Ottawa. Enjoy festive shopping from local artisans, indulge in seasonal treats, and experience family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Don’t miss the beautifully decorated Gingerbread Lane Christmas tree, live entertainment, and the warmth of holiday traditions. Perfect for all ages!
Dec. 20, 21, 22

Fri: 4-8 pm
Sat: 11 am-7 pm
Sun: 11 am-4 pm

The market will be open each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov 29 thru December 22.

Sweet Stroll
2025-02-08 12:00 - 16:00 | IL
Indulge your sweet tooth and create lasting memories at the Downtown Ottawa Sweet Stroll! Join us on Saturday, February 8, from Noon-4 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. As you explore, warm up with samples of hot drinks to complement your treats.
Your family ticket includes:

12 delightful confections and cookies to share
One keepsake ceramic mug

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.

B.A.S.H. Night to You
2025-02-20 16:00 - 19:00 | Burger and Sushi House, 1012 La Salle St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us for dinner at B.A.S.H. And help support Ottawa’s 4th of July fireworks! B.A.S.H. will be generously donating dine-in proceeds to the ODA 4th of July fireworks fund!

Coldest Night of the Year 2025
2025-02-22 16:00 - 18:30 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join Us for the Coldest Night of the Year – February 22, 2025

Illinois Valley PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) provides transformative programs, resources, and advocacy for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in LaSalle, Bureau, and Putnam counties. Again this year, we’re partnering with Coldest Night of the Year USA, a family-friendly winter walk that raises funds and awareness for people facing the harsh realities of life without a home.
On February 22, 2025, we’ll gather at Jordan Block in Ottawa, Illinois, and walk a one-mile route going north on La Salle St., crossing over Canal Towpath and back down Columbus St., symbolizing the journey our neighbors in need endure every day. Together, we’ll shine a light on homelessness while raising vital funds to help IV PADS continue to offer dignity, respect, and support.
Be part of something meaningful – We forming 27 teams to walk and fundraise. Start a team, join a team, or support a walker to help us reach our goal and make a difference. Sign up or learn more at cnoy.com/location/Ottawa

2025 Adopt a Bed Kickoff Meeting
2025-03-19 17:30 - 18:00 | City Hall, 301 W. Madison St., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
If you are a current garden bed adopter or looking to help volunteer and adopt a bed come join us Wednesday, March 19 at 5:30 pm in the council chambers at city hall for an informative meeting and a chance to sign up for a bed. If you already have an assigned bed we would like to confirm your continued interest and offer information and resources.

First Annual Easter Egg Hunt
2025-04-19 09:00 - 11:00 | Allen Park, 400 Courtney Street, Ottawa, 61350, United States
Exciting News! Join us for our First Annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Special Events Committee! Save the Date: April 19, 2025 Location: Allen Park Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AMPLUS! Enjoy FREE professional photos with the Easter Bunny!

Midwest Morel Fest
2025-05-03 08:00 - 16:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us at the Jordan Block (100 Main Street) where you can shop and peruse through a large Botanical Market and Morel Market offering everything…you guessed it…MUSHROOMS! We’ll even have MOREL UNIVERSITY where you can learn to identify morels, so you know what to look for when you’re hiking through on your guided hunt! 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
9am – 4pm – Morel Market – morel mushrooms only
8am – 4pm – Vendor Market
9am – 11:30 am – Guided Hunt
12:30 pm – Awards

Starved Rock Country Marathon
2025-05-10 05:30 - 13:30 | Downtown Ottawa
The Starved Rock Country Marathon kicks off in the heart of downtown Ottawa, a vibrant and historic riverside community. From the starting line, runners embark on a scenic journey along the Illinois River, winding through lush landscapes and tranquil views. The course leads participants through the breathtaking trails of Starved Rock State Park, where towering sandstone bluffs, challenging elevation changes, and natural rock formations create a uniquely inspiring backdrop. This picturesque route combines small-town charm with the untamed beauty of nature, making it a truly unforgettable race experience.

Ottawa's Third Friday-May 2025
2025-05-16 17:00 - 21:00 | IL
Join us for the kick-off Third Friday event on May 17, from 5-9 pm on Madison Street in downtown Ottawa, IL! Arts, music, and culture come alive during this festive street fair. Free and open to the public.

Ottawa Food and Wine Festival
2025-05-31 11:00 - 18:00 | Old Central School Lot, 400 Clinton St, Ottawa, Illioins
Get ready to sip, savor, and celebrate at Ottawa’s Inaugural Food and Wine Festival! Join us on Saturday, May 31 at the Old Central School Lot in downtown Ottawa, IL. Experience an afternoon of fine wine tastings paired with delectable small bites crafted to complement every pour. Explore the 2025 season launch of the Farmer and Makers Market, shop artisanal goods, and enjoy live music that sets the perfect backdrop to this celebration of food and wine.
Whether a wine connoisseur or a casual sipper, this festival promises something for everyone. Come for the food, stay for the wine, and celebrate the vibrant community spirit that makes Ottawa unique.

Wildflowers Market-June
2025-06-21 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!

Music in the Park: The Neverly Brothers
2025-06-21 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!

“A Rock ‘n’ Roll Tribute – From Elvis to the Beatles featuring The Neverly Brothers”

The Neverly Brothers concerts take you on a musical guided VIRTUAL TOUR of the birth, near death and resurrection of rock n’ roll – from 1955 to 1965. You’ll learn rock history and be thoroughly entertained with their chronological song sequence, stories behind the music and vintage wardrobe changes. Their energetic stage show consists of show-stopping renditions of early hits by Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and more!

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!

#OttawaIL #OttawaTheMiddleOfEverywhere #MusicInThePark #OttawaSpecialEvents #SummerVibes #LiveMusic #WashingtonSquare

Jordan Block Jams: Sunshine Daydream
2025-06-27 19:00 - 22:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Our Jordan Block Jams Summer Series kicks off with a bang featuring Sunshine Daydream- Fast-Paced Grateful Dead Funky Dance Party Jam Band! Join us for an unforgettable night of music, food, and fun!

Date: June 27 Time: 7-10 PM (Music begins @ 8PM) Location: Jordan Block Ottawa

Sunshine Daydream- Fast-Paced Grateful Dead Funky Dance Party Jam Band

Founded in 2013, Sunshine Daydream specializes in performing Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia Band music in a refreshing, high-energy, up-tempo style. They have played through hundreds of songs in the Grateful Dead repertoire over the years. You never know what you are going to hear, and the sets are designed to please the Dead heads and casual listeners. The songs are performed as they are intended: high energy, hard-hitting, and always danceable. Expect psychedelic and innovative jams as the band navigates the Grateful Dead repertoire and select covers by bands like The Allman Brothers, Phish, Widespread Panic, and more. The band is based in Springfield, IL, and has gratefully enjoyed the support from the greater Illinois community and beyond.

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!
