Ottawa Downtown Association

A Victorian Haunting: A Taste of Ottawa and Its Spirits
2024-10-19 16:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | 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!

Music in the Park: Saturday June Band
2025-06-28 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!

The Saturday June Band is a powerhouse four-piece group that blends decades of musical experience into a dynamic and electrifying sound. Featuring an unbeatable setlist with popular covers spanning decades as well as compelling originals, SJB will keep you dancing all night long. Led by Steve Kessler (guitar, bass, vocals), a staple of the Chicago music scene for over 40 years, the band delivers a rich and diverse performance inspired by rock, blues, and beyond. With three acclaimed solo albums to his name and a history of sharing the stage with icons like The Smithereens and Johnny Rivers, Steve brings a deep musical pedigree to the group.

Ottawa's 4th of July Fireworks
2025-07-04 20:30 - 22:30 | Ottawa Township High School, 211 E Main St, OTTAWA, IL, 61350-1041, United States
Join us for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration at Ottawa High School! Gather with the community for a fun-filled evening under the stars.

Special Performance: The evening kicks off with Kaedon Cronkright performing a powerful rendition of the National Anthem. 50/50 Raffle: Try your luck—winner takes home half the pot! You’ll also be helping to support *next year’s* fireworks! The Grand Finale: As the sky darkens, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night and celebrates the spirit of freedom.

Admission is free! Come early for the best viewing spots. Fireworks begin at dusk.

Let’s celebrate together—family, friends, fireworks, and fun! Tag your crew, share the event, and don’t forget your patriotic spirit!

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!

Wildflowers Market-July
2025-07-19 09:00 - 14:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States

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

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 .

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.
