Ottawa Downtown Association

Ottawa's Third Friday-May 2025
2025-05-16 17:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Illinois
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.

Kids Fishing Rodeo
2025-07-31 17:00 - 19:00 | Old Central School Lot, 400 Clinton St, Ottawa, Illioins
Calling all young anglers! Join us for the Kids’ Fishing Rodeo on Wednesday, July 31, from 5–7 pm, where the Illinois and Fox Rivers meet! It’s a great way for kids to cast a line, enjoy the outdoors, and make some summertime memories in the Middle of Everywhere! Free and fun for kids of all skill levels Beautiful riverside location Plenty of fish stories waiting to happen!Special thanks to Commissioner Eichekraut, Ottawa Park and Recreation, Ken Katrein, and Shoreline Boat & Ski Club for sponsoring this great event. VisitOttawaIL.com for more info!

Jordan Block Jams: Harmonix
2025-08-01 19:00 - 22:00 | Jordan Block, 101-123 W Main St,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Our Jordan Block Jams Summer Series ENDS with HARMONIXS! Join us for an unforgettable night of music, food, and fun!

Date: August 1 Time: 7-10 PM (Music begins @ 8PM) Location: Jordan Block Ottawa

We are Harmonix! Your ultimate up-tempo, diverse, and dynamic party band. Specializing in hits from every genre and era, we ensure there’s something for everyone on the dance floor.

Imagine putting your favorite playlist on shuffle – that’s the vibrant and exciting experience we bring to every event. So, lace up your dancing shoes and join us for an unforgettable musical journey!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!

41st Annual Car Show
2025-08-02 08:00 - 13:00 | 234 Albi Sevens Dr, 234 Albin Stevens Dr, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us in celebrating our 41st Car Show and the club’s 41st year.
We are changing things up a bit with being more involved with Ottawa’s Friendship Days.

We are also hosting a food truck festival along with a large craft show with over 50 large vendors. This gives the whole family a day of fun and entertainment.
There will be a variety of food trucks with some offering breakfast options and switching to lunchtime fare. There will also be a coffee truck available.
The food trucks and craft show will run until 4pm and the craft show will run on Sunday also.
This year we will have a new sound system setup that will be a huge improvement.
Registration is a low $10 and as always spectators are free.

We hope to see you all there!

Friendship Days FREE Pool Party
2025-08-03 12:00 - 17:00 | Riordan Pool, 600 Utica Dr,, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join Us for the Grand Finale of Friendship Days!

The City of Ottawa Special Events Committee is excited to close out our annual Friendship Days with a FREE Pool Party at Riordan Pool on Sunday, August 3, from 12–5 pm!
Enjoy a live DJ setting the mood for an epic end-of-summer bash, plus FREE entry, FREE lunch (including pop, water, and pizza), and live entertainment for all ages. It’s fun for the whole family—don’t miss it!

Riordan Pool | 500 E Norris Drive, Ottawa, IL
Sunday, August 3 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Come make a splash with us and celebrate the season in style!

National Night Out
2025-08-05 17:00 - 20:00 | Peck Park, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Mark your Calendars!! Please join us this year for National Night Out!!

Family-friendly activities, including bounce houses, face painting, games, food, and more! Hosted by the Ottawa Police Department, Ottawa Fire Department, and the LaSalle County Sheriff’s Department.

If you are interested in being a sponsor for this years fun, please reach out to us!!

4th Annual Children's Business Fair
2025-08-09 10:00 - 15:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
It’s that time again! Head to www.prairiefoxbooks.com/events to sign up for the 4th Annual Children’s Business Fair! We are taking it back to Washington Park this year, so get ready.
If you are between the ages of 5 and 15 and have a great business idea, sign up and be a part of this outdoor kids vendor fair! Can’t wait to do it again!

Wildflowers Market-August
2025-08-16 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 goingon throughout the day.
Come support our local businesses!

Music in the Park Presents: The Silhouettes
2025-08-24 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!
If you like good music and having fun, you will love The Silhouettes!!

Don’t forget about the amazing food too!

Tone Capone’s Tacos
Popcorn Cart
Aussem Dogs Hotdog Stand

Bring your friends, grab some bites, and enjoy the music!

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!

Court Street Pub's Block Party
2025-08-31 12:00 - 21:00 | Court Street, 2612 Cherie Lane, OTTAWA, IL, 61350-1041, United States
It’s BACK…Labor Day Block Party 2025
Save the Date: Sunday, August 31st, 2025

We’re shutting down the block for a full day of fun you won’t want to miss!
Live Music kicks off at 12 PM Bags Tournament starts at 1 PM Local vendors & kid-friendly activities all day Outdoor bar serving up ice-cold drinks Restaurant will be open and serving food to keep you fueled all day long!

Come for the fun, stay for the party – it’s the ultimate way to wrap up summer!

Walk to End Alzheimer's
2025-09-06 08:30 - 12:00 | Jordan Block, 101 W Main St, Ottawa, Illinois
Event Details

Time:
Festivities Begin at 8:30 am
Ceremony at 9:30 am
Walk at 10:00 am

Add to calendar

Location:
Jordan Block
101-123 W Main St
Ottawa, IL 61350
Map it

Contact:
Kayli Rizzo
815.373.5114
klavelle@alz.org

Music in the Park presents: The Sumthins
2025-09-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us on Saturday evenings from 5-7 PM in the serene setting of Washington Square for an unforgettable series of live musical performances!

Since 2015 The Sumthins have been writing, recording and performing songs. Playing a wide array of mostly covers live while throwing in some originals. “We play a wide array of music that WE enjoy playing. We want to be excited to play our set each night, and I believe we do!”

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!

United Way Day
2025-09-10 10:00 - 11:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E Lafayette St, Ottawa, Illinois
Join us for United Way Day—a celebration of the incredible work we do together to strengthen Eastern LaSalle County!

Sip coffee, enjoy donuts, and connect with fellow community members as we highlight the collective impact we’ve made over the past year. Hear inspiring stories, celebrate our shared accomplishments, and get a glimpse of the exciting possibilities ahead as we continue building a stronger, healthier community—together.

Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival
2025-09-12 - 2025-09-14 | Ottawa, Illinois, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival

Plein Air painting or drawing in any medium outdoors, from direct observation of the subject matter.

The City of Ottawa Arts Committee announces the first annual Paint the Town: En Plein Air Festival in Ottawa, IL. Plein air artists are invited to use their vision and talents to capture picturesque scenes. Nestled just 80 miles southwest of Chicago, Ottawa, Illinois, is a hidden gem for artists seeking inspiration. With its beautifully landscaped downtown, historic churches, historic architecture, and vibrant public parks, the city offers a diverse and dynamic backdrop for plein air painters. Framed by the confluence of the Illinois and Fox Rivers, Ottawa boasts breathtaking waterfront views, lush nature preserves, and charming streetscapes making it the perfect setting for an immersive outdoor painting experience.

Join us for Paint the Town, a premier en plein air festival where artists of all levels come together to capture the beauty of Ottawa, one brushstroke at a time. Over three days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore, create, and compete for $5,000 in prizes graciously donated by Bob and Cheryl Nelson, while connecting with fellow artists and art lovers in a welcoming, inspiring environment.

Whether you’re drawn to the rich textures of historic architecture, the soft light reflecting off the river, or the serenity of our natural landscapes, Ottawa has a scene for every artistic vision. Come paint with us and let the town become your canvas!

September 12-14, 2025 | Ottawa, Illinois

For more details and to apply: https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=15690&fbclid=IwY2xjawL0fjdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFaSXFEUFlSMGhoVG9lSE5UAR7mhAt1CCXBLtkLFaPGvAkBtmgneq5JQUhfFmtVUoFGiU8r-Vd5zSV-CtXWQA_aem_dsxoWmb3jGIJMVwvSX5klA

Bill's Barktoberfest
2025-09-27 11:00 - 14:00 | 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
