Upcoming Events.

National Hot Dog Day!
Jul
16

National Hot Dog Day!

National Hot Dog Day is celebrated on the third Wednesday in July. In 2025, this day falls on July 16th. It's a day to enjoy this classic American food like Vienna Beef Aussem Dogs. The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council established the day in 1991. We will be serving on Washington Square from 10-2 PM.

View Event →
Jordan Block Jams
Jul
18

Jordan Block Jams

Inspired by the beloved Music in the Park series, Jordan Block Jams is the latest addition to Ottawa’s free concert lineup—bringing even more live music and community energy to the heart of town.


View Event →
Drinkin' with Lincoln
Jul
25

Drinkin' with Lincoln

Raise a glass and celebrate all things local at the Drinkin’ with Lincoln Brewfest, a two-day celebration of Illinois breweries, wineries, and distilleries – right in the heart of downtown Ottawa! Come hungry! We’ll have food trucks, live music, and plenty of space to gather with friends for a weekend full of flavor and fun. Stay tuned for more information and don’t miss out on one of the most anticipated events of the summer! Serving 5-9 PM.

View Event →
Jordan Block Jams!
Aug
1

Jordan Block Jams!

Inspired by the beloved Music in the Park series, Jordan Block Jams is the latest addition to Ottawa’s free concert lineup—bringing even more live music and community energy to the heart of town.


View Event →
Sensory Festival
Aug
23

Sensory Festival

Ottawa’s 1st Annual Sensory Festival! A full day of activities for those with Sensory sensitivities! All ages welcome!

–Sensory tables with slime, sand, play dough, and different texture sensations.

–Art activities for lots of creative opportunities throughout the day

–Foam party!

–Music (low volume for audio sensitivities)

–Calm rooms for breaks

–Headphones if needed!

Plus, vendors, food trucks, and so much more!

See you at the Sensory Festival on Saturday, April 26th!

View Event →

Jordan Block Jams!
Jun
27

Jordan Block Jams!

Inspired by the beloved Music in the Park series, Jordan Block Jams is the latest addition to Ottawa’s free concert lineup—bringing even more live music and community energy to the heart of town.


View Event →
Wildflowers Market on Jordan Block!
Jun
21

Wildflowers Market on Jordan Block!

Come shop the Wildflowers Market which runs the 3rd Saturday in June, July and August annually. Our market will feature boutique style vendors, artisans, hand-crafted items, baked goods and much more.

The Wildflowers Market is held in Downtown Ottawa IL in Jordon Block Park, 101 W Main Street.

After shopping at the Wildflower Market, be sure to visit all the other amazing shops in our quaint Downtown Ottawa. Grab a coffee, something to eat and satisfy that sweet tooth.

View Event →
Ottawa Family Pride Fest
Jun
14

Ottawa Family Pride Fest

Aussem Dogs is PROUD to again participate in Ottawa Family Pride 2025! Find us at Central Riverfront right next to the stage.

3rd Annual Ottawa Family Pride Fest, featuring craft and food vendors from across the Midwest, live music, face painting, a celebrity drag show, and so much more. The entire day kicks off with a Parade through downtown Ottawa!

This year's celebration will include Mrs Kasha Davis and Nina West from RuPaul's Drag Race; Billboard Christian Musician, drag queen, and comedian Flamy Grant, and the Little Monsters Lady Gaga Tribute Band!

The Ottawa Family Pride Festival is the annual culmination of fundraising efforts through the Family Pride Fund, which is a non-profit that raises money for the Youth Outlook Ottawa Drop in Center.

To get more details about the Festival and how you can donate, visit www.ottawafamilypridefest.org

View Event →
LaSalle Country Cruisers "Cruise Nite"!
Jun
13

LaSalle Country Cruisers "Cruise Nite"!

PUBLIC EVENT! We will be in historic Washington Square on Friday 4-9pm for LaSalle Country Cruisers Cruise Nite.

Come to Ottawa and check out the antique and custom cars during the city’s 25th Annual Cruise Night! Over 100 different models of cars will cruise the streets! It’s every car buff’s dream! LaSalle Street will be closed down for this event. Hosted by The LaSalle County Cruisers and the City of Ottawa.

View Event →
Reddick Library Summer Reading Kick Off
Jun
7

Reddick Library Summer Reading Kick Off

The Reddick Public Library will be having a summer reading kickoff party! There will be games, sidewalk chalk, a magician, and dinosaur fossils at this event! The weather is looking spectacular! You can find us on the corner of Fulton and Washington Streets.


View Event →
Ottawa Kite Fest
May
18

Ottawa Kite Fest

Get ready for a kite festival of high-flying fun for all ages!  This 2-day event will feature professional kite flying demonstrations from the Chicago Kite Company, a designated area for kids/family kite flying, children’s live entertainment, a candy drop, balloon artist, face painting, dunk tank, food and craft vendors, and more!  Kites will be for sale on-site, but families are also encouraged to bring their own kites for fly the sunny skies.

View Event →
Starved Rock Country Marathon/Half/5K
May
10

Starved Rock Country Marathon/Half/5K

We will be serving on the Jordan Block today from 10-2 during/after the Starved Rock Country Marathon/Half/5K!

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.

View Event →