Ottawa, IL - The Middle of Everywhere

Starved Rock Guided Kayak Tours
2025-08-31 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Kayak Starved Rock Campground, 1170 N. 27th Road, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Kids and dogs are always welcome on our kayaking tours. We have tandem kayaks that can hold up to 3 in different configurations. We also have single kayaks for those that want their own ride or for paddlers >225lbs. We can set up a tandem kayak (hold up to 550lbs) that can easily be paddled solo. COME WITH US & SEE WHAT HIKERS CANT SEE! Looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of kayaking with the stunning natural beauty of Starved Rock? Look no further than our guided kayak tour! With expert guides to lead the way, you’ll paddle through pristine waters and marvel at breathtaking rock formations as you soak up the sights and sounds of one of Illinois’ most beloved state parks. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, this tour is an experience you won’t soon forget. So why wait? Book your spot now and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Starved Rock from a whole new perspective! This Starved Rock tour is not to be missed! Come see Towering St. Peter’s Sandstone Bluffs, soaring Bald Eagles, Pelicans and beautiful Lotus flowers. Our Tour guides will dazzle you with educational points about the area and entertaining tips. Additional time slots are available as well. Visit the Kayak Starved Rock website for more information.

NFD Car Show 2025
2025-08-31 09:00 - 15:00 | Vittone Park, 1801 W. Ottawa Avenue, Naplate, IL, United States
The Naplate Volunteer Fire Department is proud to host its 3rd Annual Labor Day Weekend Car Show on Sunday, August 31st, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Vittone Park in Naplate, IL. This exciting event will feature music, food, a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, awards, and dash plaques for the first 50 registered vehicles. Vehicle registration begins at 8:00 AM, with an entry fee of $10 per car. All proceeds will go toward the purchase of new equipment to support and enhance our department’s emergency response capabilities.
For questions or additional information, please send the NFD a private message on Facebook.

Music in the Park
2025-08-30 18:00 - 20:00 | Washington Square Park, 100 West Jackson St, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Embrace Ottawa’s small-town charm: bring a lawn chair, spread a blanket on the grass, or settle on one of the park benches to listen to the smooth sounds.
Concerts run from 6-8pm on Saturdays in downtown’s historic Washington Park. Admission is free. At this time, no indoor venue is available, so if bad weather postpones a performance, it will be rescheduled later in the year.

The Loop Group
2025-08-30 13:30 - 15:30 | Reddick Public Library, 1010 Canal Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
For adults, learn to knit or crochet in a friendly environment with knowledgeable people.

Summer Crafter Hours: Sunflower Wreath
2025-08-30 10:00 - 11:30 | Reddick Public Library, 1010 Canal Street, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
For adults, create a sunflower wreath to decorate your door. Registration is required as spots are limited due to the availability of supplies. To reserve a spot for this class, please call the library at (815) 434-0509 or stop by the Circulation Desk.lib

Farmers and Makers Market
2025-08-30 08:00 - 12:30 | Ottawa, IL, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Start your Saturday with an exciting market experience from 8am to 12:30pm. Enjoy fresh produce, local honey, handmade crafts, and delectable local treats.
Indulge in farm-fresh fruits and vegetables.
Explore unique, handcrafted treasures from talented local artisans.
Relish 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 celebrate and support our local farmers and makers together. See you there!

parkrun
2025-08-30 08:00 - 09:00 | Heritage Harbor Ottawa, 2 Great Loop, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Heritage Harbor parkrun, Ottawa is a FREE weekly 5k event for participants of all standards, which takes place every Saturday at 8:00 AM, May – September, & 9:00 AM, October – April, in Heritage Harbor. It offers an opportunity for all the local community, regardless of age or gender, to come together on a regular basis to enjoy the outdoors and get physically active. We want to encourage people to run, jog, walk and volunteer together – this event is truly open to all and best of all it really is FREE! Taking part is easy – just register before your first ever parkrun. The great thing is that you only ever need to do this once! Then just set your alarm for Saturday morning and get yourself there! Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Bluegill Boathouse & Marina Bar – please come and join us! Maybe swap stories about your parkrun that day, chat to other parkrunners over a cup of tea or coffee and just be an part of this community. So whether you’re a complete novice looking to get yourself started or a regular wanting to use this as a part of your training schedule, you’re welcome to come along and join us. Please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time. You can visit the event website link to register.
