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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260619T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260619T220000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260206T210517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T152627Z
UID:10001766-1781892000-1781906400@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:28th Annual Cruise Night
DESCRIPTION:Come help LaSalle County Cruisers celebrate the 250th birthday of the country at the 28th Annual Ottawa Cruise Night. Friday June 19th from 6-10pm. Registration is still $10. Goodie bags and dash plaques to the 1st 300 vehicles registered.Music provided by the famous 3D Sound.\nLaSalle County Cruisers has chosen Ottawa River Rescue as the 50/50 beneficiary this year. They will utilize the funds for much needed replacement of their ice rescue gear. Be sure to watch for the people out and about that evening with tickets available. There will also be a ticket both set up at the corner of LaSalle St and Jefferson St.\nEvent shirts will be available from S&S Shirts N More. They will also be set up at the corner of Jefferson St and LaSalle St\n\nCome hungry and check out the food options from some of your favorite local non-profit organizations. Some of our generous sponsors will have booths set up for you to check out too. This will all be located on West Jefferson St.\n\nSponsored by the City of Ottawa and the Ottawa Special Events Group.
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/cruise-night-2026/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Historic Downtown,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2026-Ottawa-CN-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260815T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001755-1786780800-1786813200@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-15/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260816T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260816T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001705-1786867200-1786899600@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-16/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260817T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260817T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001706-1786953600-1786986000@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-17/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260818T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260818T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001707-1787040000-1787072400@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-18/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260819T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001708-1787126400-1787158800@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-19/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001709-1787212800-1787245200@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-20/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260821T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260821T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001710-1787299200-1787331600@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-21/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260822T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001711-1787385600-1787418000@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-22/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260823T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T205133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260520T192506Z
UID:10001769-1787472000-1787504400@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa's Debate Days
DESCRIPTION:Ottawa’s Debate Days is a celebration of the world-renowned debate between future U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas. It was held in the heart of historic Downtown Ottawa\, at Washington Park. Come celebrate all things Ottawa with a week full of summer fun in the sun! Scroll down for the schedule\, as well as information on the Great Taste Debate & Longest Beard Contest. \nClick here to check out our Lincoln Douglas Bobbleheads\, available in a set or separately. \n  \nThe Great Taste Debate\n \n  \n The Great Taste Debate: Lincoln vs. Douglas August 15–23\, 2026 Downtown Ottawa\, Illinois\nAs part of Ottawa’s Debate Days\, step into history—and help decide it.\nWelcome to The Great Taste Debate\, a citywide food & drink experience where local restaurants\, bars\, coffee shops\, bakeries\, and ice cream spots go head-to-head in a delicious showdown inspired by Lincoln and Douglas.\n How It Works:\nParticipating locations will feature two special items:\n Lincoln – classic\, hearty\, traditional Douglas – bold\, creative\, unexpected\nVisit participating spots\, try one (or both!)\, and cast your vote to decide who wins the debate.\n How to Participate:\n Visit official Taste Debate stops Choose your side: Lincoln or Douglas Scan the QR code to vote Make your case!\n We’re currently selecting participating locations—stay tuned for the official lineup!\n Awards Include:Great Taste Debate Champion (Overall Winner)Best Lincoln ItemBest Douglas ItemPeople’s Choice Award\n Limited locations. One week only.\nWhere Lincoln debated… now you decide.History you can taste.\n  \nSchedule\nSaturday the 15th \nPuzzle contest 10am & 4pm @ Scouting Museum \nEvent @ LaSalle County Genealogy Guild 1pm \nTicketed Gala @ Ottawa Center for the Arts (evening) \nArt Show w/ Lincoln Theme by Ottawa Arts Committee \nFlag Scavenger Hunt from 8/15 – 8/22 \nSunday the 16th \nLecture on Black Hawk Wars 11am @ Scouting Museum \nTicketed Mrs. Lincoln/Douglas Character Tea @ Reddick Mansion 2pm\, with Quilt Trunk Show \nMonday the 17th \nLecture on Early Pioneers 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nTuesday the 18th \nLecture on Lincoln’s in Town 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nWednesday the 19th \nStore Deals \nTours \nChris Vallillo Concert @ the Abbey 7pm \nThursday the 20th \nLecture on the 7 Debates 6pm @ Scouting Museum \nStore Deals \nTours \nFriday the 21st \nStore Deals \nTours \nThird Friday Market \nBest Beard Contest 5:30pm in Washington Park \n \nMusic by Illinois 33rd Band in Washington Park 6pm w/ Lincoln & Douglas Impersonators \nSaturday the 22nd \nStore Deals \nTours \nOld Time Fair w/ Farmers & Makers Market on Jackson St. from 11am to 4pm (fair is FREE) \nCarriage Rides pick up on Columbus/Jackson St Corner (Time TBD) \nRe-enactment of Lincoln Douglas Debate 4-5pm \nIce Cream Social in Washington Park 6pm w/ Scouting Museum 6pm \nMusic in the Park 6-9pm \nSunday the 23rd \nStore Deals \nTours \n250th Anniversary Parade 1pm
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/debate-days/2026-08-23/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Get Educated,Historic Downtown,History,Live Music,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/debate-days.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261004T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261004T170000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20251112T150235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251112T152833Z
UID:10001542-1791100800-1791133200@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Ottawa Fall Fest & Parade 2026
DESCRIPTION:More details TBA!
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/ottawa-fall-fest-parade-2026/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Holiday,Kids Corner,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Fox_riverwalk_fall_3-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261024T200000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T213203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T213203Z
UID:10001714-1792850400-1792872000@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:A Victorian Haunting
DESCRIPTION:Take a step back in time with the Ottawa Downtown Association and experience a night of shadows\, suspense\, and intrigue…
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/a-victorian-haunting-2/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Entertainment,Historic Downtown,Holiday,Outdoor
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/705A8847-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261127T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261127T200000
DTSTAMP:20260526T031815
CREATED:20260121T213751Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260121T213751Z
UID:10001715-1795802400-1795809600@www.visitottawail.com
SUMMARY:Festival of Lights Parade
DESCRIPTION:Kick off the holiday season in dazzling style at Ottawa’s beloved Festival of Lights Parade! Join us in the heart of downtown as festive floats\, sparkling lights\, and holiday music fill the streets with cheer. This magical tradition brings families and friends together to celebrate the season\, with a joyful procession that lights up the night and hearts alike.\n\nBundle up\, bring the cocoa\, and make your way downtown for a holiday experience you won’t want to miss!
URL:https://www.visitottawail.com/event/festival-of-lights-parade-2026/
LOCATION:Downtown Ottawa
CATEGORIES:Christmas,Entertainment,Family,Festivals,Holiday,Kids Corner,Outdoor,Seasonal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.visitottawail.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG_9559-scaled.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR