Ottawa’s Debate Days Festival

The festival commemorates Ottawa's role as the site of the first Illinois Senate debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. Running from August 15 through August 23, 2026, the celebration coincides with preparations for the United States’ 250th anniversary. The centerpiece of the festival is a live reenactment of the 1858 debate on August 22 at Washington Square, featuring professional historical impersonators who use original speech excerpts to bring the event to life.

Throughout the week, the festival offers diverse cultural programming, including an art gala hosted by the Ottawa Center for the Arts and historical presentations at the Reddick Mansion and the Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum. Musical entertainment includes performances by roots musician Chris Vallillo and the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band, providing a period-appropriate atmosphere for attendees.

Family activities are a major component of the schedule, featuring an Old Time Fair with free games for children, an ice cream social, and a large farmers market with 40 vendors. The festivities also include a red-white-and-blue themed parade, designed to celebrate both the community's local heritage and the upcoming national semi-quincentennial.