Sunset Stroll
Bi-Annual Street Fest On North & South Schuyler
Sunset Stroll North - May & Sunset Stroll South - Aug
WELCOME to downtown kankakee
Downtown Kankakee offers a vibrant mix of commerce, culture, and community. From farmers markets and street festivals to live music, car shows, and seasonal celebrations, Downtown Kankakee continues to attract new businesses along with unique food and drink experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Below are signature events happening in Downtown Kankakee showcasing the energy and community spirit that's been helping make the experience of our historic town so special over the years. Click a local happening below to learn more!
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Upcoming Events
Multiple Dates11 days to the eventSat, Jan 24Jan 24, 2026, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PMYour favorite local vendors, now in the winter!
Harold & Jean Miner Festival Square
HAROLD & JEAN MINER FESTIVAL SQUARE
At the heart of Downtown is the Harold & Jean Miner Festival Square, framed by Kankakee’s 120+ year-old Depot behind it. Festival Square has become the stage for many of the community’s biggest moments. Each summer, Merchant Street MusicFest fills the district with live music and art that draws thousands of people downtown. From concerts and festivals to everyday gatherings, this is where Kankakee’s history and its future come together, always in motion just like the trains that continue to pass through.
Quick look: Festival Square is basically the centerpiece of Downtown Kankakee and the general location for many of its events.
THE DEPOT
Quick look: Kankakee literally wouldn't be on the map without this railroad station. It was built in 1853 and upgraded to the brick building that still stands today since 1898.
Kankakee owes its very existence to the railroad. When the Illinois Central line reached the banks of the Kankakee River in 1853, the first wood-framed Depot was built on July 11th, 1853 as a stop along the route. That single decision put Kankakee on the map, drawing settlers, businesses, and industry to what was once open prairie. The town quickly grew around the station, and by 1854 it was officially incorporated as a city. The building was upgraded from wood to brick in 1898 and more than 120 years later, the brick Depot is still in operation and stands as a reminder that without the trains, there would be no Kankakee. From The Depot, you can head north to Chicago’s Union Station or south toward cities like Champaign and Carbondale. It also houses the Kankakee Railroad Museum!
We're sorry, The Depot is currently no longer available to rent for private events. Allow us to suggest a nearby Downtown Kankakee venues below:
The Depot - Kankakee IL (1910) Postcard from A.C. Bosselman & Co.
News & Development in Downtown Kankakee
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Lifestyle
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March 3, 2025
Celebrating Women's History Month in Downtown Kankakee
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the contributions of women throughout history and in our local community! Downtown Kankakee is home to many incredible women-owned businesses and women-run organizations. Each bringing passion, innovation, and dedication to their craft and our community! This month - and always - we encourage you to show your support by shopping, dining, and engaging with these businesses that help make our downtown vibrant.
Lifestyle
February 6, 2025
Celebrate Valentine's Day in Downtown Kankakee
There's something special for everyone in Downtown Kankakee! Valentine's Day is a time to celebrate love, and what better place to do so than in the heart of Downtown Kankakee?! With a variety of options, from charming breakfast spots to cozy bookstores and unique shopping experiences, Downtown Kankakee offers the perfect setting for a memorable day with whoever you are celebrating with! Visit our website directory to plan your perfect Valentine's Day!
Lifestyle
February 3, 2025
Celebrating Black-Owned Businesses in Downtown Kankakee
Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements, culture, and contributions of Black individuals in our communities. Downtown Kankakee is proud to be home to a vibrant range of Black-owned businesses that bring unique products, essential services, and a bright welcome to the heart of Kankakee.
This February, we celebrate and support these incredible entrepreneurs who are shaping our downtown!
Events & Entertainment
January 27, 2025
Upcoming Gardant Management Solutions Business Before Hours
Looking to expand your network before your busy day starts? Join the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, February 5th, from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM for their Business Before Hours event! Located at the Executive Center at 200 E Court Street, Suite 400, in Kankakee.