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
January 7, 2025
How to Plan the Perfect Date Night in Downtown Kankakee
Are you out of ideas for date nights? If you’re looking to spice things up with your significant other or simply want to enjoy a fun evening out, Downtown Kankakee has plenty to offer!
Come and visit The Lush Vine in the Majestic at 150 N Schuyler Ave in Downtown Kankakee! From live music to happy hour specials, here’s how you can plan the perfect date night at The Lush Vine.
Businesses
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January 6, 2025
Welcome to Downtown Kankakee - Green Real Estate
Green Real Estate, located inside the Executive Center, is proud to establish their presence in our community!
Location: 187 S Schuyler Ave, Suite 160, Kankakee
Visit Their Website – Follow on Facebook
More About Green Real Estate:
Lifestyle
November 7, 2024
How to Support Small Business This Holiday (& Every) Season
While we’re always proud to stand with small businesses and see them rise to the challenges of the marketplace, we know this is a great time of year to encourage people to support small businesses. Because when we support small businesses, it makes a big impact!