Sip, Savor, Support: Cocktails in the Park Marks 14 Years in Downtown Batavia

Batavia, IL — Raise a glass and support your local downtown—Cocktails in the Park, Batavia MainStreet’s largest annual fundraiser, returns on Saturday, July 26 from 7:00–10:00 PM at scenic Appleton Park (behind City Hall, 100 N Island Ave.).

Hosted by Batavia MainStreet, this signature summer event brings together great food, live music, craft cocktails, and community spirit—all under the stars and along the beautiful Fox River. Proceeds benefit the non-profit’s year-round programs that support downtown Batavia businesses, promote regional tourism, and operate beloved local initiatives like the Batavia Farmers’ Market, Artisan Collective, and Batavia Boardwalk Shops.

“Cocktails in the Park is the perfect way to enjoy a beautiful summer evening in Batavia while supporting the nonprofit that works year-round to keep our downtown vibrant and thriving,” said Kristen Desler, Assistant Director of Batavia MainStreet. “It’s the perfect opportunity to give back to the community we all love.”

Tickets on sale NOW at downtownbatavia.com for $40 in advance, available online through 12:00 PM on July 26 or while supplies last. If tickets remain, they will be available at the door for $50.

Each ticket includes:

• Small plates from local restaurants and select Batavia Farmers’ Market vendors
• Live music and event access
• A take-home treat of sweet kettle corn

Participating restaurants include:
Thai Village, the GOAT burger + cocktail bar, Gammon Coach House, Pal Joey’s, New Moon Vegan, Sidecar Supper Club, Windmill Grille & Pizzeria, Thorabella’s, Chicken Salad Chick, Chianti’s Catering, and Q&A Beignet.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, mingle at high-top cocktail tables, or purchase a Picnic Table Package for $350, which includes:

• A reserved picnic table
• 6 admission tickets
• 6 drink tickets

Drink and raffle tickets can also be purchased in advance or at the event for $8 each or 10 for $75.

New this year!

For each $25 donation to Batavia MainStreet, you'll receive one entry into the Cocktails in the Park VIP Experience Raffle! This raffle is exclusively open to attendees who have already purchased their admission tickets to Cocktails in the Park. One lucky winner will be drawn on Thursday, July 24.

The VIP Experience includes:

• Skip the line at entry (for you and up to 5 friends)
• A reserved picnic table - front and center
• Real linens for your table
• A floral centerpiece to take home
• 6 drink/raffle tickets
• 6 glass cocktail glasses
• An appetizer tray with dishes from each business, delivered to your table by Batavia MainStreet Directors
• Professional group photos at the photo op and your table (digital files sent after the event)
• Downtown Batavia swag: T-shirt & Share the Hype magnet

This popular summer gathering is more than just a fun night out—it’s a meaningful way to support a nonprofit that fuels the heart of Batavia. Proceeds from Cocktails in the Park have helped create and sustain cornerstone programs like the Batavia Farmers’ Market and Batavia Boardwalk Shops, which have generated significant economic impact and community engagement. With funds raised this year, Batavia MainStreet aims to invest in new public art projects, support downtown business grant initiatives, and improve wayfinding signage to enhance the visitor experience.

In the past year alone, Batavia MainStreet has provided $25,000 in regional marketing, helping local businesses reach broader audiences. The Boardwalk Shops have generated $1.8 million in sales, and downtown events continue to attract thousands of visitors, boosting the local economy and reinforcing Batavia’s identity as a vibrant, welcoming community.

Thank you to our generous presenting sponsors: Batavia Enterprises, Boyce Body Werks, and Gerald Subaru of North Aurora.

Don’t miss your chance to support local and celebrate summer at this one-of-a-kind event. Purchase tickets now at downtownbatavia.com.

Batavia MainStreet is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing downtown Batavia through volunteer-driven efforts and community-based programming. For more information, contact Batavia MainStreet at (630) 761-3528 or info@DowntownBatavia.com.

Photos courtesy of April Duda Photography.