Sip, Savor, Support: Cocktails in the Park Marks 15 Years in Downtown Batavia

Raise a glass and support your local downtown—Cocktails in the Park, Batavia MainStreet’s largest annual fundraiser, returns on Saturday, July 25 from 7:00–10:00 p.m. at scenic Appleton Park, located behind City Hall at 100 N. Island Ave. in downtown Batavia.

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

“Fifteen years ago, guests gathered on Clark Island for the very first ‘Cocktails on Clark.’ Today, Cocktails in the Park has become one of Batavia’s signature summer traditions,” said Kristen Desler, Assistant Director of Batavia MainStreet. “We love seeing the community come together each year to celebrate downtown, enjoy a beautiful evening along the river, and support the ongoing work of Batavia MainStreet.”

Tickets are on sale now at downtownbatavia.com for $40 in advance and will be available online through 12:00 p.m. on July 24, or while supplies last. If tickets remain available, they may be purchased at the door for $50.

Each admission ticket includes:

• Ten small plates from local restaurants and vendors
• Live music
• A commemorative swag bag

“New this year, our swag bags are all about keeping guests comfortable, prepared, and smiling all night long,” said Desler. “Whether it’s sunshine or a surprise summer shower, we’ll have everyone covered with hand fans and ponchos- and guests can end the evening by choosing either a sweet or spicy take-home treat.”

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

• One reserved picnic table
• Six admission tickets
• Six drink tickets

Additional drink and raffle tickets may be purchased in advance or at the event for $8 each or 10 for $75.

“We’re excited to introduce a few new cocktail options this year that really capture the flavor of
summer,” said Desler. “Guests can enjoy our Burnt Honey Whiskey Smash featuring bourbon from
Whiskey Acres Distilling Co. or cool off with a refreshing Hibiscus Paloma. In addition to cocktails, we’ll
also have beers from Sturdy Shelter Brewing, a variety of wines, and non-alcoholic options so there’s
something for everyone to enjoy throughout the evening.”

Guests can also enter the exclusive Cocktails in the Park VIP Experience Raffle. For every $25 donation to Batavia MainStreet, attendees will receive one raffle entry. The raffle is open exclusively to guests who have already purchased event admission tickets, and one winner will be drawn on Thursday, July 23.

The VIP Experience includes:

• Skip-the-line entry for the winner and up to five guests
• A front-and-center reserved picnic table
• Linen table décor
• A floral centerpiece to take home
• Six drink/raffle tickets
• Six glass cocktail glasses
• An appetizer sampler featuring dishes from participating businesses, delivered tableside by Batavia MainStreet Directors
• Professional group photos at the event photo op and table, with digital files provided afterward
• Downtown Batavia swag, including a T-shirt and Share the Hype magnet

Batavia MainStreet extends its sincere thanks to presenting sponsors Batavia Enterprises, Boyce Body
Werks, and Gerald Subaru of North Aurora for their generous support of this year’s event.

Don’t miss your chance to support local, celebrate summer, and experience one of downtown Batavia’s
favorite traditions. Purchase tickets today at downtownbatavia.com.