Category: Uncategorized

  • 2016 Blues in the District Announce Artist Lineup

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    This summer will be the 19th season of The District’s Blues in the District Concert Series. The concerts are held in Washington Park 5:30pm – 9:30pm and are free to the public.

    Kicking off this year’s season on June 10 will be Katy Guillen & the Girls, based out of Kansas City MO and a finalist in the 2014 International Blues Challenge. Other acts throughout the season will be legendary Blues Band out of Chicago Il Dave Weld and the Imperial Flames (June 24), Studebaker John & the Hawks (July 8), Reverend Raven & the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys (July 22), local Quincy Il band Soul Shaker (August 12) and returning act Hector Anchondo (August 26).

    “Our committee has been working hard and we have a great season in store for Blues in the District,” said Bruce Guthrie, Executive Director The District. “We have great acts that will be coming in and some wonderful vendors and sponsors this year. We are looking forward to seeing all of our friends back in the park for a great summer of Blues music.” All the details about the Blues in the District concerts can be found online at dist.flywheelsites.com


    The District is a non-profit organization with the mission of promoting, revitalizing and preserving Quincy’s Historic Business District through broad-based community support, including both public and private partnerships. The District extends from Front Street to Twelfth Street, and Broadway to State Streets. For more information on the Historic Quincy Business District please log on to dist.flywheelsites.com.

    More Info: 2016 Blues in the District Announce Artist Lineup
  • 2022 Retail Promotions

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    2022 Retail Promotions – Sign Up Here

    This page is for DISTRICT-BASED BUSINESSES who want to sign up to participate in Retail Promotion events. For general public, stay tuned for information on participating businesses of each event!

    After you sign up, The District will contact you via email with the next steps and invoice. Checks payable to The District may be mailed or dropped off to 128 N 5th St.

    CLICK HERE FOR THE SIGN UP FORM

    Upcoming 2022 Retail Promotions

    • Shop Local Saturdays (5/7, 8/13) -$70 each
    • Fri-Yay! Shop Hop (9/16) -$70
    • Trick or Treat in The District (10/29) -$25
    • Small Business Saturday Ad Wrap (11/23’s Herald Whig) -$70
    • Thankful Thursdays (12/1, 12/8, 12/15) – sold together for $35 total

    Shop Local Saturdays – local versions of “Small Business Saturday” to promote local businesses

    • Participating businesses get a post on The District’s Facebook page
    • Copy and a maximum of five photos to be provided by retailer by deadline. If nothing is provided by the business, The District is not responsible for sharing any sponsored content.  
    • Counter Cards featuring participating businesses
    • Posters featuring participating businesses
    • Promotion on The District’s Website and Facebook page
    • Promoted with Events created on Facebook by The District
    • Press Release to Media Outlets
    • Advertising: Print or radio advertising TBD
    • Participating businesses must be open during event hours

    Fri-Yay Shop Hop (formerly Ladies Nights) – visitors to The District travel business-to-business and sign up to win a gift basket

    • Participating businesses get a post on The District’s Facebook page
    • Businesses donate an item or items for a Gift Basket giveaway, announced Monday after event. Customers can enter at each business. No purchase necessary to enter giveaway.
    • Copy and a maximum of five photos to be provided by retailer by deadline. If nothing is provided by the business, The District is not responsible for sharing any sponsored content. 
    • Counter Cards featuring participating businesses
    • Posters featuring participating businesses
    • Promoted with Events created on Facebook by The District
    • Press Release to Media Outlets
    • Advertising: Print or radio advertising TBD
    • Participating businesses must be open during event hours

    Trick or Treat in The District – family friendly event which drives customers to The District (note: The District will not provide items to hand out this year; therefore, only the $25 option is available in 2022).

    • Counter Cards
    • Posters
    • Added as Co-Host on Facebook Event 
    • Store included on Trick or Treat Map
    • Promotion on The District’s Website and Facebook page

    Small Business Saturday Ad Wrap – reach a massive audience of pre-Small Business Saturday shoppers in this popular edition of the Herald Whig

    • Facebook posts for the event 
    • Businesses included in Thanksgiving Ad Wrap in Herald-Whig
    • Direct email to District list of Ad Wrap
    • Amex Merchandising including posters, signs, online graphics, bags, pens, etc.
    • Promotion of Ad Wrap on  The District’s Facebook page
    • Press release

    Thankful Thursday – Shop Late ‘til 8 – reach Holiday Shoppers in this event which is heavily cross-promoted with Light The Park and other holiday events in The District

    • Boosted Facebook posts for the event 
    • Map featuring participating businesses handed out at Santa’s House & In Stores
    • Promotion on The District’s Website and Facebook page
    • Press Release

    CLICK HERE FOR THE SIGN UP FORM

    NOTES

    • Marketing elements subject to change without notice
    • Added Value: Q Magazine ads & Various TV, Radio, and Newspaper Ads 

    More Info: 2022 Retail Promotions
  • 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH LUKE REPASS ON JULY 11

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Luke Repass will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, July 11 in Washington Park. Repass is a professional musician who strives to wow audiences with every show. Whether a small bar on the south side, an extravagant Blues club on the northside, or music festivals throughout the nation, Luke never fails to give his all, along with his band mates.  

    “This third concert in the Blues In The District series brings back a musician who played with a band last year,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “I’m truly excited to have Luke headlining this concert.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities families will enjoy food from two local food trucks—Big Bro’s BBQ and Your Mama’s and TCBY will be back with frozen yogurt treats. 

    “Started in 1998, 2025 marks the 28th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents and glass containers are not allowed. 

    Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. Additional performers in the 2025 Blues In The District lineup include Dottie Kelly – July 25, Reverend Raven & The Chain Smoking Altar Boys, featuring Westside Andy – August 8, and Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials – August 22. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com

    “We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: Knapheide, V&R Accounting, and Tower on Maine. A very special thanks goes out to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with Band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.

    More Info: 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH LUKE REPASS ON JULY 11
  • 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH MIKE WHEELER BAND ON JUNE 27

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    QUINCY, IL — Blues In The District, a beloved outdoor concert tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Mike Wheeler Band will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, June 27 in Washington Park.  Wheeler, a brilliant staple in the Chicago blues community, has a vast knowledge of music, and a voice that’s reminiscent of the late Sam Cooke. 

    “This second concert in the Blues In The District series takes place at the same time and location as the Midsummer Arts Faire,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities, and vendors at the Midsummer Arts Faire will be available.” The lineup of vendors includes not only a variety of arts and artists, but also a variety of food will be available for purchase during the concert. 

    “Started in 1998, 2025 marks the 28th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents are not allowed.

    Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. Additional performers in the 2025 Blues In The District lineup include Luke Repass – July 11, Dottie Kelly – July 25, Reverend Raven & The Chain Smoking Altar Boys, featuring Westside Andy – August 8, and Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials – August 22. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com

    “We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: Craig Industries, GatesAir, Davis & Associates, Realtors, HomeBank, and Quincy Audiology A very special thanks to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with Band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.

    More Info: 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH MIKE WHEELER BAND ON JUNE 27
  • 2025 Blues In The District Lineup Announced

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    Blues In The District, presented by Blessing Health System, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues.

    This year’s concert dates and headliners are:
    June 13 – BagLunch Blues Band
    June 27 – Mike Wheeler Band
    July 11 – Luke Repass
    July 25 – Dottie Kelly
    August 11 – Reverend Raven and The Chain Smoking Altar Boys, featuring Westside Andy
    August 22 – Lil’ Ed’s and the Blues Imperials

    5:30-9:30pm • Washington Park, Quincy, IL

    “Started in 1998, 2025 marks the 28th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents are not allowed. On-site food vendors/trucks will vary each concert. Free kids activities–sponsored by Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum–will take place in the southwest corner of the park until 8 pm.

    “We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors and volunteers,” stated Rivera. “We extend a very special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Blessing Health System, merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Anyone who would like to volunteer to help at any of the concerts can fill out a volunteer form found on the website. 

    For more information about this and other Blues In The District series concerts visit The District’s Facebook page.

    Additional details regarding food trucks will be announced soon.

    More Info: 2025 Blues In The District Lineup Announced
  • 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES MISTY BLUES ON JUNE 26

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Misty Blues will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, June 26  in Washington Park. Misty Blues was a finalist in the 2019 International Blues Challenge and has toured across the U.S., Canada, and the UK since forming in 1999. 

    “Started in 1998, 2026 marks the 29th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents are not allowed. 

    Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. Additional performers in the 2026 Blues In The District lineup include Kara Grainger – July 10, Matt Roberts Blues Band – July 24, Brandon Santini – August 14, and Ray Long & The Highway 61 Band – August 28. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com

    The District and State Street Theater, 434 S 8th Street, have once again teamed up to keep the music going with After Blues concerts. These special concerts will take place immediately following each Blues In The District concert. The act performing after this concert will be Gem City Divas. 

    “We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: Illinois Arts Council/Arts Quincy, Poage Auto Plaza, O’Donnell’s Termite and Pest Control Inc., and Muddy River News. A very special thanks to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, DoubleTree by Hilton/The Atrium on Third; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.

    More Info: 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES MISTY BLUES ON JUNE 26
  • 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH MATT ROBERTS BLUES BAND ON JULY 24

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Matt Roberts Blues Band will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, July 24 in Washington Park. The Matt Roberts Blues Band has been a staple of the regional blues scene for more than 20 years, making it one of Quincy’s longest-running blues bands. 

    “Started in 1998, 2026 marks the 29th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents are not allowed. 

    Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. Additional performers in the 2026 Blues In The District lineup include Brandon Santini – August 14, and Ray Long & The Highway 61 Band – August 28. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com

    The District and State Street Theater, 434 S 8th Street, have once again teamed up to keep the music going with After Blues concerts. These special concerts will take place immediately following each Blues In The District concert. The band performing after this concert will be Esther Moore. 

    “We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: STARadio, Adams Fiber, Quincy Audiology, and Refreshment Services Pepsi. A very special thanks to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.

    More Info: 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH MATT ROBERTS BLUES BAND ON JULY 24
  • 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT LINEUP ANNOUNCED

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    Blues In The District, presented by Blessing Health System, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues.

    This year’s concert dates and headliners are:
    June 12 – Blues Highway
    June 26 – Misty Blues
    July 10 – Kara Grainger
    July 24 – Matt Roberts Blues Band
    August 14 – Brandon Santini
    August 28 – Ray Long & The Highway 61 Band

    5:30-9:30pm • Washington Park, Quincy, IL

    “Started in 1998, 2026 marks the 29th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents are not allowed. On-site food vendors/trucks will vary each concert. Free kids activities–sponsored by Blessing Health System will take place in the southwest corner of the park until 8 pm. Following each of the concerts, State Street Theater will once again be hosting its After Blues Concerts. Details regarding the bands will be released soon.

    “We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors and volunteers,” stated Rivera. “We extend a very special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Blessing Health System, merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Anyone who would like to volunteer to help at any of the concerts can fill out a volunteer form found on the website. 

    For more information about this and other Blues In The District series concerts visit The District’s Facebook page.

    Additional details regarding food trucks will be announced soon.

    More Info: 2026 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT LINEUP ANNOUNCED
  • 2026 THE DISTRICT QUINCY FARMERS MARKET RETURNS FOR 44th YEAR

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    Make plans to attend the Quincy Farmers Markets held each Saturday 8am-1pm May through October in Washington Park–except for May 9 and the last Saturday of each month. These Markets will be held on 6th Street between Maine and Hampshire. The District’s downtown Farmers Market began in 1982, and has kept growing. Each week local growers, producers, and artisans sell their goods, art, and services. Additionally, each Market will include music from local buskers, and market goers will enjoy various coffee/food trucks throughout the season. Due to the various growing seasons, each week can be very different when it comes to produce and products for sale. Be sure to follow Quincy Farmers Market on Facebook and click ‘going or interested’ on all of the Facebook events. This is where Market goers will find up-to-date information about what vendors will be bringing to the Market.  

    As a way of giving back to the community—and specifically to non-profit organizations—The District is bringing back its non-profit booth space opportunity. “Local non-profits are encouraged to visit thedistrictquincy.com/farmers-market to request a complimentary booth space where the mission/purpose of the non-profit can be promoted. “2024 was our first year to include this in our Farmers Market,” stated The District Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Helping local non-profit organizations is important.”

    Local producers, artists, and growers are encouraged to be a part of these well-known and well-attended Farmers Markets. Applications can be submitted via the link on the webpage: thedistrictquincy.com/farmers-market. “Having a variety of high-quality vendors is important,” stated Rivera. “There is a reason we are in our 44th year.” 

    Presenting sponsor again this year is Quincy Medical Group. Additional 2026 sponsors include Harvest Level Sponsors: SeeQuincy and Adams County Health Department. Friend Level Sponsors are Bank of Springfield and Adams County Farm Bureau. QMG Foundation will be back again this year offering free children’s activities the first Saturday of each month, starting in June. For more details about each Saturday’s Market, please visit the Quincy Farmers Market Facebook event pages.

    Once again, this year Quincy Farmers Market is honored to have the technology to offer IL SNAP Tokens. “These tokens allow customers to use their SNAP benefits to purchase eligible food items at the market,” stated Rivera. IL SNAP tokens can be used to purchase any SNAP-eligible food items at the market, such as fruits, vegetables, bread, meat, dairy, etc. “Market attendees simply swipe their Illinois Link card (which is the state’s name for SNAP benefits) at a centralized POS terminal located at The District booth, and in exchange, they receive tokens or scrip worth the amount of their SNAP benefits.” 

    Market attendees are encouraged to also visit The District table to buy District merch and Market tote bags, for cash exchanges, and answers to questions.

    More Info: 2026 THE DISTRICT QUINCY FARMERS MARKET RETURNS FOR 44th YEAR
  • CHEERS TO COMMUNITY The Story Behind Quincy Brewing Company

    Hours Today: By appointment only


    At Quincy Brewing Company, every pint that’s poured is more than just a refreshing craft beer—it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and a long-awaited dream finally realized. As Quincy’s only craft brewery, QBCo takes pride in not only serving up delicious, small-batch brews but also in creating a space where neighbors become friends and memories are made.

    For over a decade, Quincy had gone without a craft brewery. But after ten long years of waiting, Josh and Tierany Craig couldn’t wait any longer. Fueled by his passion for craft beer and the belief that Quincy deserved its own brewery, QBCo was born. Like many small businesses, the early days were shaped by the unexpected challenges of 2020 and the pandemic. But Quincy rallied around the Craigs. Through curbside pickups and to-go orders, the community made sure the beer kept brewing—and they’ve been growing ever since.

    At the heart of QBCo is a mission to build community. “We aim to offer more than great beer—we want every guest, from the youngest root beer fan to the seasoned craft beer enthusiast, to feel welcome,” stated Tierany. Alongside the house-made root beer and creative experimental collaborations with local favorites, QBCo offers a friendly environment that brings people together.

    We believe a vibrant community is built with intention—and a little fun

    Tieraney Craig

    Just this past October (2024), QBCo celebrated its 5th birthday—five years of beer, laughter, growth, and gratitude. “Now, we’re excited to open our newest chapter,” stated Tierany.  “The launch of our private event space!” Whether you’re marking a milestone or just want a space to gather with friends, QBCo is thrilled to provide a new way to celebrate life in Quincy.

    “We believe a vibrant community is built with intention—and a little fun,” stated Tierany..”From our beloved Makers Markets (a collaboration with Fawn Berry that brings a unique, artisan street experience to downtown) to our biannual Downtown Cleanup events, we’re always finding ways to make Quincy even more special.” Monthly trivia nights, bingo, live music in The Garden, and its role in the development of the 6th Street Promenade are just a few of the ways the Craigs are helping to create a thriving downtown.

    Starting something from scratch is never easy. Quincy Brewing Company faced its share of skepticism, but strong research, a solid business plan, and a whole lot of heart helped bring QBCo to life. “We’ve leaned on mentors, taken advice, and stayed true to our mission—and we’re thankful every day for the people and city that believed in us.”

    So here’s to Quincy, to five years of craft beer and connection, and to many more to come. Cheers!

    Josh & Tieraney Craig
    Quincy Brewing Company
    110 N. 6th Street
    217-214-5512

    Thurs. 3-9
    Friday 3-10
    Sat 1-10
    Sunday 1-6

    Instagram, Facebook

    More Info: CHEERS TO COMMUNITY The Story Behind Quincy Brewing Company