Category: Uncategorized
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2016 Blues in the District Announce Artist Lineup
More Info: 2016 Blues in the District Announce Artist LineupHours 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. -
2022 Retail Promotions
More Info: 2022 Retail PromotionsHours 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
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2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH MIKE WHEELER BAND ON JUNE 27
More Info: 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES WITH MIKE WHEELER BAND ON JUNE 27Hours 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.
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2025 Blues In The District Lineup Announced
More Info: 2025 Blues In The District Lineup AnnouncedHours 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 Imperials5:30-9:30pm • 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.
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Concerts In The Plaza Season Kick Off
More Info: Concerts In The Plaza Season Kick OffHours Today: By appointment only
The 3rd Annual Concerts in the Plaza are kicking off at the end of April.
Enjoy FREE lunchtime concerts with your favorite local musicians, held in the First Mid Illinois Bank Plaza on Maine Street near Seventh.
All concerts are 11:30a to 1p.
Friday, April 29 – Avenue Beat
Friday, May 6 – Devonte Jonvire Clark
Friday, May 13 – HartLyss
Friday, May 20 – Jacqueline KaufmanGrab a brown bag lunch, hit up The Maine Course Quincy food truck, or something to go from your favorite restaurant in The District and have a picnic with local live music.
FRIDAYS: April 29, May 6, 13 & 20
Sponsored by the First Mid-Illinois Bank & Trust, Second String Music and The District.
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Enchanted Books
More Info: Enchanted BooksHours Today: By appointment only
In this Heart of Quincy Business Spotlight we highlight Enchanted Books. Enchanted Books is a new and used bookstore owned by Jennifer Tournear, a life-long avid reader who firmly believes in chasing dreams. “When the opportunity arose to try my hand at being a bookstore owner, I jumped in feet first and am thrilled to be celebrating our 2nd anniversary in April.”
Customer service is top priority for this District business. “We strive to make everyone who walks through the doors feel important, safe, and wanted.” Tournear and her team take pleasure in curating the perfect book for whatever customers are looking for. “We have learned through supply and demand what customers want, what they are looking for, and what we are lacking.” Over the past two years, Jennifer has listened to her customers and expanded the areas that customers are most interested in.
While owning a small business is a dream come true, it comes with its challenges. “Knowing which books to carry, what new releases to choose every week, and how to add fun and functional events to benefit the community to our store are three things I’m always looking at.” A new event that was held in February, Bookish Bingo, was so successful a second date in March was added. Events like these are what adds to the wonderful atmosphere and culture of The District.
While Enchanted Books is well-known for its large assortment of books and gifts, its storefront windows are what truly makes its first impression. At its annual meeting this past January, The District awarded Enchanted Books its Design Award. Each year a District business that takes pride in maintaining an interesting and inviting storefront is selected to receive this award that celebrates creativity, effort, and attention to detail in making downtown an attractive place.
When asked what advice she would give an aspiring entrepreneur Tournear stated, “Its very important to do your research, make a solid business plan, and do the things that you believe in your heart you were born to do.”
Enchanted books is located at 532 Maine Street
http://www.myenchantedbooks.com/
217-262-1786
Open Tues 10-6, Wed 10-4, Thur 10-6, Fri & Sat 10-4
Closed Sun & Mon.Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok
Click here if you are a District Business owner and would like to be included in our Heart of The District Business Spotlight.
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Explore The Hidden Gems of Quincy at The District Loft Tours – May 17
More Info: Explore The Hidden Gems of Quincy at The District Loft Tours – May 17Hours Today: By appointment only
QUINCY, IL — Step into the charm and character of Quincy’s historic downtown with The District Loft Tours on Saturday, May 17, 10 am to 2 pm. Presented by TJ Craig, LLC, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, All Phase Property Solutions, and D.P. Construction, this self-guided walking tour gives the public exclusive access to some of the city’s most stunningly restored loft spaces.
Tour Locations Include:
- Dempsey Lofts – 236 N 6th Street
- 2nd Floor Loft – 613 Maine Street
- View21 Loft – 116 N 3rd Street
“Participants can begin the tour at any of the three featured locations,” stated Executive Director of The District Brianna Rivera. “Knowledgeable guides will be available to showcase the spaces and share details about the architecture, design, and restoration efforts.”
Tickets are on sale now and are available online at bit.ly/2025DistrictLoftTour. Tickets purchased prior to 5pm on Friday, May 16 are $15. Tickets purchased after 5pm on 5/16 (online or at the door) are $20. (Please note – if not purchasing online the day of the tour – tickets are cash only at any of the three lofts.
Come discover the beauty and craftsmanship of loft living in The Heart of Quincy. Whether you’re dreaming of downtown life or simply a lover of unique spaces and rich history, this event is a can’t-miss experience!
**** Please be advised that the lofts featured in this home tour are located in a multi-story building without elevator access. As a result, all visitors must be able to navigate stairs to access the lofts.
We recommend that individuals with mobility limitations carefully consider this restriction before participating in the tour. The property management and tour organizers are not responsible for any difficulties or injuries resulting from the use of stairs during the tour.
Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.
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Farmers Market Application Now Available
More Info: Farmers Market Application Now AvailableHours Today: By appointment only
The 2016 Farmers Market Vendor Application is now available to producers and growers in the region. The market is also accepting prepared food vendors, as well as hand made and one-of-a-kind artisan vendors this season.The Farmers Market run Saturdays, May 7 – October 29 from 7a-12p.
For more information and to apply, please click the link: 2016 Vendor Handbook
We are also pleased to introduce to you our new Market Manager, Hannah Simpson, who will be joining us this season. Stop by the information tent and say hello!
**Based on the 2015 customer survey, prepared food, coffee, cheese and bread vendors are desired and recommended to apply.
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Holiday Loft Tour in The District
More Info: Holiday Loft Tour in The DistrictHours Today: By appointment only
Holiday Loft Tour in The District!
The District is hosting a Christmas Loft Tour on December 4 from 5-8 p.m. at a variety of buildings in the area of 4th, 5th, 6th and Maine to Vermont. Tickets will be $10 in advance and $12 the night of the tour.
See what downtown living looks like for those who enjoy the convenience of being close to work, dining, shopping and entertainment.
A modern lifestyle, all while being surrounded by history and archetecture.
Addresses of the lofts are 214 ½ North 6th, 121 North 6th, 114 North 6th, 505 Maine and 405 Hampshire and is at your own pace in any order.
The ability to climb stairs is required. Those attending are asked to wear slip off shoes and remove them when entering the apartments.
Locations to purchase tickets are; Brown Drug Company – 1121 Maine Street, Kirlin’s Hallmark – 534 Maine Street, Home Bank previously known as Bank of Quincy – 1132 Broadway, Classic Colors – 1200 State, Martinis at 515 – 515 Maine and The District –128 N. 5th Street.
The District is a volunteer driven organization with a mission to promote, revitalize, and preserve Quincy’s historic business district through a 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 District please log on to dist.flywheelsites.com.
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Light The District
More Info: Light The DistrictHours Today: By appointment only
Years ago, during the holiday season, Washington Park was aglow with lights strung from the trees and along the gazebo making The District a holiday destination for visitors. That hasn’t been the case in the past few years, but The District Board is trying to bring back the festive cheer.
The City of Quincy decorates every other light pole with garland and lights down Maine Street and several months ago a committee was formed to explore additional possibilities. We surveyed our members and business owners to gain more insight on what our community would like to see this season and the nostalgia of years past is top of the list.
Our first priority is to bring back a picturesque holiday atmosphere in the park, followed by adding decorations to the bare light poles along Maine. The list continues and depending on the generosity of the community, much more could be in store. Awerkamp Machine Company has already agreed to build a stunning centerpiece for the park, but are still in need of funds. We have an estimate of $15,000 to complete the decoration project.
We are reaching out to you today for support of this project. It always amazes us how Quincyians come together when asked to improve our city. Any donation would be greatly appreciated by The District Board and our community as a whole. All donations are tax deductible.As always, thank you for your continued support. If there is anything that we can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Bruce Guthrie
