Category: Uncategorized

Hours Today: By appointment only

Located at 117 N. 4th Street in the Heart of Downtown Quincy, District Designs is more than just a shop—it’s a collaborative marketplace built on creativity, community, and connection. Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturdays from 8am to 4 pm, this ever-evolving space offers something new with every visit.

District Designs is home to more than 15 vendors, each bringing their own unique style and story to the space. From artists and florists to collectors and small business owners, the shop showcases an eclectic mix of new, gently used, vintage, antique, repurposed, and handmade items. Shoppers can browse everything from furniture and home décor to glassware, collectibles, custom clothing, and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Owner Jeff Leech says the heart of District Designs lies in its people. “We truly operate as a vendor family. Our vendors pitch in time and/or money to staff and supply the shop—it’s a shared effort, and that’s what makes it special.”

That sense of collaboration has been part of the business from the beginning. What started as a vendor booth marketplace—open just a few weekends a month—quickly grew into something more as both customers and vendors wanted expanded hours and accessibility. “Ownership listened from the start,” Leech explains. “We evolved into a space where vendors support each other, even when they’re not on-site. That’s really when the family atmosphere was born—and we realized we genuinely enjoyed working together.”

Leech, who spent 35 years in the medical field before returning to the Midwest, saw District Designs as the perfect opportunity to tap into his creative side. “It has been my plan all along to get involved with a small business that allowed my creativity to show. The previous owners laid the foundation of a successful business—this business—and we’re proud to continue building on that.”

“If you believe in your product and surround yourself with the right people, then anything is possible.”

Jeff Leach, Owner/District Designs

Customer experience is at the forefront of everything they do. Every visitor is welcomed warmly and treated like a friend, whether they make a purchase or not. “We want our customers to feel like our friends,” says Leech. “We listen, and where possible, we make changes or compromises to meet their needs.”

In a time when rising costs impact everyone, District Designs is committed to keeping items affordable and accessible. “We recognize the high cost of living,” Leech shares. “People should be able to have nice things without having to break the bank or sacrifice other necessities. Our team is made up of people who care.”

As the business continues to grow—just over a year old—District Designs is expanding its offerings and partnerships, including a recent collaboration with Shut Your Piehole Cheesecakes out of New London, Iowa and Dave’s Coffee Cakes out of Rock Falls, Illinois. New vendors and products are continually being welcomed into the fold, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover.

With a loyal following—fondly known as “District Designers”—and a strong commitment to community, District Designs is a shining example of what can happen when creativity and collaboration come together.

“If you believe in your product and surround yourself with the right people,” Leech says, “then anything is possible.”

District Designs 
117 N 4th St. Quincy, IL 
(217) 231-6810
M,Tu,Th, F 9-5pm
Sat 8-4pm
(Closed Wednesdays)

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. Dottie Kelly will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, July 25 in Washington Park. Kelly, a talented soul singer, began singing in a Baptist church, where she discovered and nurtured her vocal talent. Inspired by her aunt, renowned Ft. Lauderdale singer Betty Padgett, Dottie started performing background vocals alongside Padgett and Blues artist Joey Gilmore. Since then, she has toured across various states, opening for numerous artists and earning recognition for her raw, authentic soul sound.

“This fourth concert in the Blues In The District series brings a super-talented Blues artist that is sure to entertain,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Dottie is a true soul singer with pure, raw talent.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities families will enjoy food from two local establishments—JKW BBQ and The Patio. TCBY will be in the park with frozen yogurt treats as well. 

“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 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: Bower & Associates Inc., Realtors, Bruening Heating & A/C and Fireplaces, Refreshment Services Pepsi, Savemore Carpets & Rug Gallery. 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.

Hours 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.

Hours Today: By appointment only

Sign up today: bit.ly/DistrictSpringCleanUp

The District invites volunteers of all ages to roll up their sleeves and help refresh downtown during its 2026 Spring Cleanup on Saturday, April 11, from 10–11 am. “Volunteers are essential to everything we do,” Executive Director of The District Brianna Rivera. “We are deeply thankful for the individuals and groups who step up to help care for our downtown and support The District’s ongoing success.”

Grab a friend, coworker, family member—or bring the kids—and head downtown to Parking Lot I (located on 6th street between Maine and Hampshire Streets). Volunteers will receive an assigned area block(s) within our 92 block area, along with trash bags and gloves, as teams work together to spruce up areas in The District.

To say thank you, Platt Daddy and Quincy Brewing Company have once again partnered to provide a light lunch and a drink for participants following the cleanup and will be served at Quincy Brewing Co.

Everyone is encouraged to sign up in advance at bit.ly/DistrictSpringCleanUp to help with planning and lunch counts. Additional details will be emailed as the event approaches.

Join us in caring for The Heart of Quincy and helping our downtown shine this spring!

Hours Today: By appointment only

The District invites volunteers of all ages to roll up their sleeves and help spruce up downtown during its 2026 Fall Cleanup on Saturday, Saturday, September 12 from 10–11 am. “Volunteers are essential to everything we do,” Executive Director of The District Brianna Rivera. “We are deeply thankful for the individuals and groups who step up to help care for our downtown and support The District’s ongoing success.”

Grab a friend, coworker, family member—or bring the kids—and head downtown to Parking Lot I (located on 6th street between Maine and Hampshire Streets). Volunteers will receive rash bags and latex/plastic gloves along with an assigned area/block(s) within The District’s 92 block area that they are responsible for cleaning. “A limited number of long handled grabbers will be available as well,” stated Rivera. Volunteers are welcome to bring their own work gloves if desired.

To say thank you, Platt Daddy and Quincy Brewing Company have once again partnered to provide a light lunch and a drink for participants following the cleanup and will be served at Quincy Brewing Co.

Everyone is encouraged to sign up in advance at bit.ly/26FallCleanupForm to help with planning and lunch counts. Additional details will be emailed as the event approaches.

Join us in caring for The Heart of Quincy and helping our downtown shine this fall!

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. Kara Grainger will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, July 10 in Washington Park. Kara, a talented songwriter and ace guitarist, is an Australian and Nashville-based artist that was deeply influenced by the sounds that flowed out of Memphis, Tennessee in the 1960s and 70s.

“This third concert in the Blues In The District series brings the sounds of Tennessee from a unique artist that is sure to entertain,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Kara is a crowd-pleaser with her voice and guitar skills.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities families will enjoy food from two local establishments—Platt Daddy BBQ & Big Bro’s BBQ. TCBY will be in the park with frozen yogurt treats as well. 

“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 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 2026 Blues In The District lineup include Matt Roberts Blues Band – July 25, Brandon Santini – August 14, & Ray Long & the Highway 61 Band – August 28. 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: Treader TnT, Be Dry Roofing, and Quincy Recycle.” 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.