Make It Monticello

05/23/2026

Have you been wondering how the inside of the Hardee’s/Chili Finger building is looking?

Monday you can check it out! The owners of Blend & Brew would love to show you around the retail space. You will be able to make a purchase if you want too! Stop in and welcome them!!

05/14/2026

Looking for some caffeine or great snacks? Make sure you visit Evlo Coffee Company , our newest business in Monticello!! Be sure to swing by to congratulate the owners and grab a cup too!

Well, I have to say today was pretty great! It’s been months since I have gotten to do one of my very favorite things on a regular basis and that’s making coffee for my friends, fam and community!! It just felt right!! We worked out a few kinks today and we will be back at it again bright and early!
We appreciate your continued patience as we continue to work on our flow, speed and recipes!

Things you can enjoy tomorrow…

Our Summer Peach Iced Tea
Dark Chocolate Chip Scones
Egg Bites (Egg whites with red pepper or bacon and cheese)
Cake Pops and Cinnamon Rolls just to name a few!!! New items popping up everyday! Shhh…don’t tell anyone but donuts are coming soon 😳😬

See you in the morning!

Ps…check out that sign!?! Looks pretty spot on right!?! Let me know if you need one like it and I’ll point you in the right direction 😉

05/13/2026

Have you heard about the Steamliners of the 50's Weekend at Monticello Railway Museum?! It will be May 23rd and 24th!!

It sounds like it will be a blast!! You can purchase full-day riding passes, learn more about Steamliners, and check out some historic diesel locomotives in operation!!

Check out the comments for details!!

05/12/2026

It's almost time again!!! Who's ready for some fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, handmade goods, and great food?! Vendors - the application is now open!

The vendor application has been released!! See the comments for the link!

05/09/2026

It’s Peony time at Allerton Park and Retreat Center!!!

Make sure you grab a snack at Greenhouse Café while you’re there or come to Downtown Monticello for sips, treats, meals and some amazing shopping!

PEONY GARDEN UPDATE! There are currently 26 of 68 varieties of peonies in bloom! We hope many of these will hang on as others start to bloom, but it's always hard to tell what nature will do. Visit soon and often!

04/30/2026

Go cheer the runners on this weekend!

04/29/2026

Big thanks to the City of Monticello, Works Crew for their work setting up these outside dining spaces in our downtown again!! They add a sense of activity all summer long! We grabbed some new gate covers and they make the space pop! The amazing beautification crew should be planting the pots soon and they are always beautiful!

04/23/2026

Make sure to check out all the fun at Allerton Park and Retreat Center coming up soon! While you are in the area, check out the outdoor dining areas in Downtown Monticello for the 17 places to get eats or treats!! Don't miss the 18 interesting places to shop, too!

If you visit on Sunday, you can catch both the Bluebell Festival and Monticello Mercantile's May Market in Downtown Monticello!!

03/22/2026

👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻

These small towns to visit in Illinois allow travelers to experience the state's more relaxed side at a slower pace compared to large cities.

02/19/2026

Cookie PSA:

We've had a few calls in the Chamber looking for how to purchase Girl Scout cookies...so here you go!

Daisy Troop 2424 is coming to KayBee! 💚🍪 We’ll also have Girl Scout inspired drinks available to make it extra fun so keep an eye out for those! 😍

Join us Saturday, February 21st from 8:30–11am to grab your favorite Girl Scout Cookies while you sip your morning coffee ☕️✨

Stop by, support these sweet girls, and start your Saturday the right way 💛