A variety of performance venues

The Princeton Coffeehouse

The Princeton Coffeehouse is the name given a series of acoustical performances. The Coffeehouse began in June of 1993 and is operated by local volunteers. Since September of 2005, the Coffeehouse has been located at Open Prairie UCC Church, 25 East Marion Street in Princeton. Typically the Coffeehouse presents eight or nine shows each year on the fourth Saturday of each month. There are generally no performances in December or in the summer months. For more information visit www.theprincetoncoffeehouse.com.

Summer Park Performances

Both Spring Valley and Princeton have free evening band performances during the summer. These are bring-your-blanket-and-a-chair events that are highlighted by the band members. Check www.springvalley.com and www.visitprinceton-il.com for times and dates.

Fitzgerald's Piano Lounge

Fitzgerald's Piano Lounge provides a unique entertainment enviornment. Visit the lounge for a great place to unwind and enjoy that special beverage.

The Apollo Theater

Catch the latest first run movie at the historic Apollo Theater. Get an iced drink, some fresh popcorn, and other treats then lean back and enjoy the show!

Princeton Theatre Group and Festival 56

Festival 56, a seven week professional theater festival, keeps things hoppin' all summer long in Princeton! Illinois' largest summer theater festival season begins in late June and runs through mid-August. More than 40 of professional theater's best and brightest artists will present comedies this summer. Shakespeare will be performed outdoors in the city center park with free admission. Besides the over 60 performances of the seven mainstage productions the festival season also includes workshops and seminars.

Festival 56 is one of two major projects for Princeton Theatre Group, a volunteer driven, not-for-profit, grassroots organization that is all about the arts! The other project–the ILLINOIS THEATRE CONSERVATORY has received strong, local support and is eagerly awaited! This will be a two-year performing arts college located right in downtown Princeton. With the opening of the ILLINOIS THEATRE CONSERVATORY we will be able to look forward to excitement and exciting theater in Princeton year round!

Prairie Arts Council

The Prairie Arts Center, located at 24 Park Avenue East on the Court House square, is a center for participation in cultural arts for all ages in Princeton and the surrounding areas. The theater seats 113 for community drama, music, and various other cultural events throughout the year. The gallery features art programming with volunteer hosts during scheduled hours from 1 to 4 P.M. on Saturdays and Sundays. Junior Art League provides monthly activities for youth ages 10-14. Prairie Arts Council, a not-for-profit corporation, operates with a volunteer board of directors and members, arranges programming, raises funds, publishes a quarterly newsletter, and maintains the historical 1930s building. Visit www.prairieartscenter.org.