Director’s Message

Welcome to Darlington!

Darlington has a historically rich Main Street complete with a boulevard (not common on most Main Streets across the state) which as we begin out 2021 “Road to Discover Darlington” road construction project we are happy to say will be staying! Darlington has many properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  These beautiful historic structures are thriving with commerce, and the downtown offers everything from home decor, to artisan finds to clothing and so much more. From fun and quirky breweries to down-home cooking to a stay at one of our many overnight accommodations, fit for any budget.

Darlington's festival season kicks off in May with our annual Cinco De Mayo -Fiesta Latina celebration, as well as our Weekly Saturday farmers markets from 8-Noon featuring *Meats, Cheeses, Produce, Fresh Flowers and Baked Goodies. * June offers us a chance to celebrate the annual Canoe Festival while  July ushers in our "Tunes at Twilight", concerts in the park series.  September kicks off Autumn, with Pecatonica Clubs annual Antique Days the 2nd weekend in September following Labor Day, as well as our "Fall in Love with Darlington" outdoor night market, featuring local vendors, food, and live music.  November, and December ring in the holiday season with Christmas and Holiday open houses, holiday lights, holiday treats, and our lighted "Riverside Reflections", as well as Darlington's (Annual) Holiday parade, Living windows, and Lighted Laps held the first Saturday each December! And no small-town holiday would be complete without a visit from Santa, who is welcomed by all young, and young at heart, each December, following the parade.  As always follow us on Facebook for updates on changes.

This community of nearly 2,500 is also home to the county seat for Lafayette County. The historic courthouse, a symbol of pride for the community, features a Tiffany glass rotunda, copper, and marble fixtures, as well as a fountain. You may have seen a glimpse of this beautiful building in the Johnny Depp 2009 movie Public Enemies!

Darlington, rich in history, is also a community with all the amenities one would hope for while still maintaining a charming small-town atmosphere. From fun retail shops, and home-cooked meals like "Mom" would make, as well as ethnic cuisine. These can all be found in our historic, downtown business district. Whether you "Dare to Explore Darlington" for work, home, play, or simply to take in the beautiful scenery, whether by foot, bike, motorcycle, canoe, horse, ATV, or car. Darlington has something for you!

Thank you for checking out a little of what Darlington, "The Pearl of the Pecatonica" has to offer!

#Shopeatdrinkstay

#Daretoexploredarlington

And I hope we'll see you in Darlington soon!

Remember, Stop, Smile, Wave, and Say Hello!

Kristen May, Executive director, Darlington Chamber- Main Street