Cocktails In The Park Celebrates 15 Years: See Cocktail, Appetizer Menu

BATAVIA, IL — The 15th anniversary of the popular Cocktails in the Park event is less than two weeks away.

Batavia MainStreet is getting ready for its largest single fundraiser, planned from 7-10 p.m. July 25 at Appleton Park, 110 N. Island Ave. The event promises a night of good food, live music and, of course, cocktails.

This is this year's cocktail menu, crafted by longtime Batavia MainStreet volunteer Jeff Beck.

• After the Fire: A bold bourbon smash featuring burnt honey syrup, fresh lemon juice, and
  aromatic bitters, balancing smoky sweetness with bright citrus.
• Quarry Blossom: A vibrant hibiscus paloma combining blanco tequila, fresh grapefruit and lime
  juices, and hibiscus chile syrup for a refreshing cocktail with just the right touch of spice.
• Morning Market: A bright, refreshing lemon-inspired cocktail inspired by a stroll through the
  Batavia farmers market on a summer morning.

Beer from Sturdy Shelter Brewing, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.

These restaurants will be serving up appetizers:

• Elote from Alma Cafe
• Popcorn from Batavia Popcorn Depot
• Cajun tortellini from Chianti's Carry-Out & Catering
• Assorted salads from Chicken Salad Chick
• Smashburger sliders from Gammon Coach House
• Oysters and lobster rolls from The GOAT Burger & Cocktail Bar
• Grilled peach and tomato panzanella salad from Rosewood Farm & Market
• Curried chicken salad from Sidecar Supper Club
• Eggrolls and chicken potstickers from Tusk Thai Cuisine
• Roasted Brussels sprouts from WindMill Grille & Pizzeria

"One of my favorite things about this event is that it feels elevated without being out of reach," Kristen Desler, assistant director of Batavia MainStreet, said in a statement. "For just $40, guests can enjoy incredible food, handcrafted cocktails, live music, a take-home treat, and a beautiful evening along the Fox River. Whether it's date night or a night out with friends, it's a memorable summer experience and an incredible value."

Tickets, which cost $40 in advance or $50 at the door, include a take-home treat and two photo opportunities. Drink and raffle tickets cost $8 each or 10 for $75, purchased in advance or at the event.

Organizers are also offering a picnic table bundle for $350, which includes a reserved picnic table, six admission tickets, and six drink and raffle tickets.

The VIP Experience raffle takes the picnic table bundle up a notch. For every $25 donation to Batavia MainStreet, a participant will receive an entry for the package that includes an appetizer tray, a professional group photo, linens for the table, a take-home floral centerpiece and Batavia swag. Anyone who has already purchased admission can participate.

Raffle winners will be announced July 25.

Proceeds from Cocktails in the Park help fund the operations of Batavia MainStreet, which advocates for and markets the downtown business community. The nonprofit also operates the Batavia farmers market, Artisan Collective and Batavia Boardwalk Shops.