Oktoberfest in Libertyville Receives Lt. Governor Award at Conference

MainStreet Libertyville is pleased to announce being awarded The Lieutenant Governor Award for Excellence in Revitalization in Organization, recognizing Oktoberfest in Libertyville.

The Lieutenant Governor Award for Excellence in Revitalization is one of the most notable recognitions for Illinois Main Street communities to achieve for their work in bringing economic prosperity to their communities. Work highlights projects, activities, and events focused on the Main Street Approach™, as well as outstanding volunteers and board members.

“Main streets across Illinois showcase the very best of small businesses and revitalization efforts. I’m so proud of the 2023 award recipients for their hard work and talent to create positive change in our Main Street communities,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “That positive change will spark economic opportunities and jobs that build purpose and a sense of community throughout Illinois.”

“Throughout the year, Illinois Main Street communities work tirelessly to build relationships with businesses, property owners and other economic development partners to create a vibrant place for residents and visitors alike,” said Jim Miller, Illinois Main Street State Coordinator. “Collectively, these recognitions showcase just a portion of what can be accomplished when using the Main Street Approach™ as a method for economic development,” according to Miller.

The 2023 Illinois Main Street Conference was hosted alongside the Chicago Main Street program and in partnership with the office of Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, and the City of Pontiac.

“MainStreet Libertyville is happy to work in conjunction with the GLMV Chamber of Commerce to bring back Oktoberfest in Libertyville in downtown Libertyville at Mickey Finn’s Brewery backlot. The event attracts attendees from throughout Lake County and beyond, and is a wonderful celebration of local heritage and culture. Oktoberfest in Libertyville is also recognized and promoted as one of the four Festivals of Libertyville,” said Jennifer Johnson, Executive Director of MainStreet Libertyville.

Revitalization in organization involves creating a strong foundation for a sustainable revitalization effort, including cultivating partnerships, community involvement and resources for the Main Street program. Selected projects showcase community partnerships, program planning and management, leadership development, fundraising and program advocacy.

All projects, activities, or events submitted for recognition must have been completed in 2022 through June 30, 2023. Volunteer nominations reflect an amalgamation of work done with the Main Street organization and community.

Learn more about Illinois Main Street and view a full list of award winners at ilmainstreet.org.

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ABOUT MAINSTREET LIBERTYVILLE

MainStreet Libertyville is a nationally recognized, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting downtown Libertyville. With the help of community volunteers, MainStreet Libertyville hosts more than 55 days of community and retail events each year to support the economic vitality of historic downtown Libertyville. For more information, visit the MainStreet Libertyville website at mainstreetlibertyville.org.

ABOUT ILLINOIS MAIN STREET

Illinois Main Street (IMS) supports a network of communities across the state that are working to bring prosperity to their older and historic downtowns and commercial districts. IMS does this by providing hands-on training, statewide workshops, networking opportunities, and other resources.

Illinois Main Street programs have collectively secured nearly $1.2 billion in public and private reinvestment, with 24,000 businesses started, added over 11,000 jobs, and rehabilitated 1,220 buildings since 1992. Illinois Main Street is administered by Main Street America, a national movement of neighborhoods and communities who share both a commitment to place and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. Learn more at ilmainstreet.org.