Nightlife and Live Music in Downtown Elgin

February 16, 2022

What’s there to do in Downtown Elgin? If you love jamming to live music by local bands, sipping perfectly mixed cocktails, or trying something new like experiencing a drag show or watching some hip shakin’ belly dancing … you’ll find it in Downtown Elgin!

Martini Room
Get ready for a swanky good time lounging at Martini Room. Most Friday nights feature live music and some weekends you can catch special events such as drag or burlesque shows, comedy gigs and more. On select weeks you can watch Belly Dance Wednesday featuring live performances from Eastern Groove Studio belly dancers. Drink specials round out the week including deals on monthly themed martini flights every Wednesday and on Margaritas every Tuesday. With over 50 martinis on the menu we can guarantee you’ll find a few you love!

Lay back and enjoy the lounge vibe at Martini Room.

Side Street Studio Arts
Lovers of performing arts should check-out Side Street Studio Arts for live music and so much more. Wednesday night is Open Mic night where local performers entertain the audience with short sets to try out new material. The gallery at Side Street features rotating exhibits each kicked off with opening receptions featuring unique bands for one-night-only shows. The Going Dutch Festival in June celebrates the female voice in dance, music, theatre, and the visual arts while their multi-week Battle of the Bands contest has become a popular summertime event showcasing up-and-coming regional bands. The Elgin Fringe Festival in September offers hundreds of unique performances you won’t experience anywhere else. For a complete list of Side Street events visit SSSA on Facebook.

Danny’s On Douglas
Danny’s is a family-owned pizzeria known for thin crust pies, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Nearly every Friday and Saturday night a live band takes the stage at Danny’s. Their giant soft pretzel and wings in a variety of sauces are also menu favorites. Be sure to ask about the nightly drink specials too. For the band schedule visit Danny’s on Facebook.

Vern’s Tavern
Vern’s Tavern is home to some of the most creative and unique drinks in Downtown Elgin. Try one of their original craft cocktails or a traditional Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or a Dark & Stormy. The last Tuesday of every month is Tiki Tuesday at Vern’s featuring authentic Tiki-style cocktails made with fresh-squeezed juices and organic hand-crafted syrups served in unique Tiki glasses. Check out this monthly event and watch for more on the Vern’s Tavern Facebook page.

Danny’s on Douglas hosts live bands nearly every Friday and Saturday night.

Grand Victoria Casino
Put your gambling skills to the test with non-stop poker action in the live poker room, featuring No-Limit Texas Hold’em. At GVC you’ll find multiple tables full of nail-biting action, Power Points and an exclusive food menu. Grand Victoria Casino is also your sports betting headquarters and offers 860 slots ranging from traditional favorites to the newest themes, plus video poker games.

The Afterset
Are you ready to party till 4am? Check out the hot and spicy Latin Nights at The Afterset where you can drink, dance and party the night away.

Next time you’re wondering where to go for nightlife and live music in Downtown Elgin be sure to check out one of these great local venues!