More Than a Theater — The Beating Heart of Downtown Decatur
The Lincoln Square Theater has been the beating heart of downtown Decatur, Illinois, for more than 100 years.
From its glittering debut in 1916 as the region's grandest movie palace to its rebirth as a fully restored, multi-purpose performance venue, The Lincoln has always been more than a building — it's a symbol of our community's shared past, present, and future.
Today, The Lincoln continues to bring people together through concerts, live performances, special events, and community gatherings.
HISTORY DECATUR · ILLINOIS
HISTORY
SEATS
GUESTS
DECATUR
A Century of Lights, Laughter & Local Pride
From a grand movie palace to a beloved community gathering place, The Lincoln Square Theater has continued to evolve while preserving the spirit of Decatur.
Where It All Began
When The Lincoln Square Theater first welcomed audiences in 1916, its grand interior, glittering lights, and live acts made it the pride of Decatur.
Families came downtown for the latest picture shows, vaudeville performances, and evenings beneath the bright marquee.
A Downtown Icon
For decades, The Lincoln buzzed with life. Its neon sign became a familiar symbol of the city's spirit and its stage welcomed generations of audiences.
The theater became more than a place to watch a show. It became a place where families gathered, friends connected, and memories were created.
Saving A Piece of Decatur
Like many historic downtown districts, The Lincoln faced difficult years as entertainment changed and economic challenges took their toll.
But Decatur refused to let its crown jewel disappear. Volunteers, local leaders, and community members came together to save The Lincoln — brick by brick and seat by seat.
The Lights Are On Again
Today, The Lincoln has reclaimed its place as a beloved community gathering spot.
Major concerts, local theater, touring acts, special movie nights, and community events continue to bring audiences through its doors.
When the lights go up at The Lincoln, it’s not just our stage that comes alive — it’s every storefront, sidewalk, and café downtown.”
A Few Things That Make The Lincoln Special
The Lincoln once seated over 1,500 people at its peak.
Many original details, including ornate plasterwork and the balcony, have been lovingly restored.
Guests travel from 100+ miles away to attend events and experience downtown Decatur.
More Than Entertainment — We're an Economic Engine.
Every event at The Lincoln Square Theater brings people into downtown Decatur — creating a ripple effect that reaches restaurants, shops, hotels, sidewalks, and local businesses.
When Our Marquee Lights Up, Downtown Decatur Shines.
It's common to see families sharing meals before a show, friends gathering for drinks after a concert, or visitors staying overnight in Decatur to experience the city's history.
Local restaurants see higher weekend traffic. Shops stay open later. Neighborhood businesses get the boost they need to grow and hire. The Lincoln helps make downtown a destination once again.
THE SHOW
Audiences arrive at The Lincoln for concerts, performances, and special events.
DOWNTOWN
Visitors explore restaurants, shops, cafés, and other local businesses.
COMMUNITY
Increased foot traffic helps strengthen the local economy and downtown vitality.
Historic venues like The Lincoln are essential to small cities because they drive foot traffic, anchor redevelopment, and give people a reason to make downtown a destination.
When our lights are on, downtown Decatur shines a little brighter for everyone.Preserving Our Past. Building Our Future.
The Lincoln Square Theater is more than restored walls and vintage seats. It is a living testament to what we can achieve when a community comes together.
A Living Piece of Decatur's Story
Every show at The Lincoln is a celebration of resilience — and a reminder that downtown Decatur is a place where history, creativity, and community continue to thrive.
As we look ahead, our mission is to keep expanding our lineup, welcoming new audiences, and ensuring The Lincoln continues to fuel local vitality for generations to come.
MORE CONCERTS
Bringing exceptional live music and touring artists to downtown Decatur.
FAMILY PROGRAMMING
Creating memorable experiences for audiences of every generation.
LOCAL COLLABORATIONS
Building stronger connections with artists, organizations, and the community.
A DESTINATION FOR EVERYONE
Continuing to make The Lincoln and downtown Decatur a destination worth discovering.
Keep The Curtain Rising.
Every person who walks through our doors helps keep this historic theater alive and strengthens the community around it.
BRING YOUR PEOPLE
Bring your friends and family to a show. Every ticket helps support local businesses and the continued life of The Lincoln.
SHARE OUR STORY
Tell others about The Lincoln and help introduce more people to this historic downtown Decatur landmark.
VOLUNTEER
Our community spirit keeps the curtain rising. Give your time and become part of The Lincoln's continuing story.
MAKE IT A NIGHT DOWNTOWN
Encourage friends from nearby communities to make a full evening of their visit to downtown Decatur.
More Than a Performance. A Part of the Story.
When you step through our doors, you're doing more than enjoying a performance — you're helping keep Decatur's heart beating strong.
Be Part of the Story.
The Lincoln Square Theater