Media Kit – Lincoln Square Theater – Decatur’s Historic Entertainment LandmarkLincoln Square Theater – Decatur’s Historic Entertainment LandmarkLincoln Square Theater – Decatur’s Historic Entertainment Landmark

The Lincoln Square Theatre

More Than a Theater — The Beating Heart of Downtown Decatur

Where History Meets Entertainment

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.

With top-tier concerts, dynamic live performances, special events, and community gatherings, The Lincoln continues to draw crowds from across Central Illinois and beyond.

Today, after decades of restoration and the unwavering dedication of our community, The Lincoln is once again the cultural anchor for a thriving downtown.

Every ticket sold brings people into our historic city center — filling restaurants, shops, and sidewalks with energy that ripples far beyond our stage.

Our Story— A Century of Unforgettable Memories

A Century of Lights, Laughter, and Local Pride

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 flocked downtown to catch the latest picture show, watch vaudeville troupes, and mingle under the bright marquee. For decades, The Lincoln buzzed with life, its neon sign glowing as a symbol of the city’s spirit.

But like many downtown districts, economic downturns and shifting entertainment trends brought tough years. While other historic theaters closed for good, Decatur refused to let its crown jewel fade. Passionate volunteers, local leaders, and everyday citizens came together to save The Lincoln — brick by brick, seat by seat — restoring not just a building but a place for connection.

Today, The Lincoln has reclaimed its place as a beloved community gathering spot. It hosts major concerts, local theater, touring acts, and special movie nights. From nostalgic films to high-energy rock shows, there’s something on stage for everyone — and each show brings people out to explore downtown again.

"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. We’re proud to be a spark for local vitality."

Did You Know?

Quick Facts:

Built: 1916 | 2022 Restored: Ongoing, with major renovations completed.
Seating Capacity: 1,100+ with flexible configurations for concerts, plays, and private events
Tech Specs: Modern sound and lighting systems, high definition projection, professional backstage facilities, and accessible seating options
Location: Prime downtown Decatur, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and easy parking
Owned & Operated By: Friends of the Lincoln Square Theater a Non-profit organization with strong community ties.

More than bricks and mortar, The Lincoln is the soul of downtown — a place where stories are told, music echoes, and memories are made for a lifetime.

THE LINCOLN’S IMPACT—

FUELING DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION

More Than Entertainment — We’re an Economic Engine

Each event at The Lincoln Square Theater draws hundreds — sometimes over a thousand — visitors downtown. 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 our history.

Local restaurants see higher weekend traffic. Shops stay open later. Neighborhood businesses get the boost they need to grow and hire. When our marquee lights up, it’s a signal that downtown Decatur is open for business.

This ripple effect is exactly why historic venues like ours are essential for small cities: they drive foot traffic, anchor redevelopment, and make downtown a destination once again.

When our lights are on, downtown Decatur shines a little brighter for everyone.

WHAT’S NEXT & HOW YOU CAN BE PART OF IT

Preserving Our Past. Building Our Future

The Lincoln Square Theater is more than restored walls and vintage seats — it’s a living testament to what we can achieve when we come together. Every show is a celebration of our resilience and a reminder that downtown Decatur is a place where history, creativity, and community 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 s to make downtown Decatuto come. That means more concerts, more family-friendly programming, more collaborations with local artists, and more opportunitier a destination for everyone.

Ways You Can Support The Lincoln

When you step through our doors, you’re doing more than enjoying a performance — you’re helping keep Decatur’s heart beating strong

We’re proud of what we’ve built together — and there’s so much more ahead. Thank you for keeping The Lincoln alive, for standing by your local businesses, and for showing the world that history still has a home here.

Be part of the story. See you at The Lincoln.

Download the Media kit