During the 1920s and 30s, Downtown Momence became a popular destination for tourists seeking respite and relaxation in nearby Island Park. Downtown Momence grew to its largest extent by the 1920s with commercial development centered primarily at the Washington Street and Dixie Highway intersection and along River Street just north of the Kankakee River. Development consisted largely of two-story masonry buildings housing a range of businesses from dry goods, drugs, and clothing stores to bakeries, barbershops, liveries and jewelry stores. Tanneries, commercial laundries, warehouses, and printing and bottling plants were mostly located along River Street. Downtown Momence also boasted three full service banks and the Momence Theater, which operated as a first-run movie house until the early 1950s when it closed.

The Momence Theatre and Community Arts Center is dedicated to enriching the lives of the citizens of Momence and the surrounding communities through the presentation of quality cinematic and artistic performances. We are committed to the operation and management of the Momence Theatre and Community Arts Center; the presentation of a variety of events, education, and community involvement programs to support, enhance and expand appreciation for the arts.