Looking for something to do this weekend in the Rockford area? Here are 35 upcoming events
53rd annual Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days
What: Drive-thru, walk-up and in-person seating and live entertainment at both sites. “Take Your Brat to Work” is 6 to 10 a.m. July 12 drive-thru only and only at Blain’s Farm & Fleet, 7300 E. Riverside Blvd. Breakfast brats are $4 each. Ticket price includes choice of Johnsonville Brat, All-Beef Johnsonville Hot Dog, Meatless Barbeque, Vegan/Vegetarian Brat, Mrs. Fisher's Chips and Pepsi product or water.
When: 6-10 a.m. Friday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, July 12 and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Cherryvale Mall, 7200 Harrison Ave. (upper level facing Perryville Road) and Blain’s Farm & Fleet, 7300 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10; $8 in advance
Wired Weekend
What: Wired is celebrating its 14th anniversary. From 2:30-4 p.m. Friday, come for an Ice Cream & Coffee Social. Affogatos combine gelato or ice cream with a shot of espresso. Ice cream without coffee will be available for kids and those who prefer a caffeine-free treat. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 13, Wired will have live performances, food and coffee drinks.
When: Friday, July 12 – Saturday, July 13
Where: Wired Café, 414 E. State St., Rockford
Robin Taylor Zander Live
What: Robin Taylor Zander is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, and now a full-time member of Cheap Trick, a seamless utility player on guitar, bass, drums, and backing vocals. He is an independent artist with his own path and sound. Full menu available for guests at reserved tables..
When: 8-10 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse outside deck, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; table and boat slip reservations, food and drinks extra
Outdoor Family Movie Night
What: Bring the family for an outdoor showing of “Kung Fu Panda.” Pack lawn chairs, coolers and blankets. Activities and fun for all ages start at 7 p.m. The movie starts at sundown.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Northeast Family YMCA, 8451 Orth Road, Loves Park
Cost: Free
Readings from the Rookery
What: Readings from the Rookery is an interactive read aloud-style program introducing STEM to children through themes of nature and ecology. This program targets children 5-9 years old, but may have younger children in attendance. Parents/caregivers are encouraged to attend with their children and to engage in their child’s new understandings of nature, STEM and literacy. After the read aloud, attendees will go outside for a nature activity related to the book’s theme. Online registration required.
When: 9-10:30 a.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Gongtopia
What: Imagine floating in an ocean of sound, where you can let go of all your stress and worries. Gongs, singing bowls, bells and other instruments ring out, creating waves of vibrations that wash over you. Your body and energy systems are able to realign and recharge, helping to clear out blockages, while leaving you refreshed and reawakened. The event will be in the outdoor pavilion. Walk-ins welcomed if space available.
When: 6:30 – 8 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford
Cost: $35; save with membership or advance registration
Grand Opening: Ziegler’s Ace Hardware
What: Ziegler's Ace Roscoe is holding a grand opening event to meet the community. There will be food, drinks, vendors, deals and daily giveaways.
When: Friday, July 12 – Sunday, July 14
Where: Ziegler’s Ace Hardware, 5506 Elevator Road, Roscoe
Music on the Mall
What: Enjoy a performance by high energy rockabilly band Dirty Fishnet Stockings.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Center Court at Edgebrook Center near Cora Physical Therapy, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Adventures in Candyland
What: Enjoy live science demonstrations from King Kandy. Snap a photo with Queen Frostine from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children will enjoy having their face painted with glittering designs, creating their own candy headband fit for royalty, unraveling the delicious science behind candy, and indulging in fluffy cotton candy. Tacos and shaved ice will be available for purchase from Cantina Taco and Kona Ice food trucks.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10; free for members or children age 1 and younger
Glow Golf
What: Test your skills while the putting, chipping and range areas are all aglow. Long drive glow competition, glow mini-putt, glow chipping corn hole and more.
When: 9-10 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Aldeen Golf Club, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Cost: $20
Hawaiian Splash Pad Night
What: There will be music and a foam party. Dressing to the theme is encouraged.
When: 5-7 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Splash Pad, Doty Park, 381 Leonard Court, Belvidere
Cost: Free
Rockford City Market
What: Rockford City Market features local growers and vendors who sell handmade products, including vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and prepared food, as well as artisans and vendors with unique offerings. Jon Bon Stamos performs on the main stage July 12 and Cole Brandt at the acoustic area.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. Friday, July 12
Where: Water Street at East State Street, Rockford
Cost: free admission
Parking Garage Party
What: Stay ill Clothing’s premiere automotive gathering located on the top levels of the parking deck. Enjoy live DJs, a rooftop concert festival stage and lighting, food trucks, full bar, industry vendors and cars in the Midwest. The show garage will be full on event day but you may park in the city on the street or in one of the other parking garages. We are looking for the cleanest builds in the Midwest to fill up the top floors of this parking garage. Trophies for many categories.
When: 4-10 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: top level of parking garage, 211 S. Church St., Rockford
Cost: $25; $15 in advance
Fourth Annual Unplug Illinois
What: Everyone is encouraged to get up, get out, unplug, play and engage with one another through experiences at local park, recreation, and conservation agencies. A place will be set up for people of all ages to learn a new activity or skill, or just enjoy recreating outdoors. Join a class to learn something new, catch a play or music, or explore the Unplug activity area to learn more about agencies doing great things in the outdoors. The day starts at Baltic Mill with a special performance from the Boone County Main Street Players. An astronomy show begins at 7 p.m. Pre-registration is encouraged for any of the classes but not required
When: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Belvidere Park, 365 W. Locust St., Belvidere
Cost: Free
Community Health Fair
What: Health fair provides the community access a variety of physical and mental health resources. The Molina Health Unit is offering wellness exams, back-to-school physicals, well child visits and prenatal and postpartum assessments. The UW Health Mobile Unit and Women's and Children's Unit will be providing blood pressure screenings as well as education of UW Health Programs including information about safe sleep practices and saving lives of newborns. Pre-register (815-395-5566) for a free autism screening (ages 3-11) with Easterseals. Free food and entertainment.
When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Crusader Community Health, 1200 W. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Pitch, Hit and Run
What: The Pitch, Hit & Run program is an event series for boys and girls. It consists of a series of movements important in baseball and softball. Participants will compete in either 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, or 13-14 age division, with the age cut-off of Nov. 15, 2024. They will be tested; measurements will be recorded for points. Based on scores, they will advance from a local event to a team championship, then to the finals hosted at the MLB World Series. Hosted by the Rockford Boys & Girls Club.
When: Saturday, July 13
Where: Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Coffee & Donuts with the Dead
What: Death Café is a gathering for like-minded people to share their thoughts on the topic of death. The discussions of Death Cafe are centered around no agenda other than to share thoughts off one question asked to spark conversation. Open yourself to wider thought, connection on deeper levels and creating a safe place for offering input you might not otherwise share. Coffee and donuts provided. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. and seating is limited to 25 people
When: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Wolf Hollow, 3800 E. State St., Suite 103, Rockford
Cost: Free admission; donations welcomed
Dog’s Day Out
What: Enjoy outdoor fun with your dogs at this open house event. Meet new people and check out one of the Rockford Park District's three off-leash dog parks. Ma and Paw's Pet Treats will be offering their all-natural dog treats, food toppers and chews for purchase. Pampered Pet Grooming is partnering with Lilly's Groom Room and will be promoting their Do-It-Yourself Dog wash, handing out coupons, promoting grooming services and selling biscuits. They will also be taking monetary donations for Kibble Korner. Canine Corners merchandise and 2024 dog tags will be available for purchase. The event is open to the public, however, all dogs in attendance must be spayed/neutered. If entering the off-leash areas, all patrons and their dogs must abide by the rules of the dog park (i.e., proof of current rabies vaccines, no puppies younger than six months of age and more).
When: 10 a.m. – noon Saturday, July 13
Where: Canine Corners at Elliot Park, 888 S. Lyford Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Georgia Peach Stop
What: Buy fresh, hand-picked peaches from Pearson Farm. No pre-orders. Bring credit or debit cards, preferably, but they also accept cash and check. Available fruit: Georgia peaches, Georgia pecans, New Mexico pistachios and Michigan blueberries.
When: 3-4:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Blain’s Farm & Fleet, 4567 E. Rockton Road, Rockton
Tribute to Elvis by Logan Ramey
What: Logan Ramey returns for another performance at Concerts on the Creek. Bottled soft drinks and prepackaged snacks will be available at 6:15 p.m. and during intermission.
When: 7 – 9 p.m. Saturday, July 13 (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Spring Creek Christ, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Suggested donation of $10 to help pay performers
Hononegah 100th birthday celebration
What: The evening features live music by Viceroy band, a five-piece band of Rockford natives covering rock classics from every decade. Bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets, food and drinks (bug spray recommended). Children can partake in nature-inspired crafts under the Towering Pines Shelter house. Get ice cream from Dairyh?us (while supplies last) and immerse yourself in Native American culture with partners from Macktown Living History. Staff and volunteers will lead guided hikes throughout the evening, offering insights into the history of the oldest preserve. The celebration concludes with free popcorn and an outdoor movie hosted by the Winnebago County Sheriff's Department.
When: 5 – 9 p.m., with movie starting at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Hononegah Forest Preserve, 80 Hononegah Road, Rockton
Cost: Free
Paint ‘til You Faint Luau Edition
What: Pick/pay for whatever you choose to paint for the evening while enjoying pizza and soft drinks. Ticket price does not go towards your items.
When: 7:30-11 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Pottery Lounge, 312 N. Alpine Road, Suite 104, Rockford
Cost: $5 admission fee; $10 for 2 or more
The Rockford Card Show
What: There will be 80 tables filled with vendors from all over the Midwest. Bring your cards to the show for drop off to 5 Star Cards for grading submissions to PSA and SGC. Vendors will have vintage, modern, TCG (Pokemon, etc.), non-sports, high-end, bargain boxes, sealed product, autographs, sports memorabilia and supplies. Come to buy, sell or trade.
When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: IBEW Local 364 Henry Miller Hall, 6820 Mill Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission and parking
Belvidere Moose Lodge Car Show
What: The show includes vehicle registration from 8-10 a.m.; voting from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; and awards and announcements at 1:30 p.m. Food and dessert trucks will be here. Belvidere Moose cash bar, drinks and food available for purchase. Live music by Dale Rhode & the Crossroads. Raffle baskets.
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Belvidere Moose Lodge, 575 Beloit Road, Belvidere
Cost: $10 per vehicle
Second Saturday Cinema
What: Grab your lawn chair to watch Disney Pixar's “Lightyear.” Come early to get a good spot, enjoy refreshments and do a movie-themed activity before the show starts. Activities begin at 7:30 p.m.; the movie starts at dusk. No registration required.
When: 7:30 – 10:30 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Cherry Valley Public Library parking lot, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley
Cost: Free
Slithery Soiree
What: Learn about reptiles and amphibians from three researchers, see live animals up close and take a hike through the prairie to search for snakes. This is a hybrid event. Join in-person if able or via Zoom for the live virtual presentation. All registrants will receive a Zoom link prior to the event.
When: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: $5
Rockton Summerpalooza
What: The first block of West Main Street will be blocked off for food, music, activities and more. The July theme is nostalgic summer outfits from your childhood. Tripping Dogs will perform; Ryan O’Rourke opens. Dress in your 70s, 80s or 90s summer best with vintage games and activities.
When: Saturday, July 13
Where: Downtown Rockton, 100 W. Main St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Customer Appreciation Day
What: The annual Cataclysm Games customer appreciation event is the best time of year for freebies and discounts. Attendees can pick a free item from freebie tables with no purchase necessary. In addition to freebies, there will be a 10-percent discount on everything in the store, making most products 25-40% off MSRP. There will be pizzas from Napoli's from noon to 1 p.m.
When: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, July 13
Where: Cataclysm Games, 8289 Burden Road, Suite SE, Machesney Park
All About Butterflies
What: Join Alan Branhagen, Natural Land Institute Executive Director, for a butterfly focused guided hike. Kieselburg showcases several types of habitat including gravel prairie, wet prairie and a restored wetland which is classified as a calcareous seep, an uncommon wetland type in Winnebago County. Both the seep and prairie support a diversity of birds, butterflies and other pollinators. Leashed dogs allowed. Meet at front parking lot by Black Willow Springs shelter house for the guided hike. Please RSVP on the Winnebago County Forest Preserves website.
When: 1 p.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: Kieselburg Forest Preserve, 5801 Swanson Road, Roscoe
Cost: Free
Flower arrangement workshop
What: Learn how to create stunning arrangements. All materials are included, plus enjoy one complimentary glass of wine per ticket.
When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: After the Vine, 163 E. Hawick, Rockton
Cost: $57
Daily chores, ice cream social
What: Learn about and participate in daily chores of the 1840's. After chores are done, it's time for an ice cream social. Enjoy games such as horseshoes, tug-of-war, Boules, sack race and Shut the Box. Tour the historic buildings and learn about the first settlement in Winnebago County. See what Macktown Living History is all about.
When: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: Macktown Living History, 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton
Cost: $5; free for members
Live at Levings: Red’s Day
What: The show is hosted by Harlan Jefferson, with music provided by DJ Neal and live performances by three-time Grammy award winner, Jamecia Bennett, formerly of Rockford. This director, actress, songwriter and business owner has sung background for Janet Jackson, Rod Stewart, Jonathan Butler, Jennifer Holiday, Patti LaBelle, Luther Vandross, Sting, Prince and others.
When: 5-8 p.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Heart of Glass: A Tribute to Blondie
What: This tribute group of musicians is dedicated to paying homage to one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 70s and 80s. The band strives to capture the unique sound, spirit and style of the original band from Deborah Harry’s vocals to the guitar riffs and driving drums. Klehm’s Woodsong Summer Concerts are lawn-style events held in the Fountain Garden. No reserved seats; attendees should plan to bring their own blankets, chairs or other seating. Attendees are welcome to bring their own food and drink to enjoy in a responsible manner prior to and during the concert. Gelato Joe’s will be present at each concert to offer treats for sale.
When: 6-8 p.m. Sunday, July 14 (gates open at 4 p.m.)
Where: Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $15; $12 for members
Bark n Brew BBQ
What: This is a craft fair fundraiser event with adoptable dogs and puppies on-site with 4 Paws 4 U 4 Ever local rescue, local handmade crafters, music from RPMs DJ Service, food and drink specials, basket raffles and 50/50 raffles. Coach’s is also rolling out its new grill/smoker to provide pulled pork sandwiches and more. Outdoor beer tent for this parking lot party. A local dog groomer will be on-site providing discount nail trims. This is a dog-friendly event provided your dog is social, dog friendly and well mannered. Leashes required at all times.
When: Noon – 5 p.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: Coach’s Corner, 622 S. State St., Belvidere
Back the Blue Boat Parade
What: Update as of 6/26/24: The Fifth Annual Back the Blue Boat Parade was rescheduled because of river levels. Gather in front of Shorewood Park and head south from there at 2 p.m. sharp. Boats will be rafting up just south of the Prairie Street Brewery as to not block their dock access.
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, July 14
Where: Shorewood Park, Loves Park
Coming next week
Dockside Live
What: Enjoy a performance by David’s Bazaar, a vocal-and-acoustic-guitar act from the western suburbs of Chicago. Live music from 6-9 p.m.; the kitchen is open until 9 p.m. The event is for all ages. No reservations allowed. First come, first served hostess seating.
When: 6-9 p.m. Monday, July 15
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Rivets
What: The Rivets have a full week with games at 6:35 p.m. Monday, July 15 (vs. Kenosha Kingfish), and at 6:35 p.m. Thursday, July 18 against the Kalamazoo Growlers. The Rivets are the Great Lake East First Half champions. The Rockford Rivets are a member of the Northwoods League developmental league for elite college baseball players.
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4502 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $12; check the Rivets website for promotions and ticket deals
Tuesday Evening in the Gardens
What: Tuesday Evening in the Gardens features local, regional and nationally touring musicians. Guests are invited to enter and set up seating area at 5 p.m. Blankets, lawn chairs and small tables are welcome. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Carry-in picnic suppers are welcome. Carry-in beverages are not allowed. Bags will be checked upon entry. Bee Taylor of Nashville will headline at 6:30 p.m. July 16, with Emily Hurd of Rockford opening at 5:45 p.m.
When: 5:45 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 16
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $12; $11 for seniors; $10 for Military and students; Free for age 5 and younger or Premium Garden Members
Music in the Park
What: Chicago Tribute Anthology (CTA) brings to life the “Golden Age” of Chicago by meticulously recreating many of the great songs from the first 11 albums. Born in the Midwest and infused with elements of jazz, blues, and Latin influences, the first album by "Chicago Transit Authority", or CTA as they were commonly known, went double platinum. Enjoy CTA live, and experience classic Chicago songs. Music in the Park is an outdoor summer concert series held at the open-air Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. Arrive early for best seating; ending times are approximate. Bring a picnic to enjoy, or purchase concession items.
When: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free; donations accepted
Bluey’s Big Play
What: When Dad feels like a little bit of Sunday afternoon time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans. Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag. Bluey’s Big Play is a brand-new theatrical adaptation of the Emmy award-winning children’s television series, with an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, and new music by Bluey composer, Joff Bush.
When: 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 16 and Wednesday, July 17 (doors open at 5 p.m.)
Where: Coronado Theater, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $34 - $134
Rockton River Market
What: Enjoy food, wine or wine slushies from After the Vine, the market and fun with friends. High-energy rockabilly band Dirty Fishnet Stockings performs July 17.
When: 5 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 17
Where: Settlers Park, 128 E. Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Guest bartender fundraiser
What: Golden Apple Foundation of Rockford hosts four area school districts competing to raise money for the local non-profit organization through tips, food and drink specials and more at four different venues. Rockford Public Schools educators will be bartending at Ernie’s Midtown Pub in Rockford; Harlem will be at Jax Pub in Loves Park; Belvidere will be at Timber Pointe Golf Club; and Hononegah will be at the American Legion in South Beloit.
When: 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 17
Music on the Rock
What: Chicago native, guitarist and vocalist Nick Moss and New Jersey native, harmonica player and vocalist Dennis Gruenling, Rodrigo Mantovani on bass, Taylor Streiff on keyboards and Pierce Downer on drums will perform.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 17
Where: Behind Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; food and beverages for purchase
Diamonds: Michelle Williams
What: DIAMONDS: Michelle Williams is the second annual DIAMONDS event, celebrating and leveraging the powerful story of Grammy Award winning musician, actor, author, mental health advocate and Rockford native Michelle Williams. The event will be emceed by Nicole Briscoe, a Roscoe native and ESPN SportsCenter anchor. DIAMONDS is an annual storytelling gala honoring the Rockford region’s exemplary brands and people.
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 17
Where: Embassy Suites Rockford 629 S. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: $125; corporate tables of eight for $1,834
Miles and Kelly
What: Miles Nielsen and Kelly Steward will perform. Relax on the patio and enjoy music by the green. Wine specials and food available for purchase.
When: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, July 17
Where: Alchemy at Aldeen, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Dinner on the Dock
What: Dinner on the Dock offers guests food, locally brewed craft beer and locally and nationally recognized musical acts. Come by car or boat and relax on the dock. The performer for July 18 is Stereotype, a high-energy Pop Punk / Rock band injecting hits throughout all decades, while bringing you pop punk and rock songs you grew up with, loved and danced to in the '90s-2000s.
When: 6-11 p.m. Thursday, July 18
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; table and boat slip reservations available
Midtown Dog Walk
What: The parking lot will be blocked off and there will be space for everyone to check all the dogs. The Canine Crunchery will be on site with dog goodies. Ernie’s will have food and drink specials, cooling stations for the dogs, bags, giant Jenga and music. The patio is always dog friendly as long as your pup is leashed and friendly.
When: 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, July 18
Where: Ernie’s Midtown Pub, 1025 Fifth Ave., Rockford
Music in the Park
What: For more than three decades, the Blooze Brothers Band has been one of Chicagoland’s most in-demand show bands. They not only honor the music made by the original Blues Brothers in movies, TV, and recordings, but the spirit in which they played. With a combination of two high-energy front men, a dynamic female lead singer, some of Chicago's top musicians, and a briefcase full of your favorite rhythm and blues, blues, and soul classics, the Blooze Brothers provide a musical experience that can't be beat.
When: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 18
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: $5
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: 35 things to do this weekend in the Rockford area