Old Settlers Days
What: This annual event is the Rockton Lions Club’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Music by Chase Matthew (Thursday); Blind Date, Nate Smith (Friday); Warren Zeiders, Dirt Road Rebelz (Saturday); Carson , Parmalee (Sunday). There will also be midway rides, vendors, raffles, beer tent and more.
When: Thursday, June 13 – Sunday, June 16
Where: 400 E. Main St., Rockton
Cost: $6-$95
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Kevin James: Owls Don’t Walk
What: The comedian and actor (“The King of Queens,” “Hitch,” “Grown Ups” and more) will perform.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 14 (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $44.50-$204
Shane Gillis Live
What: Stand-up comic, actor and writer Shane Gillis performs in sold-out show. Gillis is one-half of Patreon and Apple’s top 10 podcastsMatt and Shane's Secret Podcast. He’s a regular guest on Sirius XM’sThe Bonfire, Spotify'sThe Joe Rogan Experience, and Barstool SportsKFC Radio. Shane was a writer on Comedy Central’sDelco Properand co-created, wrote and starred in the YouTube sketch seriesGilly & Keeves. Shane can be seen playing ‘Gilly’ in Peaco*ck’sBupkisopposite Pete Davidson, Joe Pesci, and Edie Falco or in his newly released Netflix specialBeautiful Dogs.
When: Friday, June 14
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St. Rockford
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. Most vendors originate within 150 miles of Rockford. Sample local food and brews and listen to live music under the covered pavilion. Families also enjoy free weekly kid's activities. Long-shot performs June 14.
When: 4 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, June 14
Where: Water Street at East State Street, Rockford
Cost: free admission
Music on the Mall
What: On June 14, enjoy performance by Swingbilly RFD. This band plays honky-tonk from the '40s and '50s.
When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, June 14
Where: Center Court at Edgebrook Center near Cora Physical Therapy, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Food Truck Fridays
What: On Fridays, the Village hosts a food truck in the Village Hall Parking Lot. Most trucks will be here from 11-2 or until sell out. Picnic tables will be available.
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, June 14
Where: Roscoe Village Hall, 10631 Main St, Roscoe
Paranormal Tour
What: Tinker Swiss Cottage partnered with Haunted Rockford to bring the Paranormal Professor Joel Ramsey to Rockford. Hear tales from paranormal experts, listen to audio clips found in the Tinker Cottage and enjoy a tour with the chance to have your own paranormal encounter.You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own equipment (cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, emf).Each event begins in the Barn. Tickets must be paid for in advance.
When: 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, June 14
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens, 411 Kent St., Rockford
Cost: $25
Screw City Block Party
What: Enjoy downtown Rockford before two comedy shows: Shane Gillis and Kevin James. Get a free Screw City Block Party t-shirt while supplies last. There will be cuisine by Rustic Oven Wood Fire Pizza, Wehpah Puerto Rican Food Truck, D&A Concessions, plus drink samples (while supplies last); custom caricatures by Roger Hurtado; permanent jewelry by Get Sparked Chicago; live radio remote by 97ZOK; activities, games, dancing and photo booths by Expressions 360; giveaways for future shows, items from Rockford Art Deli and more.
When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 14
Where: In front of the BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Barnyard Bash
What: Meet baby farm animals and other adorable creatures, grow your own bean, make vegetable finger puppets and more.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, June 14
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10; free for members and children age 1 and younger
Rockford Rivets
What: The Rivets baseball team takes on the Kokomo Jackrabbits Friday and the Kenosha Kingfish Sunday.
When: 6:35 p.m. Friday, June 14 or 1:35 p.m. Sunday, June 16
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $12
Midsommar Fest
What: This Swedish festival welcomes the arrival of the summer solstice. The event will feature a maypole raising, Swedish folk dancing and music, a Swedish pancake eating contest and shopping at Mormor’s Attic treasures sale. Swedish food will be available at the Stockholm Inn pavilion. Additional food vendors are Cafe on Wheels, The Vintage Goose Cafe and Old Folks BBQ. Pig Minds Brewing Co. will be onsite with draft brews. Children’s take away crafts will be available. Meet and play games with Pippi Longstocking. Make a flower crown or buy one handcrafted for you. Take a tour of the first floor of the Erlander Home Museum with John Erlander. Listen to music throughout the day provided by ScandiJam and Trinadora.
When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Erlander Home Museum, 404 S. Third St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
4th Annual Car Show
What: Lou Bachrodt is celebrating 70 years in the Rockford area with more than 100 of the best show cars in one lot. Chat cars, performance and see all that the 815 has to showcase with the Northern Illinois Corvette Club. The event also includes a 50/50 Raffle, Blaz'in Magic BBQ food trucks, DJ music and entertainment.
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Buick GMC, 7070 Cherryvale North Blvd., Rockford
Cost: Free for spectators
Jenna Newcomb Memorial Poker Run & Benefit
What: Show love and support for Jenna’s family at this event. Kickstands up for the motorcycle run at 10 a.m.; it will end back at the Mill around 4 p.m., where there will be food, raffles and live music. Non-riders can still come to the event at 4 p.m.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: The Mill Saloon, 9126 N. Second St., Machesney Park
Late Night Flea Market
What: Fred "The Hammer" Williamson, former Oakland Raiders/Kansas City Chiefs football star who rose to prominence as one of the first African-American male action stars of theearly 1970s, who has since gone on to a career as an actor, director, writer, and producer is the event’s special guest. Guest appearance subject to chance or cancellation without notice. Shop for antiques, collectibles, furniture, estate jewelry and more. Dealers will offer antiques, crafts, county furniture, 0ld comics, toys, collectibles and memorabilia of all sorts. Food and snacks will be available. Dealers will be indoors, in tents and open-air. Rain or shine. Bring flashlights.
When: 3 p.m. to midnight Saturday, June 15
Where: Boone County Fairgrounds, 8791 IL Rt. 76 Belvidere
Cost: $6; free for children age 12 with adult; free parking
R.E.A.P. Day at Four Lakes Forest Preserve
What: Become a R.E.A.P. (Restoration. Education. Appreciation. Preservation.) volunteer and make a difference. Collect native seeds at Four Lakes Forest Preserve. No experience required. Natural resource experts offer hands-on ecological restoration training, such as invasive plant removal and native seed collection, plus enriching conservation activities when the work is done. Wear appropriate attire: long pants, long sleeved shirts, closed toed shoes, hat and gloves. RSVP on Winnebago County Forest Preserves website.
When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 15
Where: Four Lakes Forest Preserve, 10207 Fish Hatchery Road, Pecatonica
Cost: Free
Father’s Day Engraving
What: Get a bottle engraved for your dad for free with purchase of any Balvenie or Glenfiddich products. Various whiskies from Balvenie and Glenfiddich will be available to taste while your bottle is being engraved.
When: 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Cork & Keg, 1603 N. Alpine Road, Suite 113, Rockford
American Fascism: Past and Present
What: Join Professor Tim Malone for a presentation and group discussion on the history of fascism in America. Part of the Maze Books Lecture Series.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Maze Books, 406 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Yoga in the Garden
What: Join instructor Stephanie for Yoga in the Garden in Klehm’s Fountain Garden. Students will learn a variety of poses and sequences to gain flexibility and strength. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Bring water, a towel/yoga mat, yoga strap and yoga blocks.Do not start yoga if you are pregnant. In the event of severe weather, you will be notified of any changes via email and/or phone. Pre-registration is required by the Friday before class at noon.
When: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10 per session or $70 for all 8 sessions
Mustang Show
What: See new and vintage Mustangs. There will be food by Downtown Fancy Frank's, music by Mr. Ed and a 50/50 Raffle.
When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Rock River Ford, 224 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Alpine Pool Party
What: Kick off the summer season with a pool party. There will be a DJ, bounce houses, pictures with Macy the Lion, face painting, and a variety of water games/lessons in and out of the pool.
When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 15
Where: Alpine Park Pool, 4310 Newburg Road, Rockford
Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour
What: Dance, sing and learn with Blippi and special guest Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special. There will be monster trucks, excavators, and garbage trucks galore. Shake those wiggles out and OJ Twist your way through this brand-new musical party.
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, June 16 (doors open at 1 p.m.)
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $31.50-$92
Sunday Funday: Mike Owens
What: Listen to Mike, Skippy & Rick Pemberton who will be playing all your favorites. Enjoy food, drinks and music.
When: 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 16
Where: Tad’s on the Rock, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Midway Village Museum 50th Anniversary
What: That Gurl and Renee Marie will perform. The open house to celebrate this milestone will be a living history event; visitors will be transported back to Rockford in the 1970s. Costumed interpreters will be in the village with groovy 1970s artifacts, games, free rides in a haywagon and local history facts. There will be food from Bings and beer from Pig Minds Brewing Co. Visitors are encouraged to dress in period 70s outfits and participate in the costume contest on social media. Lawn chairs and picnic gear are welcome too.
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 16
Where: Midway Village, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Little Science Storytime
What: Come Friday mornings or Sunday afternoons for reading and activity time under the cottonwood tree. Recommended for children ages 3-5, this series will introduce local plant and animal friends to help build nature vocabulary, as well as Spanish and American Sign Language vocabulary. Each Friday is a new nature theme, and the theme is repeated on Sundays. Register once for the series and come for as many story times as you are able.
When: 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 16
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: $5 or free with coupon
Live at Levings: Battle at Levings
What: The Battle at Levings, a one-on-one elimination-style invitational competition, features dancers from Chicago, Rockford and the surrounding area facing off before a panel of judges to showcase breakdance skills such as uprock, floorwork, and power moves. Hosted by Vic Rivera with music by Rick Monsta. Live performances by rappers Ova Dose and Kool Lee & Begin, saxophonist Harlan Jefferson, trumpeter Corey Wilkes and Latin performer Orquesta SalSoul Del Mad.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 16
Where: Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Nature Night Hike
What: Discover creatures of the night on this guided nature hike. Timed to match the emergence of fireflies and glow worms, the blooming of common milkweed, and the calls of frogs and barred owls, this hike will explore the sights, sounds and smells of a summer evening. The program will include one mile of hiking on unpaved trails. Flashlights are not allowed; let your eyes adjust to the light of night. All ages are welcome, including families and scout groups. In the event of severe weather, please checknatureattheconfluence.comfor cancellation notice.
When: 9 to 10:30 p.m. Sunday, June 16
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: Free
Yoga Suave Bilingue
What: Connect body and breath in this beginner-friendly yoga class, taught in Spanish and English. Led by Lily Herbold, a registered yoga instructor who earned her certification at three different international yoga schools and teaches yoga at the Stateline YMCA. Some mats are available for borrowing, but bring your own if possible. Class may take place indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather.
When: 1-2 p.m. Sundays, June 16
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: $7
Coming next week
Dockside Live
What: Dockside Live, born on the heels of the iconic Dinner on the Dock is Prairie Street Brewing Co.’s answer to a more locally-focused and intimate live music experience on our dock. Dockside Live is always free and always entertaining. On Monday, June 17, experience live original music by local powerhouse, “The JB Project,” a multi-instrumentalist and producer. Live music from 6-9 p.m.; the kitchen is open until 9 p.m. The event is for all ages.
When: 6-9 p.m. Monday, June 17
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Music in the Park
What: Come hear “Summer Serenades” with ISU director: Dr. Anthony Marinello, ISU tuba soloist Dr. Andy Rummel and vocal soloist Betsy Baker. Music in the Park is an outdoor summer concert series held at the open-air Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. A variety of musical performers, styles and genres are presented. Arrive early for best seating; ending times are approximate. The series consists of both freeandadmission fee shows, depending on the performance. Bring a picnic to enjoy, or purchase concession items.
When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18
Where: Sinissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free; donations accepted
Mysteries at the Museum Summer Camp
What: Step back in time with Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum. Kids will soak up history while getting hands on with activities, crafts, games and more. Please send a snack and lunch with your child. Water bottles will be provided for students.
When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 18 – Friday, June 21
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens, 411 Kent St., Rockford
Cost: $100; $80 for members
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. The parking lot fills up early; off-site parking at the College of Medicine with complimentary shuttle service to and from the Visitor Center. 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. Miles Nielsen & The Rusted Hearts of Rockford will perform starting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, with opening act Laney Jones of Nashville starting at 5:30 p.m.
When: 5:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 18
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
Plant and Animal ID Apps
What: Keys, field guides, and identification (ID) books can be invaluable tools when encountering unfamiliar plants or animals in nature, provided you have them with you. Join Education & Programming Coordinator Elly Salazar for a class about the best plant and animal ID apps available for your phone. Get a brief introduction to the apps and how they are used before heading outside for hands-on practice. Participants will receive a simple packet containing descriptions of each app for those who prefer not to download them during class or just need more time to consider.
When: 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 18
Where: Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $20; $15 for members
Somatic Solstice Celebration
What: Celebrate the Summer Solstice and move your body with HoopYogini. Hoopyogini is a standing posture practice that combines familiar Hatha Yoga poses with the fun of a hula hoop. Join Kate Frautschy from Eclectic Kate LLC as she guides you through an accessible, engaging experience that gently strengthens the core, supports spinal mobility, and alleviates physical and mental tension while also creating connection with the elements and the season of fullness through breath and meditation guidance. This program will take place outdoors, or indoors in the case of inclement weather, and is best suited for ages 13 and older. Participants are welcome to bring a mat, towel or blanket to sit on and a cup or mug for sun tea.
When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 18
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: $15
Juneteenth1865
What: Juneteenth1865, produced by Rockford's Tommy Meeks is back for its 34th celebration. This event is the longest-running Juneteenth celebration in the state of Illinois. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, celebrates the emancipation of slavery in the United States. It commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans held in Confederate states were finally freed by the Union army. Six months later, the Thirteenth Amendment officially made slavery illegal throughout the "entire" United States.
When: Noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday, June 19
Where: Sinnissippi Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockton River Market
What: Enjoy food, wine or wine slushies from After the Vine, the market and fun with friends. Nauti Nauti will perform June 19.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 19
Where: Settlers Park, 128 E. Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Dinner on the Dock
What: The 2024 Dinner on the Dock season 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 June 20 is Blackberry Jam, a high energy southern rock, blues rock, guitar driven band based out of Chicago.
When: 6 to 11 p.m. Thursday, June 20
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; table and boat slip reservations available
Music in the Park
What: New to the stage, Rocks Off is Chicago's premier and authentic Rolling Stones tribute band, delivering the music, the look and the attitude of “The World's Greatest Rock and Roll Band.” Music in the Park is an outdoor summer concert series held at the beautiful open-air Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. Surrounded by majestic trees, a variety of musical performers, styles, and genres are presented. Arrive early for best seating; ending times are approximate. The series consists of both freeandadmission fee shows.
When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 20
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: $5 admission fee
Community Fire & Drum Circle
What: This circle is for you whether you’re a seasoned drummer or have never picked up a drum. There will be some musical instruments available for you to try or bring your own. Drumming is optional; all are welcome to simply enjoy the fire, listen to the music and make a s’more. This is a family-friendly event and there is no registration. Drumming is led by David Stocker, with occasional guest leaders.
When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 20
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: Free
Suburbs Fest Midwest
What: This three-night music event at Pig Minds features live music, live band karaoke, live podcast recording and beer.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, June 20 – Saturday, June 22
Where: Pig Minds Brewing Company, 4080 Steele Drive, Machesney Park
Cost: Free admission
