The weekend brings Old Settlers Days, Rockford’s Juneteenth Celebration and CAMEO, along with Father’s Day celebrations, fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Old Settlers Days
What: Old Settlers Days (OSD) is a four-day music festival in the heart of downtown Rockton, with live music, food and family fun. There will be carnival rides, fair food, free hearing testing and a community blood drive. Ashley McBryde & Dalton Davis perform June 19 ($45 ticket); Lauren Alaina & John Morgan take the stage June 20 ($40) and Josh Ross & Just Jayne entertain June 21 ($35).
When: June 18 – June 21
Where: Settlers Park, Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: $10 admission; $140 four-day bracelet for admission and main stage performances
Storybook Adventure
What: Create your own adventure story – meet fantastical characters, make or bring a craft or a costume, design your own storybook, defeat the villains and more.
When: 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 19
Where: Discovery Center Museum., 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Pride Storytime
What: Join the Mobile Library Crew for this special story time for all ages.
When: 11 a.m. – noon June 19
Where: Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Juneteenth Celebration
What: This event is the longest-running Juneteenth Celebration in the state of Illinois. President of ICRG (Inner City Reconstruction Group) and Founder of Rockford Juneteenth Celebrations, Tommy Meeks, created Juneteenth1865 with the sole mission of promoting and cultivating knowledge and appreciation of African American history. This is the 35th Juneteenth Celebration in Rockford. 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. Juneteenth has been observed since 1866.
When: 1-7 p.m. June 19
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
‘Aladdin’
What: The Studio Rockford presents “Aladdin.” Take a trip to Agrabah, the city of mystery, of enchantment and soar above the rooftops on a magic carpet ride in this Disney musical.
When: 2 p.m. June 19-June 21 and June 26-June 28, 6 p.m. June 20 and June 27
Where: Maddox Theatre at Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $16; $14 for children age 12 and younger and seniors; save $2 with advance tickets
Rockford City Market
What: Rockford City Market features local vendors who sell handmade products, including cheeses, flowers, baked goods, and prepared food, as well as artisans and vendors with unique offerings. Most vendors originate within a 150-mile radius of Rockford. Relax and enjoy the evening. Sample local food and brews and listen to live music under the covered pavilion. Families also enjoy free weekly kids’ activities. The market is held Fridays until after Labor Day. The theme June 19 is Juneteenth at the Market; the main stage will feature Soul Review and the acoustic stage will have DJ Proper from Echo Beat Collective.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. June 19
Where: Water Street at East State Street, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Music on the Mall
What: Music on the Mall is located in Center Court near Cora Physical Therapy. The entertainment on June 19 is Missing Links. This band performs a variety of music, featuring good old rock and roll.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. June 19
Where: Edgebrook Center, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Rockford Rivets
What: The Rockford Rivets is the local Northwoods League elite college wood bat baseball team. Put on your black and gold and cheer them on. The Rivets play the Kalamazoo Growlers June 19. They play Rochester Honkers June 20 and June 21.
When: 6:35 p.m. June 19 and June 20; 12:35 p.m. June 21
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10
CAMEO
What: With more than 30 million records sold worldwide, the group founded and led by music icon Larry Blackmon, continues to influence generations with funk hits, distinctive sound and live performances. While Blackmon has stepped back from touring, he remains at the helm creatively, ushering in a new era of CAMEO led by sons, Larry Scott Blackmon and BJ Blackmon Wheeler. The band’s powerhouse stage presence is carried forward by 30 plus-year CAMEO members Kevin Kendrick, Jeff Nelson, Willie Morris and Anthony Lockett. Joining them is bassist A.J. Mills (son of longtime Cameo bassist Aaron Mills) and other fresh talent.
When: 7 p.m. June 19
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $25.40
‘The Effects of Gammy Rays on Man in the Moon Marigolds’
What: Winner of the 1971 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, “The Effect of Marigolds on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds” is a powerful and moving study of an embittered, vindictive widow and her two young daughters. Supporting herself and her two daughters by taking in a decrepit old border, acid-tongued Beatrice Hunsdorfer wreaks a petty vengeance on everyone around her. Her youngest daughter Tillie conducts a botanical experiment, winning a prize at her high school, proving that something beautiful and full of promise can emerge from even the most barren, afflicted soil.
When: 7:30-9:30 p.m. June 19-June 20 and June 26-June 27; 2-4 p.m. June 20-June 21 and June 27 and June 28
Where: Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $11-$23
Mustang Show
What: See new and Vintage Mustangs on display. There will be music by the Rocksurfers, food by Batchz BBQ and raffle baskets, too at this family-friendly event.
When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. June 20
Where: Rock River Ford, 224 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Wonderland Fairies in the Garden
What: Venture through the tropical conservatory alongside magical fairies from Wonderland Ballet Company’s cast of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Meet the Queen and King of the Fairies, take pictures and find the mischievous pixie Puck for a chance to win free tickets to the Ballet.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 20
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: This event is included with regular Nicholas Conservatory admission
Open House
What: Take a stroll through all the buildings and see a collection of antique tractors and implements. Take a step back in time seeing the KD Line Railroad in the train room.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. June 20
Where: Paulson’s Agriculture Museum of Argyle, 6950 Belvidere Rd, Caledonia
Cost: $10; free for ages 8 and younger
Rockton Legion Riders Benefit Run
What: Join the Rockton Legion Riders for a day of riding, food and supporting a great cause. All proceeds from the ride will go toward helping local veterans and their families in this community. Registration fee includes food after the ride at 3 p.m. All vehicles are welcome. Ride stops include Tug’s Bar & Grill in Juda, Wis.; Cedar Inn in Cedarville and Ridott Corner’s in – Ridott. Door prizes will be awarded after the ride.
When: 10 a.m. June 20 (registration starts at 9 a.m.)
Where: Walter Graham Post 332 – Rockton American Legion, 221 W. Main St., Rockton
Cost: $20 per rider; $5 passenger
Midsommar Fest
What: This event features walking tour of Haight Village, tours of Erlander Home Museum, maypole raising, Swedish meatball and Swedish pancake contests, Nordic dancers, live music, Swedish story time and more. Midsommar is one of the most popular celebrations for Swedes, both in Sweden and in this country.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. June 20
Where: Erlander Home Museum, 404 S. Third St., Rockford
Rockford Vintage Fest
What: Shop thousands of vintage pieces with more than 30 vendors all under one roof.
When: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. June 20
Where: Mercato by Lino’s, 8400 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: Free admission
Culture Shock 20-year anniversary party
What: Help celebrate two decades of weird finds, loud music, fun digs and the community that has helped keep this little shop alive and spinning. There will be two local bands starting at 5 p.m.: “Dark Lord & The Goons” and “King of the Demons” plus many deals throughout the store.
When: 11 a.m. June 20 until the last band wraps up
Where: Culture Shock, 2239 Charles St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Support the Troops Ride 2026
What: The Support the Troops Ride is a powerful annual tradition built on patriotism, community and a shared commitment to honoring America’s veterans. This 15th annual event provides an opportunity to bring together riders, supporters and local organizations to give back to those who have served. Participants help raise awareness and funds for veteran-focused initiatives. This year’s ride supports VetsRoll, a nonprofit dedicated to providing all-expenses-paid trips for senior veterans to visit the memorials in Washington, D.C.
When: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. June 20
Where: Murphy’s Pub, 510 S. Perryville Road, Rockford
Cost: $20 per rider; $10 per passenger
Second City Bingo
What: Enjoy an afternoon of Barbershop and Bingo.
When: Noon – 4 p.m. June 20
Where: Loves Park City Hall, 100 Heart Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: Free
Vets Rock the Block
What: Veterans Rock the Block is a community-centered summer block party designed to celebrate veterans, strengthen community connections and increase awareness and engagement with American Legion Post 340. This event will transform the American Legion Post grounds and parking lot into a lively and welcoming gathering space for veterans, families and members of the Rockford community. The event will feature live music and entertainment, veteran storytelling and recognition moments, food trucks and local vendors, family-friendly games and activities, community organizations and outreach booths and military-themed competitions and challenges.
When: Noon – 7 p.m. June 20
Where: American Legion’s Jefferson-Horton-Jefferson Post 340, 1010 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Hot Rods and and Hogs Car Show
What: The first Hotrods & Hogs Car Show will be packed with horsepower, chrome and community. Owners of cars and bikes are competing for a $500 cash prize. There will be live tunes by Curt the Car Guy, food from Taco N Madres and CC’s Chicago Style Eats, trophies, raffles and more. All makes and models are welcome. All proceeds benefit the Veterans Drop-In Center of Rockford.
When: Noon – 4 p.m. June 20 (lineup starts at 11 a.m.)
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: $20 registration; free for spectators
Peach Truckload Sale
What: Shop Indian River Direct’s super sweet Freestone peaches ($55 for a 25-pound box) and Ellis Brother’s George Elliott pecans ($13 for a one-pound bag) at this truckload sale. Walk-up customers are welcome. Bring cash, check or credit card for payment.
When: 12:30 – 2 p.m. June 20
Where: Don Carter Lanes, 4007 E. State St., Rockford
Family Creek Walk
What: Take an adventure trek into the creek and beyond the riverbend and experience a hidden part of the creek most visitors don’t get to see. Walk in the water to view tall rock walls, ancient fossils and more. Register online.
When: 1:30-3:30 p.m. June 20
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: $5; $3 for members
What’s the Fuss About Fireworks?
What: Learn about the effects of fireworks on pets, wildlife, friends and neighbors, and share in science experiments to explore community and nature-friendly firework alternatives that are safe and fun for the whole family. Meet at the Atwood Center.
When: 2-3 p.m. June 20
Where: Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford
Cost: Free; donations are appreciated
Citgo Community Cookout and DJ Party
What: Way Low CITGO will be offering a mystery gas price, guaranteed to be the lowest in town. The first 50 customers will get a free coffee and there will be deals throughout the entire store. Refreshments and snacks will be available. Expect many more surprises at this customer appreciation event. From 2-5 p.m., Denzel DJ Let ‘Em Kno will be spinning tracks and there will be free barbecue, chips and drinks.
When: 2-5 p.m. June 20
Where: Citgo Way Low, 2914 W. State St., Rockford
Rockford Raptors Woman’s Home Game
What: Watch this competitive soccer match between the USL W League and River Light FC.When: 2:30 p.m. June 20
Where: Sportscore at Wedgbury Stadium, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $12; $5.95 for ages 12 and younger
The Voice of Hind Rajab
What: See Rockford’s only showing of the Oscar-nominated film, “The Voice of Hind Rajab.” Hear the story that has touched so many lives and opened up the eyes of humanity on what gets stolen when we stop seeing people, as people. All profits from the film showing will go to charity. Children younger than 16 years old will not be allowed access without an accompanied adult. Stay after the showing for a discussion about mental health.When: 2:55-5:30 p.m. June 20 (doors open at 2:30 p.m.)
Where: Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $5
Late Night Flea Market
What: This flea market features antiques, collectibles, furniture, estate jewelry, comics, toys, memorabilia and more. Food and snacks will be available for purchase. Dealers will be indoors, in tents and open-air, as the market goes rain or “moon shine.” Bring your flashlights.
When: 3 p.m. to midnight June 20
Where: Boone County Fairgrounds, 8791 IL Route 76, Belvidere
Cost: $7; free for age 12 and younger with paid adult; free parking
Artists Reception for Sandy Reavis
What: The Boone County Arts Council and the Boone County Historical Society invite you to meet the current featured artist in the gallery. Guests will have the opportunity to view the exhibit and meet the artist. The gallery is located on the second floor and is accessible only by stairs.
When: 5-7 p.m. June 20
Where: Funderburg House, 605 N. State St., Belvidere
Cost: Free admission
Twisted Summer
What: This Twisted Summer event includes food trucks, vendors, music, photo opportunities and Twisted Crypt Haunted House. “The Family” will be honoring Zaz and his circus history. Join them as they celebrate the traveling circus of old and the freaks that made the show spectacular. Twisted Crypt Haunted House will operate from 6 – 11 p.m. Online tickets are available and recommended. There are 14 different rooms to discover in the haunted house, with special effects, strobe lights, fog, strong smells and more than 40 characters. There is no age restriction, but it is recommended that guests are at least 13 years old. Guests age 16 or younger must have an adult on site.
When: 5-11 p.m. June 20
Where: Twisted Crypt Haunted House, 5420 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission to vendor and food area; $21-$42 admission to the haunted house
Golden Hour Maypole Picnic
What: After the daytime Midsommar Fest, continue the celebration with a peaceful evening around the maypole. Enjoy the longest day of the year by bringing a blanket or chair, packing a picnic and unwinding with an ABBA playlist and the Swedish yard game Kubb around the maypole. Dari Fair will be on site serving ice cream. All are welcome.
When: 6-8 p.m. June 20
Where: Erlander Home Museum, 404 S. Third St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Some Girls (Rolling Stones tribute band)
What: Some Girls is a Rolling Stones tribute band based in Rockford, with band members Andy Scarpacci (bass/vocals), Josh Watson (vocals/guitar), Jeff Werckle (drums), Jim Westin (keyboards) and Dan Watson (guitar).
When: 8 p.m. June 20
Where: The Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $12-$19
Too Hype Crew
What: Chicago’s Too Hype Crew will perform your favorite old school hip hop party anthems from the late 80s, 90s and early 2000s. Enjoy music, dancing and the sunset.
When: 8-10:30 p.m. June 20
Where: Alchemy at Aldeen, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Cost: free admission; $25-$50 for reserved tables
Roscoe Community Market
What: Discover unique finds and support small businesses. The Roscoe Community Market brings together local vendors from Roscoe and the surrounding area selling fresh food, handmade goods, home items, art and more. The market is held twice a month on Sunday.
When: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. June 21
Where: Liberty Lot at the corner of Main and Bridge Streets, Roscoe
Cost: Free admission
Dunk Your Dads
What: Grab your dads, pack their swim trunks and come dunk them this Father’s Day. There will be outdoor yard games, dunk tank, music and more.
When: Noon – 4 p.m. June 21
Where: Pig Minds Brewing Co., 4080 Steele Drive, Machesney Park
Live at Levings: 100 Father’s Day
What: All fathers from Freeport, Rockford, South Beloit, Elgin and the surrounding 815 area code are invited to bring your families to this event of celebration, music and community spirit. This event is a perfect opportunity for fathers to come together to celebrate their role in the family while enjoying a festive atmosphere that includes vendors offering a variety of goods and services, a live DJ; special performances showcasing amazing local and national talent; giveaways and more. Performers include Devonese, Kandrice Jackson, Lil Rounds and more.
When: 5-8 p.m. June 21
Where: Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Concert in the Park
What: Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Rain site is the Community Building, 111 W. First St. On June 21, the performer is the Sensations.
When: 6:30 p.m. June 21
Where: Baltic Mill is located in Belvidere Park on West Lincoln Ave., Belvidere
Cost: Free admission
Coming next week
Dockside Live
What: Dockside Live is a relaxed Monday night music series at which guests can enjoy live local and regional musicians while soaking in the views of the Rock River. Come for dinner, drinks or just the music. Entertainment June 22 is from Rockford native Clark Kelly. Kelly moved to Nashville to attend Belmont University. In his second year, he was voted one of their best songwriters in an annual songwriting competition. After graduating, Clark signed with Sony/ATV and has played concerts across the country, opening for Panic at the Disco and the All-American Rejects, among others. Clark is currently back in his hometown releasing new music recorded with an orchestra.
When: 6-9 p.m. June 22
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Food Truck Tuesdays
What: Enjoy treats from as many as 15 local food trucks each week, while soaking in the beauty of the gardens, weather permitting. For menus for all participating trucks, go to https://nicholasconservatory.com/food-truck-tuesdays.
When: 4 p.m. June 23
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Tuesday Evening in the Gardens
What: Tuesday Evening in the Gardens is a beloved summer tradition that brings the community together through music, nature, and shared experiences. Gathering in this beautiful setting each week fosters connection, enriches the cultural life of our region, and contributes to the vibrant sense of place that makes our community special. The opening act June 23 is The Vince Chiarelli Band of Rockford; the main act is Alysha Brilla of Brampton, Ontario. This event is held Tuesday evenings through Aug. 25, with the opening act at 5:45 p.m. and the headliner starting at 6:30 p.m.
When: 5:45 p.m. June 23
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $13; $12 for seniors; $11 for students and military; free for children age 5 and younger and Premium Garden members
Rockford Jams
What: Rockford Jams is a Rockford Park District outdoor summer concert series held at the open-air Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. A variety of musical performers, styles and genres is presented. The series consists of both free and admission fee shows. The performer on June 23 is Phantom Regiment. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets because seating is limited. Phantom Regiment will also showcase two of its local programs during the concert: Rockford Rhythm, a youth drumline open to young percussionists of any experience level and Rockford Kingpins, a drumline for students with disabilities. The Crystal Lake Kingpins will also make an appearance.
When: 7 p.m. June 23
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 20 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Rockton River Market
What: Come for the shopping and stay for the music. The Rockton River Market provides a comfortable atmosphere to shop for handmade items, fruits and vegetables. Live local music is provided for entertainment and starts at 6 p.m. Hanks Neighbors performs June 24. The market runs Wednesdays through August.
When: 5-8 p.m. June 24
Where: Settlers Park, 150 Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Music on the Rock
What: Enjoy live music along the Rock River during this outdoor summer concert series on Wednesday evenings. There is a rotating lineup of regional and national blues and roots musicians who will perform in this scenic riverside setting. Bring or buy food and beverages. In case of inclement weather, performances move indoors, ensuring the music continues rain or shine. The band June 24 is Cash Box Kings.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. June 24
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Off Campus Trivia Night
What: If your entire personality has been taken over by hockey players, banter and fictional boyfriends lately, this trivia night is for you. Prizes, bragging rights, and ultimate fan status are on the line.
When: 6 – 8 p.m. (bar opens at 5 p.m.) June 24
Where: Rockford City Market Indoor Pop-Up Bar, 116 N. Madison St., Rockford
Cost: $5
‘9 to 5 The Musical’
What: Based on the hit film, “9 to 5 The Musical” is about three office workers who turn the tables on their sexist, self-absorbed boss. Violet, Doralee, and Judy take charge in a hilarious story of friendship, empowerment, and sweet revenge—all set to an infectious Dolly Parton score. This high-energy show celebrates the power of teamwork and standing up for what’s right.
When: 7:30-10 p.m. June 24 – June 27 and July 29-Aug. 2
Where: Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $28; $26 for seniors age 65 and older, military and teachers; $17 for children age 12 and younger
Garden Explorers
What: Garden Explorers fosters meaningful connections between children, parents, and caregivers by inspiring them to explore the world together. Community figures share story time, then children can enjoy interactive activities led by local organizations. On June 25, the reader will be 23-WIFR’s Aaron Wilson. Afterward, children can get a free book from United Way of Rock River Valley and participate in farm-themed activities with teachers from the Golden Apple Foundation’s Teacher Academy. This event is geared toward four- to six-year-olds, but children of all ages are welcome. It is held Thursday mornings through August.
When 9-10 a.m. June 25
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens pavilion, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Dinner on the Dock
What: Enjoy live music, food, beer and dockside views. Lawn chairs are welcome on the concert side or make a reservation for the dining side and enjoy dinner right by the water while the music plays all night long. The performer June 25 is Jon Bon Stamos, a six-piece fastgrass band that plays “stolk folk” aka high-energy-banjo-fiddle-driven rock.
When: 5-10 p.m. June 25 (music starts at 6 p.m.)
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission, parking and entertainment
A Summer Evening with Miles & Kelly
What: Rockford-based Miles Nielsen has spent nearly a decade enthralling audiences with music that draws force from the prime years of Western-influenced rock music and classic ‘60s soul, claiming influences as diverse as Otis Redding’s classic soul and Jellyfish’s cult power pop recordings. Kelly Steward is a Midwestern American singer, songwriter and recording artist from Rockford with indie-flavored neo-traditional country meditations.
When: 8 p.m. June 25
Where: The Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $20-$31
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Plan your weekend with these 37 things to do in the Rockford area
Reporting by Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star / Rockford Register Star
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By Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star | USA TODAY Network
