The weekend brings Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days, Get the Led Out and I Love the 90s Tour, along with fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Barn Sale for Care for Pets
What: Shop the more than 2,000 items collected over decades. There are antiques, vintage treasures, pigs, cats including lots of Siamese, owls, deer, poodles, lambs, birds, frogs, lions, giraffes, tigers, pottery, jewelry, trinkets, political buttons, display cabinet, MCM, nouveau and kitsch. Make a pile, make an offer. Bring boxes, totes and packing material. This sale will be held rain or shine. No early sales, please. All proceeds go to Care For Pets.
When: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. July 10 – July 12
Where: 11533 Old River Road, Rockton
Magic with Zach Percell
What: Zach Percell will perform four spellbinding, laugh-filled shows with plenty of audience participation. The 30-minute shows are at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m., 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. in Woodward Hall.
When: 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. July 10
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Alpine Kiwanis Brat Days
What: The Alpine Kiwanis Club hosts its 55th annual Brat Days event. There will be drive-thru, walk up, on-site seating and live entertainment at both sites. Join Alpine Kiwanis and 23WIFR for “Take Your Brat to Work” with $4 brats from 6-10 a.m. Friday only at Blain’s Farm & Fleet with drive-thru service only. Meal ticket price includes choice of Johnsonville brat, all-beef Johnsonville hot dog, meatless barbeque or vegan/vegetarian Impossible Brat; Mrs. Fisher’s chips; and a Pepsi product or water. Each year all proceeds are given to local non-profits and $30,000 for scholarships to 10 high school seniors for post-secondary education or training.
When: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. July 10; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. July 11
Where: CherryVale Mall, 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford (upper level facing Perryville Road) and Blain’s Farm & Fleet, 7300 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10; $8 in advance
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. The theme July 10 is Hometown Heroes; the main stage will feature Rock ‘n’ Roll Institute and the acoustic stage will have Emily Wendy. A “pack as you go” station will be set up to help pack as many blessing boxes as you wish. The boxes will then be distributed to three local agencies who serve the homeless population in our region.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. July 10
Where: Water Street at East State Street, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Eliminating Racism 815 Film Series
What: Join this monthly film series exploring social justice, equity, and community issues through powerful documentaries and discussions. Each screening is followed by conversation and reflection on the topics presented. The film July 10 is “Beyond Standing Rock.”
When: 6-9 p.m. July 10
Where: Baha’i Center at Highcrest Shopping Center, 1650 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Music on the Mall
What: Music on the Mall is located in Center Court near Cora Physical Therapy. The entertainment on July 10 is Dirty Fishnet Stockings, a high energy rockabilly band.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 10
Where: Edgebrook Center, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Haunted Rockford Walking Tour
What: Local author Kathi Kresol will lead the group around the haunted spots of downtown Rockford to make Rockford’s ghostly history come alive. She will be joined by the Haunted Rockford Crew who will help her share the dark tales of murder, grisly accidents and spirits who linger throughout the Forest City. Tim Jones from In The Presence of Others Paranormal will also join in this tour. Meet in the parking lot of Veterans Memorial Hall.
When: 7-8:30 p.m. July 10
Where: Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $25
‘Newsies’
What: Set in turn-of-the century New York City, “Newsies” is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right. Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman.
When: 7 p.m. July 10-11 and July 17-18; 2 p.m. July 12 and July 19
Where: Maddox Theatre, Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $16; $14 for children and seniors; save $2 with advance tickets
Get the Led Out
What: Get The Led Out (GTLO) has captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live. Using multi-instrumentalists, GTLO re-creates the songs in all their glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed.
When: 8 p.m. July 10
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $44-$65
I Love the 90s Tour
What: From Milli Vanilli’s pop hooks to C+C Music Factory’s dance-floor anthems, plus DJ Jazzy Jeff’s signature spin and Young MC’s party-ready rhymes, the night is built for singalongs and nonstop throwbacks at the I Love The 90’s Tour. DJ Jazzy Jeff remains one of the world’s most respected DJs and producers. Young MC Rapper Young MC (Marvin Young) rose to fame in the late 1980s with his witty lyricism and crossover appeal. Best known as the voice behind “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now),” Freedom Williams helped define early ’90s dance music as the front man and co‑founder of the multi‑platinum group C+C Music Factory.
When: 8 p.m. July 10 (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $60-$106
Pilates & Lattes
What: This event blends an energizing, all-levels Pilates session with a relaxed, social coffee gathering afterward. Designed to help you feel grounded, strong, and refreshed, this session will have you moving with intention, then unwinding over handcrafted lattes and meaningful conversation.When: 8 or 10 a.m. July 11
Where: Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: $20
Gravestone cleaning
What: Representatives from 815 Stone Scrubbers and Greenwood Cemetery host this hands-on volunteer opportunity in which participants will learn the correct way to clean and preserve gravestones. Come prepared with appropriate footwear and clothing as you will get dirty. Bring a water bottle; tools and materials will be provided. This activity is for ages 10 and older. Children younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
When: 9-11 a.m. July 11
Where: Greenwood Cemetery, 1011 Auburn St., Rockford
Cost: Free
LOVE Rockford Event
What: This year Jeremiah Development is hosting a block party. This annual health and wellness event also includes vendors providing great information and services for the local Rockford area residents.
When: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. July 11
Where: 803 N. Church St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Sweet Ride
What: Bikers Against Child Abuse Blackhawk Chapter is hosting this scenic ride to Sweet-Delights in Genoa for a sweet treat. Once everyone has satisfied their craving, the ride will return to Kegel H-D where there will be a hot dog lunch served from noon to 2 p.m. while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the mission of Bikers Against Child Abuse, Inc.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. July 11 (registration starts at 9 a.m.)
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: $10 donation for the ride; $5 for lunch only
Pop-Up PAWS Summer Market
What: This craft market celebrates beloved companions. Enjoy shopping in this family-friendly event. No outside pets are allowed; service animals are welcome.
When: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 11
Where: PAWS, 7282 N. CherryVale Mall Blvd., Rockford
Premier Card Shows
What: Visit 150 tables filled with sports cards, TCG and related collectibles at this all-ages event. Make deals with vendors.
When: Noon – 6 p.m. July 11
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission and parking
Peach Truckload Sale
What: Shop the Indian River Direct truck for super sweet Freestone peaches, Ellis Brother’s Georgia Elliott pecans and Michigan blueberries. Walk-up customers are welcome. Bring cash, check or credit card for payment.
When: 12:30-2 p.m. July 11
Where: Don Carter Lanes, 4007 E. State St., Rockford
‘Zootopia 2’
What: Enjoy a film in the summer cinema series. Food will be available for purchase and select activities will be free, while others may vary or may include separate fees to participate. Guests are encouraged to bring both cash and card for food purchases and activities. Limited outside food and non-alcoholic drinks can be brought into the venue. ADA and accessible seating are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
When: 3 p.m. July 11 (doors open at 1:30 p.m.)
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Summerpalooza: Celebrating our 250th
What: This is the second of three block parties focused on celebrating the 250th anniversary of the USA. There will be special events honoring the men and women of the Rockton VFW, two bands, demonstrations by Macktown Living History, face painting and more from Reverent Henna.
When: 4-10 p.m. July 11
Where: 100 W. Main Street block, downtown Rockton
Cost: Free admission
3,6,9 Golf Event
What: Players will be able to use three clubs for nine holes of golf, and taste beers on six holes. The entry fee includes nine holes of golf, a cart and beer tastings; there will also be contests for longest drive, closest to the pin and a putting target challenge. Advance registration by 11:59 p.m. July 9 is required.
When: 5 p.m. July 11
Where: Aldeen Golf Club, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Cost: $65
2nd Annual Rockford Jazz Festival
What: Experience a vibrant jazz festival featuring top regional talent blending jazz, funk and soul. Harlan Jefferson, Phil Seed Band and Liquid Soul will perform. Liquid Soul is a jazz band based in Chicago, known for their fusion of jazz, funk, soul and hip-hop. The band’s lineup has included talented musicians who contribute to their eclectic style, incorporating brass, keyboards and a strong rhythm section.
When: 5-8 p.m. July 11
Where: Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Concerts on the Creek: Mark Dvorak
What: Mark Dvorak Celebrates Woody Guthries’s birthday.
When: 7-9 p.m. July 11 (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Spring Creek Church, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission; $10 freewill donation encouraged to defray costs and pay musician
Julia and Jane
What: “Julia and Jane” tells the story of Julia Lathrop and Jane Addams, who first met as Rockford schoolgirls. Over the course of their 60-year friendship, they marched forth to change the world. This special encore production celebrates Rockford history.
When: 7:30- 9 p.m. July 11
Where: Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10
An Evening with Abigayle Oakley
What: Abigayle Oakley blends the melodic richness of folk pioneers with the lyrical honesty of today’s confessional singer songwriters. Her songs explore the complexities of life and the existential questions that shape us, often with a sharp, tongue-in-cheek wit that adds layers of humor and insight. Abigayle made her national television debut on this season of NBC’s The Voice earning an all chair turn from coaches John Legend, Adam Levine and Kelly Clarkson.
When: 8 p.m. July 11
Where: The Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $15-$21
Bark-N-Brew BBQ 2026
What: The third annual Bark-N-Brew BBQ event is a craft fair paired with a fundraiser event. There will be adoptable dogs and puppies on-site, local handmade crafters, music, food and drink specials, basket raffles, 50/50 raffles and an outdoor beer tent for this dog-friendly parking lot party. A local dog groomer will be on-site providing discount nail trims. All proceeds raised that day from raffles will go directly to the rescue on-site. Dogs must be leashed at all times, social, dog-friendly and well-mannered.
When: Noon – 5 p.m. July 12
Where: Coach’s Corner, 622 S. State St., Belvidere
Indigenous Echoes
What: This event will explore the lives and histories of the Indigenous peoples who lived in and around Pecatonica (Macktown). Staff will share stories in a meaningful and respectful way, amplifying Indigenous voices while fostering greater awareness, cultural understanding and community connection. There will be guest speakers, kids’ activities and more for the whole family.
When: 12:30 p.m. July 12
Where: Macktown Living History Education Center, 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton
Cost: $15; free for members; $10 in advance
KORT Community Showcase
What: This high-energy, family-friendly showcase highlights dance crews and local talent. This family-friendly celebration of creativity, style and culture will feature a dance competition themed after the popular TV show “America’s Best Dance Crew” with $500 in cash prizes on the line. There will also be a live R&B/jazz band, audience participation prizes, celebrity judges and more.
When: 5-8 p.m. July 12
Where: Levings Lake, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Woodsong: The Neverly Brothers
What: The Neverly Brothers concerts take you on a musical guided virtual tour of the birth, near death and resurrection of rock n’ roll from 1955 to 1965. Learn rock history and be entertained with their chronological song sequence, stories behind the music and vintage wardrobe changes. Enjoy renditions of early hits by Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Beatles, Rolling Stones and more. Klehm’s Woodsong Concerts are lawn-style events held in the Fountain Garden. 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 before and during the concert.
When: 6-8 p.m. July 12
Where: Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $16; $12 for members
Concerts in the Park
What: Bring a lawn chair, a cooler and enjoy this concert with Dan Holmes and Dave Walter performing the music of Simon & Garfunkel. The rain location is the Community Building, 111 W. First St.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 12
Where: Baltic Mill at Belvidere Park, 920 W. Lincoln Ave., Belvidere
Cost: Free
Coming next week
Customer Appreciation Event
What: The Landscape Connection Customer Appreciation Event includes nearly two weeks of prizes, savings and family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy Michelle’s Daily Antics, featuring a different game and new chances to win each day, along with daily giveaways, special event savings, and opportunities to enter for a free landscape design from Landscapes by Michelle (a $300 value). There will be an outdoor living expo July 16-July 18 featuring Image Pro’s, Landscapes by Michelle and J&S Better Built Barns. The Outdoor Living Expo also includes free ice cream, a Bobble-Head Aaron scavenger hunt for an extra discount on purchases and daily $25 gift cards awarded.
When: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. July 13-July 25
Where: The Landscape Connection, 4472 S. Mulford Road, Rockford
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 July 13 is from Jaik Willis, a strumming and drumming One Man Band, who plays an 11-piece drum set with his feet while playing guitars, bass and harps. He also sings and beatboxes simultaneously, live with no looping or electronics.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 13
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
An Evening with Roger Clyne and PH Naffah
What: Roger Clyne & PH Naffah, founding members of The Refreshments and The Peacemakers will perform. In The Refreshments, Clyne and Naffah put the fun in rock during the 90s grunge era with a sense of humor. The Refreshments’ debut album, “Fizzy, Fuzzy, Big & Buzzy,” became a cult classic. Clyne then penned and performed the theme song for the Mike Judge animated TV series, King of Hill. Changes within their record label and internal band issues resulted in Clyne and Naffah going on a vision quest in the Whetstone Mountains in Southeastern Arizona. Clyne and Naffah then wrote and recorded under a new moniker what would become Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers’ debut album, “Honky Tonk Union.” In 2019, Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers were inducted into the Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame.
When: 7:30 p.m. July 13
Where: Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $31.42
Tuesday Evening in the Gardens
What: Tuesday Evening in the Gardens is a summer tradition that brings the community together through music, nature and shared experiences. The opening act July 14 is Emily Hurd of Rockford; the main act is LowDown Brass Band from Chicago. 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. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and picnic dinners; outside beverages are not permitted; bags will be checked at entry.
When: 5:45 p.m. July 14
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 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 Traverse City Pit Spitters both dates.
When: 6:35 p.m. July 14 and July 15
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10
Rockford Jams
What: The Rockford Concert band will perform “Summer Fantasia,” with director Kevin Jensen, and instrumental and vocal soloist Pete Driscoll in this outdoor summer concert series. Arrive early for best seating; ending time is approximate. Shows are scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays through July 30, as well as Saturdays, Sept. 12 and Sept. 19. Bring a picnic to enjoy or buy concession items on site.
When: 7 p.m. July 14
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 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. The entertainment July 15 is Three Good Men. The market runs Wednesdays through August.
When: 5-8 p.m. July 15
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. A rotating lineup of regional and national blues and roots musicians will perform. Bring or buy food and beverages. In case of inclement weather, performances move indoors, ensuring the music continues rain or shine. The band July 15 is Sean McKee, a singer songwriter and guitarist with a passion for music from the past, vintage guitars and classic cars.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. July 15
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Once on this Island
What: Set on the vibrant island of Haiti, Once on This Island tells the story of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with a young man from the wealthy side of the island. Guided and challenged by the island gods of Love, Earth, Water and Death, Ti Moune’s journey explores themes of love, sacrifice and destiny.
When: 7:30-10 p.m. July 15-July 19
Where: Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $28; $26 for seniors age 65 and older/Military/Teacher; $17 for students jr. high through college; $12 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 personality-filled story time first, then children can enjoy interactive activities led by local organizations to deepen engagement, encourage hands-on discovery and strengthen community ties. On July 16, the reader will be Zach Meiborg, CEO of Meiborg Trucking & Meiborg Companies. The program will be by Todd Downing: Tall Tales & Silly Songs. This event is geared toward four- to six-year-olds, but children of all ages are welcome.
When 9-10 a.m. July 16
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens pavilion, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Jams
What: Rockford Jams presents Rocks Off, with special guest performance by The JB Project in this summer music series. Rocks Off is the premier Rolling Stones tribute, delivering the songs and sensations of “the world’s greatest rock and roll band.” From the iconic hits to the deep cuts, Rocks Off captures Mick’s moves, Keith’s riffs, Charlie’s groove and Mick Taylor solos from their early-seventies golden era. Arrive early for best seating; ending time is approximate. Bring a picnic to enjoy or buy concession items on site.
When: 6 p.m. July 16
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: $5 admission; free for ages five and younger
Dinner on the Dock
What: Enjoy free live music, food, drinks and dockside views. Lawn chairs are welcome on the concert side or you can make reservations for the dining side and enjoy dinner right by the water while the music plays. The entertainment July 16 is from Sunset Strip, an 80s hairband tribute band from Rockford. Band members bring the glory days of big hair, leather and rock ‘n’ roll back to life.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 16
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission, parking and entertainment
Japanese Calligraphy
What: The monthly lecture series provides a lineup of expert-led talks exploring Japanese art, horticulture, design and philosophy. Deepen your understanding of the traditions, techniques and contemporary perspectives that shape Japanese culture and garden design. The topic July 16 is an introduction to Japanese Calligraphy (Shodō) with Hekiun Oda. This lecture introduces the fundamentals of Japanese calligraphy, including its history, tools, basic brush techniques, stroke order and the differences between major script styles such as Kaisho (standard), Gyōsho (semi-cursive) and Sōsho (cursive). Hekiun Oda Sensei was born and raised in Kobe, Japan.
When: 7 p.m. July 16
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $5; free for members
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Brat Days, Get the Led Out among 29 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
