The weekend brings Grand Re-Opening: Maybelle Blair Park, Japanese Summer Festival and a World Cup Final Match Watch, along with fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Foam Party
What: Absolute Science brings their Mega Foam Blaster with non-toxic, hypoallergenic foam that shoots out up to 40 feet and covers the ground so kids (and adults) can jump, dance and splash in bubbly fun.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 17
Where: Discovery Center Museum parking lot, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Vince Chiarelli Band
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 July 17 is Art in the Alley; the main stage will feature the Vince Chiarelli Band and the acoustic stage will have Clark Kelly.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. July 17
Where: Water Street at East State Street, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Amazons of the Diamond
What: Kortman Gallery presents “Amazons of the Diamond,” an exhibition by Chicago artist Margie Lawrence featuring her paintings and drawings of classic baseball players with portraits and action images. Portraits include players from the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League including the Rockford Peaches and major league players from the Chicago Cubs. The exhibit is a kick-off event to welcome the Women’s Baseball World Cup 2026. The Kortman Gallery exhibit runs through September 30.
When: 5:30-9 p.m. July 17
Where: J.R. Kortman Center for Design/Kortman Gallery, 107 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Scott Kirby
What: This special edition of Fry-Day Night Unplugged features nationally acclaimed singer-songwriter Scott Kirby. One of the most requested artists on SiriusXM Radio Margaritaville, Scott has even performed with Jimmy Buffett at the Margaritaville Café in Key West. His tropical-inspired music, engaging storytelling and laid-back humor will have you feeling like you’re on vacation.
When: 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. July 17
Where: Timber Pointe Golf Club, 5750 Woodstock Road, Poplar Grove
Steve McClanahan
What: Steve McClanahan is a Solo Acoustic Guitarist and singer from Rockford that plays a wide variety of songs that people know and love. Steve adds his own style to each song for a unique listening experience. After performing with bands for many years, Steve has been performing solo for the last 10 years.
When: 6-8 p.m. July 17
Where: Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
The Groove Hotel
What: Music on the Mall is located in Center Court near Cora Physical Therapy. The entertainment on July 17 is The Groove Hotel, performing swing, Bossa Nova, rock, samba, gospel and Cuban songs.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 17
Where: Edgebrook Center, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Ski Broncs
What: Enjoy free themed, full production water ski performances by The Ski Broncs every Wednesday and Friday evening throughout the summer on the Rock River. The hour-long shows include a 15-20 minute intermission during donations are welcomed.
When: 7 p.m. July 17
Where: 235 Evelyn Ave., Loves Park
Cost: Free
Cataclysm Customer Appreciation
What: The annual customer appreciation event will include freebies and more than $15,000 in retail worth of product given away in celebration of 15 years in business. Get a free item just for coming in; no purchase is necessary. There will be a blanket 10% discount on everything in the store and all-you-can-eat pizza pies from Napoli’s from noon to 2 p.m. There will be a blood drive from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are one of the first 150 people to donate or attempt to donate blood, you will receive a “2026 Cataclysm Blood for the Blood God” shirt. Donate and you will skip to the front of the line for the freebies once you are finished.
When: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. July 18
Where: Cataclysm Tabletop Gaming, 8289 Burden Road, Machesney Park
Friends of Rockford Public Library book sale
What: Come explore hundreds of books, CDs and DVDs. Most items are priced at $2 or less.
When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. July 18
Where: Rockford Public Library first floor lobby, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
2026 Japanese Summer Festival
What: he Japanese Summer Festival features exhibits, demonstrations and unique performances that appeal to all age groups and foster a better understanding of the Japanese culture. Festival activities are included with Garden Admission, advanced registration and additional fee required for tea ceremony participation.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. July 18 and 10 a .m. – 5 p.m. July 19
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $15; $14 for seniors; $13 for students and military; free for ages 5 and younger and members
Paulyground Reimagined
What: For more than two decades, Paulyground has been a place where children of all abilities could play, explore and create memories together. Originally opened at Alpine Park in 2003 as the Rockford Park District’s first inclusive playground, Paulyground set a new standard for accessible play in this community. Now, Paulyground has been thoughtfully reimagined thanks to community feedback on design elements. This destination will meet the needs of today’s children and families, creating an even more welcoming, engaging and inclusive play experience. A short program will take place at 10:15 a.m., with kids’ entertainment, mascots, special giveaways and free ice cream.
When: 10 a.m. – noon July 18
Where: Alpine Park, 950 S. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
First Northern Credit Union Summer Bash
What: This outdoor family-friendly summer bash includes games and prizes, bounce house, face-painting, balloon animals and food. There will be a dunk tank, with proceeds benefitting Rosie’s Birthday Club. This event will be held rain or shine. All items are while supplies last.
When: 10 – 11:30 a.m. July 18
Where: First Northern Credit Union, 104 N. Showplace Drive, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Operation Homefront 2026
What: Rev up your engines for this annual benefit to support Operation Homefront, an organization dedicated to building strong, stable and secure military families. At the end of the ride, three veterans registered to participate will receive a special gift provided by Gahm Industries of Pearl City; a FOID card will be required for any Illinois vets to walk away with a prize. Please expect to be asked to provide proof of your veteran status.
When: 11 a.m. July 18 (doors open at 9 a.m. for breakfast; sign in starts at 10 a.m.)
Where: VFW Post 9759, 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park
Cost: $20 per driver; $10 for passenger
Pop Up in the Parks
What: The 10th Pop-Up in the Parks event is for the whole family. DJ Petey P will be spinning all the hits. There will be food trucks and more than 150 local vendors, kids’ activities, permanent jewelry, henna tattoos, hair tinsel, a DIY trucker hat bar and more.
When: Noon – 4 p.m. July 18
Where: Machesney Park Mall parking lot, 8760 N. Second St., Machesney Park
Owner Appreciation Party
What: Celebrate and show appreciation for Rascal’s owner, Mike Sterling. There will be a DJ from 1-5 p.m., pulled pork, burgers, brats and hot dogs with chips.
When: Noon – 6 p.m. July 18
Where: Rascal’s, 5223 Torque Road, Loves Park
JoJo’s CMT Black Ribbon Run
What: The sixth annual CMT Black Ribbon Bike Run starts and ends at Jo-Jo’s. There will be outside music from 5-11 p.m. from Some Friends of Mine, MOthmen and KISSoween. There will also be a 50/50 and other raffles. All money raised is donated to cancer research and local cancer patients in honor of Cynthia Marie Tarará.
When: noon July 18 (registration starts at 11 a.m.)
Where: Jo-Jo’s Pizza and Pub, 3110 S. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: $20 rider; $10 passenger
Grand Re-Opening: Maybelle Blair Park
What: Celebrate the Grand Re-Opening of Beyer Stadium at Maybelle Blair Park with the International Women’s Baseball Center. This event highlights the historic stadium’s restoration and IWBC’s ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities for girls and women in baseball. The celebration also honors the legacy of Maybelle Blair, a pioneering athlete, advocate and inspiration to generations of players. Guests can enjoy special remarks, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, ceremonial first pitch, photo opportunities, food and beverages, music and the opening day game at the restored stadium. All ages are welcome.
When: 1-4 p.m. July 18
Where: Beyer Stadium at Maybelle Blair Park, 245 15th Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Tipsy History: The Roaring 20s
What: Costumed interpreters and period re-enactors bring the 1920s to life. Experience what the Prohibition Era was like in Rockford during the Roaring Twenties. There will be vintage cars, 1920s music, temperance marchers, bootleggers and distilling practices, gangsters, G-men, federal labor raids and liquor raids. Period clothing is optional, but always welcome. Your Roaring Twenties ticket also grants access to Midway Village’s Museum Center for the day, so you and your guests can discover even more about living in Rockford in the early 20th century — from the main street stores at which people shopped to a glimpse inside a typical home.
When: 1-7 p.m. July 18
Where: Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Cost: $15; $12 ages 5-12 and seniors age 62 and older; free for children age 4 and younger
Sinnissippi Plant Swap
What: Enjoy a casual afternoon of learning and socializing with other houseplant fans. Bring a few cuttings or potted plants to swap. There may even have some retired plants from NCG available. Please bring houseplants only. The swap will be held outdoors on the Riverview Terrace.
When: 1-3 p.m. July 18
Where: Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, Sininissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St, Rockford
Cost: Free
Atwood in the Outdoors: Atwood Abuzz
What: Bees are buzzing during this wildflower season. Come enjoy bee-themed activities for all ages. Take a leisurely hike up to the beautiful hilltop prairie and get creative with themed crafts and games.
When: 2-3 p.m. July 18
Where: Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford
Cost: Free; donations are appreciated
Frank Lloyd Wright: Making Form and Function One
What: Frank Lloyd Wright’s mentor, Louis Sullivan, is famous for coining the phrase “form follows function.” Wright modified this concept to “form and function are one,” a small change with large implications for his work and its preservation. This talk will look at examples of Wright buildings, ranging from his work inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list to the Laurent House. John H. Waters, AIA, is preservation programs director at the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy. He has traveled to more than 250 properties to meet with homeowners and building stewards of Wright buildings to facilitate the preservation of the architect’s work.
When: 3 p.m. July 18
Where: Laurent House Museum, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $10; $5 for students
Party on the Prairie
What: This outdoor summer gala and fundraiser for Nygren Wetland Preserve includes dinner under a huge tent overlooking the prairie, with a stunning landscape of wildflowers in bloom, grassland birds perching atop silphiums and coneflowers, and the call of Sandhill Cranes in the distance. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides through the prairie, live music featuring Missing Links, a social hour and a full-service sit-down dinner catered by GreenFire Restaurant. There will also be a silent auction.
When: 4:30-8:30 p.m. July 18
Where: Nygren Wetland Preserve, 3373 W. Rockton Road, Rockton
Cost: $125
The Lone Canary
What: Join us for a summer evening filled with harmonies, storytelling and acoustic soundscapes as The Lone Canary (Jesse Fox and Heather Camacho) perform live on the patio. This harmony-rich Americana duo blends two voices, fiddle and guitar to create music that speaks to love, loss, faith and stubborn hope.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 18
Where: Alchemy at Aldeen, 1900 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
250 Celebration
What: The United States of America turns 250 this year and Roscoe United Methodist is throwing a for the whole community to celebrate with games, music, food and fun. There will be outdoor games for all ages including a playground, bouncy house, chalk and bubbles, Gaga Ball, 9-square, giant Connect Four, bocce ball, bags and many more. Brats, hot dogs, cookies and ice cream are all on the menu.
When: 6-8 p.m. July 18
Where: Roscoe United Methodist Church, 10816 Main St., Roscoe
Cost: Free
KD’s Teen Club Pop Up
What: KD’s Teen Club Pop‑Up, presented by King’s Royal Daughter LLC, is a supervised nightlife‑style experience for teens ages 14–18. This one‑night pop‑up features a live DJ, a dedicated photo area and a high‑energy social atmosphere designed to give teens a safe, fun and age‑appropriate place to enjoy music and capture memorable moments.
When: 7-10:30 p.m. July 18
Where: Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $18; $75 for VIP Two-Top; $150 for VIP Booth
Paranormal Investigation
What: Historic Attactions is filled with all sorts of historical objects and methods of transportation. Hear stories about historic accidents, fateful rides and murder attached to these artifacts and see a portion of this facility. Kathi Kresol and Samantha Hochmann will share the history of the objects. Nino Enna from MidwestGhost Investigators and Tim Jones from In the Presence of Others Paranormal will demonstrate how to use different investigation equipment and techniques to help gather evidence. Tickets must be paid in advance on Haunted Rockford’s website.
When: 7-10 p.m. July 18
Where: Historic Attractions, 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe
Cost: $40
Cherry Valley Outdoor Market
What: The market features local vendors with vegetables, flowers, crafts and more. Sofis Tacos will be serving fresh tacos on site.
When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. July 19
Where: 702 E. State St., Cherry Valley
Ice Cream Social
What: Celebrate the Semiquincentennial of the U.S. with treats, live music from Trinadora, family-friendly games, activities and more. Explore the historic gardens and cottage.
When: 1-3 p.m. July 19
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens, 411 Kent St., Rockford
Cost: Free
World Cup Final Match Watch Party
What: This all-ages event features concessions and exclusive event merchandise available for purchase. Guests attending the event must enter and exit through the Hard Rock LIVE entrance only. Access to the casino floor is limited to guests age 21 and older with valid photo identification.
When: 2 p.m. July 19 (doors open at noon)
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Domingos En El Parque
What: The theme July 19 is From Rockford to the World – Celebrate Our Latin Roots. This event includes a special fiesta celebration for the Colombian community, as Colombia celebrates its Independence Day July 20. Hear Latin tropical sounds by a locally-known DJ and two talented groups, one of which is international band, La Sonora Dinamita de Colombia. This event will also include an open mic/talent time, dance performances, artist displays, live beauty art and vendors. These vendors may feature informational tables for banking, insurance, community resources, authentic Latino food, handmade jewelry, and custom Latino gear and snacks.
When: 2-8 p.m. July 19
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rebel Hearts
What: This high energy band will perform live music across genres and eras.
When: 3-6 p.m. July 19
Where: Tad’s on the Rock, 10 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
That 70s Band
What: That 70’s Band will perform disco and dance hits plus classic songs that defined a generation. They’ll bring all the sights, sounds and energy of the 70s. Dust off your bell bottoms and grab your friends for an afternoon of music, dancing and good vibes.
When: 3-7 p.m. July 19
Where: Mortimer’s Roadhouse, 105 W Grove St, Poplar Grove
Emily Hurd and Gregg Ostrom
What: Bring a lawn chair, a cooler and enjoy this concert with Emily Hurd and Gregg Ostrom. The rain location is the Community Building, 111 W. First St.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 19
Where: Poplar Grove Wings and Wheels Museum, 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove
Cost: Free
Silvertung with Special Guests
What: Enjoy live music from Silvertung with special guests: SoIar; Under Black Sky; and Hour of Dismay. For guests age 21 and older only.
When: 8 p.m. July 19
Where: New Mill Tap, 6935 11th St., Rockford
Cost: $10 cover
Coming next week
Tristan Sheedloe
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 20 is Tristan Sheedloe, Hailing from Rockford Illinois, Tristan brings a heavier style to the solo acoustic genre. Playing original music, 90s grunge covers, and acoustic renditions of the songs he wrote with his band Dark Sun.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 20
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Cactus Blossoms
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 21 is OriHabna of Chicago; the main act is Cactus Blossoms from Minneapolis. 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. The parking lot fills early; shuttles are available from the college of medicine to the visitor’s center.
When: 5:45 p.m. July 21
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
Drivin N Cryin
What: Drivin N Cryin is an enduring American rock band whose roots-forward sound and uncompromising spirit have made them a vital force since forming in 1985 in Atlanta. Blending Southern rock grit, folk storytelling and hard-charging rock & roll, the band built a reputation early on as a must-see live act and a songwriter’s band with depth far beyond trends. Led by singer-songwriter Kevn Kinney and anchored by bassist Tim Nielsen and drummer Dave Johnson, Drivin N Cryin broke through nationally with a run of influential albums that helped define late-’80s and early-’90s American rock.
When: 7:30 p.m. July 21 and July 22
Where: The Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $37-$46
WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup Group Stage
What: The WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup Group Stage 2026 comes to the Rockford Region, marking the Illinois debut of the world’s premier women’s baseball championship. The event hosted by the International Women’s Baseball Center in partnership with the World Baseball Softball Confederation is a five-day tournament featuring 15 international games as teams from around the world compete for a spot in the World Cup Final Stage. There will be a full lineup of themed promotional nights throughout the tournament. Show your team spirit by wearing gear representing Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Korea, Mexico, the United States, or your favorite baseball team.
When: 11 a.m., 3 and 7 p.m. games July 22 – July 26
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10 for single game tickets; $25 for one-day pass (three games); $95 for all-week pass (all 15 games)
Rollin’ Whiskey
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 22 is Rollin’ Whiskey. The market runs Wednesdays through August.
When: 5-8 p.m. July 22
Where: Settlers Park, 150 Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Marty ‘Big Dog’ Mercer Band
What: Enjoy live music along the Rock River during this outdoor summer concert series on Wednesday evenings. In case of inclement weather, performances move indoors, ensuring the music continues rain or shine. The band July 22 is Marty “Big Dog Mercer” Band. A towering presence in both stature and sound, Marty “Big Dog” Mercer is a commanding force in the modern blues scene. Inducted into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame in 2016, Mercer has spent nearly two decades delivering authentic, high-energy Chicago blues and rock to audiences across the Midwest and beyond. Known for his signature Southpaw Blues guitar style and a voice shaped by real-life experience.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. July 22
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Berkeley Stenstrom
What: Franchesco’s Summer Concert Series presents Berkeley Stenstrom. Stenstrom is a Rockford native, singer songwriter with an indie pop sensibility performing her own originals as well as covers from artists like Ashe and FINNEAS, Post Malone, Cindy Lauper and Adele.
When: 6-8 p.m. July 22
Where: Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
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 23, the reader will be the GoRockford team. The program will be Stroll on State: Christmas in July. This event is geared toward four- to six-year-olds, but children of all ages are welcome.
When 9-10 a.m. July 23
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens pavilion, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Midwest Biennial Artist Lecture
What: Join Executive Director/Chief Curator Carrie Johnson along with a couple of Midwestern Biennial exhibiting artists for an evening lecture.
When: 5:30-7 p.m. July 23
Where: Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Gang of Martians
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 23 is from Gang of Martians. This band plays party, dance rock from the 60’s, 70’s and lots of 80s.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 23
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission, parking and entertainment
Second Hand News
What: Rockford Jams presents Second Hand News, with special guest performance by Tom Mac Group. Second Hand News recreates the experience of seeing Fleetwood Mac in their heyday. The band features spot-on vocal harmonies, careful attention to detail and electric live shows.
When: 6 p.m. July 23
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: $5 admission; free for ages five and younger
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: From women’s baseball to soccer, 34 things to do in the Rockford area
Reporting by Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star / Rockford Register Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star | USA TODAY Network
