The weekend brings Glitzy Garage Sale and David Spade, along with fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Glitzy Garage Sale
What: Shop in the air-conditioned boutique filled with jewelry, designer clothing, artwork and art supplies. Browse racks of clothing for men, women and children in the Anjali Pavilion and explore three tents and the garage full of deals. The event will be held rain or shine. There will be a portable restroom available. Every purchase and donation helps sustain Womanspace’s mission of creating a more connected, compassionate community.
When: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 29 and May 30, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. May 31
Where: Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Rockford City Market
What: On May 29, the theme will be Noche de Cultura. Entertainment on the main stage will be by Nivel 15, with Emilio Salinas on the acoustic stage. Shop more than local vendors for baked goods, vintage clothing, handmade goods, flowers, jewelry and more. Enjoy food trucks, local breweries and live music all evening. The Rockford Park District is on-site every week, plus a rotating kids’ activity changes each Friday.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. May 29
Where: Water Street at East State Street, 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 the Rivets on. The Rivets play the Waterloo Bucks Friday and Saturday; they play the Battle Creek Battle Jacks on Sunday.
When: 6:35 p.m. May 29 and May 30; 3:35 p.m. May 31
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10
David Spade
What: David Spade became a household favorite during his tenure as a cast member on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.” Spade has starred in film and television in “Joe Dirt,” “Grown Ups,” “The Wrong Missy,” “Rules of Engagement,” and “8 Simple Rules.” For his role in “Just Shoot Me”, Spade received nominations for a 1999 Emmy Award, Golden Globe and American Comedy Award. Spade continues to be a box office draw, touring his stand-up shows nationwide. He also co-hosts the podcast, “Fly on the Wall,” alongside Dana Carvey, and their spin-off pop culture podcast “Superfly.”
When: 8 p.m. May 29
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $42-$71
Stateline Strides for Stroke
What: This community walk is a fundraiser. All proceeds go to survivors and caregivers attending Retreat and Refresh Stroke Camp. Come early to enjoy some music and to pick up your T-shirt and swag bag! In case of inclement weather, registration fee will be considered a donation.
When: 9 a.m. May 30 (registration starts at 8 a.m.)
Where: Rock Valley College Walking Path, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $35
Car Show
What: This car show and vendor event also includes a bounce house for the kids and live music by the Rocksurfers starting at 1 p.m. Breakfast starts at 8 a.m.
When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. May 30 (registration starts at 8 a.m.)
Where: Wild Cherries Food Bar and Slots, 413 Southtowne Drive, Belvidere
Flower Fest 2026
What: Celebrate the North End’s summer kickoff all day. Pick up a passport at any participating location, explore the neighborhood and enter to win a basket filled with items from your favorite North End spots. Participating locations include Friends of the Veterans Memorial Circle, La Michoacana Mexican Creamery, Mulligan’s, North End City Market, Plume, Rockford Billiard Café, Rooted, The GOAT Pub and Grill, The Norwegian, The Olympic Tavern and Winnie Nutter. Tour the flowers planted at Veterans Memorial Circle this year. Meet co-chairs Helen and Ernie for a tour at 12:30 or 3 p.m.
When: May 30
Where: North End businesses, Rockford
LAMA Midwest Fundraiser Ride
What: This is a 100-mile scenic ride to Starved Rock Harley-Davidson that includes a 50/50 Poker Run. The first 25 registered riders will receive a free 2026 Midwest Region Rally Patch. 30% of the registration funds will be donated to a charity chosen by the chapter with the most attendees. Everyone is welcome to join the ride.
When: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. May 30 (registration starts at 8 a.m.)
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: $15
Beginners Only Open House: Rockford BMX
What: If you or your child loves riding bikes and you’re looking for something exciting beyond traditional sports, this is the perfect place to start. Check out the track, try BMX racing and meet the local BMX community. Experience the thrill of BMX racing in a fun, friendly, zero-pressure environment designed just for brand new riders. Bring water, closed-toe shoes, long pants, long sleeved shirt, bicycle and helmet. Loaner bikes and helmets are available. There will be beginner-friendly instruction for kids age 3-17. Parents can try it, too. Participants must be able to ride a two-pedal bicycle unassisted. Spots are limited so register in advance.
When: 10 a.m. – noon May 30
Where: Rockford BMX, 4950 Safford Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Family Creek Walk
What: Join a BCCD educator on a family-friendly creek walk to explore Kinnikinnick Creek. Keep your eyes peeled for organisms big and small that call this creek home. Please wear appropriate footwear and clothing for walking in the stream. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. This program will be cancelled if water levels are too high for safe exploring.
When: 10-11:30 a.m. May 30
Where: Kinnikinnick Creek Conservation Area, 18200 Caledonia Road, Caledonia
Vintage and Makers Outdoor Market
What: This outdoor vendor market features a curated mix of vintage vendors and antique finds, handmade goods, local artisans, unique gifts, handmade candles, artisan skincare, home décor and boutique-style items. Enjoy live music from local musicians, local food trucks, shopping small and supporting local businesses. This family-friendly event is held rain or shine.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. May 30
Where: Best of Beloit Vintage Market, 1019 Gardner St., South Beloit
Cost: Free admission
Celebrate Summer Party
What: Kick off the summer season with the South Beloit Public Library and M&M Dari Ripple. Come-and-go activities include lawn games, fun fair games and a nature scavenger hunt. At the free community garden swap, you can bring what you don’t need and take what you want including seeds, tools, plant starts and knowledge. There will be crafts, temporary tattoos and buttons inspired by the theme, “Plant a Seed, Read.” Participants will receive coupons for a treat at Dari Ripple.
When: 10:30 a.m. – noon May 30
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 308 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: Free
Hogs & Doggies
What: Lunch is served from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. or while it lasts. The PAWS adoption event runs until 2 p.m.
When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. May 30
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Faith in Bloom Market
What: Holy Vine & Co. presents its first outdoor riverside faith-inspired market where women-owned businesses come together. The event will feature faith-based creations, nature-inspired goods, apparel and handcrafted offerings alongside live worship music, fresh floral experiences, homemade bread, local honey and more. Enjoy shopping local, celebrating faith and supporting small businesses.
When: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. May 30
Where: Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Spring Paws and Paint
What: At this spring craft event, your dog gets to get creative and make a fun spring craft with their paws and paint for you. Supplies are provided. There must be one person per dog. Dogs must be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, at least six months old and must be dog and human friendly. Any dog that shows signs of aggression will be asked to leave.
When: 1-3 p.m. May 30
Where: Perks Family Equine Center at Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford
Cost: $25
Frankie’s Car Show
What: Frankie’s is partnering with 815 Tournaments to support a youth hockey tournament. Registration fees and 25% of all food sales will be donated to help athletes thrive. Bring your car and your crew to support the future of youth sports. There will be prizes and trophies for first through third place winners, music by DJ Joe Locke, free giveaways while supplies last, tournament swag and more. Buy pizza by the slice.
When: 1-4 p.m. May 30
Where: Frankie’s Pizzeria, 6935-11th St., Rockford
Cost: $5 car registration; food available for purchase
Revenge of the Cryptids Art Show
What: Revenge of the Cryptids features Lizard Man live. Enjoy music, freak show entertainment and Cryptid/spooky-inspired art of all kinds. From 4-8 p.m., there will be an all ages meet and greet with Lizard Man. At 8 p.m., guests must be age 21 or older for live music and entertainment show from Lizard Man for a $10 admission fee. Enjoy live music from King of the Demons, Super Brick, Burgess Shale; and art by Phoenix Morningstar, Leo Agular, Cris @crispymade, Sean McIntosh, Anibal Crespo, John Billman, Christian Dawson, Brittany Darcy, Lyric Rose Ellis, Kate Mayo, Wendy Flores, Becca Houlihan and Kenniy Auth.
When: 4-8 p.m. May 30
Where: The McPherson, 1210 Buchanan St., Rockford
Murder at Machesney Airfield
What: Step into 1928, become a real historical character, interrogate a murder suspect and race your team to solve a crime. Murder at Machesney Airfield is a fully immersive murder mystery experience set on Aug. 15, 1928, the night before pilot Bert “Fish” Hassell’s legendary Great Circle Route flight from Rockford to Sweden. Barnstormer Distillery is recreating that night inside its aircraft hangar and event grounds on South Main Street. Teams will compete to solve the murder before the killer escapes. There will be five period-inspired food stations and prohibition-era craft cocktails.
When: 5:10 p.m. May 30 (tent bar and check-in at 4 p.m.; hangar doors open at 5 p.m.)
Where: Barnstormer Distillery, 6969 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $125-$225; discount available for Aviator club members
Sum Function Hometown Premiere
What: Celebrate the hometown premiere of “Sum Function,” the 2026 award-winning documentary following America’s all-veteran wheelchair rugby team as they fight to reclaim connection, identity and purpose after tragedy. After earning national recognition on the film festival circuit, “Sum Function” returns to Rockford for a one-night-only screening—bringing together the cast, community, veterans, families and supporters who made it possible. The film was produced and co-directed by Rockford-area native and Marine Corps veteran Noah Currier. After the screening, stay for a live 30-minute “Behind the Scenes” Q&A with the filmmakers and members of the Oscar Mike Militia.
When: 7 p.m. May 30 (red carpet and doors opening at 6 p.m.)
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $33-$56
Neil Bloom Short Film Showcase
What: Enjoy an evening of locally-made cinema with the RPL Artist in Residence, Neil Bloom. This short-film showcase features five original short films written and/or directed by Neil Bloom in collaboration with members of Forest City Cinema Community, the growing network of Rockford filmmakers and on-screen talent Bloom is building here.
When: 7:05 p.m. May 30 (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: RPL Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10
Concerts on the Creek: Trinadora Rocks
What: The show will feature the music of Roy Orbison and Linda Ronstadt.
When: 7-9 p.m. May 30 (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Spring Creek Church, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission; $10 freewill donation encouraged to pay performers
Kickoff to Summer Comedy Night
What: Call to reserve a table. The event is hosted by Rockford’s Kevin Haas. Guest feature Chicago-based Dina Lewis shares her unique take on life’s chaos. The main feature is Dan Garcia, a Chicago-based comedian, producer and filmmaker. He runs a weekly show at the legendary Butch McGuires on Division. Headliner Sonal Aggarwal is back for her makeup date. Chicago-based Sonal is a comedian, actor and movement artist. Line-Ups are subject to change.
When: 8 p.m. May 30
Where: Hope and Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park
Cost: $10 cover
Country Rock Night
What: Get ready to rock out with Hillbilly Rockstarz.
When: 8-11 p.m. May 30
Where: Neighbors Bar & Grill, 7745 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park
Random AF
What: Random AF will be playing all your favorite songs.
When: 8 p.m. May 30
Where: Shattered, 5440 N. Second St., Loves Park
The Rockford Card Show
What: Bring your cards to the show to make deals with the vendors. There will be more than 80 tables full of sports cards, TCG and related collectibles. Minted cards will be set up. Drop off card grading submissions to PSA and SGC. The event offers the opportunity to buy, sell or trade.
When: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. May 31
Where: IBEW 364 Henry Miller Hall, 6820 Mill Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Freedom 250 Mobile Museum
What: A fleet of six mobile museums known as “Freedom Trucks” are traveling throughout 2026, bringing the story of American independence to students, families and citizens in every corner of the country and near many military communities. The exhibits tell the story of how 13 colonies declared independence, defeated the greatest empire in the world and secured American sovereignty 250 years ago. With quizzes, a kiosk to sign your name digitally to the Declaration of Independence and a wall of 50 American heroes, these exhibits celebrate the remarkable achievements that 250 years have made possible.
When: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. May 31, June 1 and June 2
Where: Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Paint with a Goat
What: Enjoy a morning of painting with a goat. P&C Little Rascals will be bringing one of their goats to roam while you paint. The ticket price does not go towards the price of the pottery. All guests attending must have a ticket. Ceramics prices start at $10 and include the paints and kiln firing. You can choose any ceramics on the shelves including cute farm animal pottery pieces. Limited spots are available. Advanced registration is required for entry.
When: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. May 31
Where: Pottery Lounge, 312 N. Alpine Road, Suite 104
Cost: $10 plus cost of ceramics selected
Spring Shop-a-Trunk
What: Join Youth Movement’s Shop-a-Trunk for shopping, food, music and community. Support local vendors, discover unique items and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere. There will be a food truck and an ice cream truck on site.
When: 11 a.m. May 31
Where: Boone County Museum of History, 314 S. State St., Belvidere
Beer Yoga on the Patio
What: Coach Jessica will lead a beginner-friendly yoga class with a variety of yoga poses and techniques. Pick a can from a selection of PMBC beer or a soft drink to incorporate into the yoga class itself. Tickets are available at the door and include an hour-long yoga session as well as your choice of a can of beer or soft drink.
When: Noon May 31
Where: Pig Minds Brewing Company, 4080 Steele Drive, Machesney Park
Cost: $20
Memorial Adaptive Bike Expo
What: The first Audrey Cismesia Special Needs Bike Expo will feature at least 15 adaptive bikes to try, experts to help fit and educate about picking out an appropriate bike. There will be entertainment and activities for everyone, with Phantom Regiment, rock painting, bike riding demonstrations, a YMCA of Rock River Valley spin class and therapy dogs. The Superhero Center for Autism will have a sensory tent and there will be food trucks, including Kona Ice of Rockford and Cantina Taco. There will be several area vendors and service organizations that support individuals with disabilities in obtaining adaptive equipment, accessing resources and participating in sensory-friendly activities.
When: noon – 4 p.m. May 31
Where: Harlem High School, 9229 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park
Mountain Bike Riding Skills
What: This is a mountain bike skills clinic for kids in grades K-8. Helmets are mandatory for all participants. Basic skills instruction includes bike part knowledge, pre-ride safety check, mount and dismount technique, start and stop pedaling technique, riding position, braking technique, trail scanning and turning the bike, using gears, hill climbing and descending technique, riding trails and basic race day etiquette. Register online. Enter the park, go to the main side and go to the Puri Crest picnic area.
When: 1-4 p.m. May 31 (check in between 12:30 and 12:45 p.m.)
Where: Rock Cut State Park, 7318 Harlem Road, Loves Park
Cost: $40
LGBTQ+ Veterans March
What: National factors like Executive Order 14183 which bans trans individuals from serving in the military, along with other forces working to suppress the LGBTQ+ community and its opportunities have created a fearful environment that trickles down to the local level. Traditions created for Rockford Pride such as the annual flag raising for LGBTQ+ veterans are being challenged and rolled back year over year. This is a visibility and solidarity march for LGBTQ+ veterans and military to honor their service and to create visibility for these larger issues in the queer community. Gather at the corner of E. State and Third Streets near the Faust, march together down the parade route and gather near Memorial Hall for a ceremonial flag raising.
When: 2 p.m. May 31
Where: East State and Third Streets, Rockford (near the Faust)
Carden International Circus
What: The Carden Circus is bringing its all-new 2026 Spectacular Show including animals, acrobats and magical illusions. Arrive one hour early for free pre-show fun the whole family will love: animal rides, giant inflatables, ride the Circus train, fabulous face painting and hands-on activities for every age.
When: 3-5 p.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. May 31
Where: Boone County Fairgrounds, 8847 IL-76, Belvidere
Cost: $10-$40; one child ticket free with each paid adult ticket
Harvey’s First Sunday Pig Roast
What: Harvey Wallbangers is kicking off its first summer open with a patio pig roast. Cost includes three smoked meats and two backyard-style fixings.
When: 3-7 p.m. May 31 or until food is gone
Where: Harvey Wallbangers, 519 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $29
Guided Full Moon Hike: Blue Moon
What: Wander the park at night and experience the woods in a new way, navigating only by the light of the full moon and stars above. May’s second full moon is called the Blue Moon. A Blue Moon is a rare occurrence when there are two full moons in a single month. That is why the phrase “once in a blue moon” exists. This kind of moon only happens once every few years.
When: 8:30-10 p.m. May 31
Where: Atwood Center, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford
Cost: $5
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 1 is from Rockford native Berkeley Stenstrom, a singer songwriter with an indie pop sensibility performing originals as well as covers from artists like Ashe and FINNEAS, Post Malone, Cindy Lauper and Adele.
When: 6-9 p.m. June 1
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Pride Storytime
What: Celebrate Pride 2026 with a story time for all ages.
When: 10:30-11:30 a.m. June 2
Where: Rockford Public Library – East Branch, 6685 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free
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 June 2 is the Rock ‘n’ Roll Institute; the main act is Dueling Pianos with Anthony Sanders of Chicago. This event is held Tuesday evenings through Aug. 25. The parking lot fills early; parking and complimentary shuttle service is available from the College of Medicine to the Visitors Center. Blankets, lawn chairs and small tables are welcome. Carry-in picnic suppers are welcome; no outside beverages are allowed; bags will be checked at entry.
When: 5:45 p.m. opening act; 6:30 p.m. headliner June 2
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $13; $12 for seniors; $11 for students and military; free for children age 5 and younger and premium garden members
Riverdance 30: The New Generation
What: Riverdance is a fusion of Irish and international dance and Grammy award-winning music. To celebrate its 30th year milestone, Riverdance will embark on a special anniversary tour. This production rejuvenates the original show with new choreography and costumes and state of the art lighting, projection and motion graphics. For the first time, Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when show began 30 years ago.
When: 7:30 p.m. June 2
Where: Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $60-$227
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 June 3 is the Stevee Nix. The market runs Wednesdays through August.
When: 5-8 p.m. June 3
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 3 is the Ivy Ford Band.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. June 3
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Wizard of Oz
What: Step into a world of wonder as Dorothy Gale and her little dog Toto are whisked away from Kansas by a tornado and land in the magical Land of Oz. Along the Yellow Brick Road, they meet a Scarecrow searching for a brain, a Tin Man longing for a heart and a Lion seeking courage. Together, they journey to the Emerald City in hopes that the great and powerful Wizard can help them all find what they’re missing. Filled with beloved songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “If I Only Had a Brain,” this timeless classic celebrates friendship, bravery and the joy of discovering that “there’s no place like home.”
When: 7:30-10 p.m. June 3-June 6 and July 8-July 12
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 from middle school through college; $12 for children age 12 and younger
Pollinator Garden Workshop
What: Join Anderson Japanese Gardens staff in the revamp of the pollinator garden, led by local plantsman Roy Diblik. Help us replace our current pollinator garden with a new design focusing on attracting native insects. Roy will begin the workshop with a briefing about best practices for creating pollinator gardens. Participants will then work with Roy and garden staff to lay out and plant the new garden.
When: 9 a.m. – noon June 4
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $25; $20 for members
Rockford Midtown Market
What: Shop for farm-fresh produce and more Thursdays from June 4 through Sept. 24.
When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. June 4
Where: Inside Katie’s Cup Coffee Bar, 502 Seventh St., Rockford
Dinner on the Dock
What: Enjoy live music, food and beverages and dockside views. Lawn chairs are welcome for the concert side. Want the full dockside dinner experience? Make reservations on the dining side and enjoy dinner right by the water while the music plays. The entertainment June 4 is from Three Good Men. The Three Good Men are a spinoff version of Northern Illinois favorites Men of Our Times, in an informal, acoustic set.
When: 5-10 p.m. June 4
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission, parking and entertainment
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Glitzy Garage Sale, David Spade among 35 things to do in Rockford area
Reporting by Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star / Rockford Register Star
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