AKC-sanctioned Agility Trials
What: Agility trials are competitive sporting events in which handlers guide their dogs through a complex, timed obstacle course. Dogs are evaluated on speed, accuracy and the ability to follow the handler’s verbal cues and body language. This competition brings competitors from across the Midwest. There are 350 runs each day.
When: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. June 26 – June 28
Where: Forest City Dog Training Center, 6303 Material Ave., Loves Park
Cost: Free to watch
Puppy Pals
What: Puppy Pals LIVE brings adopted and rescued dogs performing stunts and tricks in this family-friendly event. There will be four 30-minute shows at: 10 or 11 a.m. and 12:30 or 1:30 p.m.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 26
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Included with general admission; free for members
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. 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 26 is Rockford City Market Jr.; the main stage will feature Rollin Whiskey and the acoustic stage will have Andrew Robinson.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. June 26
Where: Water Street at East State Street, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Live at the Wooden Handle
What: Enjoy a seasonal outdoor concert series featuring live music performances from regional artists alongside local food trucks. Guests can relax and enjoy an evening of live entertainment, community atmosphere, and local flavors with a performance by Don’t Tell Mom and food from Tamaleland Food Truck on June 26.
When: 5-8 p.m. June 26
Where: West Rock Wake Park at Levings Lake, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Kelly James exhibit opening reception
What: Experience “Find Your Light,” a new exhibition by artist Kelly James. Through luminous paintings that celebrate light, color and mindful observation, James explores the beauty and meaning found in everyday moments—from sunlit landscapes and sparkling glassware to the humble treasures of a garden. Drawing on a lifelong fascination with light and its transformative power, James’ work reflects a journey of discovery, gratitude and self-awareness. Meet the artist and enjoy an evening of art, conversation, wine and light appetizers at the opening reception.
When: 5:30-7 p.m. June 26
Where: Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford
Cost: Free
We the Native People
What: Award-winning Ojibwa author Kim Sigafus discusses the experiences and lives of Native Americans at the time the Declaration of Independence was signed. She will emphasize the impact of the document and western expansion and how fundamental differences between the newer government and Native peoples ultimately led to conflicts. Kim will then lead the audience further into the lives of Native people through a traditional story and song, while allowing them the chance to join in. Please register in advance.
When: 6-7:30 p.m. June 26
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: Free
Heritage Days
What: Belvidere’s annual Heritage Days features a laser light show and foam party, farm breakfast, Paint on State, 5K run, car show, vendor fair, Smokin’ Gunz and Grunge Unplugged, Silver Creek Band, bounce houses, a parade, fireworks, dunk tank fundraiser, Hamblock Ford’s tent to support Habitat for Humanity. This is a family-friendly event with many activities throughout Belvidere.
When: June 26 and June 27
Where: several locations throughout Belvidere
Cost: Both free and paid activities
Music on the Mall
What: Music on the Mall is located in Center Court near Cora Physical Therapy. The entertainment on June 26 is Date Night.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. June 26
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 Madison Mallards both dates.
When: 6:35 p.m. June 26 and June 27
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $10
‘The Effects of Gamma 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. Rockford Players Guild presents this play. See how something beautiful and full of promise can emerge from even the most barren, afflicted soil.
When: 7:30 p.m. June 26; 2 and 7:30 p.m. June 27; 2 p.m. June 28
Where: Cheek Theatre at Rockford University, 5050 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $11-$23
‘9 to 5 The Musical’
What: Based on the hit film, “9 to 5 The Musical” follows 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. Filled with humor, heart, and a touch of country sparkle, this high-energy show celebrates the power of teamwork and standing up for what’s right.
When: 8 p.m. June 26 and 2 p.m. June 27
Where: Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $28; $26 for military, seniors 65 and older, RVC employees, and teachers; $17 for students junior high through college; $12 for age 12 and younger
Firecracker 5K Run
What: The annual 4th of July 5k race event, held the Saturday before the 4th, is suitable for walkers and runners of all levels. Register online.
When: 8 a.m. June 27
Where: Winnebago Park District, 201 W. Soper St., Winnebago
Cost: $35
Joe Coots Memorial Golf Outing
What: Registration fee for the second annual golf outing includes 18 holes of golf with cart, lunch on the course, dinner and auction at Hot Rod Nellie’s. All proceeds benefit the Winnebago Junior Tackle Football program.
When: 8 a.m. June 27
Where: Lynx Golf Course at Westlake Village, 3820 Westlake Village Drive, Winnebago
Cost: $100
Fix-It Fair
What: Sustain Rockford is hosting a fix-it fair. Community volunteers will help repair small household items and mend clothing for free. Bring your items (three item limit) no later than noon for the best chance at getting it repaired/mended. We will mend clothing (no zippers) and repair lamps, bicycles, small appliances and electronics, but no computers, printers or phones.
When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. June 27
Where: Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Daytime Rave and Views
What: This event is a family-friendly daytime coffee rave meant to bring people together to be taken in by the art in the mural alley as well as the large mural in the parking lot on the other side of 316 W. State St. Three of Rockford’s finest DJs will be spinning electronic dance/fusion music while attendees sip on local coffee and refreshers. Food from local vendors will also be available for purchase. Interactive art, live artists and multiple photo opportunities will be on site.
When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. June 27
Where: Mural Alley, 308-316 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Severson Dells 50th
What: Celebrate Severson Dells Nature Center’s 50th Anniversary with hands-on nature activities for kids, crafts, guided hikes, displays highlighting the center’s history, cake, an on-site food truck and more. No registration is necessary.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 27
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 N. Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Cruise-In
What: Cruise-in for food specials, a 50/50 raffle benefiting A Mothers Love and giveaways.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 27
Where: The Full Plate Family Restaurant, 2033 Harlem Blvd., Loves Park
Community Health Fair
What: This fair is part of National HIV Testing Day for awareness and action. There will be free rapid HIV testing, glucose testing and blood pressure screening. Get health education. Learn about PrEP, Apretude and YEZTUGO. There will be games, inflatables and food trucks. Free food for the first 200 guests.
When: 10 a.m. – noon June 27
Where: Crusader on Broadway, 1100 Broadway, Rockford
Cost: Free
The Bizarre Bazaar
What: The Bizarre Bazaar is a good way to unload board games you never find the time for, find a new army or to get some games you’ve always wanted. Come trade or barter with other attendees. There will be tables in the Game Center for attendees who bring miniatures, tabletop games, board games, TCG cards or hobby adjacent knickknacks.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. June 27
Where: Cataclysm Tabletop Gaming, 8289 Burden Road, Machesney Park
Lemonade Hop
What: Participating businesses in the River District will be serving creative twists on lemonade. There will also be themed specials, promotions, pop up events, exclusive products, giveaways and more. Take your drink on the go by grabbing an Entertainment District signature blue cup at a participating business. and you can ‘hop’ around with your lemonade.
When: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. June 27
Where: downtown Rockford
Hogs and Dogs
What: Grab some lunch and support local groups in the riding community. The meal includes a hot dog, bag of chips, and your choice of bottled water or a can of pop. While there is no set fee, donations are welcomed and appreciated. The crew from the Blue Knights IL V will be grilling and serving the food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or while it lasts. The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club, is a non-profit fraternal organization consisting of active and retired law enforcement officers who enjoy riding motorcycles.
When: 11 a.m. June 27
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: donations
International Mud Day Celebration
What: Join Rockford Park District’s Nicholas Conservatory to celebrate International Mud Day outdoors on the grounds of Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens. International Mud Day was started in 2008 and is celebrated by children all over the world as a way to connect with nature through the earth. This event will include muddy activities, games, educational experiences and more. Participants can also bring a shirt or other items to do mud-tie dyeing. Registration is not required. Dress for getting muddy. Hose-down stations will be available, however, a change of clothes for the ride home is suggested.
When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 27
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free
LGBTQ+ Book Club
What: There will be a monthly discussion of LGBTQ+ books. Meet and connect with other book lovers to discuss books of interest and discover your next great read. Meetings will be from 11 a.m. to noon the third Saturday of each month for thoughtful discussion of a wide variety of titles from fiction, romance, science fiction, comics, non-fiction and more. Any book featuring LGBTQ+ characters, themes, or stories may be selected. New members are always welcome to drop in on this informal gathering of book lovers.
When: 11 a.m. – noon June 27
Where: Rockford Public Library WREX Room, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Clayfest
What: Clayfest is a celebration of the rapidly growing Rockford ceramic arts community. There will be a ceramic artist pop-up market, demonstrations by ceramic artists, an RPS205 K-12 exhibition, educational clay resources and a community clay project.
When: Noon – 6 p.m. June 27
Where: Inferno Clay Studio & Gallery Space, 123 S. Madison St., Rockford
Kids Water Bingo
What: This fun bingo for kids includes everything water-related for summer fun: water balloons, slip & slides and more.
When: Noon June 27
Where: Shattered, 5440 N. Second St., Loves Park
Cost: Free to play
Shirland Freedom Festival
What: Enjoy a full day of small-town fun, community spirit and a fireworks show. There will be live music all day, food trucks, kids’ activities and a craft and vendor market.
When: Noon – 10 p.m. June 27
Where: downtown Shirland
Pork in the Park
What: The Annual Pork in the Park features a bags tournament at 1 p.m. Registration starts at noon and there is a $40 fee per team. Hear live music from Osiris at 1 p.m., Hank’s Neighbors at 3 p.m. and Dead Man’s Hand at 7 p.m. Food is Included with entry (one plate per person). The outdoor bar is cash only and has limited beer, seltzers and cocktails. The ride starts at Neighbors Bar and Grill for $20 per rider and $10 per passenger. Proceeds benefit Walter Lawson Children’s Home.
When: 1 p.m .June 27
Where: Crazy Times Pub and Grub, 1520 Glen Forest Drive, Machesney Park
Cost: $10
Dinner with the Founders
What: At this immersive, historically inspired evening, guests will step into 1776 becoming the Continental College and engaging with the men of the “Party of Five” who shaped this country. The five will be portrayed by local actors and celebrities. Period clothing is encouraged, but not mandatory. Funds will help Veterans Memorial Hall and Museum honor veterans and help Pec Playhouse Theatre build their new theater. The event will conclude with a patriotic sing-a-long. Registration and social hour is from 3 :45-5 p.m., with dinner at 5 p.m. and program at 6 p.m. Advance registration is required; there is limited seating.
When: 3:45 – 9 p.m. June 27
Where: Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $80
4th of July Barkin Bash
What: Celebrate 250 years of America in style with patriotic vibes, pup-friendly fun and all things summer. There will be classic barbecue favorites, a food truck and live music. Bring your friends, your family and your dogs decked out in their best red, white and blue.
When: 4-9 p.m. June 27
Where: DOGGO Sit Stay Play, 5129 Forest Hills Court, Loves Park
Car Show
What: The Bucciferro Family McDonald’s has joined with the Gentlemen’s Car Club and other new clubs this year. DJ Joe Locke will provide music. Check out the cars, kids’ remote car racing, games and prizes at this family-friendly event. Food specials include $2 burger and fries and 50-cent ice cream cones.
When: 5-8 p.m. June 27
Where: Bucciferro Family McDonald’s, 930 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
Cost: Free; food specials available
Bootleg Soul
What: Come celebrate 15 years of Bootleg Soul in the band’s first public show of 2026.
When: 5-9 p.m. June 27
Where: Mortimer’s Roadhouse, 105 W. Grove St., Poplar Grove
LynSkynrd Live
What: LynSkynyrd is the Midwest’s premier Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Band with an authentic stage show that captures the vintage 70s Skynyrd band. This band has the period correct guitars, the costumes and the female backing vocalists, the Honkettes, too. You’ll hear all Skynyrd classics, plus many deep cuts.
When: 7 p.m. June 27
Where: Neighbors Bar & Grill, 7745 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park
Derek’s Farewell Show
What: This is Derek’s farewell show as he leaves Some Friends of Mine for a new journey.
When: 7-11 p.m. June 27
Where: Louie’s, 5689 Elevator Road, Roscoe
Karaoke in Cahoots
What: Get in Cahoots and grab the mic. Whether you’re ready to steal the spotlight or just enjoy the entertainment, Karaoke Night is all about having fun together. Bring your friends, your favorite song, and maybe a little courage. This event is for all ages.
When: 7-10 p.m. June 27
Where: Cahoots, 314 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission and karaoke
They Speak
What: Dorothy Paige-Turner presents a staged reading series celebrating the breadth and brilliance of African-American storytelling. Experience a collection of poetry, drama and storytelling—from the dreams and wisdom of Langston Hughes, to inspiring women whose spiritual experiences have too often gone untold, to the bold theatrical plays of Rockford native Nathan Alan Davis. Each event offers a unique opportunity to engage with remarkable artists, ideas and histories.
When: 7:30 p.m. June 27 and 4:30 p.m. June 28
Where: West Side Show Room, 1414 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free; donations encouraged
The Handcuffs with Monkey Mind
What: Chicago’s The Handcuffs will be playing a show at one of their favorite venues, Mary’s Place in Rockford. The Handcuffs features Brad Elvis of The Romantics and The Elvis Brothers on drums. Brad Elvis and Chloe Orwell formed The Handcuffs from the ashes of Big Hello, their first band together. Completing the line-up are bassist Emily Togni, lead guitarist Charlie Short and keyboardist Carolyn Engelmann. Joining The Handcuffs will be local band, Monkeymind. Mike Banks’ latest project Monkeymind features includes local musicians Rob Bradley, David Spencer and Doug Marocco.
When: 8-11 p.m. June 27
Where: Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St., Rockford
The Prince Experience
What: Guests must be 21 or older to attend the show; ID is required. Since 2002, Gabriel Sanchez has been portraying Prince in his critically acclaimed show The Prince Experience. What started off as Gabriel portraying Prince in a local theatre production of Purple Rain has expanded into a full-blown loving tribute to Prince. This is a general admission event.
When: 8 p.m. June 27 (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $33-$81
First Anniversary Celebration
What: Celebrate the business’ first anniversary with music and food, and check out the rides in the bike and car show.
When: 1-9 p.m. June 28
Where: Country Boy BBQ, 500 Chrysler Drive, Belvidere
Domingos En El Parque
What: Bring your lawn chairs, invite your friends and family, and experience a Sunday filled with culture, rhythm and local pride. On June 28, enjoy entertainment from two local Latino groups and a DJ who had major influence in entertainment for the Rockford Latino community from 1990 through the early 2000s. The entertainment will highlight ‘80s and ‘90s Spanish rock and pop, as well as local talented Mexican traditional sounds like Banda, Norteño and Sierreño. This event will also include an open mic/talent time, dance performances, artist displays, live beauty art and vendors.
When: 2-8 p.m. June 28
Where: Levings Lake Unity Pavilion, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
African Americans in Early Rockford
What: As part of its America250 celebrations, Tinker Swiss Cottage’s Summer Lecture Series will focus on the early history of the Rockford community. Local historian Amanda Becker will present the June lecture, “Early African Americans in Rockford.” Lewis Lemon is well known as a co-founder of Rockford but there were many other influential African Americans in Rockford, such as businessman Isaac Wilson, barbers Reuben Armstrong and the James Williams families. Hear also about the Anna Williams trial and the attempted lynching of an African American man at the courthouse.
When: 2-4 p.m. June 28
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum & Gardens Barn lower level, 411 Kent St., Rockford
Cost: $10; $5 for members
Heritage of Healing
What: The Stateline Nurses Network invites veterans, healthcare professionals, families and history enthusiasts to this commemorative event. Heritage of Healing celebrates a landmark 250th anniversary of nursing. Come recognize the unwavering spirit of those who care for our community and our country. Experience a performance by Lynn Rymarz as she brings to life “The Women: The Story of the Two Army Nurses in Vietnam.” This moving narrative offers a personal look into the courage and dedication of nurses serving on the front lines. Connect with local veterans and healthcare workers. While this event is free to attend, seating is limited. Pre-registration is required.
When: 2-4 p.m. June 28
Where: Veterans Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
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 29 is from Ethan Larson. Larson is a country-rock singer/songwriter from rural Illinois. He started writing songs as a teenager, and by 17 was performing in bars, music halls, and county fairs throughout the Midwest. Over years of live performances and touring, his sound has grown and been refined into a unique blend of introspective songwriting and raw instrumentation. In February, he released his sophomore album.
When: 6-9 p.m. June 29
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Carnivorous Plants and Other Herbaceous Oddities
What: Explore the world of carnivorous plants at the Botanical Curiosities: Carnivorous Plants & Other Herbaceous Oddities display running from June 30 through Oct. 18. The display features several species of carnivorous plants, including Venus flytraps, pitcher plants, trumpet plants, butterworts, and sundews, as well as other botanical curiosities with extraordinary adaptations including plants that move, leaves that trap and otherworldly flowers. The theme is also featured at the Conservatory’s Garden Gate gift store, where whimsical and educational carnivorous plant-themed items are available. Reduced admission rates apply for children, youth, seniors, and veterans.
When: Recurring daily except for Mondays, June 30 – Oct. 18
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: $10; $8 for seniors 62 and older or ages 5-17; $5 for ages 3-4; free for age 2 and younger
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 30 is 40 North of Rockford; the main act is Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts of Rockford. 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 30
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
‘Forest City Yester-Queer’
What: Hear Andrew Mertzenich speak about what inspired him to write a Rockford history LGBTQ+ book, his favorite historical queer Rockfordians, and how our town has experienced LGBTQ+ issues over decades. His book sheds light on the more “invisible” stories of the LGBTQIA+ history of the area. Mertzenich now presents a detailed account of the people and places that made the rainbow rise in Rockford from stories of a local transgender soldier in the civil war all the way to a first-hand account of Rockford’s First Official Pride Parade.
When: 6-7:30 p.m. June 30
Where: Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Jams
What: Come hear the Rockford Concert Band’s “250th Anniversary Patriotic Concert” directed by Mark Rose, with trumpet soloist Mark Baldin and vocal soloist Patte Lund.
When: 7 p.m. June 30
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
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 1 is That Gurl. The market runs Wednesdays through August.
When: 5-8 p.m. July 1
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 July 1 is Reverend Raven and the CSABs with Westside Andy Linderman.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. July 1
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Stevee Nix Band
What: Enjoy an evening of live music, food and sunset views. Bring your own chair or relax at one of the tables. There will be wine specials.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 1
Where: Alchemy at Aldeen, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Hump Day Paddle
What: Join Rocktown Adventures for a Hump Day Paddle, a low key, social paddling get together. Rocktown staff are out on the water with you, so in addition to meeting other paddlers, you will walk away with some knowledge. This paddle event is a great introduction to paddling on moving water. The paddle starts and ends at the boat ramp next to the Prairie Street Brewhouse.
When: 6-7:30 p.m. July 1 and Wednesdays through Aug. 12
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse dock, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: $20 if need kayak; free with own kayak
Garden Explorers
What: Garden Explorers fosters meaningful connections between children, parents, and caregivers by inspiring them to explore the world together. Community figures share lively, 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 2, the reader will be Rockford’s Mayor Thomas McNamara. Afterward, children can enjoy a program from “Hoo” Haven. This event is geared toward four- to six-year-olds, but children of all ages are welcome.
When 9-10 a.m. July 2
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens pavilion, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
250th Anniversary Film Series
What: A film series at the Nordlof Center, J. R. Sullivan Theater, celebrating 250 years of American independence. The film on July 2 is the PG-13 rated “Independence Day.”
When: 5:30-9 p.m. July 2
Where: J.R. Sullivan Theater at the Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission and popcorn
Rockford Jams
What: Rockford Jams (formerly Music in the Park) 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. Arrive early for best seating; ending time is approximate. July 2 performer is American English, with a special guest performance by Lady and the Tramp. This is a prime concert; admission fee helps the park district continue this music series each year. Limited VIP tickets available. Bring a picnic to enjoy or buy concession items on site.
When: 6 p.m. July 2
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: $5; 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 2 is from Swingbilly RFD. Swingbilly RFD is a Rockford-based band that plays straight-up 40’s-50’s honky-tonk and Western Swing.
When: 6-9 p.m. July 2
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission, parking and entertainment
1776
What: Celebrate Independence Day with a concert presentation of the revolutionary musical “1776.” Join John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and the rest of the Continental Congress as they debate, argue and ultimately declare America’s independence. Presented in concert form, this special one-night event highlights the stirring score, sharp wit and inspiring spirit of the Tony Award–winning classic. With a full cast and live orchestra, audiences will experience the birth of a nation through song, humor and heart.
When: 7:30-10 p.m. July 2
Where: Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $25; $13 for children
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Lemonade Hop, Clayfest among 41 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
