The weekend brings 815 Day, Summerpalooza Old School OSD, RockYard Music Fest, along with fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
815 Comedy Fest
What: The fest includes three nights of comedians hitting the stage across the 815. Sign up at 7:30 p.m. Thursday (show at 8 p.m.) at Hope & Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park. This show is free to attend. The best of three sets wins a spot in the 815 Comedy Fest shows. The Friday show starts at 7:30 p.m. at Lucha Cantina, 1641 N. Alpine Road, in Rockford. The Comedy Night Showcase starts at 8 p.m. Saturday at Hope & Anchor.
Where: Hope and Anchor, Loves Park and Lucha Cantina, Rockford
Cost: Free admission Thursday; other shows have a $10 cover
Random AF
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 Aug. 14 is Retro Rockford; the main stage will feature Random AF; the acoustic stage will have entertainment from Redwood.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. Aug. 14
Where: Water Street at East State Street, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
RockYard Music Fest
What: RockYard Music Fest debuts as part of the Rockford America 250 celebration and 815 Day festivities. This two-day festival for all ages includes live music, food and merchandise vendors, hands-on activities, competitions, yard games and community celebration along the Rock River. Enjoy performances from local and regional artists, and explore interactive experiences. The festival also features fireworks Friday and a drone show Saturday. There is a pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. Saturday. See rockyardmusicfest.com for the music lineup.
When: 4-10 p.m. Aug. 14 and 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Davis Park, downtown Rockford
Cost: free admission and activities; merchandise, food and beverages are available for purchase
Summerpalooza: Old School OSD
What: The third Summerpalooza will be a country/western style event. This block party is focused on enjoying downtown Rockton and summer days. Nauti Nauti and another great area band will perform. There will also be demonstrations by Macktown Living History, facepainting and more from Reverent Henna.
When: 4-9 p.m. Aug. 14
Where: 100 W. Main Street block, downtown Rockton
Eliminate Racism 815 film series
What: This monthly film series explores social justice, equity and community issues through documentaries and discussions. After each screening, there will be conversation and reflection about the topics presented. The documentary Aug. 14 is “AI and the Future of Work.”
When: 6-9 p.m. Aug. 14
Where: Baha’I Center, 1650 N. Alpine Road, lower level, Rockford
That Gurl
What: Music on the Mall is held in Center Court near Cora Physical Therapy. The entertainment on Aug. 14 is That Gurl. your backstage pass to the ultimate ladies’ night throwback—rocking the best female-led anthems from the 70s, 80s, & 90s.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 14
Where: Edgebrook Center, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Travis Tritt
What: The Southern rock, blues and gospel-inspired country singer, Travis Tritt will perform. His early 90s hits, “Country Club,” “Help Me Hold On,” “I’m Gonna Be Somebody” and “Drift Off to Dream” peaked at numbers two and three on the Hot Country Singles & Tracks charts. Tritt became a member of the world-famous Grand Ole Opry in 1992. He’s been a force in sports appearances, having performed at the 1996 Olympics, two Super Bowls, a World Series Game, the opening of the Georgia Dome, the final Braves game at Atlanta-Fulton Country Stadium and, in 2013, the NCAA men’s basketball championship. Tritt remains committed to delivering authentic, Southern rock-infused country sound.
When: 8 p.m. Aug. 14 (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $72-$100
815 Day
What: Rockford 815 Day, also known as 815 Day or Rockford Day, is an annual celebration held every August 15 that showcases the businesses, attractions, restaurants, artists, and community pride that make Rockford unique. Throughout the day, local businesses offer special events, discounts, and experiences across the region. Check gorockford.com/rockford-day/rockford-day-specials/ for updated listings of special events,
When: Saturday, Aug. 15
Where: Rockford, Loves Park and Cherry Valley region
Community Market
What: Check out the market until 5 p.m., then stay to play in the game room. The market will feature local artists, authors and merchandise vendors, plus food and drink vendors.
When: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Top Cut Comics, 5600 N. Second St., Loves Park
VanVleet Family Foundation Summer Jam
What: The VanVleet Family Foundation hosts this community event with food, music, games and family-friendly activities. There will be free food, inflatables, basketball skills and drills, music from a DJ, giveaways and more. Come share ideas and help shape the future of Andrews Park. There will be activities for all ages. In case of rain, the event will be held at the Northwest Community Center.
When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Andrews Park, 850 N. Central Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Herbalism: Herbal Skin Care
What: Herbalism is the ancient practice of using plants to support health and well-being. Each session starts with a brief round table discussion, then moves into a practice with herbs led by Krysta Wasilewski. This program is best suited for ages 15 and older. Please register in advance. The session Aug. 15 is about herbal skin care and caring for your skin while avoiding harsh ingredients. Nature At The Confluence is committed to providing affordable environmental education for the community. Choose the participation fee most accessible to you: either $15, $20 or $25 per person.
When: 1-2:30 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
In the Outdoors
What: explore some of the history of the place we call home! Rockford and its surrounding areas have seen countless changes from the groups that have inhabited this land in the past Take a trek back in time to see how the park was shaped by indigenous groups, soldiers of Camp Grant, Civilian Conservation Corps workers, and more.
When: 2-3 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Atwood Park, 2685 New Milford School Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Musical Storytime
What: Designed for young children and their families, this high-energy program brings stories to life through live music, rhythm games and interactive sounds in partnership with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra. Professional musicians and library staff will explore a musical theme and introduce children to real instruments to inspire a love of reading and music through singing, clapping and interactive storytelling.
When: 3-4 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Rockford Public Library main branch, rooms 115A and 115B, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford Jams
What: Come for live music from Chucked at 6 p.m., Saij at 7 p.m. and Mana Kintorso at 8 p.m.
When: 6-9 p.m. Aug. 15
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 2010 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Polish Fest
What: Celebrate Polish culture, food and traditions at the annual Polish Fest. Enjoy authentic Polish favorites, including pierogi, potato pancakes, smoked and fresh Polish sausage, along with Polish and domestic beer. The family-friendly festival features live music and dancing throughout the day, plus bingo, children’s games, raffles, Polish novelties and more.
When: Noon – 7 p.m. Aug. 16
Where: St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, 201 Buckbee St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Alpine Fest
What: The annual Alpine Fest Music and Family Fun event includes music by local groups performing all genres of music, a bounce house, crafts, games, a dunk tank, a car show, free food and more.
When: 1-5 p.m. Aug. 16
Where: Alpine Lutheran Church of Rockford, 5001 Forest Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Live at Levings: Crossroads Blues Society
What: Live at Levings 2026 is a vibrant summer-long concert and community event series at Levings Lake Park celebrating music, culture, and local talent on Rockford’s south side. On Aug. 16, Knott Us and Sheryl Youngblood will perform. Birthed from the Knotty Luxe Arts Foundation, Knott US is a multicultural youth band that provides free performing arts education while wowing audiences with a repertoire of blues rock, and soul classics. Sheryl Youngblood is a Delmark recording artist and Chicago Blues Hall of Fame inductee. She is a vocalist, drummer and music director with more than 40 years of industry experience.
When: 5-8 p.m. Aug. 16
Where: Levings Park, 1920 Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Coming next week
The Lone Canary
What: Dockside Live is a relaxed 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. The entertainment on Aug. 17 is The Lone Canary, the award-winning Americana duo of Jesse Fox and Heather Camacho, whose harmony-laced songs balance intimacy and grit, hope and heartache. Rooted in Rockford, Illinois, Fox and Camacho have been playing music together since their high school years. Their music draws inspiration from artists such as Jason Isbell, The Civil Wars, Watchhouse and Gillian Welch & David Rawlings.
When: 6-9 p.m. Aug. 17
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Deep Blue Something
What: Tuesday Evening in the Gardens is a summer tradition that brings the community together through music, nature and shared experiences. The opening band Aug. 18 is Josh Caterer of Chicago; the main act is Deep Blue Something from Denton, TX. 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. The parking lot fills early; shuttles are available from the college of medicine to the visitors center.
When: 5:45 p.m. Aug. 18
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
Winnebago County Fair
What: Experience five days of classic county fair fun. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy everything from lumberjack, livestock and horse shows and Hoo Haven and K-9 demonstrations to magic, live music, a rodeo, tractor pulls and a demolition derby. There will also be McIntyre Circus performances, midway rides and fair food, 4-H agricultural exhibits and competitions, family activities and children’s games and the nostalgia of a traditional summer fair. Live music includes Shuffle This at 7 p.m. Thursday; Madison County at 8:30 p.m. Friday and Cherry Pie from 9 p.m. to midnight Saturday.
When: 8 a.m. Aug. 19 – 6 p.m. Aug. 23
Where: Winnebago County Fairgrounds, 500 W. First St., Pecatonica
Cost: $15 season pass; $3-$7 for a daily pass; $35 for a mega pass; $30 wristbands and $80 pit passes
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 Aug. 19 is Big Stuff. The market runs Wednesdays through August.
When: 5-8 p.m. Aug. 19
Where: Settlers Park, 150 Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials
What: Enjoy live music along the Rock River during this outdoor summer concert series on Wednesday evenings. Bring or buy food and beverages. In case of inclement weather, performances move indoors, ensuring the music continues rain or shine. The performer Aug. 19 is Chicago-based Lil Ed and the Blues Imperials. The band’s big sound is fueled by Lil’ Ed’s slide work and deep blues string bending, along with his rough-edged, soulful vocals. Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials — bassist (and Ed’s half-brother) James “Pookie” Young, guitarist Mike Garrett and drummer Kelly Littleton— have remained together for more than 30 years.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 19
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Peter J. Thomas
What: Come hear Peter J. Thomas, who has been a member of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra since 2008 and has performed around the world as a multi-genre soloist, clinician, educator and chamber musician.
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Aug. 19
Where: Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Random AF
What: Random AF brings high-energy musicians, an incredible playlist, and a crowd ready to have fun. This party band keeps you dancing. From rock anthems and pop favorites to funk grooves and guilty pleasures, they’ll be playing all your random favorite hits from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and today. Select bottles of wine will be up to 30% off all evening.
When: 6-9 p.m. Aug. 19
Where: Alchemy at Aldeen, 1905 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
River Road Trio
What: Enjoy live music from River Road Trio, food, drinks and sunset views overlooking the golf course. Food service starts at 5 p.m., with music on the patio stage from 6:30-9:30 p.m. There are three bars serving your favorite beverages — two outdoor bars and one indoor bar plus tableside service. Bring your favorite lawn chair or relax at one of the available tables while enjoying the music. Outside lawn chairs are welcome, but outside food and beverages are not permitted.
When: 5 – 9:30 p.m. Aug. 20
Where: Timber Pointe Golf Club, 5750 Woodstock Road, Poplar Grove
Cost: Free admission
Eliminate Racism 815 Book Series
What: Engage in thoughtful, community-centered book discussions focused on race, equity, history, and social change. Each session offers guided conversation and shared learning. The book Aug. 20 is “Racism in America and Black Mental Health.”
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Aug. 20
Where: Montague Library, 1238 Winnebago St., Rockford
Soul Review
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 on Aug. 20 is Soul Review. The band is known for their dynamic range of music consisting of R&B, smooth jazz, funk and pop from as far back as the 60’s as well as music of today.
When: 6-9 p.m. Aug. 20
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: RockYard Music Fest, 815 Day among 17 things to do in 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
