Phantom Regiment Show of Shows
What: Experience the music and pageantry of competitive marching bands with the annual Show of Shows and live performances from drum and bugle corps from across the Midwest, including Rockford's own Phantom Regiment.
Where: Boylan Central Catholic High School, 4000 St. Francis Drive, Rockford
Cost: $25
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Rockford City Market
What: Rockford City Market features local growers and vendors who sell handmade products, including vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheeses, flowers, herbs, baked goods, wine and prepared food, as well as artisans and vendors with unique offerings. Most vendors originate within 150 miles of Rockford. Sample local food and brews and listen to live music under the covered pavilion. Families also enjoy free weekly kid's activities. The Lola Blu Band performs on the main stage July 5.
When: 4 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 5
Where: Water Street at East State Street, Rockford
Cost: free admission
Music on the Mall
What: Performance by the Joel Baer Big Band, who will play blues and jazz.
When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, July 5
Where: Center Court at Edgebrook Center near Cora Physical Therapy, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Musical Mania with Jim Gill
What: Groove and giggle with Jim Gill's interactive musical extravaganza. Jim leads an active sing-along and clap-along event where everyone jumps, spins and dances to the beat. Concerts will be inside, so seating is limited. Free tickets will be available on event day on a first-come, first-served basis. Tacos and shaved ice will be available for purchase from Cantina Taco and Kona Ice food trucks.
When: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Friday, July 5
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10; free for members or children age 1 and younger
First Friday Wine Tasting
What: Help raise money for Crusader Community Health at this wine tasting where you can sample 24 different wines from around the world. Crusader Community Health serves the Rock River Valley area with quality primary health care for all people in need.
When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 5
Where: Artale Wine Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $20 cash or check donation to Crusader Community Health
Living History Weekend
What: The living history focus will be on the Civil War and how Rockford was involved. Learn how Rockford's Camp Fuller was established along the Rock River as a recruitment camp. Visitors will learn about life in the Civil War era by engaging with costumed history interpreters in the Victorian Village. A variety of different people, technologies, lifestyles and cultures will be on display. Discover how life in the Rockford region has changed over the last 160 years and how it has stayed the same. Admission to Living History Weekends (includes entrance to the Main Museum Center exhibits).
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 7
Where: Midway Village & Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Cost: $14; $12 for seniors 62 and older or children ages 5-12
Sixth of July Cookout
What: Kegel Harley-Davidson is having a post-patriotic cook out with the grill fired up on the front lot, serving up burgers and fixings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. or until the food runs out. With your $5 suggested donation to the Wounded Warrior Project, you'll not only receive a burger, but also your choice of pop or bottled water and a bag of chips.
When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 6
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Road, Rockford
Cost: Suggested donation of $5
Bands and Barbecue
What: This event will feature live music, artists, food, alcohol and vendors. Bring lawn chairs. Entertainment by the band Too Deep starring David Tolliver and Joe Little. Also featuring Harlan Jefferson, Soul Review, the Synergy Band, DJ Neal and DJ Rated AG.
When: 1 to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 6
Where: The Lynex parking lot, 7358 N. Cherryvale Mall Drive, Cherry Valley
Cost: $25 for advance tickets
Benny’s Rock Fest 2024
What: Bands featured this year include ModiFire from noon – 2 p.m.; Sunset Strip from 3-6 p.m.; and Rock5 from 7-10 p.m.
When: 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 6
Where: Benny’s at Nest, 8790 N. Second St., Machesney Park
Brit Floyd 2024 P.U.L.S.E. World Tour
What: The Division Bell, released in 1994, is a testament to Pink Floyd’s mastery. Brit Floyd P-U-L-S-E is a tribute to the artistry of Pink Floyd. Known for their unwavering dedication to recreating the magic of Pink Floyd's music, Brit Floyd will honor The Division Bell. Audiences can expect an audiovisual experience that pays homage to the original band's unique blend of music and visual effects. P-U-L-S-E will feature a set list featuring tracks from The Division Bell, as well as classics from Pink Floyd's extensive discography. Expect a state-of-the-art light show, immersive visuals and the sounds that define a generation.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 6
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Church St., Rockford
Cost: $34 - $194
Kids Rock Painting Workshop
What: In this interactive rock painting workshop, your child can unleash creativity and self-expression. They can paint unique designs in vibrant colors on three rocks. Sign up online.
When: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 6
Where: Buckets n Blooms, 647 S. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton
Cost: $15
Garden Walk & Talk
What: Come for coffee, donuts and a walk-and-talk session. Discover the beauty and diversity of perennials as Michelle shares her expertise and passion. This event is for anyone interested in learning more about perennials.
When: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 6
Where: The Landscape Connection, 6032 Linden Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Domingues el Parque: Spanish Rock
What: Revolucion De Amor, a local tribute band to the Mexican pop rock band Maná, will perform. They celebrated their 17-year anniversary in November. They will perform several Maná hits at the newly built stage as two of its original members pay homage to their forever hometown, Rockford.
When: 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 7
Where: Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Summer Dip Class
What: Learn the art of crafting three dips: Summer Sweet Corn & Bacon Dip, Roasted Cauliflower Hummus and Greek Almond Dip (Skordalia). As you learn the secrets behind each recipe, sip on seasonal sangria, specially curated to complement the flavors of the dips. Take some home after class. Limited space; reserve your spot with a credit card number. The card number will be stored and only charged in accordance with the no-show/late cancellation policy. A final bill will be presented after dinner.
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, July 7
Where: Hidden Creek Estates, 13276 Whiteschool Road, Roscoe
Cost: $55
Coming next week
Dockside Live
What: Dockside Live, born on the heels of the iconic Dinner on the Dock is Prairie Street Brewing Co.’s answer to a more locally-focused and intimate live music experience on our dock. Dockside Live is always free and always entertaining. On Monday, July 8, Mixing Traditional Folk/Americana roots with a new-age alternative singer/songwriter feel, Sam Ness, will perform.. Live music from 6 to 9 p.m.; the kitchen is open until 9 p.m. The event is for all ages.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, July 8
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Rockford Rivets
What: The Rivets have a full week with games, playing the Waterloo Bucks) on Monday, the Kalamazoo Jackrabbits Tuesday and Wednesday and the Madison Mallards on Thursday. The Rivets’ win June 28 earned them the title of Great Lake East First Half champions.
When: 6:35 p.m. Monday, July 8, through Thursday, July 11, and 11:05 a.m. Thursday, July 11
Where: Rivets Stadium, 4502 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $12; check the Rivets website for promotions and ticket deals
Tuesday Evening in the Gardens
What: Tuesday Evening in the Gardens features local, regional and nationally touring musicians. Guests are invited to enter and set up seating area at 5 p.m. Blankets, lawn chairs and small tables are welcome. The parking lot fills up early; off-site parking at the College of Medicine with complimentary shuttle service to and from the Visitor Center. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Carry-in picnic suppers are welcome; carry-in beverages are not allowed. Bags will be checked upon entry AJ Lee & Blue Summit of Santa Cruz, Calif. will headline at 6:30 p.m. July 9, with Gerald Dowd of Chicago opening at 5:45 p.m.
When: 5:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 9
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $12; $11 for seniors; $10 for Military and students; Free for age 5 and younger or Premium Garden Members
Music in the Park
What: The concert band will perform “Around the World in 80 Minutes,” directed by Tom Huber, with flute soloist, Michelle Kittleson, and vocal soloist, Karen Kahler. Music in the Park is an outdoor summer concert series held at the open-air Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. A variety of musical performers, styles and genres are presented. Arrive early for best seating; ending times are approximate. The series consists of both free and admission fee shows, depending on the performance. Bring a picnic to enjoy, or purchase concession items.
When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 9
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free; donations accepted
Rockton River Market
What: Enjoy food, wine or wine slushies from After the Vine, the market and fun with friends. Bill & Jim’s Most Excellent Acoustic Adventure performs July 10. Friends longer than 20 years, Bill and Jim have pieced together and amassed material from past and present bands to put together a versatile set list: classic rock, country, 80's and 90's.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 10
Where: Settlers Park, 128 E. Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Science Trivia: Air Quality
What: Join us for an evening of education and fun! Enjoy pizza, learn from local experts about the urgent issue of keeping our air clean and test your trivia knowledge for the chance to win prizes. Attendees are invited to explore our newly installed trail tale, featuring the “Why is Coco Orange?” story. Trivia questions are designed for ages 8 and older. People of all ages are welcome to enjoy the evening. Please register your team of 2-4 people in advance. This event is free, and pizza from Anna Maria’s in South Beloit is included.
When: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 10
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: Free
Bike Night with Road Gliderz M.C.
What: This event is open to the public (all bikes welcome). Enjoy live music from Soul Review, cold drinks, food, raffles, patch sewing services and more. The Road Gliderz M.C. will use all proceeds from non-alcoholic beverage sales and the 50/50 raffle to help our community. Soul Review is a local group known for a range of music consisting of R&B, smooth jazz, funk and pop, playing from the 60s and beyond.
When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 10
Where: Kegel Harley Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Music on the Rock
What: Enjoy music by Jimmy Nick & Don’t Tell Mama & Joe Filisko Harp. Jimmy Nick is an old-fashioned, guitar-slinging blues prodigy who spent his teenage years being schooled by legendary bluesmen in famous Chicago clubs. Jimmy’s mission is to expose the next generation to the blues. With his motown-tight band, Don’t Tell Mama, featuring saxophone, bass, and drums, Jimmy performs on guitar, with fresh harp, clever lyrics and animated stage theatrics. Bring the family early to join the free Joe Filisko Harp Workshop at 4 p.m. and learn to play the harmonica along with the band. Buy food from Sassy Mac Boys food truck and drinks from Prairie Street Brewing Co. in Burpee’s outdoor theater.
When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 10
Where: Behind Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; food and beverages for purchase
Whiskey and Cigar Night
What: Indulge in the exclusive selection of whiskey, neat, on the rocks, or in a classic Old Fashioned. Pair your drink with premium cigars from Strike the Box Pipes and Cigars. Enhance your experience with live music and food from Hidden Creek’s locally-sourced menu. This event is open to the public.
When: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 10 and the second Wednesday each month through Oct. 9
Where: Hidden Creek Estates, 13276 White School Road, Roscoe
Farmers Rising: Family Day on the Farm
What: The barns will be open for families to come visit. Meet the goats, chicken, guinea hens, pigs and sheep. The tasting garden will also be open for your family to explore and taste test. Bring your cameras. On Farm Educators will help supervise, explain and answer questions. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the picnic area and outdoor gathering space. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes and outdoor clothes. Rain or shine.
When: 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, July 10
Where: Farmers Rising, 1545 Rockton Road, Caledonia
Dinner on the Dock
What: The 2024 Dinner on the Dock Music offers guests food, locally brewed craft beer and locally and nationally recognized musical acts. Come by car or boat and relax on the dock. The performer for July 11 is Chicago cover band, The Student Body, providing an entertaining play on all the cliques that ruled your school. The band will play all your favorite high energy party anthems.
When: 6 to 11 p.m. Thursday, July 11
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; table and boat slip reservations available
Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts
What: Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts will be performing an outdoor concert. There will be food trucks (Javi's Tacos, Rustic Oven Pizza and J&C Old Fashioned Ice Cream), an outdoor grill and a cash bar outside. Gates open at 5 p.m., with opening act, the Lola Blu Band at 6 p.m. Miles Nielsen starts at 7 p.m. Bring lawn chairs. All benefits go to the Family Peace Center. The Country Club will be grilling hot dogs and hamburgers.
When: 5 p.m. Thursday, July 11
Where: Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St., Rockford
Cost: $25
Seeds at Sunset
What: Join the Rockford Park District’s Natural Areas team on this stewardship evening, collecting native seeds in the prairie. These seeds will help expand high quality areas within the nature preserve. Tools, snacks and water provided. Please wear long pants and closed-toed shoes.
When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 11
Where: Searls Memorial Park, 4650 Safford Road, Rockford
Music in the Park
What: Thunderstruck, America’s AC/DC tribute band, provides the sound, energy and experience of AC/DC. Music in the Park is an outdoor summer concert series held at the open-air Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. A variety of musical performers, styles and genres are presented. Arrive early for best seating; ending times are approximate. The series consists of both free and admission fee shows, depending on the performance. Bring a picnic to enjoy, or purchase concession items.
When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 11
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: $5
Beats & Bites
What: The Summer Garden Beats & Bites themed event features seed packet and small planter giveaways, games, local food trucks, vendors and music. There is a veterans/patriotic theme July 11. Cousin’s Maine Lobster will be on site on July 11.
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 11
Where: 118 Church St., Lot 5, Rockford
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