Looking for something to do this weekend in the Freeport area? Here are 7 upcoming events

This weekend brings The Krape Park Art Walk and Loran Fest, along with fundraisers, live music, back-to-school events and more to the Freeport area.

Krape Park Art Walk

What: The Krape Park Art Walk will cultivate an artisan marketplace to foster connections between local artists and those who value unique, handmade treasures. This one-day art fair features artists, live music and a variety of regional food vendors. For the whole family. Krape Park offers its own amenities as well including paddling yellow creek, mini-golf, and a historic carousel.

When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17

Where: Krape Park, 1799 Park Blvd., Freeport

Cost: Free

Loran Fest

What: This weekend festival includes music, food and entertainment starting with Wild Wrek from 8-11 p.m. Friday. On Saturday, the tractor parade starts at 1 p.m. Just 4 Fun Band plays from 2-6 p.m. and Route 38 plays from 8 p.m. – midnight. Vendors include Here and There Farms (salsa flights and more), Ebenezer Salem Church (pie and cupcakes), Pepper Peeps LLC (eggs, house plants and more) and Cozy Tufts (custom rugs).

When: 8-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16 and 1 p.m. – midnight Saturday, Aug. 17

Where: Slurp ‘n Burp, 4319 S. Loran Road, Pearl City

Celebration Gala

What: The Foundation for Northwest Illinois hosts this celebration of its legacy of 50 years of community engagement with a look to the promise of the future of a thriving Northwest Illinois. Attire is cocktail casual.

When: 5:30-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17

Where: The Rafters Restaurant, 9426 W. Wagner Road, Lena

Cost: $50

Beer for the Brave

What: This event is a fundraiser for the Marine Vets MC - Darkhorsemen Chapter, whose members work together to help support local veterans. Test your might with the Tough Man games. See how far you can toss a keg, empty of course. See how long you can hold a filled growler. Games are pay to play, with proceeds benefiting the club. Axe Throwing from Haulin' Axe will be on site. Gabe Schillman will be playing from 4 – 7 p.m. on the deck. Darkhorsemen Wheat Ale with $1 of each pint and six-pack will be featured, also benefiting the club.

When: 1-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17

Where: Lena Brewing Company, 9416 W. Wagner Road, Lena

Tommy Bowman Live Music Event

What: Tommy Bowman, a recent Dakota graduate, will play acoustic country hits on the patio. Come support this local talent.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17

Where: Route 75 Bar & Grill, 320 E. Main, Dakota

Ricky M Dog & Pony Show hosted by the Cedarville Lions Club

What: Enjoy a day filled with sponsors and vendors showcasing products and services. All proceeds will benefit Leader Dogs for the Blind. Win prizes in the 50/50 raffle or silent auction while contributing to this cause.

When: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18

Where: Stephenson County Fairgrounds, 2250 S. Walnut Road, Freeport

Cost: Free admission

Back to School Bash

What: There will be more than 150 backpacks filled with a 45-item school supply kit given away on a first-come, first-served basis. Enjoy pizza, burgers, hot dogs and chips. Activities at the event include an inflatable obstacle course, a dunk tank and a bounce house plus other yard games.

When: Noon – 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18

Where: Orangeville Football Field, 295 E. School St., Orangeville

Coming next week

Heritage Farms in Seward & Winnebago Townships

What: Learn about some of the oldest farms in Seward & Winnebago Townships from family descendants: Beuth, Brauer, Cross, Heeren, Johnson, McClure, W. Smith and Watson. Celebrate the designation of the Whitney farm as a Centennial Farm. There will be farm and family memorabilia on display. Presenters will be available to respond to questions.

When: 6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19

Where: Seward Congregational Church, 3029 S. Pecatonica Road, Seward

Puzzle Palooza

What: Enjoy a puzzle palooza event. Please get your team signed up by Aug. 14.

When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21

Where: The Real McCoy’s Bar & Gaming, 504 N. Stanton St., Davis

Medicare 101 with Josh Smith

What: Uncertain about what Medicare options you have or how the Inflation Reduction Act will affect Medicare? There may be money-saving alternatives for you. Learn more about Medicare.

When: 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22

Where: Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St., Freeport

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Looking for something to do this weekend in the Freeport area? Here are 7 upcoming events