Live music, Friday Night Flix among 29 things to do in the Rockford area this weekend
The weekend brings Friday Night Flix, the annual Ice Hogs Garage Sale and Zammuto’s 100-Year Celebration, along with Pride, Father’s Day and Juneteenth events, fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Friday Night Flix: Wicked
What: Activities and food trucks will be present during the oudoor block party, which starts at 5:30 p.m. The movie starts at 7 p.m.
When: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, June 13
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Jon Bon Stamos, Emilio Salina
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. Sample local food and brews and listen to live music under the covered pavilion. Families also enjoy free weekly kids' activities. Jon Bon Stamos plays on the main stage June 13; Emilio Salinas will play on the Acoustic Stage.
When: 4-8:30 p.m. Friday, June 13
Where: Rockford City Market, Water Street at East State Street, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
River Road Trio
What: The Music on the Mall June 13 performer is River Road Trio - a suburban Chicago Country Band.
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, June 13
Where: Edgebrook Center, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
A Rock Evening with Gyasi
What: Pronounced Jah-see, Gyasi was raised in the woods of a West Virginia holler, which might as well be another planet. He approaches his music as an all-encompassing art piece, using fashion, storytelling and his guitar to create a world for his music. His debut full length vinyl is out now on Alive Records. Inspired by a wide range of art and culture, his work is fueled by a passion to create music that brings rock n roll into the 21st century. Gyasi is a modern rock star like no other.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, June 13
Where: The Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $18.85
Filipino Comedy Night
What: Enjoy a lineup of Filipino-American comedians to celebrate Philippine Independence Day at this Filipino restaurant. The show features comics Jackie Linn, Amanda Payne, Elsie How and Christi Turner.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 13
Where: 27 Aluna, 124 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10
Piano by Candlelight
What: Enjoy an evening of classical melodies by romantic candlelight from concert-pianist and music instructor, Domenic DiCello.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, June 13 (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Where: Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $25; $20 for children
Readings from the Rookery
What: Severson Dells Nature Center staff lead this program introducing children and their parents to nature books. After the story, participate in an outside nature activity that relates to the book's theme. For ages 5-9. Registration requested.
When: 9-10:30 a.m. Friday, June 13
Where: Severson Dells, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Summer Splashdown
What: This event features a foam party, character appearances, water-themed activities, creative crafts, sensory play and science experiments for all ages.
When: Friday, June 13
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Included with general admission; free for members
The Pull
What: This evening of tractor and truck pulling includes these Midwest Tractor and Truck Pullers Classes: Street Diesel Trucks; Workstock Diesel Trucks; Outlaw Diesel Trucks; 3.0 Diesel Trucks; Barnyard Gas Truck; Outlaw Gas Trucks; Pro Gas Trucks; Modified Tractors; Muscle Tractors (12,500 Farm Turbo); Illini State Pullers Classes; 6,000 Light Super Stock Tractors; 7,000 NA Super Stock Tractors. No carry-ins. Children must be accompanied by adult.
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 13 (gates open at 4:30 p.m.)
Where: Boone County Fairgrounds, Belvidere
Cost: $25; $5 for children age 10-15; free for children 9 and younger
Sparks Fly – The Taylor Swift Experience
What: Rockford Jams (formerly Music in the Park), presented by the Rockford Park District, is an outdoor summer concert series held at the Sinnissippi Park Music Shell. The June 19 performer is Sammy Jo and her Taylor Swift tribute band, Sparks Fly — The Taylor Swift Experience.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, June 13
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: $5; free for age five and younger
Ice Hogs Garage Sale
What: This end-of-year tradition gives fans the opportunity to buy discounted IceHogs and Chicago Blackhawks apparel and collectibles, as well as game-used sticks and player locker name plates. Fans interested in buying game-worn IceHogs jerseys will have the opportunity to do so again this year to support the IceHogs “Seats for Kids” program. All sales at the event will be credit card only. No cash will be accepted.
When: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday, June 13 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Team Store at BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Wendy Hacker Memorial Ride
What: Registration for the fifth annual Wendy Hacker Memorial Ride starts at 9 a.m., with kickstands up at 11 a.m. The route will be provided at registration. The ride will start at Crazy Times Pub and Grub and end at Mortimers Roadhouse, 105 W. Grove St., Poplar Grove. 100% of proceeds will be donated to one of Wendy's favorite charities: C.A.R.E. for Pets. There will be a silent auction, live music and a 50/50 raffles. All vehicles are welcome.
When: 9 a.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Crazy Times Pub and Grub, 1520 Glen Forest Drive, Machesney Park
Cost: $20 per rider; $10 per passenger
Neighbors Fest
What: Come together with friends, family and neighbors for fun, food and festivities at the 11th annual Neighbors Fest. There will be food trucks, a petting zoo, touch-a-truck with big rigs and emergency vehicles, live music, a bounce house, yard games and more. Bring chairs or blankets.
When: 4-9:30 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: 200 N. Hill St., Poplar Grove
Summer Open House/PAWS Adoption Event
What: Meet the PAWS Humane Society team and learn more about their mission to protect and care for animals. If available, they’ll also be bringing along some adoptable furry friends looking for loving homes.
When: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: The Landscape Connection, 4472 S. Mulford Road, Rockford
FatherHood Field Day
What: Rockford Park District and FatherHood United are on a mission to strengthen fatherhood, build bonds and uplift youth through hands-on activities, mentorship and community support. Whether you’re a father, mentor, role model, or just want to make a difference, your presence will help shift the culture. The event includes an obstacle course and sack races, Dads vs. Kids Tug-of-War, free food and refreshments, live DJ and community speakers, basketball competitions, financial and workforce empowerment resources, giveaways, mentorship sign-ups and volunteer opportunities.
When: Noon – 3 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Washington Park Community Center, 3617 Delaware St. Rockford
Cost: Free
Paint a Brick Day
What: Help paint The House on Main. Each person gets to pick a color and paint a brick. Catered cook out fare of hotdogs, chips and bottled water will be available. The House on Main is a gathering place for artists, thinkers, and offbeat souls.
When: 1-7 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: The House on Main, 3218 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $5 for plate of food
Mustang Show
What: Come see new and vintage Mustangs and enjoy music by the Rocksurfers. There will be food by Batch BBQ and a 50/50 raffle.
When: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Rock River Ford, 224 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Hooked on Fun Kids Fishing Derby
What: Introduce your kids to the outdoor fun of fishing. Young anglers will learn how to fish under the guidance of Forest Preserve staff and volunteers while competing for the biggest fish. Four Lakes Forest Preserve provides several shallow, small lakes. Participant prizes and a big fish trophy will be awarded.
When: Saturday, June 14
Where: Four Lakes Forest Preserve, 10207 Fish Hatchery Road, Pecatonica
Cost: Free
Hometown Handmade Market
What: This fourth annual event showcases local makers and artists. Shop more than 70 unique vendors from Northern Illinois.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
5K Wine Walk/Run
What: Get a scenic tour of the vineyards on this run. The event is rain or shine. The course is mostly cross-country style and includes some grass and uneven areas. This race is timed and scored by J3 Timing. Proceeds benefit Vets Roll.
When: 9 a.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: DC Estate Winery, 8877 Stateline Road, South Beloit
Cost: $45; $25 for ages 20 and younger
Zammuto’s 100-year Celebration
What: Zammuto’s is celebrating “100 Years of Chillin’ & Churnin’” with a summer bash. Enjoy music and entertainment, food specials and granitas, giveaways and family fun.
When: 12:30-8 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Zammuto’s, 725 Kent St., Rockford
Trans Pride Drag Show
What: Celebrate Trans Pride at this Trans pride drag show hosted by Angel Voyer and PonyBoy. The show stars Miss Office, Paris J. Valentino; Mx. Daemon Michigan Jupiter Voyer; Lola Lue from Manitowoc, Wis.; and Keri Traid of Chicago.
When: 11 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $5 Club Cover + $5 Show Entry
Car Show
What: Come see more than 100 of the best show cars in one lot. There is a $1,000 cash prize for best vehicle. Chat cars, performance and see all the 815 has to showcase with the Northern Illinois Corvette Club. There will be a 50/50 raffle, DJ music and entertainment, awards for the top 10 with separate Corvette categories and a Fan Favorite bonus prize. The Taco'n Madres and Cheezy’s Grilled Cheeses food trucks will be on site. All proceeds benefit Vets Roll, The Rock River Valley Food Pantry and PAWs Humane Society in Rockford.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, June 14
Where: Lou Bachrodt Auto Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, 7070 Cherryvale N Mall Drive, Rockford
Cost: $20 vehicle registration ($15 in advance); free for spectators
Juneteenth Celebration
What: Tommy Meeks, the Rockford’s Juneteenth Chairman will be honored at 1 p.m. Saturday for his 35 years of service organizing the Rockford’s Juneteenth celebration. Light refreshment will be available. The Rockford Reader's Theatre will present the history and celebration of Juneteenth at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 15. The ensemble of performers will tell the story of this state and federal holiday through narration, poetry and song.
When: 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 15
Where: Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free; donations welcomed
Always Late
What: The Always Late country band will perform.
When: 6:30 p.m. Sunday, June 15
Where: Baltic Mill Stage, Belvidere Park, 1006 W. Lincoln Ave., Belvidere
Honoring LGBTQ+ veterans
What: Local Girl Scout troops will raise the rainbow flag in tribute to the contributions and sacrifices of LGBTQIA+ service members. Visit a historical exhibit dedicated to Albert Cashier, a transgender soldier from Belvidere who served in the Civil War. This display offers insight into the life and legacy of a local hero whose courage on and off the battlefield continues to inspire.
When: Noon Sunday, June 15
Where: Veterans Memorial Hall & Museum, 211 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
The Battle at Levings
What Hosted by Victor Rivera, the Battle at Levings is a one-on-one elimination-style invitational competition featuring dancers from Chicago, Rockford and the surrounding area facing off before a panel of judges. Music is provided by DJ Moz Def and DJ ILLANOIZ, with live performances by Doc Heref and Micky Bang.
When: 5-8 p.m. Sunday, June 15
Where: Levings Park, 1420 S. Pierpont Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Father’s Day Hill Climb
What: Join this group ride, led by Rock River HOG Assistant Director Doug, to one of the area’s longest-running motorcycle traditions — the Father's Day Hill Climb, celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. Registration starts at 10 a.m., with kickstands up at 10:30 a.m. Vendors and concessions will be available, but there are no ATMs on-site; bring cash. The Hill Climb is at 6719 W. Pines Road in Oregon, across from White Pines State Park. If you can’t make the ride, come to the Hill Climb. Gates open at 9 a.m. and the Hill Climb action kicks off at noon sharp.
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 15
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: free to ride; $15 donation gate fee; free for children age 12 and younger
Pride Drag Brunch
What: This Pride Month Drag Brunch is hosted by Arsen. Enjoy drag performances and an all-you-can-eat dinner (with optional endless mimosas). Performers include seasoned show directors at The Office and the newly crowned Miss Office Niteclub 2025 Paris Jackson Valentino. The catered brunch buffet from ABC Catering includes fried chicken, mostaccioli, cheesy potatoes, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast, biscuits and gravy, fresh fruits, muffins, pastries and other desserts. Adult beverages are available for a separate price. Seating is limited; advanced purchase is encouraged.
When: 11:30 a.m. Sunday, June 15
Where: The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $33.85
Coming next week
Dockside Live: Derek Stoner
What: Derek Stoner retired from the U.S. Army in January of 2022. He served as a Special Forces Green Beret for 20 years. He was deployed to the Middle East 16 times. Derek’s passion for Country music stems from his roots growing up in small town America near the little town of Craig, Mo., listening to his musical heroes such as Travis Tritt, George Strait, Hank Williams Jr. Derek plays June 16.
When: 6-9 p.m. Monday, June 16
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Henhouse Prowlers
What: Tuesday Evening in the Gardens features local, regional and nationally touring musicians. June 17 headliner is Henhouse Prowlers from Chicago, with opening act, Eli Parker of Rockford. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Blankets, lawn chairs and small tables are welcome. Guests can start setting up at 5 p.m. The parking lots fill early. Complimentary shuttle is provided between UIC-Rockford and the Gardens. Carry-in picnic suppers are welcome, but carry-in beverages are not allowed. Bags will be checked upon entry.
When: 5:45 p.m. Tuesday, June 17
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $13; $12 for seniors; $11 for students and military; free for age 5 and younger
Music Through the Decades
What: The Rockford Concert Band will perform with Conductor Matt Mauizio, trumpet soloist Laura Schulz and vocal soloist Abraham Barrientos.
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 17
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
That '70s Band
What: That 70s Band will play June 18. The market opens at 5 p.m. with music starting at 6 pm.
When: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 18
Where: Settler’s Park, 165 E. Hawick St., Rockton
Cost: Free admission
Sheryl Youngblood
What: Relax and enjoy food, drink and music at this outdoor theater on the banks of the Rock River. If it rains, the event moves inside. The June 18 performer is Sheryl Youngblood.
When: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 18
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Ragtime
What: Step into the unforgettable world of Ragtime, the Tony-winning musical, based on E.L. Doctorow’s iconic novel. Set in the vibrant melting pot of turn-of-the-century New York, this acclaimed show weaves together three distinctly American stories—of an upper-class wife, a Jewish immigrant, and a daring Harlem musician—united by their courage and hope for the future. With a diverse, award-winning score blending ragtime, klezmer, and more, Ragtime is a dynamic and emotional journey that explores the American dream and its timeless contradictions.
When: 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 – Friday, June 20; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, June 21
Where: Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $28; $26 for seniors/teachers/military; $17 for students; $12 for children age 12 and younger
Dinner on the Dock: STEREOtype
What: STEREOtype is a high-energy pop-punk and rock band from Rockford. Since forming in 2019, they’ve been injecting hits from every decade with their own blend of energy and attitude—while delivering the pop-punk and rock anthems that defined the ’90s and 2000s.
When: 5-10 p.m. Thursday, June 19
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Rockford Juneteenth Celebration
What: The celebration includes live music, food, black-owned vendors bringing the culture. There will be art, activities and family fun for all age.
When: 1 -7 p.m. Thursday, June 19
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Historic District Walking Tour
What: The tour begins at Eddy Green Park at E. State and First Streets at 5:30 p.m. This tour will present a different perspective than past tours of the Historic East Rockford Historic District. Hear about recent renovations and revitalizations in the neighborhood and get a glimpse into the past and what occupied the spaces where parking lots exist today. Historic photos will be provided to illustrate changes. The architectural characteristics, details, and building style will be discussed. The tour will take approximately 80 minutes. At the conclusion of the tour, you are welcome to join the tour host, architect Gary Anderson, at Carlyle Brewing for more informal discussion.
When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19
Where: Eddy Green Park, East State and First Streets, Rockford
Cost:
Juneteenth Concert
What: A highlight of the Juneteenth celebration this year is a special partnership with Hard Rock Casino Rockford, bringing a free post-party premier concert featuring the nationally recognized, platinum-charting funk band Lakeside. Known for their hits such as “Fantastic Voyage” and “It’s All the Way Live,” Lakeside will perform at Hard Rock Casino Rockford for guests aged 21 and older, with the concert beginning at 8:30 p.m.
When: 8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 19
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.