Our calendar of events is jam-packed with family festivals and fun! There are so many things to do in Rockford that you will probably find yourself running out of time. From a SPLASHtacular day at Magic Waters Waterpark and CoCo Key Water Resort to the largest street festival in Illinois, On the Waterfront, there's always something going on in the Rockford Region.
08/29/2010 - 09/04/2010
EVENTS
4/25/2010 - 9/19/2010
A Tribute to the Butler Family - Ethnic Heritage Museum African American Gallery
A TRIBUTE TO THE BUTLER FAMILY - ETHNIC HERITAGE MUSEUM AFRICAN AMERICAN GALLERY
April 25, 2010 - September 19, 2010
Recurring weekly on Sunday
Times: Sundays: 2pm-4pm; Group tours can be arranged by calling the museum. (04/25-09/19)
Location: Ethnic Heritage Museum
Address: 1129 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61102
Phone: (815) 962-7402
Email: ehm1129@comcast.net Website: www.ethnicheritagemuseum.org Admission: Donations appreciated
Description: This exhibit showcases the accomplishments of three women: Elizabeth Peterd-Standfield, a former owner of a local dress design business, 1993 Lifescape Super Senior Award recipient, and one of Rockford's oldest living citizens (turning 100 this May), the late Elizabeth Butler, former model and social activist in Chicago and Rockford, and E. Faye Butler, Broadway and recording artist currently starring in "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" in Baltimore, MD.
Subarea: Rockford Southwest
Directions: From I-90 and U.S. Business 20 (E. State St.): West 6.5 miles on Business 20 to IL 2 southbound (S. Church St.). Turn left (south) on IL for a little over one mile; museum is on the right-hand side of the street. From I-39: Go west on Bypass U.S. 20 to IL 2 (N. Main St.); turn north on IL 2 to the museum on the west side of the street.
5/5/2010 - 10/27/2010
Farmers Market - Edgebrook
FARMERS MARKET - EDGEBROOK
May 05, 2010 - October 27, 2010
Recurring weekly on Wednesday
Times: Market open every Wednesday 9am-1pm; Demonstrations on select Wednesdays 9am-11pm (05/05-10/27)
Location: Edgebrook parking lot
Address: 1601 N. Alpine Road, Rockford, IL 61107
Contact: Andrea Mandala
Phone: (815) 398-8957
Email: amandala@orputcompanies.com Website: www.edgebrookshops.com Admission: FREE
Description: Dozens of local farmers display their highest quality vegetables, fruits, flowers, and plants at the longest running Farmer’s Market in the area. In conjunction with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, this year the market includes a unique 12 week program that will occur on select days, free of charge. "Learn Great Foods" will present cooking demonstrations using specialty crops available in the market that day. Experienced chefs will share recipes, facts and the health benefits associated with these items. The first 100 individuals will be able to take home their very own complimentary foodbook (1 per person) with a new foodbook being distributed at each scheduled demonstration. Please visit the Edgebrook website for specific dates and times. More details about "Learn Great Foods" can be viewed on their website.
Subarea: Rockford Northeast
Directions: From I-90 (south and east): Exit at E. State St. and go west to Alpine Rd. Turn north on Alpine. From the north: Exit I-90 at Riverside Blvd. and go west to Alpine Rd. Turn south on Alpine.
Co-Host Website: www.learngreatfoods.com.
5/6/2010 - 10/28/2010
Farmers Market - Cherryvale
FARMERS MARKET - CHERRYVALE
May 06, 2010 - October 28, 2010
Recurring weekly on Thursday
Times: Thursdays 9am-1pm (05/06-10/28)
Location: CherryVale Mall
Address: 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford, IL 61112
Contact: Sheryl Brennan
Phone: (815) 871-1557
Email: brennan48@charter.net Website: www.shopcherryvalemall.com Admission: Free
Description: Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh baked goods, plants (annuals and perennials), fresh flowers and hanging baskets.
Subarea: Rockford Southeast
Directions: Harrison Avenue and Perryville Road, near I-90/I-39/ U.S. Bypass 20
5/6/2010 - 10/30/2010
Farmers Market - Main Street Square
FARMERS MARKET - MAIN STREET SQUARE
May 06, 2010 - October 30, 2010
Recurring weekly on Thursday, Saturday
Times: Thursdays and Saturdays: 9am-1pm (05/06-10/30)
Address: Hwy 251 and Williams Dr., Roscoe, IL 61073
Phone: (815) 623-9065
Website: www.roscoechamber.com Description: Browse seasonal produce, flowers, crafts and home-made jams from stateline farms. Located in parking lot of small shopping mall offering butcher shop, gift shops, bank, and coffee house.
Mailing Address: 5310 Williams Dr.
Subarea: Roscoe
Organization: Roscoe Area Chamber of Commerce
5/7/2010 - 10/29/2010
Farmers Market - Winnebago
FARMERS MARKET - WINNEBAGO
May 07, 2010 - October 29, 2010
Recurring weekly on Friday
Times: Fridays 3:30pm-7pm (05/07-10/29)
Location: Winnebago Village Park
Address: Main and Benton Streets, Winnebago, IL 61088
Phone: (815) 335-7617
Admission: Free
Description: Locally grown fruits and vegetables, honey, cut flowers, potted perennials and baked goods.
Subarea: Winnebago
5/9/2010 - 11/21/2010
Celebrating Italian Weddings and Traditions - Ethnic Heritage Museum
CELEBRATING ITALIAN WEDDINGS AND TRADITIONS - ETHNIC HERITAGE MUSEUM
May 09, 2010 - November 21, 2010
Recurring weekly on Sunday
Times: Sun: 2pm-4pm (05/09 through 11/21) Trapunto Workshop on Aug. 29
Location: Ethnic Heritage Museum
Address: 1129 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61102
Phone: (815) 962-7402
Email: ehm1129@comcast.net Website: www.ethnicheritagemuseum.org Admission: Free admission; donations appreciated
Tours by appointment all week (call 815-962-7402)
Aug. 29: Trapunto kits availble for $2, $3 or $5
Description: This display will showcase beautifully handmade wedding gowns from the 1900's. Also on display: "Bonbonieri," fragile glass boxes filled with "confetti" disguised as wheat and others may appear as flowers. See hand-sewn linens, satin and chenille bed coverings and more delightful Italian traditions. AUGUST 29 - Pat Aiello's "Make-it-Take-it Trapunto" workshop.
Subarea: Rockford Southwest
Directions: From I-90 and U.S. Business 20 (E. State St.): West 6.5 miles on Business 20 to IL 2 southbound (S. Church St.). Turn left (south) on IL for a little over one mile; museum is on the right-hand side of the street. From I-39: Go west on Bypass U.S. 20 to IL 2 (N. Main St.); turn north on IL 2 to the museum on the west side of the street.
5/14/2010 - 9/17/2010
"Music on the Mall" at Edgebrook
"MUSIC ON THE MALL" AT EDGEBROOK
May 14, 2010 - September 17, 2010
Recurring weekly on Friday
Times: Fri: 6:30pm-8:30pm (May 14 & 28, June 11 & 25, July 9 & 23, Aug. 6 & 20, Sept. 3 and 17)
Location: Mary's Market at Edgebrook
Address: 1659 N. Alpine Rd., Rockford, IL 61107
Contact: Andrea Mandala
Phone: (815) 398-8957
Email: amandala@orputcompanies.com Website: www.edgebrookshops.com Admission: Free
Description: On select Friday evenings from May 14 to September 17 the walkways of Edgebrook will be filled with live musical entertainment. These special nights are hosted by Mary's Market and located right outside their café. First come, first serve seating is available. Bring a date, your own chair, grab some friends and come out to enjoy a summer full of fun. Scheduled performances: May 14 - Mary Harris Duo; May 28 - After Five; June 11- Dean Moriarty Group; June 25 - Starlight Radio; July 9 - Scattered Trees; July 23 - Ryan Swanson; August 6 - Carey Sheley; August 20 - Douglas Fleming; September 3 - Clark Richard; September 17 - Miles Nielsen
Subarea: Rockford Northeast
Directions: From I-90 (south and east): Exit at E. State St. and go west to Alpine Rd. Turn north on Alpine. From the north: Exit I-90 at Riverside Blvd. and go west to Alpine Rd. Turn south on Alpine.
5/21/2010 - 10/15/2010
Farmers Market - Midtown District
FARMERS MARKET - MIDTOWN DISTRICT
May 21, 2010 - October 15, 2010
Recurring weekly on Friday
Times: Fri: 3pm-7pm (05/21-10/15)
Location: Across from Nicholson Hardware, between 7th and 8th Streets
Address: 1132 2nd Ave., Rockford, IL 61104
Phone: (815) 391-0197
Website: www.rockfordcoop.org Admission: Free
Description: Featuring Rockford's ONLY locally-grown foods and specialty crops market, it is not to be missed. Fresh food from local farms and gardens directly to your table, plus crafts, activities, and much more.
Subarea: Rockford Southeast
Directions: From I-90 and U.S. Business 20 (E. State St.): West on E. State to the intersection with Charles/7th St. (7th St. is at the intersection where U.S. 20 turns right to leave E. State.) After the left turn on Charles, turn right immediately onto 7th St. and go south to the next block. From the south and west: exit Bypass U.S. 20 at 11th St. and go north to the end, Charles St. Turn left on Charles and then left again on 2nd Ave. Follow 2nd Ave. to 7th St.
5/22/2010 - 10/23/2010
Farmers Market - North End Commons
FARMERS MARKET - NORTH END COMMONS
May 22, 2010 - October 23, 2010
Recurring weekly on Saturday
Times: Saturdays 8am-Noon (05/22-10/23)
Address: 1416 N. Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103
Phone: (815) 978-3071
Website: www.northendcommons.com Description: Purchase fresh seasonal produce, cut flowers, plants and bakery items in North End Commons' annual farmers' market.
Subarea: Rockford Northwest
Directions: 1 block west of N. Main, south of Auburn St.; from I-90 and E. State St.: West on E. State to Perryville Rd. Turn right on Perryville and go north to Spring Creek Rd. Turn left on Spring Creek, which will become Auburn when it crosses the Rock River and turn left at Main St. Go south to the first right hand turn, King St. and turn right. Turn right into the parking lot. From the downtown, go north on IL 2 (N. Main St.) to King and turn left.
6/4/2010 - 9/30/2010
Anders Hultman Art Exhibit "Sweden Through My Eyes" - Anderson Japanese Gardens
ANDERS HULTMAN ART EXHIBIT "SWEDEN THROUGH MY EYES" - ANDERSON JAPANESE GARDENS
June 04, 2010 - September 30, 2010
Recurring daily
Times: Mon-Thu: 9am-5pm; Fri: 9am-9pm; Sat: 9am-4pm; Sun: 10am-4pm (06/04-09/30)
Location: Anderson Japanese Gardens
Address: 318 Spring Creek Rd., Rockford, IL 61107
Phone: (815) 229-9390
Website: www.andersongardens.org Description: Anders Hultman will exhibit his native Göteborg through intimate dream-like paintings that capture the warmth and musicality of his everyday life. Painting in oil, gouache and acrylic, Hultman brings his characters to life with old wooden houses and small gardens.
Subarea: Rockford Northeast
Directions: From I-90 and E. State St. (U.S. Business 20): Go west on Business 20 to IL 251 (N. 2nd St.). Turn right (north) on IL 251 to Spring Creek Rd. Exit on Spring Creek Rd. and move to left lane to turn left into gardens.
6/11/2010 - 10/22/2010
Farmers Market - Rockford City Market
FARMERS MARKET - ROCKFORD CITY MARKET
June 11, 2010 - October 22, 2010
Recurring weekly on Friday
Times: Fridays: 3pm-7pm (06/11-10/22)
Location: Rockford City Market
Address: Water St. north of E. State St., Rockford, IL 61104
Phone: (815) 964-4388
Email: info@rockfordcitymarket.com Website: www.rockfordcitymarket.com Admission: Free
Description: Each Friday is a different experience. The City Market offers delicious spring greens, herbs, and spring produce early on in the season. Vendors from across the region have everything from bakery goods to local retail stores' goods. Kids can participate in agricultural and nature-related activities, and for those looking for the perfect gift for their favorite City Market enthusiast there are many booths to peruse. Live music at the Market ensures downtown Friday afternoons are packed full of entertainment.
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: From I-90: Take Bus. 20 / E. State St. exit. Travel west on E. State St. about 7 miles to Water St.
7/3/2010 - 10/30/2010
Saturday Family Fun at Lockwood Park
SATURDAY FAMILY FUN AT LOCKWOOD PARK
July 03, 2010 - October 30, 2010
Recurring weekly on Saturday
Times: Saturdays: Noon-5pm, weather permitting
Location: Lockwood Park
Address: 5201 Safford Rd., Rockford, IL 61101
Phone: (815) 987-8809
Website: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/lockwood Admission: Children's Farm visits are free; Pony ring and hay rides $2 per person; Trail rides $22 per person ($24 non-resident)
Advance reservations recommended for trail rides
Description: Bring the family out to the country to enjoy Saturday afternoons at Rockford Park District's Lockwood Park in northwest Rockford. There's a covered pony ring for children ages 1-7, the Children's Farm with friendly farm animals, and horseback trail rides for riders age 8 and older (last trail ride departs at 4pm). To complete their visit, families can relax together on a scenic hay ride through the meadows and woods. Activities may close early if business is slow; to confirm hours, call 815-987-8809. The park, its facilities, and programs are wheelchair accessible. For information on adapted equipment and accessibility for people with disabilities, call (815) 987-8800.
Subarea: Rockford Northwest
Directions: From I-90: Exit at Riverside Blvd. and go west to Springfield Ave. Turn left, (south) on Springfield to Safford Rd. Turn left (east) on Safford Rd. Lockwood Park is on the left. From the south, I-39 to U.S. 20 Bypass. Go west on Bypass 20 to S. Main St. North on Main to Springfield Ave. Turn left (west) on Springfield and follow around west Rockford to Safford Rd. Turn right (east) on Safford Rd. Lockwood Park is on the left.
7/10/2010 - 9/25/2010
Farmers Market - Perryville
FARMERS MARKET - PERRYVILLE
July 10, 2010 - September 25, 2010
Recurring weekly on Saturday
Times: Sat: 9am-1pm (07/10-09/25)
Location: Perryville Rd. and Fincham Dr.
Address: South of E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: (815) 229-3000
Admission: Free
Description: Sample the season's freshest produce from local growers in this farmers' market on Rockford's far east side.
Subarea: Rockford East State
8/21/2010 - 10/31/2010
Bird Banding at Sand Bluff Bird Observatory
BIRD BANDING AT SAND BLUFF BIRD OBSERVATORY
August 21, 2010 - October 31, 2010
Recurring weekly on Sunday, Saturday
Times: Sat: Dawn to dusk; Sun: Dawn to noon - Weather permitting
Location: Sand Bluff Bird Observatory at Colored Sands Forest Preserve
Address: 10602 Haas Rd., Shirland, IL 61079
Phone: (815) 629-2671
Website: www.sandbluff.org Admission: Free
Description: Migratory birds are captured, banded and released at Sand Bluff Bird Observatory. Visitors are welcome to talk to volunteers and watch the process at one of the larger small-bird banding operations in the Midwest. A hike through restored prairies up to a high sand bluff overlooking the Sugar River is a must.
Subarea: Shirland
Directions: Located in northwestern Winnebago County west of Boswell Road, north of Yale Bridge Road, east of the Sugar River.
Co-Host Website: www.wcfpd.org
8/29/2010 - 9/19/2010
Brunch on the Terrace - Burpee Museum
BRUNCH ON THE TERRACE - BURPEE MUSEUM
August 29, 2010 - September 19, 2010
Recurring weekly on Sunday
Times: Sundays 9am-noon, weather permitting
Location: Burpee Museum of Natural History
Address: 737 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61103
Phone: (815) 965-3433
Website: www.burpee.org Admission: Brunch: $8; Museum admission: $6/residents; Browsing the shop is free.
Description: Relax and enjoy a view of the Rock River while you sip your coffee and munch on a light breakfast, read the paper or visit with family and friends. You are invited to visit the museum while you are there or browse the gift shop for something fun for yourself or a gift. Brunch includes coffee, juice, roll, fruit and newspaper. Seating is limited.
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: Burpee Museum, Discovery Center Museum and Rockford Art Museum -- From I-90 and E. State St. (US Business 20): west on Business 20 6.5 miles to IL 2 north (Wyman St., first street past the Rock River); right on IL 2 five blocks to the museum complex on the right side of the one-way street (N. Main St.). From the south, I-39: west on US 20 Bypass to IL 2 (S. Main St.); north on IL 2 through the downtown to the museum complex. Park in the Riverfront Museum parking lot or the Burpee Museum lot. An above-ground tunnel connects Riverfront Museum Park and Burpee Museum.
9/1/2010 - 9/24/2010
Forest City Queen - Rock River Cruises, Fall Meal Cruise Schedule
FOREST CITY QUEEN - ROCK RIVER CRUISES, FALL MEAL CRUISE SCHEDULE
September 01, 2010 - September 24, 2010
Recurring weekly on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
Times: See description for cruise times
Location: Dock near Trolley Station at south end of Riverview Park
Address: 324 N. Madison St., Rockford, IL 61107
Contact: Julius Rankins
Phone: (815) 987-8824
Email: juliusrankins@rockfordparkdistrict.org. Website: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org Admission: Children 4 and under/FREE
Youth 5-17/$4.50 ($5 non-resident)
Adults 18+/$5.50 ($6non-resident)
Groups of 10 or more per individual): $4 ($4.50 non-resident)
Description: Fall Meal Cruise Schedule: WEDNESDAY FAMILY FUN NIGHT CRUISES, September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 6:30-8:30pm, $10 large one-topping pizza; $12 extra-large one-topping pizza (in addition to ride fees)---FRIDAY GRAB ‘N GO 30-MINUTES LUNCH CRUISES, September 10, 17, 24, 11:30am, 12:15pm, and 1pm, $5 hot dog, burger, or grilled chicken boxed lunch (in addition to ride fees)---FRIDAY NIGHT FISH FRY CRUISES, September 10, 17, 24, 6:30-8:30pm, $21 (includes ride fee)---SATURDAY EVENING SUNSET DINNER CRUISE, September 18, 6:30-8:30pm, $21 for vegetarian pasta or $26 for prime rib, (both include ride fee). Advance reservations required (815-987-1685) at least three days in advance for all meal rides except Friday Grab 'N Go Lunch rides, which are first come-first served.
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: From I-90: Take Bus. 20 / E. State St. exit. Travel west on E. State St. about 7 miles to Madison St. Turn right on Madison St.
9/1/2010 - 5/27/2011
Rockford Park District Public Ice Skating Sessions
ROCKFORD PARK DISTRICT PUBLIC ICE SKATING SESSIONS
September 01, 2010 - May 27, 2011
Recurring daily
Times: CARLSON ICE ARENA: Mon-Fri: 11am-1pm; Fri: 8pm-10pm (beginning 9/10); Sat-Sun: 2pm-4pm (Sun. beginning 9/12)
RIVERVIEW ICE HOUSE: Tue-Thu: 3:30-5pm
Location: Carlson Ice Arena and Riverview Ice House
Address: See description for addresses, ,
Contact: Rockford Park District Ice Facilities
Phone: (815) 969-4069
Website: www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/iceskate Admission: CARLSON: $5 ($5.50 non-resident)/adult; $4 ($4.50 non-resident)/age 3-17; Free/age 2 and younger; $2/last hour only; Skate rental $2. RIVERVIEW $2 for all sessions
Description: Rockford Park District's two indoor ice skating facilities invite the public to skate for fun and fitness year-round during sessions scheduled at either Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Rd., Loves Park, or Riverview Ice House, 324 N. Madison St., Rockford. All public skating hours are subject to change - please call ahead to confirm. Both facilities have adapted equipment available for skaters with disabilities; for information on support, call 815-987-8800.
Subarea: Loves Park and Rockford
Directions: CARLSON ICE ARENA: From I-90, take Riverside Blvd exit. Travel west to Perryville Rd. Turn right (north) on Perryville Rd. to Carlson Arctic Ice Area and Sapora Playworld entrance. RIVERVIEW ICE HOUSE: From I-90: Take Bus. 20 / E. State St. exit. Travel west on E. State St. about 7 miles to Madison St. Turn right on Madison St.
9/2/2010
First Thursday Beer Tasting - The Olympic Tavern
FIRST THURSDAY BEER TASTING - THE OLYMPIC TAVERN
September 02, 2010 - September 02, 2010
Times: Thu: 7pm-9pm
Location: The Olympic Tavern
Address: 2327 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61103
Phone: (815) 962-8758
Website: www.theolympictavern.com Admission: $10 - Space is limited. Purchase ticket ahead of time to guarantee your place.
Description: Join us for Rockford's best craft beer tasting every First Thursday of the month as we let the beer geeks take over The Olympic for a few hours. $10 gets you a ticket to enjoy two hours of samples. Hard to find, seasonal, and interesting beers are what we aim for. Tell us what you like and help us build Rockford's best beer cellar.
Subarea: Rockford Northwest
Directions: From I-90: Exit at Business U.S. 20 (E. State St.). Follow Business 20 west into Rockford to IL 2 (first turn after crossing the Rock River). Go north on IL 2, which joins N. Main St., to Fulton Ave. Olympic Tavern is on the SE corner at Fulton and N. Main. The parking lot is off N. Main St.
9/2/2010 - 9/5/2010
On the Waterfront - Downtown Music Festival
ON THE WATERFRONT - DOWNTOWN MUSIC FESTIVAL
September 02, 2010 - September 05, 2010
Recurring daily
Times: Vary
Location: Downtown Rockford
Contact: Becky Genoways
Phone: (815) 964-4388
Email: 4fun@onthewaterfront.com Website: www.onthewaterfront.com Admission: Varies
Description: The On the Waterfront Festival presented by Associated Bank and FatWallet.com is Illinois’ largest music festival. Five music venues jam all day and all night with rock, R&B, country, classic rock, blues, jazz, pop, oldies, reggae, and world music. Encompassing 25 city blocks, with numerous special events and over 125 hours of non-stop music in just three days, On the Waterfront has been named one of the top three festivals in Illinois by Midwest Living Magazine. More than 50 food booths provide tantalizing fare to tempt everyone’s palette. From traditional favorites to more exotic delicacies, patrons can sample food from around the world presented by local not-for-profit agencies and organizations. Headline acts during the weekend include Weird Al Yankovic, Dierks Bentley, Adam Lambert, Hinder and Billy Idol.
9/2/2010
On the Waterfront - Extra Kick-Off Concert - Weird Al Yankovic
ON THE WATERFRONT - EXTRA KICK-OFF CONCERT - WEIRD AL YANKOVIC
September 02, 2010 - September 02, 2010
Times: Thu: 7pm
Location: Coronado Performing Arts Center
Address: 314 N. Main St., Rockford, IL 61101
Contact: Coronado Box Office
Phone: (815) 968-0595
Website: www.onthewaterfront.com Admission: $65/Front row; $35/Floor seats; $30/Balcony seats
Description: The King of Pop Culture Parody, Weird Al, will Kick-off OTW in a Brand New Way! For the first time ever, On the Waterfront will start the annual bash with two times the party, with Weird Al at the Coronado Performing Arts Center in addition to the Dierks Bentley kick-off concert on the Great Lawn Stage in Davis Festival Park that same night. "Weird Al" Yankovic, has sold more comedy recordings than any other artist in history. In a career spanning nearly three decades, he has amassed 28 Gold and Platinum albums, 7 Gold and Platinum-certified home videos and 3 Grammy Awards (with 9 nominations). An accomplished director, Al has filmed many of his own award-winning music videos, as well as clips for Ben Folds, Jeff Foxworthy, The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion, Hanson and The Black Crowes. His video for "Smells Like Nirvana," nominated for an MTV Video Music Award in 1992, was chosen by Rolling Stone as one of the "Top 100 Music Videos of All Time."
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: From I-90 and U.S. Business 20 (E. State St.): west 6.5 miles on Business 20 to N. Main (2nd street after crossing Rock River). Turn right (north) on N. Main 2.5 blocks. From I-39: west on Bypass US 20 to IL 2 (S. Main): North on IL 2 to downtown. Turn left on US 20 Business (Jefferson St.) one block to N. Main; turn right on N. Main 0.5 blocks. Event parking in ramp across from theater and in nearby lots.
9/2/2010
On the Waterfront - Kick-off Concert - Dierks Bentley
ON THE WATERFRONT - KICK-OFF CONCERT - DIERKS BENTLEY
September 02, 2010 - September 02, 2010
Times: Thursday
Location: Great Lawn Stage, Davis Park
Address: 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, IL 61101
Contact: Coronado Box Office
Phone: (815) 968-0595
Website: www.onthewaterfront.com Admission: $79.50/Gold Seats, first three rows
$33.50/Reserved seats in advance
Description: Dierks Bentley was the number one requested country performer that Waterfront patrons wanted to see at this year's festival according to surveys conducted by the On the Waterfront staff. Bentley is a multi-platinum selling country radio favorite with thirteen top 10 singles and seven number one hits such as; "What Was I Thinkin'", "Come a Little Closer", "Settle for a Slowdown", "Every Mile a Memory", "Free and Easy (Down the Road I Go)", "Feel That Fire" and "Sideways." Bentley is known for his nontraditional, edgy style of country. The Arizona native grew up on a potent hybrid of honky-tonk, bluegrass, classic country and modern rock & roll, forging his own sound along the way.
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: On the banks of the Rock River at the intersection of IL 2 northbound and U.S. Business 20 eastbound in downtown Rockford. Exit I-90 at US Business 20 (E. State St.): west 6.5 miles, staying on Business 20 when it becomes one-way) to IL 2 southbound (Church St.); turn left on Church for 4 blocks to eastbound US Business 20 (Chestnut St.); parking in ramps and nearby lots. Coming from the south on I-39, exit west on US 20 Bypass. Follow the Bypass to IL 2 (S. Main St.) and exit north. Follow IL 2 to the downtown area. Davis Park will be on the right of IL 2 when IL 2 becomes one-way and crosses eastbound US 20 Business (Chestnut St.). Park in lots and ramps on Wyman. From the west, follow Business 20 to the downtown and turn north on Wyman. From the north, follow IL 251 to US Business 20 and turn west or follow IL 2 (Church St.) to the downtown as above.
9/2/2010
Rockford RiverHawks vs. Winnepeg Goldeyes
ROCKFORD RIVERHAWKS VS. WINNEPEG GOLDEYES
September 02, 2010 - September 02, 2010
Times: Thu: 7:05pm
Location: Road Ranger Stadium
Address: 4503 Interstate Blvd., Loves Park, IL 61111
Phone: (815) 885-2255
Website: www.rockfordriverhawks.com Admission: Individual Seats $5-$15; Parking $2; Visit website for specials
Description: Rockford's professional baseball team is a member of the Northern League, an eight-team independent baseball league playing its 18th season in 2010. Specials, giveaways, entertainment and good, old-fashioned summertime baseball make a visit to the ballpark a great family outing. Promotion: Dollar Beer Night; Postgame Karaoke; Fireworks; Fan Appreciation Night
Subarea: Rockford Northeast
Directions: From the north or east: Exit I-90 right (east) at Riverside Blvd. Turn left (north) on Interstate Blvd. From the south: Follow I-39 to U.S. 20 Bypass toward Chicago; exit onto I-90 north (toward Wisconsin) and exit at Riverside Blvd. as above.
9/3/2010
First Fridays - Art, Music, Food and Shopping in Downtown Rockford
FIRST FRIDAYS - ART, MUSIC, FOOD AND SHOPPING IN DOWNTOWN ROCKFORD
September 03, 2010 - September 03, 2010
Recurring monthly on the 1st Friday
Times: First Friday of the Month in the evening
Location: Various art galleries, shops and music venues
Address: Downtown, Rockford, IL 61101
Contact: Tabatha Dougherty - WallWorx Murals, Art & Design
Phone: (815) 519-5288
Website: www.firstfridaysrockford.com Description: First Fridays is an ongoing monthly series of downtown art gallery shows known collectively as First Fridays. Each month downtown art galleries, shops and music venues work together to stay open late providing great new art, music and goods. This month's participating sites include: JR Kortman Gallery, Kryptonite, Prairie Street Gallery, Tom Littrell Studios, Swank Boutique & Gallery and Irish Rose Saloon. Information and maps will be available at all of the locations.
Subarea: Rockford River District
9/3/2010
On the Waterfront - Great Lawn Headlining Concert - Hinder
ON THE WATERFRONT - GREAT LAWN HEADLINING CONCERT - HINDER
September 03, 2010 - September 03, 2010
Times: Fri: 9:30pm
Location: Great Lawn Stage, Davis Park
Address: 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, IL 61101
Contact: Coronado Box Office
Phone: (815) 968-0595
Website: www.onthewaterfront.com Admission: $90/Gold Seats, first three rows
$28/Reserved seats in advance
Description: The American rock band Hinder, with the 2006 4x platinum single "Lips of an Angel," will be rocking the Great Lawn stage at this year's On the Waterfront festival. Hinder who proclaims that they, "take their cues from rock legends like Aerosmith, AC/DC, KISS, and Guns N' Roses, and updates them with modern guitar sounds," is known for their high energy and wild lifestyle that turns every performance into a party. This five-man Oklahoma based rock band has had nine chart topping singles since their formation in 2001, and their debut album, "Extreme Behavior," went triple platinum.
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: On the banks of the Rock River at the intersection of IL 2 northbound and U.S. Business 20 eastbound in downtown Rockford. Exit I-90 at US Business 20 (E. State St.): west 6.5 miles, staying on Business 20 when it becomes one-way) to IL 2 southbound (Church St.); turn left on Church for 4 blocks to eastbound US Business 20 (Chestnut St.); parking in ramps and nearby lots. Coming from the south on I-39, exit west on US 20 Bypass. Follow the Bypass to IL 2 (S. Main St.) and exit north. Follow IL 2 to the downtown area. Davis Park will be on the right of IL 2 when IL 2 becomes one-way and crosses eastbound US 20 Business (Chestnut St.). Park in lots and ramps on Wyman. From the west, follow Business 20 to the downtown and turn north on Wyman. From the north, follow IL 251 to US Business 20 and turn west or follow IL 2 (Church St.) to the downtown as above.
9/4/2010
On the Waterfront - Headline Concert - Adam Lambert
ON THE WATERFRONT - HEADLINE CONCERT - ADAM LAMBERT
September 04, 2010 - September 04, 2010
Times: Sat: 10pm
Location: Great Lawn Stage, Davis Park
Address: 320 S. Wyman St., Rockford, IL 61101
Contact: Coronado Box Office
Phone: (815) 968-0595
Website: www.onthewaterfront.com Admission: $90/Gold Seats, first three rows
$29/Reserved seats in advance
Description: Adam Lambert, the 2009 American Idol second place winner, brings his Glam Nation Tour to Rockford on his first U.S. solo tour. The Indianapolis born pop star released his debut album, "For Your Entertainment," in November 2009, which reached number three on Billboard 200. In his first year of performing, he was awarded Young Hollywood Award's Artist of the year and Teen Choice Awards Male Reality/Variety Star in addition to seven other nominations. Lambert's 2010 release of "Whataya Want From Me" has charted 14 on the Top 40 Charts and continues to rise.
Subarea: Rockford River District
Directions: On the banks of the Rock River at the intersection of IL 2 northbound and U.S. Business 20 eastbound in downtown Rockford. Exit I-90 at US Business 20 (E. State St.): west 6.5 miles, staying on Business 20 when it becomes one-way) to IL 2 southbound (Church St.); turn left on Church for 4 blocks to eastbound US Business 20 (Chestnut St.); parking in ramps and nearby lots. Coming from the south on I-39, exit west on US 20 Bypass. Follow the Bypass to IL 2 (S. Main St.) and exit north. Follow IL 2 to the downtown area. Davis Park will be on the right of IL 2 when IL 2 becomes one-way and crosses eastbound US 20 Business (Chestnut St.). Park in lots and ramps on Wyman. From the west, follow Business 20 to the downtown and turn north on Wyman. From the north, follow IL 251 to US Business 20 and turn west or follow IL 2 (Church St.) to the downtown as above.
9/4/2010
Rockford Speedway - Hinckley Springs Championship Countdown Night
ROCKFORD SPEEDWAY - HINCKLEY SPRINGS CHAMPIONSHIP COUNTDOWN NIGHT
September 04, 2010 - September 04, 2010
Times: Sat: Gates open at 5pm; Green flag waving at 7:07pm sharp
Location: Rockford Speedway
Address: 9572 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111
Contact: Rockford Speedway Box Office
Phone: (815) 633-1500
Website: www.rockfordspeedway.com Admission: $10/adults; $5/Ages 6-11; Free/Age 5 and under
Description: A full slate of action is on tap headlined by the Stanley Steemer NASCAR Late Models and their tight points battle up front. Also in action will be the Bargain Hunter Sportsman, Budweiser American Short Trackers and Mtn Dew RoadRunners, plus the Sam's Drive-In RoadRunner Challenge Forwards/Backwards Race. The evening is capped off by a fireworks display.
Subarea: Rockford Northeast
Directions: Intersection of Forest Hills Rd. and Rt. 173. Exit I-90 at IL 173 and go west to Forest Hills Rd.
9/4/2010
Summer Jam
SUMMER JAM
September 04, 2010 - September 04, 2010
Times: Sat: 11am-5pm
Address: 1000 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61101
Contact: SWIFTT, Inc.
Phone: (815) 965-3606
Website: www.swiftt.org Description: End summer with a bang at "Summer Jam" presented by SWIFTT (South West Ideas for Today and Tomorrow) and WNTA 1330 AM. There will be prizes, food vendors, entertainment and music.
Subarea: Rockford Southwest
Directions: From I-90 and U.S. Business 20 (E. State St.), west on Business 20 to downtown Rockford. After crossing the Rock River, turn left on Church St., IL 2. Follow IL 2, which will join S. Main St. From the south and west: follow U.S. Bypass 20 to S. Main (IL 2); go north on S. Main St.