What:   GoRockford and Rockford Park District are pleased to welcome back the Animal Rescue Expo to Rockford. This charitable pet expo, hosted by Lisa’s Little Rescue, will bring approximately 1,000 attendees. The expo has 90 vendor booths offering pet supplies, specialty products, adoptable animals, and educational resources. Attendees can enjoy wildlife encounters, including birds of prey and new for 2026, a sloth encounter (for an additional fee), along with interactive activities and more than $5,000 in raffle baskets. Proceeds from the event benefit local domestic, barn, and wildlife animal rescues.

“It’s exciting to see the Animal Rescue Expo return to Rockford and continue to grow,” said GoRockford Senior Sales Manager Kara Davis. “This event brings together animal lovers, families, and rescue organizations for a fun and meaningful experience, while supporting important local efforts that care for animals across our region.”

"We take immense pride in being the host of the Pet Rescue Expo once again, highlighting the true versatility of the Sports Factory, a facility of the Rockford Park District,” said Milton Phillips, UW Health Sports Factory Supervisor. “We can shift from hosting thousands of athletes for a tournament to providing a home for 100 animal resource vendors and on-site adoptions in a single weekend.  This flexibility allows us to support a wide range of passions and causes, proving that these sports facilities are built to serve every member of our community.”

When:  Saturday, March 21, 11 – 4 p.m.

Where: UW Health Sports Factory 305 South Madison St., Rockford, IL.

Why:    The Animal Rescue Expo serves as a fundraiser and awareness event supporting animal welfare across the region. Hosted by Lisa’s Little Rescue, proceeds help provide essential resources to local rescue organizations and promote adoption, education, and community engagement around animal care. More information can be found at https://www.animalrescueexpo.com/

Other:  Admission is a $5 donation for adults; children under 12 and veterans are free.  The sloth encounter is $20 per person and for ages 5 and up.