Every year on August 15, the Rockford region proudly celebrates 815 Day, a fun and meaningful nod to the area's 815 area code. To celebrate a city that is so great, the community comes together to showcase all the things that make the 815 so special. From local business specials and live music to pop-up events and family-friendly activities, 815 Day is all about highlighting the pride, creativity, and spirit of the Rockford region. This year, we have an exciting new addition: RockYard Music Fest is coming to Davis Park in Downtown Rockford on August 14 & 15, and it's bringing a full lineup of live music, activities, food, and vendors to complete your list of 815 Day festivities. It's the perfect time to explore, connect, and experience what makes the area unforgettable.
Restaurants & Food + Drink
The 815 is a great place for foodies. That means that enjoying some delicious food and beverages is a perfect way to celebrate Rockford this year! With some priced specially for the weekend, these deals are bound to satisfy your taste buds and your wallet.
- 640 Meats – Celebrate 815 Day with an 8-ounce raw salmon fillet for $8.15 on August 15. The celebration continues all weekend with a Smoked Tri Tip Sandwich for $8.15.
- Aero Ale House – Celebrate 815 Day with select appetizers and cocktails for $8.15.
- Bucciferro Family McDonald's – Enjoy a 20-piece Chicken McNuggets® and two Medium Fries for $8.15 at participating locations.
- Cheezy's Grilled Cheeses – Stop by from 11 a.m.–5 p.m. for the award-winning Big Cheezy Meltz for $8.15. Available for dine-in or carryout while supplies last.
- Chick-fil-A Rockford – Open the Chick-fil-A app in the Rockford area on August 15 to receive a FREE Original Chicken Sandwich. Rewards can be redeemed from 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
- Cold Stone Creamery – Enjoy a Love It® or Gotta Have It® Signature Creation for $8.15 all weekend at the Rockford location.
- Dunkin' – Beginning at 8:15 a.m., the first 10 guests at participating locations will receive a FREE $5 Dunkin' Gift Card. No purchase necessary.
- Ernie's Midtown Pub – Enjoy an $8.15 brunch from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., plus $8.15 smash burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, veggie wraps, bruschetta, shot-and-beer combos, and KO Cheesecake slices. Happy Hour runs from 4–5 p.m., and every guest is entered to win a $50 gift card with drawings every two hours.
- Johnny Pamcakes – Enjoy the 815 Classic Maid-Rite, 815 Rise & Shine, or Red, White & 815 Stack for $8.15. Kids 10 and under can also enjoy Little 815ers specials for $5.15. Available August 14–16.
- Lino's Restaurant – Celebrate with house bottles of wine for $8.15 (dine-in), Duane's Wings for $8.15, or buy one large pizza and get a medium one-topping pizza for $8.15 (carryout only).
- Mary's Market Cafe & Bakery – Enjoy any omelette for $8.15 all day at all three locations.
- Mr. Burger – Stop in for cheeseburgers for $8.15 during this one-day-only special.
- Murphy's Pub & Grill – Celebrate Murphy's 815 Week with 15% off food for featured professions throughout the week. On August 15, enjoy 815 Night with DJ Visio beginning at 9 p.m.
- Oak & Embers – Enjoy the 815 BBQ Fries or Ember-Roasted Brussels Sprouts for $8.15, or the 815 Chicken Stack or 815 BBQ Burger with fries for $18.15.
- Plume – Enjoy Plume's house-made Suppli small plate for $8.15 and pair it with the restaurant's signature 815 cocktail.
- Sassy Mac Boys – Every small signature mac is $8.15 from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Available in-store only.
- Sugarjones – Celebrate with a 4-pack of cupcakes for $8.15 or a 2-pack of gluten-free cupcakes for $8.15.
- Top Dog Pizza & Pub – Enjoy a 6-inch one-topping personal pizza for $8.15, plus $4 Captain Morgan cocktails, $4 Jack Daniel's Flavors, $3 domestic draft beers, and $9 pitchers. Enter throughout the day for a chance to win prizes including a 50-inch TV, JBL speaker, YETI cooler, and more.
Retail & Shops
815 Day weekend is the perfect time to shop in Rockford. There are many local businesses that offer a wide variety of items to shop for. From boutiques to art galleries to Rockford swag, anyone can enjoy a day of retail therapy! Check out the offers for 815 Day weekend:
- Bygone Brand – Shop from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and receive 15% off all regularly priced, in-stock merchandise, plus free giveaways with every purchase.
- Cork Keg & Spirits – Sample eight wines during a special wine tasting from 3–6 p.m. and receive 15% off any featured wine purchased during the event.
- Eclectic Elephant – Shop the Lot beginning at 10 a.m. and browse outdoor vendors, unique treasures, and exclusive 815 Day savings.
- Edgebrook Shops – Stroll the community-wide Sidewalk Sale from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. and discover special promotions, local boutiques, and unique finds throughout the shopping district.
- Fleet Feet Rockford – Enjoy Buy 3, Get 1 Free socks, 16.3% off full-priced apparel, select markdowns on footwear and apparel, and receive a free tote bag with purchases of $200 or more.
- Flowers on River Park – Stop by from 8:15 a.m.–2 p.m. for flower bouquets or a dozen roses for $8.15, while supplies last.
- Hidden Treasures Mall & Antiques – Celebrate the Fall Open House with more than 250 vendors, free apple cider, gift card giveaways, and the special 815 Marketplace featuring locally made products and vintage treasures.
- J.R. Kortman Center for Design – Shop Rockford-inspired gifts, artwork, and the exclusive Rockford Celebrity Mug for $16, then explore the Amazons of the Diamond exhibition.
- La Fiesta Bridal – Shop select men's suits, mother of the bride and groom dresses, and select women's dresses for $81.50, plus discover additional in-store specials from 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Northern Illinois Optical – Save on eyewear with lenses starting at $81.50 and frames starting at $81.50. Exclusions apply.
- quaint. – Receive 8.15% off storewide and shop hand-painted Rockford Rocks for $8.15 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Quilted Creations Plus – Visit the 815 Day Shop On The Rock from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and purchase any pillow for $8.15, including square and bone/travel pillows.
- Rockford Rescue Mission Thrift Store – Shop from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. for a chance to win one of two 815-themed gift baskets while supporting Rockford Rescue Mission programs.
- Rock Valley Garden Center – Save 50% on succulents, perennials, shrubs, and berry bushes from 9 a.m.–6 p.m., while supplies last.
- Scavenged Parts Antiques & Oddities – Tour the backroom during a special Open House, enjoy refreshments, and receive 15% off all merchandise from 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Smiley's Vintage – Browse a special release of more than 50 vintage Rockford items, including Rockford Peaches apparel, postcards, and hometown collectibles.
- Solfire Sauna – Save 8% on one-day sauna rentals, 10% on weekend rentals, or 15% on weeklong rentals when you reserve online on August 15.
- Spin City Wear – Build a select outfit for $81.50 and shop select cologne and perfume for $8.15 while supplies last.
- SRM Prints – Receive 15% off the entire retail shop while browsing local vendors, custom chainstitch embroidery, ceramics, candles, baked goods, and handcrafted accessories from 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Thrifty Boutique Resale Shoppe – Shop the 815 Day Sale from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and enjoy 20%–50% off throughout the boutique.
Attractions & Experiences
Get outdoors, get active, explore, learn, and more! You can do any of these things at select Rockford attractions. Below is a list of those joining us in celebrating Rockford Day! Take advantage of these once-a-year offers and have a fun weekend.
- Anderson Japanese Gardens – Celebrate 815 Day with general admission for $8.15 for adults, seniors, students, and military guests. Children 5 and under and Garden members receive free admission.
- Big Timber Axe Throwing & Bar – Enjoy 30 minutes of axe throwing for $8.15 and sip from a special cocktail menu featuring $8.15 drinks while celebrating RockYard Music Fest.
- Burpee Museum of Natural History – Explore dinosaurs, fossils, geology, and natural history exhibits with admission for $8.15 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Discovery Center Museum – Enjoy admission for $8.15 and receive 8.15% off all gift shop purchases from 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- Don Carter Lanes – Bowl two games, including shoe rental, for $8.15 from 1–10 p.m.
- Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden – Enjoy admission for $8 and receive 15% off Gift Shop purchases while exploring the gardens.
- Midway Village Museum – Receive FREE admission to the museum exhibits and Victorian Village from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and enjoy 8.15% off Museum Gift Shop purchases (excluding food, beverages, and sale items).
- The Music Box – Enjoy any draft or craft beer with one rail shot for $8.15, or sip the featured Flowerin' cocktail for $8.15, while enjoying a free live performance by The Redwood Band.
- Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens – Save 15% on all new and renewed memberships when purchased in person, online, or by phone.
- Rockford Art Museum – Receive $15 off new or renewed memberships (excluding Student Memberships), enjoy 15% off Museum Store purchases, create a custom RAM patch, and spin the prize wheel for a chance to win prizes.
- Rockford IceHogs – Shop exclusive 815 Day merchandise deals, meet Hammy Hog, enjoy the inflatable street hockey rink, and take advantage of the Opening Night Flash Sale featuring $15 upper endzone tickets and the option to add a limited-edition Screw City shirsey for $15.
- Wild Roots Nature Center – Explore a special Adventure Trails program from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. and receive 8% off Wild Roots Nature Center gear plus an additional 15% off discounted Severson Dells Nature Center gear.
Additional Rockford 815 Day Weekend Specials
Wait there's more! We're not done yet. Get out and explore the Rockford community by checking out these additional deals.
- 815 Day in Downtown Cherry Valley – Celebrate 815 Day from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. with sidewalk sales, dining and shopping specials, pop-up vendors, a scavenger hunt, and an 815 Day Passport featuring participating downtown businesses and prize opportunities.
- Anytime Fitness – Join Anytime Fitness for $8.15, including your first month of membership, or choose from $815 personal training packages available through August 31.
- Artists' Ensemble Theater – Purchase an 815 Flex Pass for $81.50, including four tickets to any productions in the 2026–2027 season. Available online only on August 15.
- Believe Build Become – Purchase eight training sessions and receive one free, or sign a three-month membership agreement to receive a complimentary 815 swag bag with supplements, a personalized nutrition plan, and a Believe Build Become T-shirt.
- Broadway Corridor Business Association – Join the free 815 Day Foodie Lover's Neighborhood Walk from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. featuring local restaurants, ethnic markets, food and drink samples, and a guided tour of the Broadway Corridor. Registration is required and limited to the first 20 participants.
- Embassy Suites Rockford Riverfront – Book the RockYard Music Fest Weekend Package for August 14–16 and enjoy a two-night stay, a complimentary bottle of champagne, a $50 dining credit, made-to-order breakfast, and evening reception.
- Evolve Dance Company – Register for the 2026–2027 dance season with a special registration fee of $8.15 and enjoy studio tours, free dance classes, performances, games, and family activities.
- Jessica Metz – Licensed Massage Therapist – Save $8 on 30-minute massages, $10 on 60-minute massages, or $15 on 90-minute massages purchased on August 15 and redeemed through December 31.
- Lind-Boomer Construction – Receive 8.15% off all flooring orders throughout August while planning your next home improvement project.
- Maximum Performance Fitness Training – Receive four weeks of unlimited fitness training and nutritional guidance for just $8.15 at the Downtown Rockford location.
- Rockford University Performing Arts – Purchase season subscriptions for $8.15 using promo code 815DAY. Limit two subscriptions per person.
- YMCA of Rock River Valley – Join on August 15 and pay just $8.15 for the remainder of August while enjoying access to YMCA facilities, programs, and wellness resources.
815 Day Weekend Events
Rockford will be buzzing with fun activities, events, and things to do in honor of 815 Day weekend. Several local businesses, including restaurants, stores, and attractions, will be hosting special events for all to enjoy!
- Rockford Illinois Scavenger Hunt: Rolling Through Rockford – Explore downtown Rockford on a self-guided scavenger hunt featuring historic landmarks, local art, and cultural attractions.
- River Run – Join RAMP's annual 3K Walk/Wheel, 5K Run, Half Marathon, or Kids Fun Run for a day of family-friendly fun and competition in downtown Rockford.
- Eliminate Racism 815 Film Series – Attend a community film screening and discussion exploring social justice, equity, and community issues.
- Polish Fest – Celebrate Polish culture with authentic food, live entertainment, traditional music, and family fun at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church.
- Echoes of a Changing Planet – Experience a thought-provoking art exhibition featuring artists' interpretations of our changing environment.
- Screw City Wrestling: Backyard Brawl! – Enjoy live professional wrestling, local artists, live music, and community fun during this outdoor 815 Day event.
- CharmQuest 815 – Search parks, shopping districts, walking paths, and public spaces across Rockford for hidden handmade ceramic treasures created by local artists.
- Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity Women Build 2026 – Volunteer alongside the community to help build homes during this special Women Build event from 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
- Rockford Community Bank 815 Day Celebration – Stop by participating Rockford Community Bank locations August 14–15 for an 815 Day koozie and a sweet local treat.
- Community Shred Day – Bring confidential documents to Midland States Bank for free secure shredding from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
- 815 Day Foodie Lover's Neighborhood Walk – Explore local restaurants and neighborhood favorites during this guided foodie experience. Registration is required and limited to the first 20 participants.
- AlpineFest 2026 – Enjoy live music, bounce houses, games, crafts, a car show, train rides, free food, and family activities at Alpine Lutheran Church.
- 815 Day Build-Your-Own Bouquet Bar at Rock Valley Credit Union – Celebrate 815 Day by creating your own bouquet while visiting Rock Valley Credit Union's newest Rockford branch.
- Architecture Tour: Anderson Gardens & The Laurent House – Discover the architectural beauty and Japanese design influences of two iconic Rockford landmarks during this docent-led tour.
- Grounded at Atwood – Practice an outdoor yoga flow surrounded by nature from 9–10 a.m. at Atwood Park.
- Atwood Center Birds of Prey – Meet rescued birds of prey and learn about these remarkable raptors through one of the region's most unique wildlife exhibits.
- Atwood In the Outdoors: History Hunt – Explore Atwood Park through a family-friendly outdoor history hunt designed for all ages.
- AudaTours Rockford: Echoes of Downtown Legends & Landmarks – Experience downtown Rockford's history through a self-guided audio tour featuring legendary stories and historic sites.
- 815 Safari – Turn the Rockford region into your own safari adventure by discovering animal exhibits and attractions throughout the community.
- RockYard Pancake Breakfast – Kick off your RockYard Music Fest experience with pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee, and juice before a full day of festival fun.
- 2nd Annual Emo Summerween at District Bar & Grill – Dress up, enjoy live music, participate in a costume contest, and celebrate all things emo during this nostalgic summer party.
- Music on the Mall – Enjoy free live music every Friday evening at Edgebrook Shopping Center's Center Court.
- MLS GO Youth Soccer League – Watch young athletes compete in this MLS-partnered youth soccer league featuring multiple age divisions.
- Ethnic Heritage Museum: Jefferson-Horton American Legion Post 340 Exhibit – Explore the history and legacy of one of Rockford's longest-serving American Legion posts through this special museum exhibit.
- 815 Comedy Fest at Lucha Cantina – Laugh the night away during Night 2 of the 815 Comedy Fest featuring stand-up comedians beginning at 7:30 p.m.
- 815 Comedy Fest at The Hope & Anchor – Enjoy Night 3 of the 815 Comedy Fest with live stand-up comedy beginning at 8 p.m.
- Forest City Farmers Market – Shop fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, honey, handmade items, and more from local vendors.
- RockYard Music Fest – Celebrate 815 Day with two days of free live music, local food vendors, family activities, field competitions, fireworks on Friday, and a drone show on Saturday at Davis Park.
- Travis Tritt at Hard Rock Rockford – Spend the evening with country music star Travis Tritt during a live performance at Hard Rock Live.
- Live Music: Zach Hayes – Enjoy live music, great food, and drinks on the patio at Hidden Creek Estates.
- Fall Open House & 815 Day at Hidden Treasures Mall & Antiques – Browse antiques, collectibles, and unique vendors while celebrating the start of fall and 815 Day from 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
- Dorothy Paige-Turner & Ron Holm: Folk Music Everywhere – Enjoy an afternoon of live folk music and storytelling at Inscape Collective. Refreshments will be served.
- Amazons of the Diamond – View paintings and drawings by Chicago artist Margie Lawrence celebrating women in baseball, including the Rockford Peaches.
- 815 Day Downtown Cherry Valley – Explore downtown Cherry Valley with sidewalk sales, shopping specials, pop-up vendors, a scavenger hunt, and more.
- Live at Levings – Enjoy an evening of free live music celebrating local talent at Levings Lake Park.
- Saturday Fun on the Farm – Spend the day at Lockwood Park enjoying farm animals, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun.
- 815 Day on the Farm – Celebrate 815 Day at Lockwood Park with tractors, farm vehicles, children's activities, and hands-on experiences from 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Midtown 815 Day Celebration – Celebrate 815 Day and America's 250th anniversary with live music, food, beverages, and community fun at the Ross Pearson VFW.
- Herbalism Series: Herbal Skin Care – Learn about herbs and natural skincare during this educational hands-on workshop at Nature At The Confluence.
- Family Garden Hikes – Join a free guided family hike through Sinnissippi Gardens led by Nicholas Conservatory staff.
- Botanical Curiosities: Carnivorous Plants & Other Herbaceous Oddities – Discover fascinating carnivorous plants and unusual botanical specimens at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens.
- North End City Market – Shop fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, local products, and more at this weekly community market.
- 815 Day Shop On The Rock – Shop Rockford- and 815-themed merchandise from local makers while enjoying food trucks at this free indoor event at Riverfront Museum Park.
- Midwestern Biennial Public Exhibition – Explore contemporary artwork by regional artists during this special exhibition at Rockford Art Museum.
- Rockford City Market – Spend the evening downtown enjoying local vendors, food, drinks, live music, shopping, and community entertainment from 4–8:30 p.m.
- The Great 815 Scavenger Hunt – Search the Rockford Public Library East Branch for hidden Rockford landmarks and solve clues for a chance to win a prize.
- 815 Community Mosaic – Help create a one-of-a-kind community art installation by decorating a card that will become part of a collaborative 815 Day mosaic at Rockford Public Library East Branch.
- Shibori Tie-Dye Demonstration – Discover the traditional Japanese art of Shibori through a free fabric dyeing demonstration at Rockford Public Library Main Branch.
- We Are Hooked: Open Crochet – Bring your current crochet project or start a new one while connecting with fellow fiber artists at Rockford Public Library Main Branch.
- 815 Day Chess Club Battle: Downtown Throwdown! – Join Team Maze Books or Team Rockford Public Library for a friendly chess competition celebrating downtown Rockford.
- 815 Slimetime – Kids can create their own 815-themed slime to take home during this hands-on activity at Rockford Public Library Main Branch.
- Musical Storytime with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra – Enjoy stories, music, rhythm games, and interactive activities during this family-friendly musical storytime.
- 815 Day Book Folding Workshop – Turn old books into unique works of art during this free hands-on workshop at Rockford Public Library Main Branch.
- Share Soap, Share Hope Donation Drive – Support Rockford Rescue Mission by donating laundry soap to help provide clean clothing, towels, and bedding for individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Royal Hobby Shop Annual Model Show – Admire incredible scale models and displays created by talented local hobbyists during this free, family-friendly event.
- 815 Day Outdoor Yoga at Edgebrook – Join Sattva Yoga Spa for a relaxing 45-minute beginner-friendly outdoor yoga class at Edgebrook Shopping Center.
- Ski Broncs Water Ski Show – Enjoy a free, action-packed water ski performance on the Rock River featuring jumps, pyramids, and themed entertainment.
- 815 Day Celebration with Redwood Band – Celebrate 815 Day at The Music Box with a free live performance by local duo The Redwood Band.
- Young Ravens Studio Summer Pottery Camp – Kids ages 8–12 can explore handbuilding and wheel throwing while creating imaginative pottery projects during this week-long camp.
- Small Museums Summer Pass – Visit seven local museums throughout the summer and discover the history, culture, and stories that make the Rockford region unique.
- Summerpalooza: Old School OSD – Head to downtown Rockton for an evening of live music, family activities, and country-western themed fun.
- Adventure Trails: 815 Day Edition – Pick up a scavenger hunt mission at Wild Roots Nature Center and explore the trails during this family-friendly outdoor adventure.
