As summer transitions into fall in the Forest City, it doesn’t mean the fun doesn’t stop! Gear up for a season filled with vibrant festivals and events. Whether you’re a local looking to make the most of your fall days or a visitor planning your next adventure, this guide will help you navigate the fairs, festivals and events taking place in September in the Rockford region!

Roscoe Lions Fall Festival ( September 6 - 8)

  • Where: Leland Park, 5727 Broad Street, Roscoe, IL
  • What to Expect: Activities include a beer garden, Bingo tent, parade on Sunday, 50/50 raffles, carnival rides and games, and great food. It is one of the longest running events of its kind in the Stateline area.

Tamale Fest (September 7)

  • Where: 5909 E. State Street, Rockford, IL
  • What to Expect: Rockford's Largest Latino event celebrates its 8th year! Over a dozen food trucks all selling their normal menus plus tamales, lucha libre, a car show like no other in the area that includes a hop contest, plus live music and DJs to keep the good vibes going all day & into the night! Large variety of alcohol, including cocktails, hard seltzers, domestic and import beers, and non-alcoholic beverages!

Greenwich Village Art Fair (September 14 & 15)

  • Where: Rockford Art Museum Grounds
  • What to Expect: As one of the oldest continuous outdoor art fairs in the Midwest, the Greenwich Village Art Fair is a must-see for art enthusiasts. Explore the works of over 100 juried artists, enjoy live music, and indulge in gourmet food and drinks. The event supports the Rockford Art Museum, making it a great way to enjoy the arts and give back to the community.

greenwich

Prost at Prairie Street (September 14)

  • Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co.
  • What to Expect: Don your lederhosen and enjoy a weekend of traditional German festivities. Oktoberfest at Prairie Street Brewing Co. features authentic German food, craft beers, Stein holding competition, traditional glass steins and games for all ages. Prost!

Fall Festival at Murphy’s Pub and Grill (September 20)

  • Where: Murphy’s Pub and Grill, 510 S. Perryville Road, Rockford, IL
  • What to Expect: Fall festival with our neighbors and great music by some local and not-so-local bands. Perryville Rd business block at one spot, with plenty of different items and information.

¡Culturafest! Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration (September 21)

  • Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center
  • What to Expect: An indoor and outdoor celebration that highlights the Hispanic/Latino community. With an outdoor block party that leads into performances and histories onstage within the theater, the committee is certain that this event will be part of the story to advance cultural impact in Rockford.

Rockford City Market (Fridays through September 27)

  • Where: Water Street, Downtown Rockford
  • What to Expect: Every Friday evening, Rockford’s City Market buzzes with local vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere make it the perfect way to kick off your weekend. Bring the family, grab a bite, and soak in the local culture.

World War II Days (September 28 - 29)

  • Where: Midway Village Museum
  • What to Expect: Visitors to World War II Days engage in elaborate 1940s displays in historical buildings on the museum’s 148-acre campus, which becomes the back drop of a European village during World War II. This military re-enactment is known to be the largest in the Midwest and draws thousands of visitors yearly to the Rockford region and the museum grounds.

World War II Days

60th Annual GSR Oktoberfest (September 28)

  • Where: 100 Heart Blvd
  • What to Expect: Authentic German cuisine by Cafe 20, cultural & souvenir booths, fun for all ages (children's area), stein holding contest, tapping of the keg with Mayor Jury, crowning of Miss Oktoberfest 2024, and traditional German dancing.

Oktoberfest

Harvest Haus Artisanal Oktoberfest Market (September 29)

  • Where: Hidden Creek Estates
  • What to Expect: Get ready for a day of authentic German fun and fall festivities at the Hidden Creek Estates Oktoberfest Fall Market! For just $10 admission, you’ll enjoy lively polka music from the Die Musikmeisters Band, and the chance to dive into exciting contests like barrel rolling, stein holding, and sausage eating. Explore over 50 artisan craft vendors and discover unique handmade treasures. 

Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the arts, enjoy live music, or simply explore the local food scene, there’s something for everyone. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and get ready to experience the best of Rockford from now through September!

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