The second weekend in August features family fun for everyone, starting with the Boone County Fair and ending with the annual Polish Fest.
Here are 28 things to do in the area this weekend and a few next week:
Boone County Fair
What: The annual fair returns with livestock, a carnival, vendors, live music, classic fair food and so much more.When: Tuesday, Aug. 8 through Sunday, Aug. 13.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
Location: 8847 Illinois 76
Cost: General admission $8 on Tuesday through Thursday and $10 Friday through Sunday. Children 10 and under are free every day. Seniors 65+ are free on Thursday. Active military free everyday with military ID.
More: Boone County Fair: What to know about costs, parking, main events and more
Polish Fest 2023
What: The annual festival features live music, dancing and of course, polish food. Ethnic offerings this year include pierogis, potato pancakes, pastries, sausage, sauerkraut and beef. Polish beer, domestic beer and wine will also be available. There will be games for children. The John Paul II Cultural Center in the former school building will be open for visitors to view displays of artifacts from Poland. Mass at 10 a.m., with activities starting at 11 a.m. The Syrena Polish Folk Dancers from Milwaukee and the I.P.A. Tribute Band will perform.When: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where: St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, 201 Buckbee St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: https://www.st-stanislaus.org/
More: Rockford's annual Polish Fest is right around the corner. Here's how to attend like a pro
2023 Rockford Boxing Classic
What: The second annual Rockford Boxing Classic returns as the Rockford region’s premier outdoor boxing event and fundraiser for the Rockford Patriots Boxing Club, a division of the Patriots Gateway Community Center. Sanctioned by USA Boxing, some of the Midwest's top amateur youth and Police/Fire boxers will compete in an all-ages festival.
When: 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Rockford City Market Pavilion, East State and Water Streets, downtown Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: https://www.plussevencompany.com/rockfordboxingclassic
Motors Mercato
What: Lino’s Pasqua Mercato is a seasonal, open-air Italian Market dedicated to the idea of family. The pop-up market is a weekly home for families to celebrate around the food they eat while supporting the community, local farmers, vendors and organizations. Also features a car and motorcycle show.When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where: Lino’s, 5611 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: 815-397-2077
Rockford Rivets City/Fan Appreciation Night
What: Last home game for the Rivets will be against the Kokomo Jackrabbits. It’s hockey night featuring the Rockford IceHogs and an inflatable hockey rink. There will be a mystery bobblehead giveaway, Hammy the Hog appearance and post-game fireworks.When: 6:35 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10
Where: Rivets Stadium, Loves Park
Cost: $8.15
For more: https://northwoodsleague.com/rockford-rivets/
Ladies Night at Rooted
What: Come for a Ladies Night with women-owned businesses in the area. There will be giveaways, complimentary bubbly and other drinks to sample too.When: 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10
Where: Rooted, 1408 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: 815-494-3649
Sky fishing for Moths
What: The evening will begin with a brief indoor program, then you can observe and identify the moths and insects that are attracted to light at night. All ages are welcome, and no prior experience is necessary. There is no registration for this event.When: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 10
Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: $5 donation encouraged
For more: 815-200-6910
Dinner on the Dock
What: Enjoy dinner, drinks and live music on the dock from country singer Brady Lee.When: 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10
Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: 815-277-9427
Bands, Brews & Food Trucks
What: Come for live music, food and beverages and lots of fun on our outdoor patio every Thursday night through September 7th. The musical guest on Aug. 10 will be Universal Joint and our food truck lineup will feature Pizza Fresca and Big Jon's Dogs N' More. Food service starts at 5 p.m. and live music begins at 6:30 p.m.When: 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10
Where: Timber Pointe Golf Club
For more: 815-544-1935
The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales
What: Though the characters may be familiar, each of your favorite storybook fables are uproariously derailed in this adaptation of the children’s book of fractured fairy tales. Everything from “Chicken Little” to “The Gingerbread Man” gets a complete makeover. Fun music and witty narration accompany the likes of ineloquent giants, sassy barnyard animals, colossal cow pies, and enough stinky cheese to go around. Meet and greet pictures with the cast after the show.When: 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 10 and Friday, Aug. 11; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Starlight Theater, Rock Valley College, 3300 Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $12 to $17
For more: 815-921-2160
Rockford City Market
What: There will be more than 60 local vendors with fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, jewelry, cheese, honey, and more underneath the pavilion. There will be food trucks, local breweries, kid's activities and more. Live music Aug. 11 by That '70s Band and Paul Bronson.When: 4 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11.
Where: East State and Water Streets, downtown Rockford
Cost: free admission
For more: http://www.rockfordcitymarket.com/
Countdown to Kindergarten
What: Come help children (and their families) get prepared to start kindergarten. Children can hop on a real school bus, enjoy story time, create art, practice sorting, cutting and lacing and more. Families can also enjoy playing at Discovery Center at no cost and connect with local community partners providing resources to area families. The first 400 families will receive a free book. Advance registration required.When: 4:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: www.discoverycentermuseum.com/kindergarten
34th Annual Cosmopolitan Club Charity Golf Classic
What: The annual charity event raises money for the Rockford Cosmopolitan Club to continue fighting diabetes, as well as supporting many local non-profit organizations through its annual grant program.When: Noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11
Where: Forest Hills Country Club, 5135 Forest Hills Road, and Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club, 5151 Guilford Road, Rockford
Cost: $175-$800
For more: https://www.rfdcosmo.org
Music on the Mall
What: Enjoy live music outside. Food and drinks from Lucha Cantina and Cork, Keg & Spirits will be available. The performer Aug. 11 is 70s music performer That Gurl.When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 11
Where: Edgebrook center court, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: 815-398-8957
Music in the Park: Rockford Jams VI
What: Some of the finest local original composers come together in a day-long music festival. This V1 Jam features The Lone Canary, Monark, Longshot, Micky Torpedo, Mana Kintorso and Law and Love. Seating is first come, first served and bringing chairs and blankets is recommended. On-site concessions are available starting at 6 p.m. and during the concert. Picnics and coolers are permitted; however, no outside alcoholic beverages are permitted. Beer and wine are available for purchase.When: 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: 815-987-8800
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
What: The original Jersey boy, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic movies such as The Deer Hunter, Dirty Dancing and Mrs. Doubtfire. As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s hip-hop makeover.When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $50-$132
For more: https://coronadopac.org
Smash Brothers tournament
What: Come for the venue's first ever live music Smash Brothers tournament. Play on the in-house projector and enjoy local music by Samepage & Colorado Ave. Tournament sign-up starts at 5 p.m. The top three players receive a prize, and first place receives a custom trophy.When: 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Tawdry Toast Artcade, 2017 Broadway, Rockford
Cost: $5 donation
For more: 815-351-7224
Glow Golf Event
What: Entry fee includes glow mini-putt, glow chipping corn hole, long drive glow competition, food and music. Information on accessibility and adapted equipment for golfers with disabilities or special needs is also available. All ages are welcome to test their skills while the putting, chipping and range areas are all aglow.When: 9 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Aldeen Golf Club Practice Centre, 1902 Reid Farm Road, Rockford
Cost: $15
For more: 815-282-4653
Queens of Illusions: A Celebrity Impersonation Drag Show
What: See legends Reba, Selena, Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks and Lil Kim on stage as performed by Krystal Ball, Sofia, Cntessa, Sindy Viscious and CMonet. Hosted by Krystal Ball.When: 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: The Office Niteclub, 513 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $5 entry, $5 for the show upstairs
For more: 815-965-0344
Paranormal Tour with the Illinois Paranormalists
What: Come for scintillating tales from paranormal experts, listen to audio clips found in the Tinker Cottage, and enjoy a tour with the chance to have your own paranormal encounter. You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own equipment (cameras, camcorders, audio recorders and emf). Each event begins in the Barn.When: 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage, 411 Kent St., Rockford
Cost: $25
For more: 815-964-2424
Life Decisions and 815 Fun Fair
What: The Tribe of Mentors event hopes to help youth get back on track, stay out of trouble and reach healthy adulthood. Join in the celebration to equip mentors and empower youth to raise funds for relational mentoring and community restoration. The event will include food, carnival games, prizes, foam pit, raffles, demonstrations by Police K-9 Unit and caricatures by Raheem.When: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Dahlquist Park, 3251 Oak Grove Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: https://www.lifedecisions.net/
8th Annual Summer Bash
What: The event provides a safe, adult atmosphere filled with food, fun and live entertainment. Heavy hors d’oeuvres. Proceeds support Mt. McKinley Youth Fund and the scholarship gateway program.When: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Tebala Event Center, 7910 Newburg Road, Rockford
Cost: $50 in advance
For more: The 8th Annual Summer Bash on Facebook
GQ Vendor Show
What: The GQ Vendor Show features sports-cards, comic books, Pokémon and other collectibles, along with a variety of crafts and home-based businesses.When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Cherryvale Mall, 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford
For more: 815-332-2440
Back 2 School Extravaganza
What: There will be a drawing to give away smartphones, Chromebooks, tablets and $50 gift cards. First come, first served. The first 200 kids receive free Olivo Tacos. Chick-Fil-A will be giving away 500 Meal Gift Cards. Free haircuts/styles will be provided on-site. Free entertainment, bouncy houses and face painting. See demonstrations from the Rockford Police Department K9 Division and Rockford Fire Department. Children must be present and accompanied by an adult to win.When: 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Empowering Word Christian Center, 4010 E. State St., Rockford (directly across the street from Don Carter Lanes and next door to QPS Staffing)
For more: 815-243-0724
25th Annual Honor the Mounds Gathering
What: Hosted by the Native American Awareness Committee of Rockford.When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Beattie Park, Rockford
For more: 779-221-4249
2023 Mustang Show
What: The Rock Valley Mustang Club's annual mustang show is raising funds for Bravehearts Therapeutic Riding. There will be raffles, food from TLK Tita's Local Kitchen and live music by Mr. Ed.When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 12
Where: Rock River Ford, 224 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: 815-229-0510
Pickleball 102 Get Together
What: Come for some beginner/seasoned beginner pickleball lessons and learn to play. Some paddles will be provided, but it's encouraged you bring your own.When: 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where: Darryl F. Lindberg Park, 721 Pearl Ave., Loves Park
For more: Pickleball 102 Get Together on Facebook
Domingos En El Parque
What: Domingos en el Parque not only provides cultural entertainment for all ages in the Latino community, but also offers families a venue to experience their heritage in music and dance in an "open air" park setting.When: 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 13
Where: Blackhawk Park, 15th Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: Domingos En El Parque on Facebook
Coming next week:
Rockford Day/815 Day
What: Rockford Day is held every year on Aug. 15 to coincide with the 815 area code. The day aims to showcase the people, places and things that make Rockford great. There will be several deals/specials, activities, including a picnic and party in downtown Rockford and more throughout the day.When: Tuesday, Aug. 15
Where: Throughout the Rockford community
For more: https://www.gorockford.com
More: Rockford announces plans for 815 Day celebration. What you need to know
Winnebago County Fair
What: The fair includes classic activities and demonstrations like a lumberjack show, tractor displays, truck races, Little Miss pageant, petting zoo and more.When: Wednesday, Aug. 16 through Sunday, Aug. 20
Where: Winnebago County Fairgrounds, 500 W. First St., Pecatonica
Cost: General admission is $5 Wednesday and Thursday and $7 Friday through Sunday. Children ages 8 and under are free every day of the fair while kids 9 to 12 are $3 Wednesday and Sunday; $5 Friday and Saturday; and free on Thursday. Entry for seniors 60 and older are $3 Thursday and Sunday; $5 Friday and Saturday; and free on Wednesday.
For more: winnebagocountyfair.com
Open Mic and Poetry Slam
What: The Rockford Certified Slam is the only Poetry Slam, Inc. certified venue in Rockford. Join other artists from the Rockford region and share your poetry, play your guitar or sing. Share your talents with the community.When: 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 15
Where: Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford
For more: 815-987-6614
