Apple orchards, Tough Mudder, roller derby and more: 13 things to do in the Rockford area
ROCKFORD — Summer is winding down but there are still a variety of family friendly events and activities across the Rock River Valley.
The final weekend of August brings us plenty of music, a water ski show, the Tough Mudder and more.
Edward's Apple Orchard Opening Day
What: A Rockford area favorite opens for the season on Friday, Aug. 26. You can pick apples and pumpkins as well as enjoy fresh apple cider donuts.
When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Where: Edwards Apple Orchard East is located at 7061 Centerville Road, Poplar Grove. Edwards Apple Orchard West is located at 8218 Cemetery Road, Winnebago.
For more: https://edwardsorchard.farm/
Four Friday’s in the 14th Ward
What: It's Northern Illinois University and Rockford Promise night. The event will feature music from the NIU Jazztet and a showing of the 1967 movie “The Graduate.”
When: 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Lino’s, 5611 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: https://linos815.com/
Music on the Mall
What: Swingfish will play Jazz, Blues, 70s soft rock and a bit of country.
When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Edgebrook Center Court, 1641 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more:https://edgebrookshops.com/events/music-on-the-mall/
Rockford City Market
What: Local makers, growers, artists, and bakers will be underneath the Rockford City Market Pavilion. The market has two local breweries on site pouring beer, a Main Stage area with a local band, and an Acoustic Stage area with a local performer. The pavilion and two of the surrounding streets are lined with vendors and food trucks, and the market partners with local nonprofits and organizations to host kids’ activities.
When: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays through Labor Day, 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Fridays after Labor Day in September.
Cost: Free admission
For more:http://www.rockfordcitymarket.com/
Ski Broncs Water Ski Show
What: Watch as amateur water skiers perform fun and exciting water ski stunts set to a themed stage performance.
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Shorewood Park, 235 Evelyn Ave., Loves Park
Cost: Free admission
For more: https://www.skibroncs.com/
Tough Mudder Chicago
What: Tough Mudder offers 5K, 10K & 15K course formats filled with world-class obstacles. The untimed, non-competitive events are built on a foundation of teamwork and overcoming obstacles, giving competitors the chance to unplug from the daily grind and accomplish something bigger than themselves.
When: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday & Sunday
Where: Chicago Rockford International Airport, 6100 Beltline Road, Rockford
For more: https://toughmudder.com/events/chicago/
Rockford Rage Roller Derby
What: Watch the Rockford Rage Roller Derby team host their first home match since 2019 as they take on Kentucky Black and Bluegrass. Proceeds from the event benefit the Liam Foundation in Rockford.
When: Doors open at 5 p.m. Saturday
Where: UW Health Sports Factory, 605 S. Madison St., Rockford
Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Kids 12 and under are free
Rockford Symphony Orchestra Fall Season Opening Night
What: The program is titled "Brahms's Fourth" but it also includes"The Cowboys Overture" by John Williams, and guest violinist Blake Pouliot featured in Korngold's Violin Concerto in D Major.
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
For ticket prices and more: https://www.rockfordsymphony.com/concerts-and-events/brahms-fourth
Crossroads Blues Festival: Women of the Blues
What: Performers include Melody Angel, Gina Meeks, Donna Herula, Tia Carroll, Amanee Avery, Shaun Murphy and Teeny Tucker.
When: Gates open at 11 a.m. The last performance begins at 8 p.m.
Where: Lyran Park, 4781 South Bend Road, Rockford
Cost: $10 for tickets in advance, $15 at the gate
For more: https://www.crossroadsbluessociety.com/
South Beloit Firefighter’s Association Corn Boil
What: Community members can expect live music, a car show, games for children, raffles, a flea market and fireworks.
When: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday
Where: Viking Lanes, 210 Oak Grove Ave., South Beloit
Cost: Free admission
For more: http://southbeloitfire.com/custom.html?id=13629
Hogs & Dogs with Illinois Bikers Against Bullying
What: Illinois Bikers Against Bullying will be raising funds for their favorite charitable causes. Your meal includes one hot dog, a bag of chips, and an ice-cold water or soda. There is no set fee for your food, but tips are appreciated.
When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: https://www.facebook.com/events/384386883767480
The History of 'Legends of Country Music'
What: Performer and songwriter Chip Messiner brings his one man country band to recognize trailblazing artists.
When: 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Where: Spring Creek UCC, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Admission is free; listeners are encouraged to make a $10 free-will donation during the concert, with funds collected used to pay the musicians and help to defray the church's event hosting costs.
For more: https://www.springcreekucc.org/concerts
Music at the Museum
What: Featuring a performance by Hang 10 (Rock Surfers Trio Project)
When: 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday
Where: Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: https://www.ethnicheritagemuseum.org/
Ken DeCoster covers business news and features. Contact him at 815-987-1391, kdecoster@rrstar.com or @DeCosterKen.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: 13 things to do in the Rockford, Illinois area this weekend
