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

Kathi Edwards is a freelance correspondent.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Boone county Fair, Polish Fest return to Rockford, Illinois area