Rockford Home Show, Indie Bookstore Crawl among 26 things to do this weekend
The last weekend of February boasts big events like the annual Rockford Home Show at ISC and Get the Led Out at the Coronado as well as cozier opportunities to hike, create and meditate.
You could also help raise money for Care for Pets, Rockford Dance Company, Boone County CASA, Belvidere Park District Pirate Athletes or Tinker Swiss Cottage.
Here are 26 things to do in the Rockford area this weekend plus a few coming up next week:
43rd Annual Rockford Home Show
What: Meet home improvement experts and explore new products, services, ideas, concepts and expertise on interior and exterior design. See magic live on stage, wildlife stage shows with Hoo Haven Rehab Center, kid's gardening projects and kid's building projects with Home Depot.
When: 2-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25
Where: Indoor Sports Center, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $7; free for ages 12 and younger; all entertainment free with admission
For more: 815-871-7469, showtimeproduction.net/home-show/
Death of a Gangster
What: Escape to the 1920s, where liquor is unlawful and run by the gangsters behind closed doors. As the Chicago crime bosses diverge onto a private party in the country, enter the speakeasy in the basement of the yellow barn to discover the hidden secrets at the Creek. Help solve a murder with the others at your table in groups of six. Only two of you? Don’t worry it’s a great opportunity to meet new people. Dress in era attire and get glamorous photographs in our themed photo booth. Tickets include three-course meal of Italian chopped salad, Chicken Cacciatore with creamy polenta and Tiramisu Torte and a 1920s inspired welcome drink. Additional cocktails available for purchase. Prior to the event, guests will receive a secret message with details encoded with an invitation, instructions and summary. This event is 21 and over only.
When: 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23
Where: Hidden Creek Estates, 13276 White School Road, Roscoe
Cost: $100
For more: 815-242-2099, sevenrooms.com/experiences/hiddencreekestates/death-of-gangster — friday-night-10733211259
Watercolors with Cindy Bear: Koi Fish
What: If you love watercolor but struggle to loosen up, painting on Yupo paper may be the answer. Yupo paper is made of plastic so the watercolor slips and slides across the surface creating unique and interesting textures. This class is for all skill levels and ages 18 and older. Yupo paper and koi fish study provided. A complete supply list will be provided after registration. Pack a lunch, bring a friend and spend the day in the painting these beautiful koi fish.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: $55; $45 for members
Registration required: bit.ly/3IKWIxQ
For more: 815-987-8858, facebook.com/events/312990587829743
Get the Led Out
What: The Led Zeppelin cover band Get The Led Out will bring “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep” to the stage. Get The Led Out has captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the concert stage. GTLO re-creates the songs in all their depth and glory with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: The Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $29.50-$161
For more: 815-968-5222, coronadopac.org/events/gtlo
Dead of Winter: True Tales of Things That Go Bump in the Night
What: Terri Reid, best-selling author of the Mary O’Reilly paranormal series and Sylvia Shults author of “Days of the Dead” will join Kathi Kresol, author of “Haunted Rockford, IL,” to share tales of their own paranormal encounters and other local legends. After the presentation, take a tour of both houses of this unique location. All three local authors will have copies of their books for sale.
When: 7-10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23
Where: Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $25
For more: hauntedrockford.com/event/dead-of-winter-true-tales-of-things-that-go-bump-in-the-night/ or 815-871-4239.
Black History Month: Dance Celebration
What: Celebrate the culture of Black History Month with dance, music and food. This is our BHM culminating event with guest dance fitness instructors. The theme this year is 90s and 00s. Vendors, and food trucks will be on-site.
When: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 (doors open at 5 p.m. for shopping)
Where: SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA Activity Courts, 200 Y Blvd., Rockford
Cost: Free admission for members and guests; $5/child for childcare for children up to age 12
For more: 815-489-1252, facebook.com/events/7918957208121499
Brick Paint Night
What: Tickets are required. Limited seats available. Each ticket includes the option of a brick bank or block head to paint as well as a mini figure. Tiles will be available as an add-on for $15. Snacks and soft drinks will be provided. Only kids or those painting will need a ticket. Tickets are non-refundable.
When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23
Where: Pottery Lounge, 312 N. Alpine Road, Suite 104, Rockford
Cost: $35
For more: eventbrite.com/e/brick-paint-night-tickets-794502968767?
Rudy Galindo Solo Exhibit Opening
What: Join us for opening reception at 662 Art Gallery on Friday and Saturday 5pm to 9pm. New works by local Northern Illinois abstract painter Rudy Galindo.
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 and Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: 662 Art Gallery, 331 E. State St., Rockford
For more: facebook.com/events/2160733384273680
February Last Friday Tasting Series: Rockford Dance Company
What: Help raise money for the Rockford Dance Company as you sample a variety of wine, beer and spirits from around the globe. Rockford Dance Company provides excellence in the art of dance through performance, classes, and outreach.
When: 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23
Where: Artale Wine Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $20 cash/check donation to RDC
For more: 815-963-3341, artaleandco.com/last-friday-tasting-series/
Rockford Ice Hogs AHL Hockey
What: Friday the Ice Hogs play the Texas Stars on a $2 beer night. It is also Military Appreciation Night with free tickets for active military or veterans. Saturday, the opponent will be the Iowa Wild. The first 2500 fans will receive a Lukas Reichel bobblehead.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 and Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: $16.50-$29
For more: 815-968-5222, icehogs.com
Second Annual Rockford Indie Bookstore Crawl
What: Visit each independent bookstore for sales, raffles, and giveaways. Support your local indie bookstore by visiting: The Book Stall, 1032 Crosby St.; Drewelow’s, 3925 E. State St. #100; Katie's Cup, 502 Seventh St.; Maze Books, 406 E. State St.; and Toad Hall, 2106 Broadway. Buy a book and get an event bookmark. Have your punch card stamped at each location for the chance to win a gift card to each store.
When: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: See above
Cost: Free to attend
For more: 779-970-5912, facebook.com/events/1812352249265077
Hope & Anchor Comedy Show
What: Call the Hope & Anchor to get a table reservation. The show cover will be added to your table check. Comics for the night are host Zach Liss, guest feature Laurie Millbourn, main feature TJ Remec and headliner Tom Filline.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Hope & Anchor, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park
Cost: $10
For more: 815-633-2552
Western Party Country Night
What: Break out the cowboy boots and throw the sawdust on the floor for a night of line dancing and country dancing fun with DJ Charlie. It all kicks off at 9 p.m. Feb 24. Only at Rockton Inn.
When: 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Rockton Inn Pub & Grub, 102 E. Main St., Rockton
For more: 815-624-0700, facebook.com/events/1533629167461194
Discover Engineering
What: Meet dozens of professional engineers from local firms “geared” up with hands-on engineering activities for children. Engage your brain and conquer fun challenges, discover interesting jobs, meet high school robotics teams, enjoy special science demonstrations and gather giveaways.
When: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Included with museum admission: $10; free for members and children ages 1 and younger.
For more: 815-972-2832, discoverycentermuseum.org/
Tinker’s Attic Sale
What: Our volunteers and Board members have donated items to be sold as a fundraiser for the museum, as well as educational pieces that no longer serve our programming. This event will take place in the lower level of the Barn. No items from the Tinker/Dorr Family will be deaccessioned or sold.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 and Sunday, Feb. 25
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum and Gardens, 411 Kent St., Rockford
For more: 815-964-2424, facebook.com/events/313527808351113/?active_tab=discussion
Barking for BINGO
What: Please join us for Bingo for a cause. Admission includes 5 Bingo sheets, hot/cold hors d’oeuvres and prizes valued from $30-$100 for kids and adults. Cash bar. Extra sheets available for purchase. Please mark “interested” or “attending” on Facebook event to get updates. We will have a bonus Bingo round at the end for a prize valued at more than $300 for a higher-priced sheet. This is a fundraiser for Care for Pets, whose mission is to serve the most at-risk Winnebago County pets and pet owners, keeping pets healthy, happy and home while reducing our municipal shelter’s capacity. Limited seating; register through Eventbrite.
When: 1:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Rockford Country Club, 2500 Oxford St., Rockford
Cost: $30; $10 for age 11 and younger
For more: 779-208-4060, eventbrite.com/e/care-for-pets-presents-barking-for-bingo-tickets-825382410007?
Readings with Palmist Noah Ravensen
What: Palmist and Elder Witch Noah Matthew Ravensen, will be offering palm readings. He has been reading palms and practicing Norse seidr magic for almost 20 years. To reserve a time, please review the first comment posted and message us directly on Facebook for the time you would like.
When: 3:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Wolf Hollow, 4010 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $20 cash
For more: 779-256-2972, facebook.com/events/780081364179473
Scenes from African American Plays
What: In celebration of Black History Month, the Rockford Reader’s Theatre will present scenes and monologues from plays by African American artists. A highlight of the performance will be a choral reading of “Freedom’s Plow” by Langston Hughes, a poem written in 1943 during World War II about the state of America at the time from his experience of oppression. The Players will also perform works by Lorraine Hansberry, Lawrence Holder, Loften Mitchell, Ron Zuber and Angelina Grimke. Refreshments served. Inscape Collective will be open from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Arrive early, claim your seat, and shop our collection of handmade art and gift items from local artists and artisans.
When: 7-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Inscape Collective, 201 Seventh St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; performers are paid from audience donations. Suggested donation is $5-$20; we are grateful for any amount you give.
For more: inscapecollective.org. inscapecollective@gmail.com
Kids Succulent Planter
What: Get your kids involved in gardening. They'll create unique succulent planters using two succulents and modern 3D printed pots.
When: 10 – 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Buckets and Blooms, 647 S. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton
Cost: $15
For more: 815-200-9060, bucketsnblooms.com
Mini-Golf in the Library and Silent Auction
What: Grab your family, neighbors and friends for a weekend of golf, treats and fun. Mini-putt through the indoor course featuring book and movie characters, including Barbie, Geronimo Stilton and Spider-Man. After your round of golf, visit the snack bar to buy ice cream sundaes, candy, popcorn, cookies and drinks. Then bid on gift baskets and items in the silent auction that ends Sunday evening. Many silent auction items are now on display for early bidding. If you would like to sign up for a tee time, please call.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 and 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25
Where: Cherry Valley Public Library, 755 E. State St., Cherry Valley
Cost: Free golfing; refreshments available for purchase
For more: 815-332-5161, https://www.facebook.com/events/1392544484698266
Rockford Rage Roller Derby
What: Rockford Rage Roller Derby takes on Fox Cities in home bout.
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24 (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Where: UW Health Sports Factory, 301 S. Water St., Rockford
Cost: $15; $10 in advance; free for ages 12 and younger
For more: rockfordrage@gmail.com, facebook.com/events/1074734390435682
Full Moon Hike
What: Join us for an evening of nocturnal natural history as we walk the trails in anticipation of moonrise. For ages 8 and older.
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 24
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: $5; $3 for members
For more: 815-335-2915, facebook.com/events/1087012538983193
11th Annual Hug an Athlete
What: Join us for the 11th annual 5K walk/run/roll where individuals of all abilities will have the opportunity to participate in this event for an even greater cause. All proceeds from the “Hug An Athlete” 5K benefit the Belvidere Park District Pirate Athletes to assist athletes with registration fees through scholarships, the purchase of uniforms and equipment and banquet attendance, and to offer athletes a variety of Special Olympics opportunities and experiences similar to their typical peers.
When: 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25
Where: Doty Park, West Locust Street, Belvidere
Cost: $35-$40
To register: raceroster.com/events/2024/82091/hug-an-athlete-5k?
For more: khumphrey@belviderepark.org, huganathlete5k.org
Sound Bath Sundays
What: Discover how a sound bath works with the body’s energy centers to promote overall wellness. Reduce stress. Participants do not need prior meditating experience. Bring something comfortable to lie on (mat, pillows, blankets.) Chairs will be available for those who prefer to remain seated. Late arrivals will not be permitted access. Park in the lot in back of the store, accessible off First or Second Avenue, and use the rear entrance.
When: 5:30-7 p.m. the last Sunday of the month starting Sunday, Feb. 25
Where: Inscape Collective Community Room, 201 Seventh St., Rockford
Cost: $10 minimum donation
For more: Ruth, 815-988-0713
Why Life Was Short
What: Chris Hubbard, professor of clinical anatomy and physiology for 40 years will deliver a presentation and show a display of original medical equipment from the time period. Pre-register for Surgery and Medicine in the Late 18th and Early 19th Century on the website.
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25
Where: Macktown Golf Course Clubhouse, 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton
Cost: $5; free for Macktown Living History members
For more: www.macktownlivinghistory.com
Outlaws & Crooners Concert for Boone County CASA
What: Chip Messiner, Janel Nelson, and Ron Holm pay vocal tribute to larger-than-life artists who created \"Outlaw Country.” This event is a fundraiser for the Boone County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program. No reserved seats.
When: 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25 (doors open at 1 p.m.)
Where: Belvidere Community Center, 964 McKinley Ave., Belvidere
Cost: $15; $10 for age 16 and younger
For more: 815-547-6599, fb.me/e/gO6zXPWKx
Coming next week
Cirque Mechanics: Zephyr
What: Experience the breathtaking theatrical circus extravaganza, "Zephyr – A Whirlwind of Circus." This tale showcases the celebration of human ingenuity and the utilization of natural resources, specifically wind power. This whirlwind circus performance, featuring a giant windmill mounted on a turntable, harnesses the power and energy of people, creating a magical acrobatic spectacle. Watch performers fly, balance, float on air and defy gravity. For audiences of all ages.
When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27
Where: The Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
For more: 815-847-6314, friendsofthecoronado.org/cirque-mechanics-zephyr/
Archaeology: Old Time Religion
What: Distinguished Professor Derek Counts of UW-Milwaukee presents the latest results from excavations in southeastern Cyprus. Our multi-media presentation illuminates religious life in the rural sanctuary, founded in the 8th century BC. Professor Counts will also highlight recent documenting and publishing votive sculptures from the site using 3D modeling. Enjoy refreshments afterwards with an opportunity to meet the speaker.
When: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27
Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History, 737 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
For more: 815-965-3433
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford Home Show, Indie Bookstore Crawl among 26 things to do
