Tough Mudder returns to Rockford this weekend as long with several chances to catch some live music before the summer winds down.

There's also a comic book convention, drive-in movies and more.

Here are 29 things to do in the Rockford area this weekend a couple next week.

4th Annual Whiskey and Wine Event

What: Rockford City Market partnered with Artale Wine Co. to bring you whiskey and wine from around the world. The event features live music as well as an opportunity to order your favorite bottles from the event. Food is also available to purchase. Proceeds benefit the Rock River Development Partnership, the 501(c)(3) organization that manages Rockford City Market.

When: 3:30 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Rockford City Market Pavilion, 116 N. Madison St., Rockford

Cost: $60; $50 in advance

For more: eventbrite.com

More: New Rockford food truck takes grilled cheese sandwiches to next level

Tough Mudder Chicago 2023

What: Get ready to challenge yourself, conquer the world's best obstacles, make unforgettable memories and earn your Tough Mudder headband. All Tough Mudder 5K, 10K, and 15K events are untimed. If a 15K isn't enough for you, Tough Mudder Chicago offers you a way to rack up the distance with Tough Mudder Infinity. Racers will take on the 15K course and then stack on additional chip-timed 15K or 5K laps in the allotted 8-hour time. Participants must be at least 13 for the 5K or 14 for the 10K, 15K or Infinity.

When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 26 and Sunday, Aug. 27

Where: Chicago Rockford International Airport, 6100 Beltline Road, Rockford

Cost: $139-$209

For more: toughmudder.com/events/chicago/?

Rockford Comic Book Convention

What: Dealers from three states will be on hand with comic books from the golden age to present, along with a variety of related collectible items such as action figures. Dealers will also be buying comics you might have had lying around for years and no longer want.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27

Where: VFW, 2018 Windsor Road, Loves Park

Cost: Free admission

For more: Alan at 309 657-1599

Dinner on the Dock

What: Enjoy dinner, drinks and live music on the dock from That Gurl, a '70s cover band made up of experienced performers from different musical backgrounds who came together to create music for all ages.

When: 5 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24

Where: Prairie Street Brewing Co., 200 Prairie St., Rockford

Cost: Free admission

For more: 815-277-9427

Sunflower painting on wood

What: Come paint the brightest sunflower on a 12 by 12-inch stained board. Ernie’s will have food and drink specials all night long.

When: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24

Where: Ernie’s Pub, 1025 5th Ave., Rockford

Cost: $35; includes all materials and instruction

For more: 815-977-4365

The Fitzgeralds

What: The Irish Marching Society is bringing you “The Fitzgeralds” as part of its ongoing Celtic Concert Series. Canada’s favorite live performance show consists of fiddling and step dancing siblings, Tom and Kerry Fitzgerald, with Alanna Jenish and Graeme McGilllvray. Featuring 3-time Canadian Grandmaster Fiddle Champions and Ontario Open Step Dance Champions, this unique act features high-energy fiddling and mind-blowing step dancing. Seating is limited; refreshments will be available.

When: 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25

Where: Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford

Cost: $25

For more: irishmarchingsociety.com

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 also be food trucks, local breweries, and rotating kid's activities. Live music Aug. 25 by The Danhattans.

When: 4 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25

Where: East State and Water Streets, downtown Rockford

Cost: Free admission

For more: rockfordcitymarket.com

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. 25 is Swingbilly.

When: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25

Where: Edgebrook center court, 1643 N. Alpine Road, Rockford

Cost: Free

For more: 815-398-8957

Drive-In Movie Night

What: A drive-in movie night featuring Guardians of the Galaxy 3. Snacks will be available.

When: 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25

Where: Parking Lot 2A/2B in front of WTC and PEC, Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford

For more: RVC Student Life, 815-921-4000

Drive 815 & Rockton PD Movie Event

What: Enjoy “The Super Mario Bros Movie” Friday and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” Saturday with the family.

When: 6:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25 and Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: 12801 Old River Road

Cost: $15 per car

For more: 815- 323-0164

Roscoe United Methodist Car Show

What: A fundraiser car show featuring anything on two or more wheels, a band and food.

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Roscoe UMC, 10816 Main St., Roscoe

For more: 815-623-2292

Forest Quest Scavenger Hunt

What: Head out to the forest on a digital based scavenger hunt. Using the free app Scavos, teams have up to five hours to complete as many "missions" as possible. Missions will include hiking around Severson Dells and taking photos or answering riddles. Prizes will be awarded to teams in categories like: Most Missions Completed, Most Creative Submission and more. Information on the app and how to enroll in the scavenger hunt will be emailed prior to the event. Teams will be able to complete missions anytime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. There will be an after party in the Grove to announce the winners.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Severson Dells, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford

Cost: $20 per team

For more: 815-335-2915

Alfalfa Bluegrass Festival

What: Alfalfa Bluegrass Festival is a low-impact, cash-only event featuring an acoustic open stage featuring multiple performers. Bring a chair or picnic blanket to sit on. Food will be available for purchase. Beer will be available to purchase for guests age 21 and older. No outside food in the festival area. This event will be outdoors, on grass, gravel and uneven ground.

When: 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1545 Rockton Road, Caledonia

Cost: $25; $10 kids; $20 camping

For more: 815-389-8455

Crossroads Blues Festival

What: The 14th Annual Crossroads Blues festival is an annual event that funds the Crossroads Blues Society's Blues in the Schools program. The event features five big acts on the main stage plus entertainment between acts in the pavilion. International touring artist Curtis Salgado headlines the festival with his great vocals, harmonica and soul blues music. There is a great variety of affordable foods, beers and beverages available for purchase.

When: 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Lyran Park, 4781 South Bend Road, Rockford

Cost: $10 advance, $15 at the gate. Kids under 18 free with adult.

For more: 779-537-4006

Ferragosto Celebration

What: Enjoy Italian food, drink specials, giveaways, a beanbag competition and entertainment including the Amici Italian dancers, The Vince Chiarelli Band, NIU Jazztet and Espinosa & Coffey. The event benefits six local non-profit organizations.

When: 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Lino’s, 5611 E. State St., Rockford

Cost: Free admission; food and beverages available for purchase

For more: 815-397-2077

Illinois Paranormal Conference

What: Join speakers and vendors from all aspects of paranormal research.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Veterans Memorial Hall & Museum, 211 N. Main St., Rockford

Cost: $30; $25 in advance

For more: Kathi at 815-871-4239

Kids Cinema Saturday

What: There will be a special presentation of the Disney and Pixar film "Turning Red," which is a timeless tale for all ages to enjoy. There will be plenty of pre-movie activities for all to enjoy including Magician Johnny Silver, kid's activities with the Rockford Park District and Rockford Public Library's Mobile Library. The first 500 kids will receive a free bag of chips. Special snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Cash is no longer accepted at concession stands. Wear red.

When: 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford

Cost: Free admission

For more: 815-847-6314

Intuitive Readings with Erick

What: Medium Erick Knaus will give intuitive readings, helping you connect to loved ones on the other side. To reserve your time, please look at the open time slots available in the first posted comment on the Facebook event under “Discussion,” then message us directly with the time you would like. We will confirm your reservation with a return message.

When: Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Wolf Hollow, 3800 E. State St., Suite 103, Rockford

Cost: $20 for 20 minutes; cash only

For more: Wolf Hollow on Facebook

Historic Downtown Rockton Walking Tour

What: Hear the stories of Rockton’s history through a walking tour of the Village’s historic buildings. This tour will explore secret societies, early firefighting and the important structure that gave Rockton its industrial beginnings.

When: 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Rockton Village Hall, 110 E. Main St., Rockton.

For more: 815-624-7600

Sacred Sound Bath in Nature

What: A Sound Bath is a powerful experience with transformative results physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. The inter-relationship between sound, music, health and the environment are inextricable. Consciously directed sound, like in a sound bath, can redress imbalances on every level of physiological functioning and can play a positive role in the treatment of illness and disease in the mind, body and soul. This is an outdoor session. Mats will not be provided. You must bring your own items to rest on.

When: 8 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Rock Cut State Park Concessions, 7223 West Lane Road, Loves Park

For more: 800- 406-6234

Subversive Slow Roll

What: The shop's monthly ride is on for August. Roll with the shop on a super casual slow roll. The shop averages about six to seven mph and ride a total distance of about seven to 10 miles. The sun is setting earlier in the evening now so don’t forget to bring lights. Helmets are always encouraged. Destination is to be determined.

When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Subversive Cycling Company, 327 W. Jefferson St., Suite 1, Rockford

For more: 815-708-7399

Summer’s Last Stand

What: Late models, roadrunners, super stox, super cups plus RR figure 8 championship and high school racing championship's.

When: 7:07 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park

For more: Rockford Speedway on Facebook

Fifth Annual Jaimie Cox Motorcycle Rally

What: Join in on the fifth annual Jaimie Cox “We’re Gonna Ride Again” motorcycle rally. All proceeds from this ride benefit the Jaimie Cox Foundation, a local non-profit founded in 2019 in honor of fallen Rockford Police Officer Jaimie Cox. The organization supports veterans, first responders and underprivileged youth.

When: 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: VFW Post 2955, 11385 Second St., Roscoe

For more: 815-623-7663

Dixie Kirk - 40th Anniversary Team USA Celebration

What: Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Dixie Kirk representing the United States in Caracas, Venezuela, earning a silver and bronze medal in International Bowling competition. The museum will unveil her medals and other bowling memorabilia as part of the local sports exhibit. All are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

When: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Boone County Museum of History, 314 S. State St., Belvidere

Cost: Free; donations accepted

For more: 815-544-8391

Beloit Farmers Market

What: Shop this open-air market in the heart of downtown Beloit with vendors selling local produce, organics, baked goods, honey, jams, jellies, herbs, bedding plants, meat, eggs, cheese, fresh flowers, artisan crafts, scents and skin care. The market accepts SNAP and WIC. Held rain or shine. No pets allowed.

When: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26

Where: Beloit Farmers Market, 557 Grand Ave., Beloit, Wis.

For more: 608- 365-0150

Dinner with Bob Zany & Friends

What: Laugh with comedian Bob Zany along with comedian Jim McCue and Rockford’s very own Double T while having dinner.

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26; show starts at 8 p.m.

Where: Screw City Tavern, 4412 Manchester Drive, Rockford

Cost: $50

For more: 815-708-8286

Fall Open House

What: Each shop will be transformed into a fall wonderland. Offering the best antiques, vintage, home decor and boutique fashion.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26 and Sunday, Aug. 27

Where: Downtown Rockton

For more: 815-997-0156

815 Showdown/Mixtape Cut Tour

What: 815 Showdown is an annual barber/beauty competition that will be collaborating with The Mixtape Cut Tour. There will be five competition categories, showcases from some of the best barbers and stylists in the Midwest, vendors, food, art, music and a car showcase.

When: Noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27

Where: UW-Health Sports Factory, 305 S. Madison St., Rockford

For more: Melissa Santillan on Facebook

Summer Sundry Event

What: Come for another fun end-of-summer event filled with vendors, shopping, and fun games for the children. There will be games inspired by local fairs for the kids to enjoy and also to win prizes donated by local vendors. There will be some raffles as well.

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27

Where: St. John UCC, 401 N. Main St., Belvidere

For more: 815-544-3773

Coming next week:

Rockton River Market

What: Shop to great live music in downtown Rockton while visiting a variety of food and goods vendors. Aug. 30 performer is the Sensations.

When: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30 (music starts at 6 p.m.)

Where: Old Settlers Park, 150 E. Hawick St., Rockton

Cost: Free admission

For more: 815-624-0935

First Free Kids Family Bash

What: Families and kids ages 3 through fifth grade can join First Free for hot dogs, inflatables and 50 percent off Kids Club registration for 2023-2024.

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30

Where: First Free Rockford, 2223 N. Mulford Road, Rockford

For more: 815- 877-7046

Kathi Edwards is a freelance correspondent.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Tough Mudder returns to Rockford, Illinois this weekend