34 things to do this weekend in the Rockford area
Egg hunt at Northeast Y
What: Hunt for Easter eggs, take your picture with the Easter Bunny, play on our inflatables, and more. Register in advance, so we can plan enough eggs for the kids. 6:20 p.m. for kids 0-3; 6:40 p.m. for age 4-6; 7 p.m. age 7-12.
When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, March 22
Where: Northeast Family YMCA, 8451 Orth Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Latina Leader of the Year
What: Come celebrate with us to honor Melissa Santillan as Latina Leader of the Year. Live Performance from GM Rudiano and Meleny Villa. Presentation at 3:30 p.m. After party at Shooters- upper level with charcuterie from 6-8 p.m., live performance at 9:45 p.m. and party from 8 p.m. to midnight. When: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Ethnic Heritage Museum, 1129 S. Main St., Rockford
Grand American Launch Party and Open House
What: Kick off spring with Harley-Davidson's official Grand American Launch Party and Kegel H-D's Open House. Register for a chance to win a new motorcycles and a trip to the 2024 Homecoming Festival in Milwaukee. The first 100 attendees through the door will receive a special commemorative poster and plastic party cup. Members of our local HOG Chapter will be serving brunch starting at 10:30 a.m. including pancakes, sausages and choice of coffee, orange juice or water. Donations encouraged and will go to benefit a local charity chosen by Rock River HOG. Enjoy 15% off your purchase on full-priced, in-stock, officially licensed merchandise and aftermarket P&A. Spend $75 (before tax and after discounts) and receive a free Kegel H-D tote bag while supplies last. Pearl's Patches will be selling their locally crafted patches and providing sewing services. Scouts BSA Cub Scout Pack 43 will also be here for part of the day selling World's Finest Chocolate bars for $1 each as well as Camp Cards for $10 that gives you access to discounts at participating area businesses.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125 Harrison Ave., Rockford
Egg hunt at Camp Winnebago
What: Bring the whole family for an outdoor Egg Hunt and some Easter fun, games and crafts. Bring your own Easter baskets or bags. We will have thousands of eggs to find filled with candy and prizes. Find a golden egg for a special prize.
When: Noon – 3 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Camp Winnebago, 5804 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rikyuki Tea Ceremony & Wagashi Experience
What: Anderson Japanese Garden will host a special tea gathering to honor the life of Sen Rikyu (15221591), the founder of the Sen family and one of the most influential and innovative tea masters in the history of Chado, the Japanese Way of Tea. The present Grand Tea Master of the Urasenke Tradition of Tea is Sen Soshitsu, the 16th-generation descendant of Sen Rikyu. Attendees will experience the unique tea ceremony and learn how to make Rikyu-manjyu, the special Japanese sweet named after Rikyu.
When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $45; $40 for members; includes flower materials
WWE: Road to Wrestlemania
What: See your favorite Superstars including “The American Nightmare” Cody Rhodes, WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth “Freakin” Rollins, LA Knight Intercontinental Champion “The Ring General” Gunther, Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley Bobby Lashley, The New Day Becky Lynch, Carlito, Charlotte Flair, WWE Women's Champion IYO SKY and more. Superstar experience and Walk the Aisle packages available.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, March 24 (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford Cost: $20 and up
Second Annual Bridal Open House
What: Grab a complimentary Mimosa and wander the venue. Sample appetizers created to wow guests. Meet with event staff as they guide you through the wedding day process. Speak with vendors from the Rockford region. Take a tour of our boutique hotel and complimentary bridal suite.
When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: Riverview Inn & Suites and Riverview Event Center, 700 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
Cost: Free
Holistic Health Fair
What: Experience the holistic health event with 55 local, regional, and national vendors and practitioners. Explore a wide array of modalities, goods and services including massage, crystals and gems, jewelry, skincare, natural health care, candles, energy and sound healing, readers, energy workers, soul art, essential oils and meditation. Connects with resources for the mind, body, and spirit.
When: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: IBEW, 6820 Mill Road, Rockford
Cost: $5; $3 in advance; free for ages 16 and younger
Feminists in the Field
What: Hear about the professional journeys of local people who identify as women and/or LGBTQIA who work in various roles of ecosystem conservation. Enjoy a moderated panel with time for Q&A and networking. Light refreshments provided. This is an opportunity for anyone high school age or older considering a career related to conservation. Limited space; please RSVP.
When: 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit
Cost: Free
Guided hike
What: Join Tim Speer as he leads you on a guided hike. This preserve is known for birds, geology, wildflowers and panoramic views of the Sugar River. Family-friendly hike. Please, no dogs. Register on our website.
When: 9 a.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Colored Sands Forest Preserve, 10602 Haas Road, Rockton
Cost: Free
Mothman Over Maze Books
What: join Jaci and Bill Kousoulas (Authors of Bridging the Tragedy) for a discussion on Mothman phenomena followed by a meet and greet and book signing. Jaci and Bill Kousoulas, PhD are the authors of Bridging the Tragedy a book based upon the 1967 Silver Bridge Disaster in Point Pleasant, WV, Mothman, and post-traumatic growth, a phenomenon that often occurs after tragedy. Bill's interest in the paranormal began in the late seventies with the original Project UFO television series. In 2003, he was introduced to The Mothman Prophecies movie, and it changed his life. When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Maze Books, 406 E. State St., Rockford Cost: Free
Spring festival
What: Celebrate the season with family-friendly event where all are welcome to join. Event includes a fun hunt, kids craft, coloring and activity sheets, face painting and balloon animals. Get your photo taken with the Spring Bunny and have 1 photo from the event printed from your phone. Pick the best one and we'll print out a 4x6 for you free. We'll also have treats and plenty of candy.
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: First Northern Credit Union, 104 N. Show Place Drive, Rockford
Cost: Free
The Secret Life of Butterflies
What: Join us to explore the world of butterflies and moths. See the whole lepidoptera lifecycle in action as caterpillars munch on leaves, butterflies emerge from their chrysalis, and moths from their cocoons. Get an up-close look at these insects in the butterfly house as you're surrounded by native and exotic butterflies.
When: Exhibit will be from March 23, 2024 - May 26, 2024.
Where: Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens, 1354 N. 2nd St., Rockford
Pride in Bloom
What: Join us for rock painting, face painting and connecting with your fellow LGBTQ+ and allies. We will have two free baskets (Self Care from Rockton Pride members and Candy Chaos from Sugar Britches) for you to enter to win. Inkwell will be closed to the public, but you are welcome to shop their books and threads, along with some premade floral arrangements for sale from Buckets and Blooms. Our snacks will be vegetarian and the atmosphere will be filled with love. This is a family friendly event. When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Inkwell Books & Threads, 106A W. Main St., Rockton
Cost: Free
Wings & Wheels Easter event
What: Tour the museum with your family and participate in Easter activities. There will be a make and take craft and face painting for children, airplanes on display and food for purchase. JKirk Photography will be there with Mr. Easter Bunny ready to take your photos. $5 digital photos will be ready within 72 hours in a group gallery. By having your child(ren)'s photo taken, you are giving JKirk Photography permission to post in a gallery, password protected. Please only download your children's photos. Pets are welcome to come for photos, too.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Wing & Wheels Museum, 5151 Orth Road, Poplar Grove
Cost: Free; photos and food will be available for purchase
Fundraiser for CASA Royale
What: Wine by the glass, flight or bottle is available for purchase, and After the Vine has generously offered to donate 20% of all proceeds to benefit Winnebago County CASA so we can continue to advocate for the best interest of children in the juvenile court system who have experienced abuse or neglect. Enjoy live music by Eli & Jack Duo from 2-5 p.m.
When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: After the Vine, 163 E. Hawick, Rockton
Water painting
What: Enjoy a morning of watercolor with local artist Jenny Mathews, as she walks you through the basics and helps hone your painting skills. All supplies provided. Please pre-register.
Cost: $35; $30 for members
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: $35; $30 for members
Drag show
What: Celebrate DJ Xtians Birthday with a Drag Show benefiting Hope's Legacy and Trust, our favorite local animal rescue charity. We will have raffle baskets, 50/50 raffles and surprises. All door and table go to the charity. Performances by Las Vegas Show Girl Angelique Munro, Milwaukee Performer Gina D'licious, Iowa's Favorite Performers Sage Umbra and Anna Mae and Rockford's Scare Queen, Areal Haunting. When: 10 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Rockton Inn Pub & Grub, 102 W. Main St., Rockton
Cost: $5; VIP tables of 4 for $20; other tables are first come first-served
Little Shop of Horrors
What: Experience this horror-comedy rock musical as it follows Seymour, a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 22 and Saturday, March 23; 2 p.m. Sunday, March 24
Where: Boylan Auditorium, 4000 St. Francis Drive, Rockford
Cost: $10
Parella Grand Opening
What: Celebrate the opening of our new salon. We will have food, drinks, music and a photographer to catch all of the special moments.
When: 4-8 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Parella, 214 E. State St., Rockford
Whiskey Tasting
What: Join us for an evening of whiskey sipping with Four Gate Whiskey and selections from Adictivo, Barrell Craft, Four Roses, Joseph Magnus, Leopold Bros, MB Roland, Penelope and more. RSVP over the phone or in person.
When: 4 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Artale Wine Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $20
815 BeautyCon
What: Shop small vendors while learning new things and booking beauty appointments. Explore a diverse range of products and services that will be available for purchase. Opportunities: Connect with inspiring entrepreneurs and fellow attendees. Find one-of-a-kind items and services.
When: Noon – 5 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: The Lynex, 7358 N. CherryVale Mall Drive, Rockford
Patio & Grill Expo
What: Enjoy savings on outdoor furniture, fire tables and accessories throughout the showroom. Save 40-50% off outdoor furniture special orders. Cooking demonstrations on all our grills Saturday. Taste our cook's favorite recipes from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and enjoy a free gift with grill purchase.
When: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24
Where: Village Green, 6101 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
Rockford IceHogs hockey game
What: The Ice Hogs take on the Grand Rapids Griffins. Also watch former coach Steve Martinson's Ring of Honor induction.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford Cost: $16-$30
Biscuits & Sausage Gravy fundraiser
What: The menu includes biscuits and sausage gravy, assorted fruit cup, kringle, juice, milk and coffee. Entertainment by pianist Nola Carnine. The fundraiser benefits the Rockton Food Pantry, Young Life Wesley Woods & Camp Reynoldswood Retreat Centers, GiGi's PlayHouse, Rock House Kids, Vets Roll, Carpenter's Place and the Jaimie Cox Foundation. When: 7-11 a.m. Saturday, March 23
Where: Roscoe Methodist Church, 10816 Main St., Roscoe
Cost: $8; $5 for ages 6-12; free for age 5 and younger
Easter Bunny photo opp
What: Grab your camera and grab your dog to see the Easter Bunny for a photo opportunity. Proceeds go to the Rockford Police K-9 Unit. Selfie station outside.
Additional parking at Mulford Animal Hospital. When: Noon – 3 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Bark on Mulford, 2002 S. Mulford Road, Rockford
Cost: $5 per dog; includes an Easter bandana
Caravan concert
What: Caravan - The Gypsy Swing Duo is based in Madison, Wisconsin. Their virtuosic acoustic is primarily influenced by the legendary Romani Jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt. The duo also pulls influences from American jazz, European Folk Music, traditional Latin, Parisian waltz, and other vintage-jazz sources. Admission is first-come-first-served. The Inscape Collective store will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop before after the concert.
When: 3-4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Inscape Collective, 201 Seventh St., Rockford
Cost: Suggested $10 donation
Archaeology Then & Now (Macktown)
What: Archaeologist Rochelle Lurie will give a Powerpoint presentation about archeology at Macktown Living History. This event will be held in the golf course clubhouse. Pre-registration required. When: 2 p.m. Sunday, March 24
Where: Macktown, Living History Golf Course Clubhouse, 2221 Freeport Road, Rockton
Cost: $5
One Night of Queen
What: Gary Mullen & The Works (featuring Gary Mullen on vocals, David Brockett on guitar, Billy Moffat on bass, Malcolm Gentles on keyboards and Jon Halliwell on drums) will have you dancing in the aisles during their two-hour show, while the band pays tribute to the stage theatrics, showmanship and music of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees,: Queen.
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, March 24 (doors open at 6 p.m.)
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $32.50-$77
Swedish Pancake Breakfast
What: Tickets available at the door or call to reserve tickets. Breakfast includes lingonberries, sausage, butter, milk, juice or coffee (all you can eat is for pancakes only). Carryouts available. Proceeds benefit the 2024 Civil Rights Trip to Atlanta Scholarship Fund. When: 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: Zion Lutheran Church, 925 Fifth Ave., Rockford
Cost: $15; $8 for children 11 and younger
Easter Bunny at the Museum
What: Meet the Easter Bunny, make crafts, go on a scavenger hunt, play games and explore the museum. Photos by photographer, Jamie Kirk. Pay upon arrival; cash preferred.
When: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: Boone County Museum of History, 314 S. State St., Belvidere
Cost: $10 family admission; $5 per digital photo
Easter Bunny Pictures
What: Walk in event. Digital photos by Memories By Debbie will be available to download within 72 hours. When coming, you're allowing Memories By Debbie to post your child's picture on her Facebook page within a link. You are giving consent to place your pictures on the link with others and you will download only your child's image. The link will be secured by a password given to all participating guests at the time of the event.
When: Noon – 4 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: Sips and Sprinkles, 221 W. Locust St., Belvidere
Cost: $5 per digital photo; cash only
Easter Egg Hunt at Urban Air
What: First-come first-served egg hunt event throughout Urban Air. Take photos with the Easter Bunny. Discover sweet treats, prizes, and exclusive giveaways tucked away inside each egg you find. When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: Urban Air, 7137 E. State St., Rockford
Palm Sunday Breakfast
What: Palm Sunday breakfast and take your own pictures with the Easter Bunny. Serving pancakes, whole hog sausage, eggs made to order, toast, milk or coffee.
When: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: North Boone Fire District 3, 305 W. Grove St., Poplar Grove
Cost: Freewill donation encouraged
Coming next week John Mellencamp
What: John Mellencamp will perform for one night only in 27 new cities on his Live and In Person 2024” tour. He will perform songs from the new LP, Orpheus Descending, during his live set. Mellencamp is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. *This show will be sold through the AXS ticketing platform only, not Ticketmaster.
When: 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 27 (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $49-$250