Live music, car show, solar eclipse events highlight things to do in the Rockford area

Looking for something to do in Rockford this weekend? Check out one of these events.

The Claudettes

What: This popular Chicago band performs everything from blues, jazz and rockabilly to modern pop.

When: 8:30 p.m. Friday, April 5

Where: Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St., Rockford

Girls Rawk Singer/Songwriter Night

What: This event is focused on showcasing original singer/songwriter women from the area. Artists include Shari Potter, Sophie Coyote, Trina Sulita, Manda Miller, Lola Blu and Bree Morgan Music. Each will play a set about 35-40 minutes. They can share their stories behind writing their songs, talk about releases, their journey in music and more.

When: 8 p.m. -midnight Friday, April 5

Where: Shattered Saloon, 5432 N. Second St., Loves Park

Neighbors Deck Opening Party

What: The deck will be open rain or shine. Rollin’ Whiskey is performing.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Neighbors Bar & Grill, 7745 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park

Cars & Coffee

What: Different car groups featured each month and anyone can register to participate. The monthly car shows averaged 300 cars and 600 spectators in 2023. They run from April through October. This is the largest car show in downtown Rockford and continues to grow. There will be signs that direct people where to go to participate and where to park for spectators.

When: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 6 and the first Saturday of each month through October

Where: Parking lot, 502 Seventh St. and on Seventh Street, Rockford

Cost: Free to spectate or participate

Solar eclipse preview

What: The event offers a unique opportunity for children and families to learn about eclipses in engaging ways while having fun. Highlights of the event include: planetarium shows every half hour from 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.; solar oven adventures; thaumotropes and light-sound exploration; ancient wisdom and modern science; creative projects in makerspace and art studio; and eclipse glasses giveaway while supplies last.

When: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Discovery Center Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford

Cost: $10; free for members and children younger than 1

Walk with U Guided Walk

What: This preserve is a historic and scenic preserve bisected by the Kishwaukee River. Very popular for river access, it receives a lot of use for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. This is a family-friendly walk. Leashed dogs allowed. No RSVP needed.

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve, 5757 Blackhawk Road, Cherry Valley

Cost: Free

Circus After Dark: A Masquerade Ball

What: Circus After Dark – where music enchants, drinks flow, food delights, performers amuse, and darkness casts its spell. This masquerade ball benefits Family Peace Center. Masks/costumes encouraged!

When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Union Event Space, 112 N. 2nd St., Rockford

Cost: $125

Derek Luttrell live

What: Derek Luttrell will be playing an acoustic set.

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Maze Books, 406 E. State St., Rockford

Cost: Free

RRWC celebration

What: The Rockford Regional Wildlife Coalition (RRWC), a non-profit coalition operating solely by volunteers consisting of state and federal licensed wildlife rehabilitators focusing on conservation, public education and wildlife rehabilitation in the Rockford community hosts event that includes Home Depot workshop with kids crafts; meet and greet of live birds of prey; refreshments; live performances from Little Miss Ann and live animal ambassadors.

When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford

Cost: Free

Tommy James and the Shondells with special guest The Buckinghams

What: The group will perform. Tommy James has sold over 100 million records worldwide and currently has one of Sirius XM’s most popular radio shows. He is one of the most air-played and artist covered repertoires in music history. Many artists around the world have covered and continue to cover his songs.

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday April 6 (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)

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

Cost: $39-$234

'90s flashback party

What: We are going on a Flashback Journey to the 90's. Get your best 90's gear on and join us for all of your favorite 90's music all night.

When: 9 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Rockton Inn Pub & Grub, 102 E. Main St., Rockton

Rockford Rage All Stars vs. Chippewa Valley doubleheader

What: Come for the roller derby bouts, stay for the Black & White Mixer afterward. Proceeds from this event will benefit CASA: Court Appointed Special Advocates, in honor of Child Abuse Prevention month. Want to skate in the mixer, too? The mixer is B/C level and open gender. Participants and referees can sign up online.

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, April 6 (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Where: UW Health Sports Factory, 301 S. Water St., Rockford

Cost: $15; $10 in advance; free for children 12 and younger

Paper shredding event

What: Clear out the clutter and bring it to us. Declutter and organize your home, and discard those important and not-so-important documents securely. Even stay in your car, as our friendly agents will assist by unloading for you. While there, enter raffle to win a basket of goodies.

When: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group, 109 N. Showplace Drive, Rockford

Cost: Free

Find a Grave tips and tricks

What: Seminar led by Jerry Moors to discuss what Find a Grave® is and how it can be used to further your family research. Learn the basics of how to find your ancestors’ memorials and how to become a contributor so you can suggest edits, add photos and documents, and link ancestors to other family members. Learn how to create memorials for ancestors that do not yet have one, along with tips and tricks to make contributing easier and more enjoyable. The seminar will touch on the Find a Grave® mobile app and how to add GPS locations to new and existing memorials. Jerry Moors is the current treasurer of the Winnebago & Boone Counties Genealogical Society.

When: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Rockford Public Library, 6685 E. State St., Rockford

IceHogs hockey game

What: The Rockford IceHogs take on the Grand Rapids Griffins.

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford

Cost: $17-$30

Bossties Tea Party

What: Bosstie Tea Party is a luxurious indoor tea party with a carefully curated vibe. Indulge in a specially crafted menu designed for health-conscious lifestyles. The event includes an interactive business workshop to enhance business skills and knowledge; access to experienced business-driven women; complimentary wine; complimentary professional headshot; brunch-style meal, cash bar and various vendors offering products and services that cater to business and lifestyle needs.

When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: The Collective, 309 Seventh St., Rockford

Cost: $35

Hope & Anchor comedy show

What: Comics for the night include host Tony Lisowski, guest feature Robert Rule, main feature KB Marion and headliner Josh Chuboff.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Hope & Anchor, 545 McKinley Ave., Loves Park

Cost: $10 cover added to table’s tab

Health and wellness workshop

What: The Arthenia Newburn Ministries workshop will be centered around the importance of community health, the importance of regular health checkups, and maintaining your mind, body and soul. We will be highlighting preventative and restorative measures for some of these common diseases: diabetes, eye disease, cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, lung disease, influenza, Covid-19, the common cold and mental disorders. This workshop is open to everyone. There will be a continental breakfast and lunch served. The UW Health Mobile Unit will be on site to provide blood pressure screenings and vaccinations.

When: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Bethel Baptist Church Family Life Center, 724 Harrison Ave., Rockford

Cost: Free; donations are welcomed

Grand opening: Obsidian Tattoo

What: Come celebrate the opening of Obsidian Tattoo. Easy Tiger food truck, treats by Humble Bee Bakery, drinks and music performance by WAIST.

When: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Obsidian Tattoo, 5643 E. State St., Unit 3, Rockford

Dried flower bookmarks

What: This kids craft includes everything your child needs to make two beautiful bookmarks using real dried flowers. Let their imagination bloom and watch their creativity flourish!

When: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Buckets n Blooms, 647 S. Blackhawk Blvd., Rockton

Cost: $15 for two bookmarks

Ladies self-defense class

What: Topics covered include: empowerment and self-confidence, knowing fear but avoiding panic, protecting yourself, getting a sharper focus, becoming stronger and having a positive attitude. Instructor is Al Erickson.

When: 1 p.m. Sunday, April 7

Where: New Mill Tap, 6935 11th St., Rockford

Cost: Free

Solar eclipse experience

What: Learn about the total solar eclipse happening April 8. Enjoy an interactive presentation and leave prepared to view this celestial event. Solar eclipse viewing glasses will be provided. This program is best suited for children ages 6-8 and family members. Please RSVP in advance.

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 7

Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit

Cost: Free; donations appreciated

Concerts on the Creek

What: Outlaws and Crooners: Music by Chip Messiner and the Trinadora Rock Band features favorite hits by artists who ‘bucked’ the establishment, reminded country music of its roots and gave it new energy. Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Tanya Tucker, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Patty Loveless, Kris Kristofferson, Linda Ronstadt are among the stars how songs will be featured.

When: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, April 7 (doors open at 2 p.m.)

Where: Spring Creek Church, 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

Cost: Free admission. $10 free-will donation encouraged

Spring Roast Beef Dinner

What: Enjoy juicy, tender roast beef with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, dinner rolls, ice cream & beverage along with Flora Grange's famous homemade salad. Walkins welcome. Carryouts available. Net proceeds support Flora Grange's Community Service Projects.

When: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Sunday, April 7

Where: Flora Grange Hall, 2105 Stone Quarry Road, Belvidere

Cost: $12; $6 for children age 6 and younger

Coming next week

Queensryche with special guest Armored Saint

What: Although Queensrÿche would score multi-platinum albums and hit singles over their career, their fans have developed an undeniable love for the group's early releases – when they helped trailblaze a style of rock that combined elements of metal and prog. For the first time ever, Queensrÿche will be performing both classic releases in their entirety as part of 'The Origins Tour.'

When: 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 9 (doors open at 7 p.m.)

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

Cost: $29.50-$488

Amanee Avery Band

What: Free show, all are welcome. Great jazz and blues sax player and her band live at Mr. J's! Great food and drinks, super atmosphere.

When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, April 9

Where: Mr. J’s Blues and Jazz, 517 15th Ave., Rockford

Cost: Free show

Housing justice symposium

What: Authors Richard Rothstein (The Color of Law) and daughter Leah Rothstein (Just Action) will present a 45-minute lecture then answer questions focused on addressing residential segregation in our community. The Rothsteins’ lecture will be centered around their latest co-authored book, Just Action, which describes how we can begin to address segregation in our community, providing dozens of strategies local groups can pursue for racial housing justice.

When: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 10

Where: Rock Valley College Physical Education Center, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford

Cost: Free, but advance registration appreciated

Cocktail Class: Intro to Syrups

What: Immerse yourself in the world of mixology as our expert guide reveals the secrets behind crafting your own syrups infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Get hands-on experience in balancing flavors, unlocking the potential of ingredients like thyme and cinnamon to create bespoke syrups. Elevate your mixology skills by concocting three signature cocktails. Savor light snacks that complement the flavors. Class includes three craft cocktails, make and take home your own crafted syrup. Credit card information is required for reservation and will only be charged in the case of no-show or late cancellation in accordance with our cancellation policy. Dinner will be available for purchase at an additional cost through our Wine Bar Menu.

When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 10 or Thursday, April 11

Where: Hidden Creek Estates, 13276 Whiteschool Road, Roscoe

Cost: $55

Walk-In Make & Takes

What: Join us for a spring themed event. Boards are pre-sanded and stained ready for you to paint. Several designs. Food and drinks purchased separately.

When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, April 11

Where: Onyx Bar & Grill, 1001 W. Lane Road, Machesney Park

Cost: $10-$25; cash, card or Venmo

Life Balance and the Swedish

What: Keeping her Swedish roots alive is a priority for Jan Peterson Hincapie and was very important to her late parents, Bob and Asta Peterson. When planning a trip to Sweden for the first time this past summer, she became interested in Lagom, a life philosophy taught to Swedes early in life. Hincapie will talk about how Americans can incorporate Lagom into their lives to experience a happier, more productive existence while improving their relationships and finding greater joy in all they do. ​Presentation accompanied by a fika with the speaker.

When: 1 p.m. Thursday, April 11

Where: Nordic Cultural Center, 327 S. Third St., Rockford

Cost: $15; $10 for members

Afterglow Movement Clinic

What: Afterglow is a film that follows a group of parkour athletes exploring their past and how movement shaped them to be the people they are today. Come meet the cast and learn to connect with your body in new ways, while experiencing the benefits of intentional movement and being outside. Participants will be asked to sign a waiver before participating. This clinic is best suited for ages 12 and older. Please register in advance.

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 11

Where: Nature at the Confluence, 306 Dickop St., South Beloit

Cost: $7

Celebrating Our Heritage

What: This event is an opportunity for the Ethnic Heritage Museum to raise funds to continue its work. The evening will include performances of traditional dances, music, and more, from various cultures, showcasing the beauty and richness of movement as an expression of cultural identity. In addition to the performances, there will be food, drinks, networking, a silent auction and a variety show highlighting the "movements" of the cultures the museum preserves: (African-American, Hispanic, Irish, Italian, Lithuanian, and Polish). Cash bar. Register online.

When: 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 11

Where: Embassy Suites Rockford, 629 S. Wyman St., Rockford

Cost: $95; $80 for members

Haunted Library Stories

What: Meet local author, Kathi Kresol. This event will include stories about scary encounters in a most unusual place ... the library.

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, April 11

Where: Winnebago Public Library, 210 N. Elida St., Winnebago

Kathi Edwards is a freelance correspondent.

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: 24 things to do in the Rockford area this weekend