Featured Events in Rockford in July, 2025 (July Updated)

Tiny Tots (Ages 4 - 6) *Children who are not bathroom proficient need to be accompanied by an adult* Ages 4-6 yrs old. Dig for fossils, learn about dinosaurs, and explore dinosaurs with paleontologists from Burpee’s dinosaur quarry in Utah! Burpee educators will guide them through captivating lessons, fostering a love for science and the environment. It's a day filled with curiosity, discovery, and the joy of understanding the amazing life forms that surround us! Check out burpee.org for details! Date: Wednesday, July 30th, 2025 Time: 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Campers should bring a snack and a beverage. There will be fresh filtered water to refill your container. Cost: Nonmembers: $50, Members: $25 Ticket sales end at midnight on July 24th. Cancellation/refund policy: Cancellation MUST be received 7 clear days ahead to receive a refund. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Due to the cost of staff and materials, refunds will not be given after July 24, 2024. Tickets sold out? Contact Burpee Museum Visitor Services at (815) 965-3433 to enroll by phone. Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

To pay by cash or check or inquire about the event, please contact: abigail.oleson@rps205.com or call 815-966-8960 Sunday, July 20th - 12th Annual Champions Ball: Athletic Hall of Fame at Illinois Bank and Trust Pavilion Time: 1pm -3pm Includes : Event entry and hors d'oeuvres Attire: Dress to Impress Class of 2025 Gary Giardini (Coach) Perry Giardini (Coach) 1997/98 East High School Wrestling Team Information Source: Abigail Compton | eventbrite

To pay by cash or check or inquire about the event, please contact: abigail.oleson@rps205.com or call 815-966-8960 Sunday, July 20th - 12th Annual Champions Ball: Athletic Hall of Fame at Illinois Bank and Trust Pavilion Time: 1pm -3pm Includes: Event entry and hors d'oeuvres Attire: Dress to Impress Class of 2025 Gary Giardini (Coach)Perry Giardini (Coach)1997/98 East High School Wrestling Team Information Source: Abigail Compton | eventbrite

Visual Arts Camp - Ages 5-9 July 21-25, 2025, 9:30 am - 12:00 pm SAC Art Studio, $120 Instructor: Kayla Ellis Kayla Ellis is a licensed and nationally board-certified visual arts teacher with a BFA in Art Education. She has taught at Surry County Schools, Surry Community College, Surry Arts council, and with Crisanthemum Ceramics. She explores color and design through art, quilt making, and gardening. Masks are optional. No refunds. By attending any event associated with the Surry Arts Council, you acknowledge that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. By attending the event, you and any guests voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not to hold the Surry Arts Council liable for any illness or injury. Information Source: Surry Arts Council | eventbrite

MAXIMUM ENROLLMENT IS 15 SCOUTS PER SESSION Scouts will learn about archaeology from our registered Archaeology Merit Badge Counselors You will receive an email with detailed information about homework, projects and other requirements for your badge. If needed, supplemental materials such as worksheets or directions will be attached, or a link will be provided. Links will also be provided to Burpee’s virtual museum where scouts can watch videos and see objects from our exhibits and collections. Scouts will have the opportunity to meet with a Burpee Educator online to present their projects and discuss what they have learned in the virtual museum. These classes are designed to meet all of the requirements of the badge offered. Burpee does not provide Blue Cards. Pre-registration & prepayment are required to attend. Cost: Scout $15 Scout Leaders FREE Virtual Class: Monday, July 21, 2025 5:00 - 7:00 pm CDT MAXIMUM ENROLLMENT IS 15 SCOUTS PER SESSION Please Note: Burpee does not provide patches/badges. In Person check-in starts 15 minutes before the program start time, please plan to be here early so we can start on time. Cancellation/refund policy: If cancellation is received 7 clear days ahead of the date a refund less 20% will be issued. Please be aware that we sometimes have to cancel a program because it did not reach the minimum registration requirement – Don’t wait until the last minute to sign up or your program may already be cancelled! Burpee Museum reserves the right to limit registrations and cancel any program for any reason. Every effort will be made to contact participants. Burpee Museum of Natural History - Virtual, 737 N. Main Street, Rockford, 61103, Phone (815) 965-3433 MAXIMUM ENROLLMENT IS 15 SCOUTS PER SESSION Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

The Garden Clubs of Illinois, Inc. District I is hosting this year's Summer Meeting on Monday, July 21, 2025 at Klehm Arboretum & Botanical Garden. This year's theme is "Recycling - Think Green; Live Clean." The event features a continental breakfast, garden tours, vendors, awards, a luncheon, and a program on recycling. A block of rooms has been reserved at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront . To receive the GCI discount, please click here to make your reservations. Information Source: The Garden Clubs of Illinois, Inc. | eventbrite

Farm Tour & Hike Join us for a fun-filled evening exploring the beautiful outdoors at 5084 S Bend Rd . Our Farm Tour & Hike event offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the historic farm of Charles and Esta Barrett. Information Source: Esta Barrett Manor & Gardens | eventbrite

Welcome to the R2OC Rock River Robotics Off-season Competition! Come join us at Rock Valley College for an exciting day filled with robots, competition, and fun! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone with a passion for robotics. Watch FIRST Robotics teams from the Midwest showcase their skills and creativity in competing at REEFSCAPE. Cheer on your favorites and see who will come out on top! Get ready for a day of innovation and excitement at the R2OC Rock River Robotics Off-season Competition! Information Source: R2OC Planning Committee | eventbrite

Experience the essence of dance and music at Footloose SUNDAY in Mount Airy. This lively event will take place at the Andy Griffith Playhouse located at 218 Rockford Street on July 27, 2025. Join fellow enthusiasts for a day filled with entertainment and rhythm in the heart of North Carolina. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to groove to the beat and celebrate the joy of movement.

We are excited to have you join us for the 2025 Walnut Council Annual Meeting in Rockford, Illinois with tours to Beloit, WI area. Can’t attend the entire event? Consider coming for a day or two, daily rates are available. This unique opportunity will feature nationally recognized and local experts in the growth, culture and utilization of black walnut and other fine quality hardwoods. Landowners, farmers, ranchers, natural resource professionals, scientists, and forest industry will all benefit attending this event. The meeting will be located at the Hilton Garden Inn, Rockford, Illinois. For the Monday field tour shuttle buses will be provided. See the agenda here . See all the other meeting details here. Deadline for Room Reservations is June 28th. Hotel rooms are at Hilton Garden Inn Rockford, 7675 Walton St. Call 815-229-3322 by June 28 to book at the special “Walnut Council” group rate of $134 K/$144 2 Q + tax per night or book online at http://bit.ly/4lE9v5R . Information Source: Walnut Council | eventbrite

Explorers (Ages 7-11)* Youth (Ages 12 and up) *Children who are not bathroom proficient need to be accompanied by an adult* Join real paleontologists just returning home from Burpee’s dinosaur quarry in Utah. Explore the biology of dinosaurs as you work with real fossils, examine the first plants and animals of Earth, learn about prehistoric diversity in an internationally recognized paleontology program Burpee educators will guide them through captivating lessons, fostering a love for science and the environment. It's a week filled with curiosity, discovery, and the joy of understanding the amazing life forms that surround us! Check out burpee.org for details! Dates: July 28th - August 1st, Monday - Friday Time: 10 am - 3 pm Friday is an open house & explore day where students can bring up to 3 family members to the museum to show off what they learned during the week. Families can come any time during the day. Campers should bring a sack lunch and a beverage daily. There will be fresh filtered water to refill your container. Cost: Nonmembers: $240, Members: $200 Online Ticket sales end at midnight on July 21st. Due to the cost of staff and materials, refunds will not be given after July 2, 2024. Tickets sold out? Contact Burpee Museum Visitor Services at (815) 965-3433 to enroll by phone. Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

Dance Camp- Ages 5-7 July 14-18, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Cindi Griffith Dance Studio, $100 Instructor: Salem Poindexter No refunds. Masks are optional. By attending any event associated with the Surry Arts Council, you acknowledge that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. By attending the event, you and any guests voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not to hold the Surry Arts Council liable for any illness or injury. Information Source: Surry Arts Council | eventbrite

Dance Camp- Ages 8-12 July 14-18, 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm Cindi Griffith Dance Studio, $100 Instructor: Kim McCachren Sellers No refunds. Masks are optional. By attending any event associated with the Surry Arts Council, you acknowledge that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. By attending the event, you and any guests voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not to hold the Surry Arts Council liable for any illness or injury. Information Source: Surry Arts Council | eventbrite

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Experience the ultimate musical journey with the 311: Unity Tour 2025 in Rockford at the Hard Rock Live Rockford. The event is scheduled to take place on July 6, 2025, at 7801 E State Street, IL, 61108. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness a spectacular performance by 311, known for their unique blend of rock, reggae, hip-hop, and funk. Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of music and unity at this iconic venue in Rockford. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets for a night to remember at the 311: Unity Tour 2025.

Young Artists Sewing Camp - Ages 10-18 July 7-11, 2025, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm SAC Art Studio, $175 Instructor: Kayla Ellis Kayla Ellis is a licensed and nationally board-certified visual arts teacher with a BFA in Art Education. She has taught at Surry County Schools, Surry Community College, Surry Arts council, and with Crisanthemum Ceramics. She explores color and design through art, quilt making, and gardening. Masks are optional. No refunds. By attending any event associated with the Surry Arts Council, you acknowledge that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. By attending the event, you and any guests voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not to hold the Surry Arts Council liable for any illness or injury. Information Source: Surry Arts Council | eventbrite

Intro to Basic Embroidery-Adult Ready to get crafty? Continue celebrating Frida Fest by joining us for an Intro to Basic Embroidery workshop designed just for adults! Learn the fundamentals of embroidery and create your own unique Frida Kahlo design. No experience necessary - all skill levels are welcome! This in-person event will take place at the Ethnic Heritage Museum . Grab a friend and come stitch with us! Information Source: La Onda NFP | eventbrite

All abilities welcome! Explore amazing animal adaptations, interact safely with live creatures, and discover your “wild side” through fun activities about local and exotic animals. Thursday sessions take place in a calm, inclusive environment after the museum closes. Participants will get to touch the featured live animals if desired. Watching only is great too! Each week offers new zoology topics! Note for registration: For reasonable accomodations please contact Nicole.Hayes@burpee.org to request support. Please allow 2 weeks for requested accomodations. Wednesdays: June 4, 11, 18, 15 | 4:30-5:30 Thursdays:June 5, 12, 19, 26 | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Information Source: Burpee Museum | eventbrite

All abilities welcome! Dive into the fascinating world of dinosaurs. Explore real fossils, create dinosaur-inspired crafts, and learn exciting dino facts. Thursday sessions take place after the museum closes, offering a relaxed space for hands-on prehistoric adventures. Note for registration: For reasonable accomodations please contact Nicole.Hayes@burpee.org to request support. Please allow 2 weeks for requested accomodations. Wednesdays: July 9, 16 | 4:30-5:30 PM Cost: NonMembers $20 Members $10 Cancellation/refund policy: Cancellation MUST be received 7 clear days ahead to receive a refund. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Information Source: Burpee Museum | eventbrite

Two days. Two popular ways to explore Biology at Burpee! Splash into the aquatic ecosystems! From our Rock River to local ponds, get your hands dirty looking for life from microscopic to fish, turtles, and frogs. Get up and personal with live specimens and Dress to get a little wet! This is going to be a lot of fun! Sign up for one or both! Select two Fridays this summer! Day #1June 19th & Day #2 July 10th Two classes; Ages 7-11; 12 and Up Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM What to Expect? Guided learning within exhibits, Tours and Workshops in collections, Guided practice in the paleo lab (for ages 7- 11 and 12 and up), Mini Labs & Experiments, and Experiencing the real work of scientists. Enjoy a fantastic experience and a greater understanding of our aquatic ecosystems.. Non Members $70 Members $45 Cancellation/Refund Policy: Due to the cost of Staff and materials, any cancellation must be received 14 days ahead of the event. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

All abilities welcome! Explore amazing animal adaptations, interact safely with live creatures, and discover your “wild side” through fun activities about local and exotic animals. Thursday sessions take place in a calm, inclusive environment after the museum closes. Participants will get to touch the featured live animals if desired. Watching only is great too! Each week offers new zoology topics! Note for registration: For reasonable accomodations please contact Nicole.Hayes@burpee.org to request support. Please allow 2 weeks for requested accomodations. Wednesdays: June 4, 11, 18, 15 | 4:30-5:30 Thursdays:June 5, 12, 19, 26 | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Information Source: Burpee Museum | eventbrite

Movie Screening - Frida (2002) In honor of Frida Fest, come join us for a special screening of the movie Frida at the Rockford Art Museum ! Immerse yourself in the life of the iconic artist Frida Kahlo as portrayed in this biographical film. Witness her struggles, triumphs, and artistic journey on the big screen. Grab some popcorn and enjoy this cinematic experience surrounded by fellow art enthusiasts. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the world of Frida Kahlo! Information Source: La Onda NFP | eventbrite

Youth - Intro to Basic Embroidery Come join us for more Frida Fest fun and a creative afternoon at the Ethnic Heritage Museum to learn the basics of embroidery! This in-person event is perfect for young crafters looking to explore a new hobby. Our skilled instructors will guide you through different stitches and techniques to create your own Frida Kahlo design. No experience necessary, just bring your enthusiasm and we'll provide all the materials you need. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unleash your creativity and make some a colorful Frida Kahlo masterpiece! Information Source: La Onda NFP | eventbrite

Youth (Ages 12 and up) Calling makers and innovators. Learn to 3D scan and print to make tools or museum replicas, explore animal behavior with high-speed videography, learn the art of pinning and preserving insects, and harness tech tools for cutting-edge science communication. This hands-on camp is perfect for budding innovators ready to blend science and technology! Check out burpee.org for details! Dates: July 14th - 18th, Monday - Friday Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Campers should bring a sack lunch and a beverage daily. There will be fresh filtered water to refill your container. Cost: Nonmembers: $240, Members: $200 Online Ticket sales end at midnight on July 7th. Cancellation/refund policy: Cancellation MUST be received 14 clear days ahead to receive a refund. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Tickets sold out? Contact Burpee Museum Visitor Services at (815) 965-3433 to enroll by phone. Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

Youth (Ages 12 and up) Calling makers and innovators. Learn to 3D scan and print to make tools or museum replicas, explore animal behavior with high-speed videography, learn the art of pinning and preserving insects, and harness tech tools for cutting-edge science communication. This hands-on camp is perfect for budding innovators ready to blend science and technology! Check out burpee.org for details! Dates: July 14th - 18th, Monday - Friday Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Campers should bring a sack lunch and a beverage daily. There will be fresh filtered water to refill your container. Cost: Nonmembers: $240, Members: $200 Online Ticket sales end at midnight on July 7th. Cancellation/refund policy: Cancellation MUST be received 14 clear days ahead to receive a refund. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Tickets sold out? Contact Burpee Museum Visitor Services at (815) 965-3433 to enroll by phone. Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

Welcome to Intro to Cadenilla Embroidery! Continue to celebrate Frida Fest by joining us at the Ethnic Heritage Museum for a hands-on workshop where you'll learn the art of Cadenilla embroidery. This traditional technique involves creating intricate designs using a needle and thread. No experience necessary! Our skilled instructor will guide you every step of the way. Discover the beauty of this unique craft, its Mexican historic influence, and unleash your creativity in a fun and welcoming environment. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore a new skill, celebrate Frida Kahlo, and connect with fellow embroidery enthusiasts. See you there! Information Source: La Onda NFP | eventbrite

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No Experience is needed for the classes. Our paleontologists and educators will provide hands-on training in the lab and classroom. Select two Fridays this summer! June 6th & July 18th Two classes; Ages 7-11; 12 and Up Time: 1:00 - 4:00 PM What to Expect? Guided learning within exhibits, Tours and Workshops in collections, Guided practice in the paleo lab (for ages 7- 11 and 12 and up), Mini Labs & Experiments, and Experiencing the real work of paleontologists. Enjoy a fantastic experience and a greater understanding of our prehistoric Earth. Non Members $70 Members $45 Cancellation/Refund Policy: Due to the cost of Staff and materials, any cancellation must be received 14 days ahead of the event. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Information Source: Burpee Museum of Natural History | eventbrite

Natural History Art Classes Enhance your visit with a 60-minute art class on select days at the museum for only $3 ($2 members) in addition to museum admission! Learn how artists and scientists can work together to create a visual representation of a time on Earth we have never seen before PaleoArt! Learn how to draw a T-rex or Allosaurus using modern models, skeletons, and research. Imagine a mammoth and learn how artists recreate amazing prehistoric worlds through sculpture, video, painting, and more! Burpee Museum resident artists teach classes. Examine plants, skulls, and animals up close and learn techniques that bring nature to life in your art! Recomended for Ages 7 & Up. What to expect: Basic supplies are included in the registration fee. Students should feel free to bring personal supplies they like to use. Each class lasts about 1 hour with guided instruction. However, students are welcome to stay longer and continue their work. All sessions are Saturday’s 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Preregistration may be done online through Eventbrite or by calling Burpee’s visitor services department (815-965-3433). Walk-ins are welcome to attend as well. Nonmember Adults (13+): $18 ($15 admission + $3 class fee) Nonmember Youth (4-12): $13 ($13 admission + $3 class fee) Members: $2 ($0 admission + $2 class fee) Alternate Saturdays 1:00 - 2:00 PM 1/4/25 Troodon Eye: Ryan 1/18/25 Dinos of Antarctica: Cryolophosaurus: Fridge Magnet 2/1/25 Dancing Dinos: Dinosaur Wing Display 2/15/25 Dancing Dinos: Carnotaurus dance diorama 3/1/25 Paleofest (will nail down closer to date) 3/15/25 Eryops life cycle paper standees 3/29/25 Protoceratops nest 4/12/25 Dino weapons: Stegosaur paper puppet 4/26/25 Dino weapons: Ankylosaur Diorama 5/10/25 Tyrannosaur hand puppet 5/24/25 Ceratopsid heads 6/ 7/25: Giants of the Jurassic: Diplodocus Paper Puppe 6/ 21/25: Giants of the Jurassic: Camarasaurus Desk Diorama 7/5/25: Exceptional American Animals: Bird Glider 7/19/25: Exceptional American Animals: American Lion Desk Diorama 8/2/ 25: Standing the Test of Time: Shark Tooth Fossil Replica 8/16/25: Strange Seas: Dunkleosteus Paper Puppet 8/30/25: Strange Seas: (walking whale) Ambulocetus desk diorama Cancellation/refund policy: Due to the cost of Staff and materials, any cancellation must be received 7 clear days before the event. A fee of 20% will be deducted from any refund after the initial purchase. Information Source: Burpee Museum | eventbrite