Attractions and Calendar of Events from May - December 2025 in Lee and Whiteside Counties
Attractions and Calendar of Events from May - December 2022 in arroll, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside Counties
May 21, 2022
Saturday, May 24, 2025
AMBOY
Amboy Depot Museum
The two-story former railroad depot, built of brick and cut Joliet limestone, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It has been completely restored and includes the original brick tarmac surrounding the depot and the grounds of the former railyard, now preserved as a city park. The museum houses artifacts from both the history of Amboy and the Illinois Central Railroad, including a steam locomotive.
The resort is full of enchanting oaks and whispering pines, and the Green River and two creeks meander through it. Enjoy weekend camping in your RV or one of the rental trailers. There’s a camp store and a game room, as well as modern showers and flush toilets.
Address: 1442 Sleepy Hollow Road
Contact: 815-857-2815 or greenriveroaks@yahoo.com
Online: greenriveroaks.com or find Green River Oaks Resort on Facebook
Mendota Hills Campground
The campground offers 130 acres of rolling hills nestled in an oak tree forest; a swimming lake with a sand beach, three lakes for fishing (no license needed) and row boating add to the offerings. The camp store includes groceries, handdipped ice cream, soda, firewood and ice, along with an arcade room with a billiard table.
Address: 642 U.S. Route 52
Phone: 815-849-5930
Online: mendotahillscampground. com or Facebook
O’Connell’s
Jellystone Park
The resort boasts three swimming pools, three kiddie pools, two adult spas, two fishing lakes, an outdoor movie theater, a game room, sand volleyball court, horseshoes and
700 campsites with five bathhouses. There’s also a camp store, laundry, golf cart rentals, paddle boats, kayaks and mini golf.
Address: 970 Green Wing Road
Phone: 815-857-3860
Online: jellystoneamboy.com or find O’Connell’s Yogi Bear Park on Facebook.
Hours: Check-in and check-out at 3 p.m.
Admission: See website for reservation information.
Pine View Campgrounds
The grounds offer camping under 40 acres of pine trees. The campground has a playground, as well as equipment for volleyball, badminton, shuffleboard and horseshoes. There is a sandy lake for swimming and a lake stocked with bass, bullheads and catfish.
Address: 1273 Sleepy Hollow Road
Phone: 815-857-3694
Online: pineviewcampgrounds. com and on Facebook
Temperance Hill
Cemetery Prairie
The cemetery, which dates back to 1846, sits on prairie and a state nature preserve featuring big bluestem, Indian grass, and various sedge species.
The building, dedicated in 1936 and named in honor of a pair of Civil War veterans who “adopted” the town, houses city offices, the public library and a gym, and features plaques honoring local war veterans. Tours are available.
Address: 704 N. First St. Contact: 815-453-2213 or library@ ashtonusa.com
Online: millspetrielibrary.weebly. com or find Mills & Petrie Memorial Building-Library and Gymnasium
Facebook
Hours: 1-6:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday
Lee County was formed in 1839 out of adjacent Ogle County. Its 729 square miles is home to 36,000 people. The county seat is Dixon. Among its famous residents are Ronald Reagan, John Deere, Orson Welles, Louella Parson, Charles Walgreen and Ronald Reagan.
DIXON
Dixon Stage Left
Live entertainment including mystery dinner shows as well as comedies, drama and cabaret shows Friday through Saturday and Sunday matinees.
Address: 105 S. Peoria Ave. Contact: 815-440-2999 or info@ dixonstageleft.org
Online: dixonstageleft.org and Facebook
Admission: See website for shows and tickets
Dixon Telegraph Museum
The museum showcases the newspaper and its role in the history of Dixon, including an 1850s printing press, historic newspapers, and photographs showcasing the Telegraph and Dixon history. It also features a tribute to Ronald Reagan.
This restored center for the performing arts, which opened in 1922, boasts a rare Barton theater pipe organ. Features plays, musicals and live music performances.
Address: 114 S. Galena Ave. | Phone: 815-285-1917
Online: dixontheatre.com or Facebook
Admission: Varies by event; check the website or call ahead
Lee County Historical and Genealogical Society
The research center provides information about the history of Lee County and the surrounding area, as well as assistance for those tracing their ancestry.
Address: 113 S. Hennepin Ave. Phone: 815-284-1134
Online: leecountyhgs.org or Facebook
Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Saturday; or by appointment
The Lincoln statue
Sculptor Leonard Crunelle portrays Abraham Lincoln as he might have
looked in 1832, while captain of a company of soldiers during the Black Hawk War. It is the only known statue of Lincoln showing him in military dress and without a beard. The bronze dominates the site of the old Dixon blockhouse.
Address: President’s Park, 100 Lincoln Statue Drive
Online: dixonparkdistrict.com/parks
Loveland Community House & Museum
Exhibits include Civil War artifacts, old farm tools, a pioneer kitchen and bedroom, along with personal items from city founder John Dixon. The museum also has an extensive Ronald Reagan exhibit.
Address: 513 W. Second St. Phone: 815-284-2741
Online: lovelandcommunityhouse. org and on Facebook
Established in 1907 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this 200-acre park along the Rock River, where Ronald Reagan once spent his summers as a lifeguard, offers a spacious picnic and recreation area, a playground, several hiking trails, cross-country skiing, fishing, boat docks, a nature center and a 40-acre state nature preserve. Rooms in the historic Woodcote lodge, built in 1909 with native limestone quarried on site, are available to rent.
Address: 2114 Lowell Park Road Phone: 815-284-3306
Online: dixonparkdistrict.com/lowell-park
Midway Drive-In and Diner
The Midway Drive-In, opened in 1950, is home to the oldest standing drive-in screen in Illinois, and the owners are dedicated to its preservation and to paying tribute to the American drive-in theater tradition. It features a retro “spaceship” ticket booth, a playground, a diner/concession stand, a 90-foot-wide screen with digital projection and sound, and can hold up to 500 cars.
Address: 91 Palmyra Road Phone: 847-647-3124
Online: themidwaydrivein.net or Facebook
Hours: Movie times to be an-
nounced; check the website
Admission: Tickets available online and box office; $9.50 adults, $4 ages 3-11, ages 2 and younger free; $10-per-vehicle “food permit” required
Old Settlers Cabin
Maintained by the Lee County Historical Society, the Old Settlers Cabin was built in 1894 as a memorial to the area’s early settlers and moved to its present site in President’s Park in 1969. It houses antiques and articles that belonged to early-day settlers, including city founder John Dixon.
Address: 115 Lincoln Statue Drive Phone: 815-284-1134
Hours: Generally open during Petunia Festival in late June and early July; call ahead for specific dates and times.
Nachusa House Hotel
Former hotel building, named Nachusa House for city founder John Dixon, whose Indian name, Nachusa, means “head-hair-white.”
Five U.S. presidents – Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft and Ronald Reagan – stayed there, as did Jefferson Davis, Stephen A. Douglas, William Jennings Bryan and evangelist Bill Sunday. It now is apartments for senior citizens.
Address: 215 S. Galena Ave.
The Next Picture Show
This nonprofit art gallery and fine arts center offers two floors of changing exhibits by local professional and student artists. It also hosts workshops, classes and special events.
Address: 113 W First St. Contact: 815-285-4924 or nps@grics.net
Online: thenextpictureshow.com and on Facebook
Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday or by appointment
Admission: Free
cont’d to p. 4
cont’d from p. 3
Northwest Territory Historic Center
Originally South Central School, and now a museum and research center, it features Ronald Reagan’s restored sixth-grade classroom, historical displays and an art gallery. In 2014, two new permanent exhibits were added – one of regional Native American life and another of early American farming; the additions prompted a name change from the Dixon Historic Center to its current name. It is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution.
Address: 205 W. Fifth St. Contact: 815-288-5508 or info@nthc.org
Online: nthc.org and on Facebook
Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday
Admission: By donation
Plum Hollow Family Center
Bowling, arcades, laser tag, miniature golf and food available.
Address: 1933 Route 26, Dixon
Hours: see website for hours and rates
Online: bowldixon.com
Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home & Visitors Center
The two-story white house, built in 1891, became the home of the Reagan family on Dec. 6, 1920, just 2 months shy of Ron’s 10th birthday. They lived there for 3 years. The nextdoor Visitors Center is full of information on all things Reagan. Ronald Reagan Memorial Park includes a statue of the former president.
Large wooden play structure will spark imaginative play for all ages.
Address: 1298 Washington Ave., Dixon
Online: dixonil.myrec.com
Veterans Memorial Park
Dedicated to all who have served in the military, the park has military artifacts of all kinds, including an F-105 Thunderchief fighter plane, a Howitzer tank, a Cobra helicopter, and a landing ship tank anchor. It also features a 9/11 memorial and a small museum. It is handicapped-accessible.
Address: 668 Veterans Parkway
Online Facebook
FRANKLIN GROVE
Franklin Creek Grist Mill and Interpretive Center
The Franklin Creek State Natural Area also is home to the Franklin Creek Grist Mill and Interpretive Center. It’s a functioning, water-powered grist mill and museum. A demonstration of actual corn grinding is done on the last Saturday of the month. See events calendar for special concerts, movies in the park and family activities. Trail runners compete in 10K run in September.
Address: 1893 Twist Road | Phone: 815-456-2718
Online: dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/Pages/FranklinCreek.aspx, or franklincreekconservation.org/ or find Franklin Creek Conservation Association on Facebook Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April-October and by appointment Admission: Free
Victory Memorial
Arch
Dixon’s signature arch was built in 1919 to celebrate victory in World War I and to honor its veterans. At the time, it read, “A grateful people pause in their welcome to the victorious living to pay silent tribute to the illustrious dead.” Now, it simply reads, “Dixon.”
Address: South Galena Avenue between Second and Third streets Wings of Peace and Freedom Park
A Bulgarian immigrant donated the Wings of Peace and Freedom sculpture to the city. The little park, which also has a full-size replica of a section of the Berlin Wall, recognizes President Ronald Reagan’s efforts to attain worldwide peace and freedom.
Address: Northeast corner of Second Street and Galena Avenue
FRANKLIN GROVE
Chaplin Creek Village
Chaplin Creek Village is an evolving,
full-scale historical restoration
project depicting a mid-1800s prairie settlement. The site, established and maintained by the Franklin Grove Area Historical Society, is home to the Chaplin Creek Muzzleloaders, a group of local antique and historic gun collectors.
Address: 1715 Whitney Road
Contact: info15@chaplincreek.com
Online: Facebook
Hours: Site open for visitors to drive through, buildings open by appointment
Admission: Free Franklin Creek
State Natural Area
This 882-acre park features natural springs, hardwood forests, bedrock outcroppings, and a large variety of flora and fauna. It also contains a 198-acre nature preserve. Fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and hiking are permitted, and the nonprofit Rock River Trail and Horseman Association (rrtha.tripod.com), the oldest chartered saddle club in Illinois, has built and maintains horseback-riding
rie plant species as well as many important birds, insects, and reptiles. In October 2014, it became home to a herd of bison, the first to live at a Nature Conservancy preserve east of the Mississippi, and the first conservation herd in Illinois. The bison, more than 100 strong, are helping with restoration of the bluestem prairie. A new visitor center opened in summer 2018; it offers an outdoor classroom and plenty of displays to give visitors a good grasp of the ecology and work that takes place at the grasslands. The herd, which can be viewed from the public roadside only, and the prairie, grasslands, rolling hills and oak savannas make this a paradise for photographers, hikers and birdwatchers. Binoculars and long camera lenses are advised.
Address: 8772 S. Lowden Road
Online: nachusagrasslands.org or find Friends of Nachusa Grasslands on Facebook
Hours: Dawn to dusk
HARMON
Green River
State Wildlife Area
trails, a shelter and a show ring.
Address: 1872 Twist Road
Phone: 815-456-2878
Online: franklincreekconservation. org/ or dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/Pages/ FranklinCreek.aspx, or find Franklin Creek Conservation Association on Facebook
H.I. Lincoln Building
Built in 1860 by a cousin of Abraham Lincoln, and originally a dry goods store, this restored historic stone building is the national headquarters of the Lincoln Highway Association. It also has a museum and gift shop.
Address: 136 N. Elm St. Phone: 815-456-3030
Online: franklingroveil.org/nflncbld. htm or find H. I. Lincoln Building on Facebook
The Nachusa Grasslands, owned and operated by The Nature Conservancy, has more than 3,800 acres featuring more than 700 native prai-
With more than 2,665 acres of native prairie, this is one of the largest preserves in Illinois. It’s a haven for endangered species of birds, plants, reptiles and insects, and a venue for students, campers, hikers, and from April through October, horseback riders.
Address: 375 Game Road Online: dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park. greenriver.html and Facebook
Hours: Dawn to dusk
SUBLETTE
Burma Shave Roadside Signs
See reproduction set of Burma Shave signs, known for their humorous rhyming poems on small highway roadside signs. Burma Shave was a brushless shaving cream. The signs were added after Sublette was selected through a contest.
Address: 339 US Route 52
Mesker storefront
The Mesker building is listed with the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency because of its rare sheet metal and cast iron facade made by Mesker Co. in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Address: 111 W. Main St. Online: leecountyfun.com/ mesker-storefront
Photo: visitleecountyil.com/
SEASONAL
The Midway Drive In & Diner — 91 Palmyra Road, Dixon; watch movies from your vehicle; tickets can be purchased online or at box office; $9.50 adults, $4 ages 3-11, ages 2 and younger free; $10-per-vehicle “food permit” required; see website for times and shows; themidwaydrivein.net
WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS, MAY-OCT. 11
Haymarket Square Farmers Market — 317 W. Third St., Dixon; fresh produce and crafts; Wednesday and Saturdays 7 a.m.-noon; dixonparkdistrict.com/farmers-market
MAY 23
The Chicago Experience — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tribute concert for the legendary band; tickets start at $35; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
MAY 25
America’s Sweethearts Concert — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S.
Events
Galena Ave., Dixon;; tickets start at $20; 4:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
WEDNESDAYS, MAY 28-AUG. 6
Dixon City Market — Dixon Riverfront 87 S. Hennepin Ave., Dixon; fresh produce and artisan crafters; kid activities, food stands and live entertainment; 5-8 p.m.; discoverdixon.com/events/dixon-city-market and Facebook
MAY 31
River Country Summer Kickoff Concert —Dixon Riverfront 87 Hennepin Ave., Dixon; featuring Kelsey Hart and opening with Delaney Ann; tickets $20-$25; 6 p.m.; rivercountry1017.com
JUNE 6
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; Performer is Acoustic Circus; 5:307 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JUNE 7
Sizzling Summer Block Party — Dixon; 9 a.m.-noon; find family activities, food and entertainment in downtown Dixon; discoverdix-
Wedding Album
on.com
Breakfast in America, Supertramp Tribute Concert — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
JUNE 13
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by A Leg and a Thigh; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JUNE
14
The Gordon Lightfoot Tribute Concert — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tickets start at $35; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
JUNE 20
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Jay Vonn; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JUNE 21
Summer Solstice Gathering — Franklin Creek Grist Mill, 1893 Twist Road, Franklin Grove; celebrate the summer solstice with music and food; 5 p.m.; facebook. com/franklincreekgristmill
JUNE
27
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Tom Cooper; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JULY 3-6
Petunia Festival — Downtown Dixon; pancake breakfast, bags and poker tournaments, tennis and soccer tournaments, car show, craft show, carnival, live music, parade and fireworks; petuniafestival.org and Facebook
JULY 4
Brush & Bloom — 200 block of West First Street, Dixon; families are invited to paint a 4-by-4 square of the street; discoverdixon.com or 815-284-3361
JULY 5
Reagan Run 5K — Reagan Home, 810 S. Hennepin Ave.; race starts at 8 a.m. at Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home and finishes at Haymarket Square; reaganrun.com
Nuts About Art — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; presented by The Next Picture Show; featuring a variety of artists
A decade of celebration since Obergefell v. Hodges, sponsored by PFLAG Sauk Valley.
Reception: June 6, 6-8 PM
Nuts About Art
TNPS presents the annual outdoor art show at John Dixon Park, located at 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL.
July 5, 9 AM – 4 PM
and mediums in an outdoor show; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; free admission; nextpictureshow.org
JULY 11
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Jeff Cagney; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JULY 12
Rock River Jazz Band — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; live music performance outdoors; 7-8:45 p.m.; rockriverjazzband. com and Facebook
JULY 13
Puppy Pals Live-The Action-Packed Comedic Student Dog Show — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; as seen on America’s Got Talent; tickets start at $10; 4:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
JULY 17-19
Ashton Village-Wide Garage Sales — Ashton; hunt for deals and treasures; ashtonil.com/parks-recreation
Emotions in Color
We invite artists to submit 2-D and 3-D works exploring the use of color to share different narratives. Artists may be inclined to use vivid colors to represent memories, emotions, and stories. We challenge artists to explore what color means for their artwork.
Reception: June 20, 6-8 PM
Two Exhibits:
Abstract and The Power of Words
Reception: July 11, 6-8 PM
JULY
18
Cruise-In Night — downtown Ashton; stroll and check out vintage rides; 5-8 p.m.; ashtonil.com/ parks-recreation
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Emilio Salinas; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JULY
19
The 4 C Notes-Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons Tribute — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
JULY 24-27
Lee County 4-H Fair and Junior Show — Lee County Fairgrounds, 1196 Franklin Road, Amboy; 4-H exhibits, truck and tractor pulls, mud bogs and dirt drags, carnival, music, food and more; leecounty4hcenter. com; and Facebook
JULY 25
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by The James Miller Duo; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
JULY 31
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; watch the film on the birthday of fictional character Harry Potter; tickets start at $5; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
AUG. 1
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Fred & Ginger; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
AUG. 1-3
Franklin Grove Summer Harvest Festival — Chaplin Creek Village, 1715 Whitney Road, Franklin Grove; multi-day festival featuring activities for all ages; franklingrove.org and Facebook
AUG. 2
Rock River Jazz Band — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; live music performance outdoors; 7-8:45 p.m.; rockriverjazzband.com and Facebook
AUG. 2-3
Living History Antique Equipment Show — 1674 Whitney Road, Frank-
lin Grove; family activities, displays, tractor drive, antique equipment on display and for sale; 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; lhaea.org
AUG. 8
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Steve Catron; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
Double Vision- Foreigner Tribute Concert — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
AUG. 9
Venetian Night — Dixon Riverfront; get a spot to watch the boat parade and enjoy a festive atmosphere in the community; 5 p.m.; discoverdixon.com/ events/venetian-night and Facebook Music on Main — Main Street, Sublette; live entertainment; 6-9 p.m.; subletteweb.com
AUG. 15
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by LoJo Russo; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
Wonder Woman— The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon;
LEEFAIRCOUNTY &
watch the 2017 film; tickets start at $5; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
AUG. 16
Remember the Titans — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; watch the film based on a true story; tickets start at $5; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
AUG. 17
The Heartland Crooner sings Andy Williams — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tickets start at $20; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
AUG. 21-24
Amboy Depot Days — Downtown Amboy; car show, tractor show, 5K race, arts and crafts show, garage sales, music, carnival and parade; depotdays.com, Facebook
AUG. 22
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Justin Jones Acoustic Show; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
AUG. 23
Disney’s Dare to Dream JR. — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S.
Music at the Square — John Dixon Park, 515 N. Galena Ave., Dixon; music by Korey C. Pepper Music; 5:30-7 p.m.; discoverdixon.com
AUG. 30
Grist Mill Grind 10K and 1 Mile Fun Walk — Franklin Creek State Natural Area Trails, 1893 Twist Road, Franklin Grove; challenging event with hills and runners crossing a creek; 8 a.m.; franklincreekconservation.org and Facebook Billy the Kid-Billy Joel Tribute — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tribute concert for the legendary singer; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
SEPT. 1
Lions Club Labor Day Celebration — Paw Paw; parade, vendor fair, car show and food; see website for schedule including Street Dance on Friday and Saturday and a tractor pull on Sunday; leecountyfun. com and Facebook
SEPT.
5
Clueless — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; watch the 1995 film; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
SEPT.
6
Dement Town Music Fest — Seventh Street and Depot Avenue, Dixon; featuring live music, food and drinks; admission $10 and cash only; discoverdixon.com and Facebook
Hops & Harmony — Centennial Park, Sublette; featuring live music, food and beverages; featured artist is Sawyer Brown; see website for schedule and details; subletteweb.com
Sublette Car Show — Route 52, Sublette; featuring all makes of cars, trucks and even tractors too; 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; subletteweb.com
SEPT.
7
Grand Detour Arts Festival —
John Deere Historic Site, 8334
S. Clinton St.; juried art show, student art, music and food; admission is free; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; nextpictureshow.org/event/76thgrand-detour-arts-festival and
Events
SEPT. 13
Steely Dane-Steely Dan Tribute Band — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tribute concert for the legendary band; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
SEPT.
14
Sublette Country Car Show — Along Route 52, Sublette (near Vaessen Bros Chevrolet); music and food; 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; subletteweb.com
SEPT. 20-21
Fall Fantasy Festival — Granny Rose Animal Shelter, 613 River Lane, Dixon; featuring live action roleplay battle and tournament; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; cerlarp.com/fallandfantasy
SEPT. 20
Autumn on the Prairie — Nachusa Grasslands Visitor Center, 2075 Lowden Road, Franklin Grove; see website for time; event includes guided hikes, food, exhibits and children activities; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; nachusagrasslands.org
Grist Mill Market Day — Franklin Creek Grist Mill, 1893 Twist Road, Franklin Grove; Watch the mill at work with corn grinding; tour the area and gift shop as well as food available for purchase; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; facebook.com/franklincreekgristmill
Paw Paw Festival — Paw Paw Veterans Park, 314 Chapman St.; celebrate and learn about the pawpaw fruit; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; pawpawfest. org
SEPT. 28
Ashton Fall Fest — downtown Ashton; food, games, vendors and live entertainment; noon-4 p.m.; ashtonil.com/parks-recreation
OCT. 3
Hocus Pocus — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; see the 1993 film on the big screen; tickets start at $5; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
OCT. 4
Big Love – Fleetwood Mac Tribute — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tribute concert for the legendary band; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
OCT. 10
Psycho — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; see the 1960 film on the big screen; tickets start at $5; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
OCT. 11
Orianthi — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; Australian-born guitarist and singer; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
OCT. 17
Friday the 13th — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; see the 1980 film; tickets start at $5; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
OCT. 18
Supersonic-Oasis Tribute — The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; tribute concert for the legendary band; tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre.com
OCT. 24
The Rocky Horror Picture Show, with Shadow Cast and Goodie Bag The Dixon Historic Theatre, 114 S. Galena Ave., Dixon; a live cast will
perform along with the film; tickets start at $15; 7:30 p.m.; dixontheatre. com
NOV. 1
Mill Spring 5K — Franklin Creek Grist Mill, 1893 Twist Road, Franklin Grove; Join the run/walk starting at 1 p.m.; see online for registration; facebook.com/franklincreekgristmill
DEC. 5
Dixon Christmas Walk — downtown Dixon; Christmas tree lighting, visits with Santa, and other Christmastime fun; discoverdixon.com or 815-284-3361
DEC. 6
Ashton Christmas Walk — downtown Ashton and the Mills & Petrie Library and Gymnasium; enjoy the holiday fun; 4-7 p.m.; ashtonil.com/ parks-recreation
DEC. 12
Christmas in the Grove — Franklin Grove; horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, door prizes and a visit from Santa; franklingrove.org
Whiteside County was established in 1836. Its 697 square miles is home to 55,000 people, and Morrison is its county seat. Among its famous residents: Renowned jazz drummer Louis Bellson, born in Rock Falls, and President Ronald Reagan, born in Tampico.
FULTON
Andresen Nature Center
The Andresen Nature Center
features displays of local wildlife, insects and flora found along the watershed of the upper Mississippi River. The University of Illinois Extension hosts special programs from March through August.
Address: 409 N. Fourth St.
Phone: 815-208-7059
Online: cityoffulton.us and Facebook
Hours: Open for major events, special programs and private tours
Admission: Free
De Immigrant and the Windmill Cultural Center
This authentic windmill built in the Netherlands and assembled in Fulton honors the town’s rich Dutch heritage. Stone-ground buckwheat, corn, rye, and wheat flours all are manufactured at De Immigrant and are for sale in the gift shop. The cultural center, dedicated in 2010, houses a collection of 21 European windmills and hosts special exhibits throughout the year.
Address: 111 10th Ave.
Phone: 815-589-3925
Online: cityoffulton.us and Facebook
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday
Admission: By donation
Fulton Martin House Museum
The home of the Fulton Historical Society, this Civil War-era, Italianate-style home built in 1855 is on the National Register of Historic Places, and contains a Fulton memorabilia collection, an extensive Fulton photo collection and a genealogy research room.
Address: 707 10th Ave.
Phone: 815-589-3809
Online: cityoffulton.us
Hours: 2-4 p.m. Sundays and by appointment
Admission: Free
Heritage Canyon
This 12-acre restored and furnished mid-1800s settlement in a former quarry is nestled on the Mississippi River and features homesites, a doctor’s office, a blacksmith shop, a
schoolhouse, a church, a swinging bridge and a covered bridge. During special events, the Early American Crafters, a group of Civil War reenactors, and other groups populate the area and bring history to life.
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, mid-April through mid-December, and for special events
Admission: By donation; $2 adults and $1 for 13 and younger during special events
MORRISON
Morrison’s Heritage Museum
The building, on the National Register of Historic Places, was a church in 1865 and later served as Morrison’s Literary Society and Museum. In 1997, it was given to the Morrison Historical Society to be used as a museum. It has been returned to much of its early charm and has had the lower level remodeled and made useful as extra exhibit space. Displays include many products once manufactured locally, such as Rich toys, Summit stoves, and Volckman furniture.
Address: 202 E. Lincolnway/U.S. Route 30 Phone: 815-772-8889
Hours: 1-4 p.m. Friday-Sunday, last Friday in April to Thanksgiving
Admission: Free
Morrison-Rockwood State Park
Morrison-Rockwood State Park comprises 1,164 acres just north of Morrison. It’s named for the city and a combination of nearby Rock Creek and the heavily wooded park area. Lake Carlton, a focal point of the park, is a watershed impoundment built in 1969 with a 38-foothigh, 1,800-foot-long earthen dam across a stream. Fishing, boating, camping, hiking and hunting are available, along with playgrounds, picnic shelters and a concession stand/bait shop/boat rental.
Address: 18750 Lake Road
Phone: 815-772-4708
Online: dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/Pages/MorrisonRockwood.aspx and on Facebook
The Loft on Main
Located in Morrison’s nationally recognized historic district see work by local artists, check out events. Classes and workshops are open to the public throughout the year.
The society’s collection contains information about Native American life in the Prophetstown area, its early settlers and local history. Phone: 815-537-2224
Address: 304 Washington St. Online: tampicohistoricalsociety. com/Prophetstown_Historical_Soc. html or find Prophetstown Area
Historical Society on Facebook Hours: by appointment
Admission: Free
Big Bend State Fish and Wildlife Area
This 2,376-acre site along the Rock River has about 250 acres of upland forest, with the remainder of the property a mix of native grassland, tree plantings, tracts of woods, two oxbows and several small wetlands and marshes. Big Bend offers limited hiking and fishing opportunities, with the site’s primary focus on hunting.
The Art in the Park Sculpture Tour is on display at RB&W District Park, 301 E. Second St. Stroll through the works of 10 artists that are on
PROPHETSTOWN
Prophetstown State Park
Camping, fishing and hiking are available at this wooded park on the northeast edge of the city, along the south bank of the Rock River. Once the site of a Native American village, the 53-acre park derives its name from the prophet Wa-bo-kie-shiek, or White Cloud. Coon Creek flows through the park and feeds into the Rock River.
display. Each year eight new sculptures are voted on by jury selection and installed.
Address: 301 E. Second St. Phone: 815-622-1106
Online: visitrockfalls.com/art-inthe-park/
Centennial Park
This 50-acre park offers a playground; a butterfly garden, a pond with paddle boat and canoe rental; tennis courts; baseball, soccer, and flag football fields; a 20-station
fitness course, and picnic shelters. Two pedestrian footbridges connect the park to the footpath along Hennepin Feeder Canal State Park. The Little Red Schoolhouse and Historical Museum and the Red Caboose, an antique Rock Island Line car, also are in the park; both are available to tour by appointment.
Address: 508 E. 11th St. Phone: 815-625-0272
Online: colomatownshipparkdistrict.com/ or find Coloma Township Park District on Facebook.
Earleen HInton/Shaw Media
Lily Diaz of Prophetstown watches her line as she fishes at the 17th Dick Brown Fishing Derby for kids at Prophetstown State Park.
Firehouse Ministries
Fire Museum
Firehouse of God minister and part-time firefighter Brian Tribley
saved the former Rock Falls Fire Department building from demolition in 2012 by creating a museum that honors the profession by showcasing vintage firefighting vehicles, equipment and memorabilia..
Visitors can see former fire trucks, antique firefighting tools, toy fire trucks, photos.
Address: 403 W. Second St.
Contact: firehouseofgod@comcast. net or 815-622-9490
Online: Facebook
Hours: by appointment; message through the Facebook page
Admission: Free
Hennepin Canal State Park
The Hennepin Feeder Canal, on the National Register of Historic Places, extends from Rock Falls to Sheffield, and offers biking and hiking paths, canoeing, fishing and historical sites along the way.
One of 30 murals along the historic Lincoln Highway that showcases a unique event that took place during the early years of the highway: the Corn Carnival and an enormous, highly sought-after, prized blue ribbon.
The centerpiece of the city’s ongoing riverfront revitalization effort in the Run Bike & Walk District, this former factory space turned greenspace features an amphitheater with covered stage, walking and bike paths, Art in the Park sculpture walk, and Koloni bicycle rentals.
Address: 200-300 block of East Second Street.
Online: visitrockfalls.com/rbwpark-district
Selmi’s Greenhouse, Farm and Pumpkin Patch
Selmi’s, a fifth-generation family farm, has a greenhouse, a farmers market, a pumpkin patch and fall market, and a gift shop. The fall market has a haunted house, petting farm, corn maze, wagon rides, and pumpkins.
Address: 1206 Dixon Ave.
Phone: 815-626-3830
Online: selmi.com and on Facebook Hours: Vary seasonally by attraction; check the website or call ahead
Admission: Varies by attraction; check the website or call ahead
STERLING
Blackhawk Lanes
Bowling for all ages with leagues, family pass and cosmic bowling too. Restaurant located inside. Includes a pro shop, restaurant onsite.
Address: 2325 E. Lincolnway, Sterling
Phone: 815-625-0771
Hours: see website for hours and prices
Online: blackhawklanes.com
Bugsy’s Arcade and Gaming
Arcade games for all ages.
Adults-only after 9 p.m. Full bar and snack service.
Address: 2900 E. Lincolnway
Phone: 815-677-2307
Hours: noon-10 p.m. Sun-
day-Thursday; Noon-Midnight Friday and Saturday; Online: dba-bugsys-arcade-andgaming.square.site and Facebook
Dillon Home Museum
The Dillon Home is a work of Italianate architecture, built in 1858. The property ultimately became home to P.W. Dillon, President of Northwestern Steel & Wire. The home’s grandeur is a remarkable sight, as his wife, Crete, was an avid traveler and collector of eclectic pieces and period furniture. Unlike many historic homes, the Dillon Home retains all of its original furnishings. A tour through the Dillon Home is truly a step back in time, where the stories of this family come back to life.
Tour times: Thursdays & Fridays at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 2 p.m., or by appointment only from 3-5 p.m.; and the second weekend of each month (Saturday & Sunday) at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 2 p.m.; or by appointment only from 3-5 p.m.
Rates: General Admission $6.50; Seniors $5.50; Ages 5 & Under FREE Emerald Hill Golf Course
Looking for a quality golf course at a great price? Then look no further than the Emerald Hill Golf Course. The course will challenge you while providing a relaxing and pictur-
esque backdrop. Emerald Hill features 18-holes of bentgrass greens and Kentucky Bluegrass tees, fairways and rough. To sharpen your skills, Emerald Hill also offers a driving range, practice chipping area and three practice putting greens. Book tee times at emeraldhill.com or call 815-622-6204
When the Sterling Park District sought to repurpose the old baskets from Sinnissippi Park, Kilgour Park was a natural choice. The 9-hole course at Kilgour Park is designed as a “short” course, to encourage beginners and seniors to try the sport, but still challenging enough for the experienced player. The beautiful new hole-location signs are eye catching, and the new tee pads make the course comfortable to maneuver. Kilgour Park is in an ideal location which is easy to access and enjoy by the community and, with many schools close by, we hope will be utilized by students.
Crystal Lake, adjacent to the Hennepin Canal Parkway and across the highway from Centennial Park, has a beach, water activities such as slides, a water trampoline and aqua golf, a go-kart track, fishing, a campground, and a snack bar.
Address: 511 E. U.S. Route 30 Phone: 815-622-5974 for lake, 815499-0520 or camp@crystallakerecreation.com for the campground
Online: crystallakerecreation. com or find “Crystal Lake Recreation & RV Park, no tents” on Facebook
Hours: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily in the summer
Lawrence Park
Considered the first park in Sterling, Lawrence Park offers boat and fishing access, picnic shelters and, in the winter, eagle watching.
Address: Off the Avenue G bridge between Sterling and Rock Falls
Phone: 815-622-6200
Online: sterlingparks.org/location/ lawrence-park
Kilgour Disc Golf Course
The 9-hole course at Kilgour Park is designed as a “short” course, that is still challenging enough for the experienced player.
Address: 400 W. 15th St. Online: sterlingparks.org/disc-golf Admission: free
Lincoln in Sterling statue
This life-sized bronze sculpture of Abraham Lincoln was dedicated July 18, 2006, on the 150th anniversary of his speech in Propheter Park. Lincoln was campaigning for the newly formed Republican Party and its first candidate for president, John C. Fremont. Don Morris of Rock Falls was the sculptor.
Address: Propheter Park, 506 E. Sixth St.
Phone: 815-632-6621
Online: ci.sterling.il.us/history.cfm
LINCOLN
Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum
The Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum is a restored 1847 home where Abraham Lincoln spent the night on July 18, 1856. The neighboring Lincoln Learning Center provides a venue for people of all ages to experience history-related activities and events.
Address: 607 E. Third St.
Phone: 815-622-6215
Online: srfhs.com or find Sterling Rock Falls Historical Society on Facebook
Hours by appointment
Admission: Free
The 9th Hole Mini Golf & More
Weather is no problem at the indoor mini golf facility with mini soccer pool and games.
Address: Northland Mall, 2900 E. Lincolnway
Phone: 815-499-3819
Admission: see website for pricing and hours
Online: Facebook
Sinnissippi Dam and
Pedestrian Bridge
Built in 1906, this dam raised the Rock River water level by 11 feet so it would flow into the Hennepin Canal. It was restored in 2008 with an added pedestrian walkway. On the Sterling side, enjoy a leisurely stroll and check out the Dillon Home Museum and Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society. On the Rock Falls side, enjoy the Jim Arduini Boat Launch, the Hennepin Canal or a walk along the river’s edge to downtown or nearby Seward’s Park.
Access: In Sterling, at the corner of Second Street and Broadway, near the Dillon Home Museum; in Rock Falls, Off of East Second Street, near Emmons Avenue
Online: sterlingparks.org/trails
Sinnissippi Park
The largest of the Sterling Park District parks, Sinnissippi Park was acquired in parcels beginning in 1934. Sinnissippi Park is the site for Hopewillian Indian Mounds, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Amenities such as Ball diamonds, fishing, disc golf
(PDGA), picnic areas, playground equipment, open play areas, shelters, sledding and trail access are available.
Sinnissippi Park is one-of-a-kind, designed by PDGA Hall of Fame member Terry Batten (No. 1738) in 1982. The park is a 27-hole championship-level disc golf course with top-of-the-line baskets (Mach X). The course plays through the entire park, with holes ranging from 270650 feet. The park has three distinct areas, open shots, woods, a winding creek and elevation changes.
Address: Sinnissippi Road
Online: sterlingparks.org/disc-golf
Admission: free
Sterling-Rock Falls Historical Society Museum (Carriage House Museum)
Housed in the Carriage House of the Dillon Home, the museum houses a large collection of items
related to local history.
Address: 1005 E. Third St.
Phone: 815-622-6215
Online: srfhs.com/carriage-housemuseum
Hours: 10 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday
Admission: Free
Whoop Your Axe
Axe throwing facility with room for parties, events as well as kid games and a golf simulator.
Address: 2317 E. Lincolnway
Phone: 815-213-7493
Online: whoopyouraxeil.com, Facebook and Instagram
Admission: see website for hours, rates and reservations
TAMPICO
Ronald Reagan Birthplace and Museum
President Ronald Reagan was born Feb. 6, 1911, in an apartment above a bakery. The First National Bank bought the bakery in 1919 and was there until the 1930s. The apartment has been restored to look as it did when Reagan was born. The
bank has also been restored. The store to the south of the bank, originally a grocery store, now houses the gift shop.
The museum has two levels with displays of clothing, photos, antiques and other memorabilia. The upper level also is the Family History Library & Research Center for genealogy research. The town’s only newspaper, published from 1876 to 1966, is archived there.
The library also has cemetery lists, funeral logs, family history files, photographs, plat maps and more.
Address: 119 Main St.
Phone: 815-622-8705
Online: tampicohistoricalsociety.com/ Home_Page.html and on Facebook
Hours: By appointment
Admission: Free
ROCK FALLS TOURISM
WHERE CITY LIFE & NATURE MEET
Find Out More Information at visitrockfalls.com
Or give us a call at (815) 622-1106
SATURDAYS, YEAR ROUND
Indoor Farmers Market — Twin City Produce Co., 106 Ave. A., Sterling; seasonal favorites and locally made products; in warmer months the outdoor Sterling Marketplace includes additional vendor space; 8 a.m.-noon; sterlingmainstreet.org
MAY-OCT.,
JUNE 1
Blessing of the Bikes — downtown Fulton; Motorcycles and four-wheelers converge in downtown Fulton for this annual time of blessing as the riding season kicks off; 1 p.m.
JUNE
4
JUNE 6
Rally on the Rock Cruise Night — Sterling Marketplace; new event featuring cool cars and live music; 6-8 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org Movies in the Park — Grandon Civic Center, East Fourth Street, Sterling; pre-movie Luau games and food before settling in to watch Moana 2; free; 6p.m.; visitrockfalls. com and Facebook
JUNE
7
leader with live music; featuring five performers; in case of inclement weather event may be moved to McCormick Event Center; noon-9:30 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com
Drum Clinic — 11 a.m.-noon at the McCormick Event Center, 205 E. Third St.
JUNE
10
JUNE 14
Sauk Valley Relay For Life — Westwood Fitness & Sports Center, 1900 Westwood Drive, Sterling; 5-9:30 p.m.; signup.cancer.org
WEDNESDAYS &
Totally Tuesday — Drives Park, 1300 Park Drive, Fulton; live music, food trucks; bring your lawn chair or blanket for the concert; 6 p.m.; Fulton Fun Crew on Facebook
SATURDAYS
Rock Falls Farmers Market — 400 W. Second St., Rock Falls; fresh produce, crafters and local businesses; 7 a.m.-1 p.m.; rockfallschamber.com
MAY 31
Paint the Park — Lions Shelter, Centennial Park, 508 E. 11th St., Rock Falls; Coloma Township Park District, create a sidewalk masterpiece; advance registration; $10 per square; colomatownshipparkdistrict.com
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il. gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
Legends of the Rock Bill Milby and Bob Anspach Memorial Fishing Tournament — Oregon Dam to Rock Falls Damn, 5 a.m. sign up; 7 a.m. start and 2 p.m. weigh-in; $25 per person fee; visitrockfalls.com and passthrupursuit@gmail.com
Child Fair — Sauk Valley Community College, 40th annual fair; featuring vendors, safety information and more; free; 9 a.m. to noon; svcc. edu/community/community-education/child-fair.html
Bellson Music Fest — at RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; honoring legacy of famous drummer, composer, arranger and band
JUNE 11
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il. gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
JUNE 12
Pop-Up Market — Dale Park in downtown Sterling; featuring a variety of vendors and live music; 5-8 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org and Facebook
Rock River Jazz Band — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; live music performance outdoors; 7-8:30 p.m.; rockriverjazzband.com and Facebook
Dixon Pride — Page Park, 2-10 p.m.; music, drag show, entertainment, vendors; $5 admission all ages; facebook.com/saukvalleypride/
JUNE 18
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il. gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
2025 Season Schedule
Whiteside County FAIR 154TH
THURSDAY AUGUST 14 7:00PM August 12-16 • Morrison, IL $119,000 in Premiums
JUNE 19
Events
Juneteenth Celebration — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; live music, vendors and food;10 a.m.-2 p.m.; facebook.com/DiversitySV
JUNE 21
Summer Splash —Riverfront; family-friendly event features community activities with a 5K run, demonstrations and performances from local organizations, watermelon eating contest, business showcase, food trucks and the wild game cookout; 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; rockfallschamber.com
JUNE 25
JULY
8
Totally Tuesday — Drives Park, 1300 Park Drive, Fulton; live music, food trucks; bring your lawn chair or blanket for the concert; 6 p.m.; Fulton Fun Crew on Facebook
JULY 9
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il.gov/380/ Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
JULY 10
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il.gov/380/ Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
JUNE
27
Prophetstown Proud’s Fourth Fridays — downtown Prophetstown; featuring live music, food and discounts from local shops; 5-7 p.m. prophetstownproud.com and Facebook
Pop-up market — Dale Park in downtown Sterling; variety of vendors, live music and nearby food and beverage options; 5-8 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org
JULY 10-12
Whiteside County 4-H Show — Whiteside County Fairgrounds, 201 W. Winfield St., Morrison; 4-H projects, Sale of Champions; web. extension.illinois.edu or Facebook
JULY
12
JUNE
28
Taste of Sterling — downtown Sterling; featuring local restaurants, sidewalk sales and family activities; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; exploredowntownsterling.com
Touch-A-Truck Rock Falls — Rock Falls Riverfront; hands-on opportunity to explore more than 100 vehicles including large trucks and machines; live entertainment and food; 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com/touch-a-truckof-rock-falls and Facebook
JULY
3
Eats ‘N’ Beats @the District — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; Independence Day Celebration hosted by the Rock Falls Jaycees including music, food trucks and fireworks display; 4-9 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com/ eats-n-beats-at-the-district-independenceday-celebration and Facebook
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il.gov/380/ Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
JULY 4
Rally on the Rock Cruise Night — Sterling Marketplace; featuring cool cars and live music; 6-8 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org
NAMI Sauk Area 5K — Hoover Park, Sterling; family friendly 5K for runners and walkers to support National Alliance on Mental Illness; 8 a.m.; namisaukarea.org
Eats ‘N’ Beats @the District — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; 4-10 p.m., featuring live music from Big Hair Mafia from 7-10 p.m.; food trucks and vendors; visitrockfalls. com and Facebook
JULY
15
Mainly Marathons: Heartland Series Day 4 of what’s billed as the “world’s best multi-day, multi-state running series; Windmill Cultural Center, 111 10th Ave., Fulton; early start 5 a.m., regular start 6 a.m.; mainlymarathons.com
JULY
16
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il.gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
JULY 17-20
Tampico Fest — Tampico; bingo, tours of Ronald Reagan’s birth place, fishing derby, mud volleyball, live music, craft show, parade, car show fireworks, farmers market and craft show, raffles and more; facebook.com/ tampicodays
JULY 19
Rock River Jazz Band — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; live music performance outdoors; 7-8:30 p.m.; rockriverjazzband. com and Facebook
JULY 23
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il.gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
JULY 25
Prophetstown Proud’s Fourth Fridays — downtown Prophetstown; featuring live music, food and discounts from local shops; 5-7 p.m. prophetstownproud.com and Facebook
JULY 30
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il.gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
AUG.
1
Hot Dog Day — Downtown Sterling; merchants offer 25-cent hot dogs and sodas from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. or when sold out; coincides with Family Fun Fair at Sterling Marketplace offering free children’s activities and sidewalk sales throughout the downtown; sterlingmainstreet.org
AUG. 5
Police Department’s Night Out — Rock Falls, Sterling communities celebrate local police departments with events and demonstrations; see website for times and locations; visitrockfalls.com
AUG. 6
Music Under the Stars by the Sterling Municipal Band — Grandon Civic Center downtown Sterling; concert at 7:30 p.m., with pre-concert performance by local groups at 6:15 p.m.; concessions available, seating on park benches, or bring your own chairs; sterling-il. gov/380/Sterling-Municipal-Band and on Facebook
AUG. 9
Rock River Jazz Band — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; live music performance outdoors; 7-8:30 p.m.; rockriverjazzband. com and Facebook
AUG. 12
Totally Tuesday — Drives Park, 1300 Park Drive, Fulton; live music, food trucks; bring your lawn chair or blanket for the concert; 6 p.m.; Fulton Fun Crew on Facebook
AUG. 12-16
Whiteside County Fair — Whiteside County Fairgrounds, 201 W. Winfield St., Morrison; demolition derby, harness racing, bull riding, truck and tractor pulls, livestock shows, antique tractor parade, music, carnival, food, exhibits and more; whitesidecountyfair.org
AUG. 14
Pop-up market — Dale Park in downtown Sterling; variety of vendors, live music and nearby food and beverage options; 5-8 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org
AUG. 22
Prophetstown Proud’s Fourth Fridays — downtown Prophetstown; featuring live music, food and discounts from local shops; 5-7 p.m. prophetstownproud.com and Facebook
AUG. 23
Art in the Park Sculpture Walk & Outdoor Art Gallery — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com
AUG. 30
Rock River Jazz Band — RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls; live music performance outdoors; 7-8:30 p.m.; rockriverjazzband. com and Facebook
SEPT. 13
Taste of Fiesta — RB&W District Park 301 E. Second St., Rock Falls; food, art, music, Latin dances; free admission; noon-6 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com and Facebook
SEPT. 18
Prophetstown Proud’s Fourth Fridays — downtown Prophetstown; featuring live music, food and discounts from local shops; 5-7 p.m. prophetstownproud.com and Facebook
Events
SEPT. 20
Harvest Hammer Duathlon — Morrison High School 643 Genesee St., Morrison; races include children’s fun, a color run and duathlons, a 3.1 mile run and 21 mile bike ride through countryside; events start at 8 a.m., see website to register and for times; harvesthammer.org
Paint the Town — downtown Morrison; register to paint your own 5-by-5-foot square on the street; view outdoor art, entertainment, food and more; noon; paintthetownmorrison.com and Facebook
SEPT. 25
Sip into Fall — downtown Sterling wine walk with sips, shopping and more; limited advance tickets available; sterlingmainstreet.org
SEPT. 26
Taco Throwdown — RB&W District Park 301 E. Second St., Rock Falls; featuring tacos to purchase, taco eating contest, Zowa wrestling and music; free admission; 3-10 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com and Facebook
OCT. DATE TBD
Haunted Haven haunted barn — Route 40 and Grennan Road, Rock Falls; 7-11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and on Halloween; hauntedhaven.org and Facebook
OCT. 3
Mad About Plaid — downtown Rock Falls; wear your plaid and join the community to celebrate the style; details to come; visitrockfalls.com and Facebook
OCT. 4
Fulton Fall Fest —downtown and Heritage Canyon; celebrate all things fall with pumpkin painting, apple pie, scarecrow walk, and more; Fulton Fun Crew on Facebook
Lumberjack Show & Beard Contest — Selmi’s Greenhouse & Farm Market, 1206 Dixon Ave., Rock Falls; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Lumberjack shows at 11a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.; beard contest at 2 p.m. (advance registration required); activities for all ages and food available, including Cliff’s donuts; visitrockfalls.com and Facebookook
OCT. 11
Sauk Valley Apple Cider Run — race starts and ends at Selmi’s Greenhouse and Farm Market, 1206 Dixon Ave., Rock Falls; options include half marathon, 10K and 5K; finish line treats include apple cider doughnut and apple cider; advance registration recommended; raceroster.com/ events/2024/87898/sauk-valley-apple-cider-run
OCT.
11
Hops on the Rock — Sterling Marketplace, 111 W. Second St., Sterling; craft beer festival; must be 21 older to attend, advance tickets available, 3-6 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org
Halloween Town — downtown Sterling; trick or treat stations, costume contests and fun for all ages; free; 5-9 p.m.; exploredowntownsterling.com
OCT. 18
Spooktacular Halloween Golf Cart/ UTV Parade — downtown Rock Falls; fun and festive lights & vehicles parade; 6:30 p.m.; visitrockfalls.com/spooktacular-halloween-lighted-golf-cart-utv-parade
OCT. 24
Biz Boo Trick-or-Treat — downtown Rock Falls; trick-or-treating at business, children’s activities and more; 4-6 p.m.; rockfallschamber. com or 815-625-4500 and Facebook
OCT. 25
Fall Fest & Halloween parade — downtown Morrison; children in costume parade down Main Street; 1:30 p.m., lineup at 12:45 p.m.; morrisonil.org, morrisonchamber. com
NOV. 13
Ugly Sweater Sip N’ Shop — downtown Fulton; visit downtown businesses for special offers and delicious sips while wearing best ugly sweater; 5-7 p.m.; Fulton Fun Crew on Facebook
NOV. 29
Christmas in Prophetstown and lighted parade — downtown; Small Business Saturday, visits with Santa, soup supper, lighting of the Love Light Tree at 5:30 p.m. and parade at 6:30 p.m.; prophetstownil.org or 815-537-5139
NOV. 20-22
Hometown Holiday — Rock Falls; activities for the family to enjoy; multi-day event; rockfallschamber. com and Facebook
WEEKENDS, NOV. 28-DEC. 21
Holiday Light Display — Centennial Park, 568 E. 11th St., Rock Falls. Friday, Saturday & Sunday evenings; Facebook, visitrockfalls.com
DEC. 5
Seasonal Sights and Sounds of Sterling Downtown Christmas Walk — holiday shopping, children’s activities, lighting of the Library Plaza Christmas tree, live entertainment, Santa, music and fireworks at 8 p.m. at the Riverfront; 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; sterlingmainstreet.org
DEC. 6
Hometown Christmas — downtown Morrison; features lighted parade, decorations and holiday entertainment; morrisonchamber.com
DEC. DATE TBD
Fulton Christmas Walk — All of Fulton’s downtown is alive for this special event! Visit the Grinch, Santa, and Sinterklaas, play snowball hockey, take in the tree lighting, cheer on a luminary-lit 5K run along the dike next to our authentic Dutch windmill. Downtown shops host special activities for the whole family.
JANUARY 2026
DATE TBD
Bald Eagle Watch along the Mississippi River — At Lock and Dam 13 in Fulton and at Clinton (Iowa) Community College 1000 Lincoln Blvd. Clinton; eicc.edu/future-students/events/eagle-watch.aspx
FEBRUARY
2026 DATE TBD
Flock to the Rock — Rock River; view the eagles; ice sculptor, vendors and presentations; see website for location, times; visitrockfalls.com and Facebook
