This weekend in Belvidere, IL

North End City Market features a farmer-centered marketplace with in-season fruits and vegetables, freshly baked treats, and handcrafted goods from local makers. Support regional growers and small businesses while exploring a friendly setting where dogs are welcome. SNAP/Link payments are accepted, helping make fresh, nutritious food accessible to the community.

A full day of open competition begins with barrel exhibitions followed by the main show in a laid-back, family-friendly setting. The Circle KD kitchen will serve food, drinks, and sweet treats throughout the day, and casual attire is welcome. Awards include five high point belt buckles, payback for speed classes, and a tumbler for the highest reserve high point. For questions, contact show chairperson Kylee Schambach at 309-620-0837 or send a message through the Circle K-D Facebook page.

Rockford Park District's Outdoor Education and Recreation team presents a monthly Craft Club devoted to nature centered creativity. Each class stands on its own while complementing the rest of the series, offering a two hour introduction to techniques that may include whittling, clay work, willow weaving, and more as the seasons progress and locations rotate between Atwood Center and the lodge at Alpine Hills Adventure Park. This session focuses on flower printing, transforming the colors of fresh blooms into artwork by gently hammering or tapping them so their natural pigments transfer to paper or fabric. All materials are provided, the activity is suitable for beginners and experienced makers alike, and this session takes place at the lodge at Alpine Hills Adventure Park. Registration costs $20 per session and is open to ages 16 and up.

The 6th annual Maggie Strong charitable golf outing at Forest Hills Country Club blends a full round of golf with an evening celebration to support breast cancer patient services, assistance, and research through the Swedish American Health Foundation Margaret M. Rudolph Endowment Fund. The day begins with check-in and a burger lunch on the patio, followed by a shotgun start for teams. After golf, the gathering continues with cocktails and dinner, plus live music from Riley Sanders and Shuffle This. A silent auction and raffle baskets provide additional ways to contribute. A foursome is $640, or $160 per golfer, and includes carts, range access, lunch, beer during and after the round, and dinner. A dinner, beer, and music ticket is available for $40. Sponsorship opportunities are available, honoring Maggie’s legacy with a party that makes a difference.

A performance featuring timeless oldies and high energy original songs takes place at Boone County Fairground as part of the largest market in Northern Illinois. Fellow local musicians will be on hand, adding to the lively, community feel.

At Benny’s Palooza, Soul 2 Soul brings a live, high-energy showcase of ’70s classic rock, drawing on more than 22 years together. The set spans favorites by Boston, Styx, The Cars, Supertramp, Skynyrd, REO, Fleetwood Mac, and more. The lineup features Robby Demos on vocals and guitar, Tracy Jane Comer on keyboards and vocals, Curt Schreiner on drums, and Jeremy Toledo on bass.

Rockford comes together at Anderson Nissan for a lively celebration of Hispanic culture with food, music, dance, and family friendly fun. Savor dishes from Liz & Manny’s Taco Truck, move to sets from DJ Lalo and DJ Jbaby, and experience traditional dance presented by Herencia Cultural. Local partners such as MembersAlliance Credit Union and El Tiempo will be on hand, creating a welcoming showcase of community, business, and culture.

A local event focused on Digimon welcomes participants. The entry fee is $10.

This program features representatives from the Asa Cottrell Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Kishwaukee Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. Attendees will learn about each organization’s history and mission, the benefits of membership, and how to document eligibility. The session welcomes both newcomers to family history and those who have identified Revolutionary War ancestors, highlighting resources, guidance, and support to help you take the next step in your genealogy research. Offered in person and via Zoom.

Enjoy Pokemon Locals, with entry set at $10.

Expect a high-energy night with cold drinks, sing-along moments, dancing, and plenty of raucous fun. It is ideal for a lively outing with friends, and the atmosphere stays upbeat from the first toast to the final chorus.

A fall-themed rock party in Love's Park, Illinois brings together rock music and seasonal spirit.

Settle in for a night of stand-up at The Hope & Anchor with a $10 cover. Table reservations are available by calling 815-633-2552 during normal business hours, and limited walk-up seating may be offered the night of the show. Chicago suburbs comic Jon Torgy hosts, drawing on life as a father of two and his TorgyTalk podcast to spin personal stories with an edgy twist. His appearances include the Vixen in McHenry, Comedy Plex, and the Red Room, and he has shared stages with Peyton Ruddy, Abi Sanchez, and Paul Faravhar. Guest feature Alex Ridge brings a relaxed, easygoing style shaped in LaGrange Park and the Chicago scene. His sharp delivery landed him on Comedy Plex Comedy Club’s Watch List, and he has taken his perspective to rooms across the Midwest. Guest feature Keaton Ford, also based in Chicago, has performed at Zanies, Laugh Factory, and Second City, as well as in bowling alleys and pool halls. His comedy blends self-deprecation with darker takes on generational gaps and everyday absurdities, delivered with quick wit. Headliner James Fisher Jr., originally from Louisville and now in Chicago, has been performing since 2012. Influenced by Comic View and In Living Color, he has graced stages at Zanies, Laugh Factory, and Comedy Bar, appeared at festivals around the country, and won multiple competitions. He has featured and opened for Jacob Williams from America's Got Talent and Wild n Out, Hans Kim of the Kill Tony podcast, and SNL alumni Tim Meadows and Chris Redd. He also created the sketch web series VaudevilleTV and is known for energetic sets that stay personable while courting controversy.

Representatives from 815 Stone Scrubbers and St. Mary & St James Cemetery host a hands-on volunteer session focused on properly cleaning and preserving gravestones. Participants are asked to wear sturdy, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, as the work can be messy, and to bring a water bottle. All tools and materials are provided. Space is limited, so to reserve a spot or request more information, contact Janie at 815stonescrubbers@gmail.com or send a direct message. Open to ages 10 and up, with children under 18 accompanied by an adult.

Waddle on the Riverbank brings the 23rd annual Great Genoa Duck Race to David Carroll Memorial Park alongside a full day of family friendly activities. The Waddle This Way Market features local artisans and crafters, while Cogsworth's Connections spotlights chamber businesses from the area. Young children can explore Cogsworth's Play Place at no cost, with a bounce house, coloring, and games. Food is available in the Hungry Duckling vendor area. All of this complements the Great Genoa Duck Race itself. Duck ticket packages are offered at 2 for $5, 12 for $25, 25 for $50, and 50 for $100. When purchased online, the buyer’s name appears on the tickets and duck numbers arrive by email before race day. Tickets are also sold at the event.

An annual music fundraiser filled with live performances and activities for everyone. All proceeds benefit the Harlem District Music Program. Enjoy food such as pulled pork, brats, and hot dogs provided by the Harlem Music Boosters. Bounce houses, face painting, and raffles round out the festivities.

A Hogwarts-themed paint party comes to Mrs. Buckbee’s Wake-N-Bakery. Enjoy refreshing drinks, bingo, and friendly company while you create your own artwork. This beginner-friendly, step-by-step class requires no prior experience. Tickets include all paint supplies and a presketched 11 by 14 inch canvas, along with a complimentary lemonade. Infused options are available for an additional charge with valid ID. Take part in the fun as participants compete for the House Cup and discover which house they are sorted into.