Events in Janesville today

Rotary Botanical Gardens hosts a volunteer workday that helps care for its nonprofit garden with support from the community. Participants work alongside the horticulture staff on seasonal tasks such as planting, spreading mulch, and general garden maintenance, with guidance and answers to questions provided throughout. All experience levels are welcome, and the activities involve light physical effort that may include bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Tools are provided, and personal gloves are optional. Wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather, with layers recommended, as well as long sleeves, a hat, and sunscreen for sun protection. This opportunity is free. Advance registration is required and space is limited to 10 volunteers, with a waitlist available. If you can no longer attend, please cancel so someone on the waitlist can participate.

Shop local at the Janesville Farmers Market, an outdoor market packed with fresh seasonal favorites. You’ll find produce, meats, cheese, eggs, honey, baked goods, plants and cut flowers, plus handmade soaps, jewelry, herbs, seasonal products, and more. Expect monthly extras like live music and food trucks. The event is free and runs in the morning through early afternoon.

Spend a full day celebrating kubb at the 2026 Beloit Kubb Open Presented by Beepa's. The outfield at Pohlman Field turns into a dedicated playing area for this classic backyard game, and players of every experience level are welcome to enter. Two divisions make it easy to find the right fit. The Competitive Division features seven qualifying rounds with all teams moving on, and the Recreational Division features five qualifying rounds with the top four advancing. Champions in both divisions receive custom awards created by students at Hendricks CareerTek, and cash prizes are awarded to numerous top finishers in the competitive bracket. Spectators can cheer on the matches and purchase food and drinks from the Beloit Youth Hockey Association, supporting local youth programs. Exclusive event merchandise will be available to pre-order through Walnut Creek Apparel & Gifts. Watch for giveaways featuring products from Beepa's and other partners, and look to Visit Beloit for ongoing updates. Registration is open.

Merrill Neighborhood Clean-Up Day invites Merrill neighborhood residents to help keep the community clean and welcoming. Dumpsters at Regina Dunkin Park will be available for general trash and small household items. At the fenced area of CAI's Main Office, electronics, computers, TVs smaller than 20 inches, and tires will be accepted, with tires included this year. Liquids, furniture, and appliances cannot be accepted. Participation supports a cleaner and safer neighborhood.

Clairvoyant and medium Johnathan Woods provides intuitive readings that bring clarity to personal situations using scrying, runes, and tarot. He also offers the opportunity to connect with departed loved ones for comfort and closure. Sessions are available at $25 for 20 minutes or $40 for 30 minutes. Cash is preferred, and booking in advance is encouraged.

A free monthly workshop and support circle for parents, guardians, and grandparents caring for children with autism or other unique needs. Hosted by R. Family Care Services and facilitated by Raven Napoleon, Respite Coordinator with RFCS, this gathering offers a reliable space to be heard, learn new skills, and connect with others on a similar path. Expect practical strategies you can put to use right away, from responding to challenging behaviors and building structure at home to managing stress and advocating within the school system. Each month introduces a new theme with the shared goal of helping families feel capable, supported, and connected. This session centers on getting back to balance with actionable ways to establish consistent routines that make school transitions smoother.

Beloit’s taco showdown returns for its third year with food, drinks, music, and friendly competition outside Henry Dorrbaker’s Pub & Play in downtown Beloit. Local vendors will serve their best tacos as they compete for a championship belt, a cash prize, and bragging rights, while attendees enjoy tequila, other chilled beverages, and live performances throughout the event. Heat seekers can take on the popular jalapeño eating contest, and by the end one vendor will be crowned the 2026 Taco Takedown Champion. General admission is free. Updates on VIP options, the entertainment lineup, and additional event details are coming soon. Vendor applications are available for those who want to compete.

Operation Our Community, hosted by New Life Ministries, is a free block party that welcomes people of every age. Attendees can enjoy complimentary food, a variety of games and activities, and no-cost school supplies. Featured attractions include a mechanical bull ride, a petting zoo, and a photo booth. Raffle baskets will benefit local youth programs. The focus is on bringing neighbors together with care, creating connections, and making lasting memories for the whole family.

A free club meetup in Edgerton for individuals ages 12 and up with Down syndrome and related disabilities features the Cool Off at Culver’s theme. Attendees can enjoy a complimentary lunch and a frozen treat provided by DSAW-SC and spend time with friends in a warm, community-focused setting at Culver’s.

This weekly Yu-Gi-Oh! locals tournament has a $10 entry fee. Matches use the Advanced Format Forbidden and Limited List, proxies and playtest cards are not allowed, and all cards must be in English. For every six players in the event, one full booster box, 24 packs, is added to the prize pool. Each participant receives at least one booster pack and one tournament pack as long as supplies remain, and additional prizes are awarded based on performance.

This Constructed Pauper tournament features a $5 entry fee that covers prizes. Decks must include at least 60 cards and consist entirely of commons. Official Pauper rules apply. The banned list is available at the bottom of the rules page and will also be provided in-store as a handout.

Sarah, Phil, and Eric J. bring live music to Pettit’s Lakeview Campground & Lakefront Bar, playing popular hits in a scenic lakeside setting. Enjoy the view by the water along with available food and drinks. Whether camping for the weekend, arriving by boat, or dropping in for a quick lakeside escape, attendees can relax, sing along, and take in an easygoing afternoon of music.

Rock the River Music Series brings relaxed summer shows to a riverfront patio with a convenient walk up bar. Inside, guests can enjoy duckpin bowling, mini golf, and classic arcade games before or after the music. The rotating lineup features Van Dwellers playing favorites from the 70s to today, Flannel Daze with 90s alternative grunge covers, Titan Fun Key and Saturday Morning Cartel delivering classic rock sets, Nick & Friends with a mix of covers and originals, Bloodbrothers focused on 70s classic rock, NONSENSE as a house DJ, Hypnagogia with jam band funk, There and Back with more classic rock, Jon Bon Stamos bringing ska, Dirty Fishnet Stockings with rockabilly, Idledaze covering 70s hits, Lola Blu offering country and covers, Petty Thieves blending classic rock and pop, Date Night with R&B from the 60s through the 80s, and RYA performing acoustic covers. The lineup may change, and if it rains, performances move indoors.

Sky Carp Field transforms into an intergalactic ballpark for a Star Wars themed celebration filled with adventure, high energy, and plenty of fun. Costumes are welcome, whether Jedi, Sith, droid, or bounty hunter, and the experience includes on-theme games, hands-on activities, and photo ops around the ballpark. Look for costumed Star Wars characters circulating on the concourse, lightsaber battle demonstrations, saga trivia, and in-game entertainment inspired by the story. Giveaways and surprises are planned throughout the event for fans of every age. Once the game wraps up, a postgame fireworks show presented by Ultimate FX Lasers & Pyrotechnics lights up the sky.

Knockin’ Boots brings an upbeat night of camping and country music to Blackhawk Campground. Enjoy country sounds in a campground setting for a relaxed, music-filled evening.

The Hamilton Loomis Band performs at Grand Ave Pub in Beloit, Wisconsin, with SwitchTrack Alley kicking off the night.

Enjoy brunch favorites and drinks, plus a special offer where you can buy one breakfast and get one free when two drinks are purchased. Exclusions apply.

The 12th annual golf outing benefiting Edgerton Outreach invites golfers and supporters to Creekview Par Three to help local families. The format is a best ball scramble with a shotgun start, and participants can play in pairs or foursomes. Registration options include a $50 package with 9 holes, a cart, lunch, and access to the silent auction and raffles, or a $45 package with 9 holes, lunch, and auction and raffle access without a cart. Those not golfing can choose a lunch-only option for $15. A silent auction and raffles will be available for attendees, so even non-golfers can enjoy lunch, browse items, and take a chance on prizes while supporting the cause.

Celebrate a day at the ballpark with the Beloit Freemasons during a Sky Carp game. Each ticket includes a two hour buffet, and beer vouchers are available upon request.

This welcoming book discussion focuses on The Wizard of Oz, tracing Dorothy’s path through Oz while exploring its memorable characters and enduring themes. Whether revisiting the classic or discovering it for the first time, participants can share insights and favorite moments, bringing a dash of bravery, kindness, and wit to the conversation. Beverages and other treats will be available for purchase.

A friendly Pokemon League session welcomes players of all ages with activities, challenges, and fun for fans of Pokemon GO, the trading card game, and the video games. The fee is $5. Every participant receives four promo packs while supplies last, and bringing a new friend earns both of you an extra league promo pack. All players need a free Pokemon Trainer Club account. When creating the account, select "I need an ID number" and bring that ID with you to the league. You can also earn a bonus promo prize pack for every four matches completed during league play, limited to one bonus pack per session.

Frank & Co. Band presents an outdoor performance on the stage at Pettit's Lakeview Campground and Bar, set by the lake and beach. Food and drinks accompany the fresh-air setting while the band delivers live music. The group features Larry, Duane, Shawn and Jim, and the gathering welcomes both familiar faces and newcomers.

This recurring Gundam event features a variable entry fee. The cost is $10 when booster packs are available, and $5 if only promo packs are in stock.

The Wisconsin State Open Last Chance Qualifier is a qualifying event for the Wisconsin State Open, open to eligible players including those who were unsuccessful at a prior state open qualifying site. It’s held at Janesville Country Club, with entries beginning and a registration deadline set for this event date. Morning tee times will be used, with the detailed structure and player information sent out shortly before the qualifier.

A staff led walking group offers a leisurely stroll guided by a team member. Participants meet in the main lobby of the library before setting out at an easy pace. Everyone is welcome. Please wear sturdy walking shoes and dress for the weather. Underage participants must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver. This activity is weather permitting.

Carp After Dark sets the scene for a laid-back summer evening at ABC Supply Stadium. No reservations are needed. Attendees can enjoy drinks, live entertainment, a golf simulator, and house-made bar food while taking in views of Downtown Beloit.

Fast Eddy's Bar & Grill hosts a general knowledge trivia night with Saber DJ. It is free to play, offers cash prizes, and includes music by Saber DJ. Expect laughs, brain-busting questions, and good vibes. Teams are welcome, and participants can enjoy a drink while showing off their smarts. Follow the page for the weekly categories and the weekly secret answer.

A complimentary dance lesson kicks things off, followed by open dancing.

This monthly gathering brings local veterans together to connect. All who have served are welcome, and participation does not require American Legion membership.

Curious kids can step into the buzzing world of honeybees during a two hour STEAM camp created for ages 6 to 10. Participants observe live bees in a secure demonstration hive, explore the honeybee life cycle, and discover how these essential pollinators support the plants people rely on every day. Campers also get hands-on with beekeeper tools, enjoy a guided honey tasting, and dive into crafts and activities that reveal how a colony communicates, including the well known waggle dance. This session is part of Curiosity Camp, a new hands-on STEAM summer series at Rotary Botanical Gardens that brings science, technology, engineering, art, and math to life through interactive experiments, creative projects, and outdoor exploration. A snack is provided. An adult chaperone must attend with each child and accompanying adults are free. Clothing that can get messy is recommended. Advance registration is required and walk-ins are not accepted. Two sessions are offered on the same day, with a preferred session selected during registration. Space is limited to 15 participants per session. Cost is $12 per child for ages 6 to 10.

The New Life Food Pantry offers free groceries to the public on Tuesdays. Distribution is drive up, with volunteers bringing items to your vehicle, and those without a car may walk up. Service is available only during pantry hours on Tuesdays. Please bring a photo ID. Residency in Rock County and proof of income are not required, and weekly repeat visits are welcome. Each week features a selection that may include fresh produce, dairy, eggs, milk, bread, meat, canned vegetables, soups, pasta, rice, and other frozen or shelf stable foods.

Learn practical ways to keep your vegetable beds productive from midseason through the final pick with a hands on presentation led by Andrea Geske. The session covers smart watering and fertilizing, strategies for managing pests, and harvesting methods that protect plant health. It also explains how to tell when produce is at peak flavor and quality, plus techniques to extend yields and encourage continued production late into the season. Andrea Geske is the Assistant Horticulture Manager and Public Horticulturist at Rotary Botanical Gardens and the owner of Geske Gardens. Her work includes designing gardens and container plantings across Wisconsin, including projects at the largest Hosta farm in the United States, and she brings a strong focus on plant care, design, hybridization, and teaching. Presented as part of the Garden Speaker Series, this program welcomes gardeners of every level with expert guidance, fresh ideas, and a sense of community. Attendance is limited to 20 participants. The event takes place at Rotary Botanical Gardens. Cost is $5 for active RBG volunteers, $10 for RBG members, and $15 for nonmembers. Registration is available online, by phone, or in person at the Garden Gift Gallery. For questions, contact Kim Lewis at kim.lewis@rotarygardens.org or 608-314-8415.

W.O.W. hosts a monthly meditation centered on the new moon, offering a calm space to reflect and connect with lunar energy. Attend in person or participate online. The session is donation based. For information and admittance, contact Dianne at witte4@charter.net.

Open gym basketball welcomes drop-in players for casual pick-up games. No reservation is required, and it is a simple way to stay active and meet new people. Sessions are held at Cunningham School. The cost is $5 per person per session. Open to ages 16 and up, and participants ages 16 to 17 need an adult waiver.

As summer winds down and a new school year approaches, this guided Emotional Freedom Techniques session for teens ages 13 to 18 focuses on easing feelings of overwhelm, stress, and back-to-school anxiety. Led by Angie Grandt, the tapping practice is designed to calm the nervous system and encourage lasting emotional shifts. Also known as tapping, EFT is a technique used to reduce anxiety, stress, and overwhelm. The experience aims to help participants leave feeling lighter, more grounded, more connected, and better prepared to respond rather than react. No prior experience is needed, and a parent or guardian must complete registration. Hosted at Emerge Wellness Studio.

A casual Commander night with pod play. Admission costs $10. Every participant receives two packs along with promos for taking part. Proxy and playtest cards are not allowed. In each pod, the winner claims an additional pack and a randomly chosen player receives a promo pack, while supplies last.

Catch BLUE STEEL live in concert at Music at the Marv. This high-energy country rock band is known for electrifying performances and big crowd involvement. Music at the Marv runs as a free Tuesday-evening concert series in summer, and you can come early to grab dinner from a local restaurant or food vendor, plus enjoy beer and seltzers from the DJI beer tent.

Spend a full day immersed in the restorative power of nature at a symposium hosted by Edgerton Hospital. Designed for professionals, caregivers, educators, gardeners, and anyone interested in the ways plants and gardens nurture health, the program blends learning, connection, and hands-on practice. A keynote will explore how DBT aligns with horticultural therapy, followed by multiple expert-led breakout sessions from across the Midwest. Expect interactive activities and demonstrations, time to network with peers, and experiences throughout the hospital’s healing garden. An optional guided tour of the gardens will be offered after the sessions conclude. The registration fee is $120 per person and includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, event materials, select CEUs, and a certificate of participation. Attendance is capped at 60 participants. Registration for the general public will open soon, with more details to come.

Come meet adoptable pets at the library during the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin’s monthly visit. This is a great chance to connect with animals looking for new homes, held on the second Wednesday each month.

Designed for teens in grades 7 through 12, this Create Your Confidence self-love day camp centers on Boundaries in Color, using an abstract tape art project to explore boundaries and personal power. The day blends creative expression with mindfulness practices such as meditation, journaling, a sound bath, and breathwork. Participants enjoy snacks and drinks, work with motivational cards, and visit a personalized charm bar to make a thank you gift from Stephanie Locchetta Art, with artwork to take home at the end. This session is part of a weekly series and can be attended on its own. The cost is $75 per session. Lunch is not provided, so please bring a sack lunch. Minimum enrollment is 2 and the maximum is 6, so spots are limited. Groups of 4 or more can arrange a private Create Your Confidence self-love day camp for up to 6 teens. Workshop fees are non-refundable and dates are not exchangeable, but if the minimum is not met or the workshop is canceled due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, tickets will be fully refunded or exchanged.

This luncheon and program takes place in the Riverview Room and features a performance by local musician Don Engelhart. With more than forty years of experience spanning country, bluegrass, and oldies, he has entertained audiences at senior centers, restaurants, community festivals, and other venues. He builds a full band sound using programmed drum and bass tracks along with a vocal harmonizer, and he performs on multiple guitars as well as a 5-string banjo. The meal includes chicken salad with pasta salad and green salad, plus a roll and dessert. Pricing is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Advance registration and payment are requested.

Girls Rock the Rink, a free annual Janesville Youth Hockey program, introduces girls to hockey while giving returning players a place to keep building skills in a supportive, girls-only atmosphere. Each session features guest coaches who share their knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport. Sound Check is the introductory session created for newcomers to get comfortable with the fundamentals in a positive setting. No prior experience is required. Bring your energy, learn the basics, and enjoy time on the ice. This session takes place at Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center. Additional details about the program and girls hockey through JYH are available on the organization’s website.

Back at World Famous East Point Sportz Pub, Saber DJ Trivia brings a general knowledge game night packed with laughs, brain-busting questions, and upbeat vibes. It is free to play and hosted by Saber DJ, with cash prizes available. Teams can play together, show off their smarts, and enjoy a drink while tackling each round. Expect weekly categories and a secret answer that keeps the competition fresh.

At Buffalo Wild Wings in Beloit, teams gather for an in-person trivia night that spans topics from history and pop culture to music and beyond. Each show mixes up the format with picture clues and a dedicated music round, all guided by a lively host. Players use their phones to submit answers and earn points as the game progresses. There is no cost to take part, prizes are up for grabs, and the vibe focuses on camaraderie, lighthearted competition, and plenty of laughs with your team.

Girls Rock the Rink is a free annual program from Janesville Youth Hockey that welcomes girls who want to try hockey and supports returning players as they continue building their skills in a girls-only setting. Visiting coaches lead each session, bringing expertise and enthusiasm to the ice while working with participants at different experience levels. This Shred Session focuses on development for players with at least one year of experience. Skaters refine stride efficiency, puck handling, shooting technique, crisp passing, and overall game awareness through energetic drills and targeted instruction aimed at elevating performance.

At Central Park, the Krause Family Band presents a Roots and Americana set that mixes original songs with familiar covers. Expect rich vocals, tight harmonies, and a lively blend of guitars, fiddle, keyboard, banjo, and bass. Pack a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable seating and be ready to tap your toes. Concessions will be available from the St. Joseph's Knights of Columbus. Admission is free, thanks to support from the Arts Council of Edgerton.

Karaoke takes over The Looking Glass. Have a drink and step up to the mic to sing a favorite song.

Explore the Edgerton area by bus with a day focused on local history and community experiences. The route includes visits to the Sterling North Museum, the Albion Academy Museum, and the Jacobus Pottery Studio/Cabin, along with additional featured locations. Each stop offers activities such as guided tours, live music, hands-on crafts, special exhibits, and a picnic lunch. The outing is free and suitable for all ages. Registration is required, and updates will be shared on the event page. For those who cannot ride the bus or have scheduling conflicts, each site will also offer self-guided visiting hours on the same day.

Explore oil painting without harsh solvents in a water mixable oils class. Learn techniques to create artwork with the rich look of traditional oils, or try soft, watercolor-like effects with these versatile paints. It is designed for artists who like to experiment with different styles and want easy cleanup. All supplies are provided by the instructor, so participants can focus on painting. Open to ages 16 and up. The cost is $125.

Set out on a day trip to White Pines Playhouse for a lively performance by the Ukulele Moonshiners, a four-piece group known for turning concerts into interactive fun where the audience often becomes part of the show. Their appearances have ranged from Chicago White Sox games to major festivals and corporate events, blending humor and upbeat ukulele tunes to create a spirited atmosphere. Before the performance, the outing includes a home-style buffet with three meats, salads, vegetables of the day, mashed potatoes with gravy, fresh-baked breads, and a beverage. Dessert is served during intermission. The cost is $110 for members and $120 for non-members. The trip departs from Dawson Sports Complex, and a minimum of 40 participants is required for it to proceed due to a nonrefundable deposit.

A six-session, free American Sign Language series from DSAW–SC offers a lively and welcoming way to build everyday communication skills. Held at Rotary Botanical Gardens, instructor Stacey S teaches practical signs through active learning that blends repetition, music, and hands-on activities, with time set aside to explore the gardens. The program is open to participants of all ages along with their families, and at least one caregiver must remain on-site during the program. Take part in a single class or attend multiple sessions based on your needs. This series is made possible with support from the Cronin Grant.

Thursday evenings get a fresh twist at Rotary Botanical Gardens with Gardens After Hours, a new weekly series featuring themed nights, live music, food, and drinks, with wine poured by Timber Hill Winery. Across the season, expect highlights such as Pups on the Patio, trivia and game nights, beers with cornhole or bags, pop-up potting bars, a 90s sitcom theme, Nerd Night, Bubble Dog Night, Side Quest Night, and a Garden Art Auction. Entry is covered with regular garden admission, and members receive complimentary access. Businesses interested in supporting the live music can reach Cheyenne at guestservices@rotarygardens.org.

Live music debuts at Bank First Plaza as businesses keep their doors open late each week. Specials and promotions for each location will be shared on the event page.

Back2Back Trio brings live music to Downtown Beloit Late Edition, setting the tone for an evening of shopping and dining as shops and eateries keep later hours and offer special deals. Beloit blends small town character with an urban vibe and celebrates the arts while honoring its industrial roots. Nestled along the Rock River just above the Illinois state line, the downtown district showcases creativity throughout.

Celebrate both Pokemon and Digimon with an evening focused on casual play and card trading among friendly players. Every attendee receives a complimentary promo pack for their chosen game, and those active in both can claim one for each. An active BandaiTCG+ for Digimon or a Pokemon Trainer Center ID for Pokemon is required to receive the promo items. The night also features Pokemon Pinball and spinning Pokestops, plus extra rewards for the four highest pinball scores. Pinball is priced at $1 per play or $2 for three plays, and replays are turned off so everyone gets a turn. Prizes include three Pokemon TCG booster packs for first place, subject to availability, and three Pokemon TCG prize packs each for second through fourth.

Brian Matteson takes the stage at TRUK'T with a carefully crafted mix of cover songs.

An alternating Thursday open mic and karaoke night offers a welcoming stage for musicians, comedians, and other performers, with karaoke available to anyone ready to take the microphone. Admission is free for both performers and spectators. The concession stand serves $4 domestic beers and features specials that change each week. A microphone, amp, and speakers are provided by the Woodman’s Center, and performers should bring their own instruments or any additional equipment they need. No sign-up is required.

Down the Street hosts karaoke led by Saber DJs, highlighting their offbeat, playful style. The show lands at a new venue for the crew. Participants can grab the mic and sing their go-to songs while Saber DJs keep the vibe fun.

Hosted by Jon, Chris, Jake, and Sav, SABER DJ Karaoke brings its signature playful energy to White Oaks Bar.