Whether you’re into craft beer, handmade goods, or classic small-town parades, there’s something for everyone in the stateline.
Here are 10 can’t-miss fall festivals to add to your calendar.
📍 201 Buckbee St., Rockford | 📅 Aug. 17
📍 Rockford Art Museum | 📅 Sept. 13–14
This juried art fair features regional artists, live entertainment, and delicious food. A great spot to find unique pieces and support local creatives.
📍 Downtown Lena, IL | 📅 Sept. 5–6
Known as “The Cadillac of Small Town Festivals,” this beloved event features a parade, live music from Grass Attack and Ukulele Express 815, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the weekend.
📍 Riverview Ice House parking lot, Rockford | 📅 Sept. 6
Now in its 15th year, this outdoor beer fest features 30–40 regional breweries, local food, and live music along the Rock River. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m. and maintains a smaller, more intimate format with 1,500 attendees.
📍 Cherry Valley | 📅 Opens Aug. 25
Kick off apple season at this beloved family-owned orchard. Enjoy apple picking, fresh cider, baked goods, and fall-themed fun for all ages.
📍 Leland Park, Roscoe | 📅 Sept. 5–7
One of the longest-running fall festivals in the stateline, this event features carnival rides, two parades, live music, bingo, karaoke, food vendors, and a pancake breakfast.
📍 Edgebrook Shops, Rockford | 📅 Oct. 4–5
A Rockford tradition for over 50 years, this indoor/outdoor fair features more than 75 vendors offering handmade goods, fall treats, and live music. Admission is free.
📍 Downtown DeKalb | 📅 Aug. 22–24
One of Illinois’ last free music festivals, Corn Fest features over 80 vendors, carnival rides, a corn boil, and a throwback concert with Color Me Badd, Rob Base, and Young MC.
📍 Loves Park Festival Grounds | 📅 Oct. 4–5
Celebrate German heritage with authentic food, beer, stein-holding contests, cultural booths, live music, and the crowning of Miss Oktoberfest. A festive favorite for families and beer lovers alike.
📍 Stillman Valley | 📅 Sept. 27–28
A small-town favorite with a parade, indoor craft show, car and tractor displays, horticulture exhibits, and the beloved Pedal Pull competition.
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