Good morning, Rockford.

After rain cleared on Saturday, Jul.

4, Rockford held its 63rd annual Fourth of July parade along Midtown and downtown, featuring festive floats, dancing, and fireworks organized by the Rockford 4th of July Civic Committee — part of the celebration for America’s 250th anniversary.

Community members gathered at Beattie Park Saturday for a Patriotic Prayer Breakfast (part of Fourth of July celebrations) where Carl Towns of Pilgrim Baptist Church led prayers for peace and blessings for youth, families, people in need, service members and local leaders.

The Rockford Area Arts Council announced a series of arts events and updates on its America 250 collaboration, including the Rock'n'Roll Institute Benefit Concert for the Arts Council on Aug.

6 at The District, the Creative Community Summer Social on Aug. 20, and the State of Culture annual event on Sept. 17.

Rockford residents describe patriotism as a personal and community value even as Gallup reports a decline in national pride since 2001; locals shared how pride in their neighborhood and service stories make Independence Day meaningful while the country faces divisions.

Rockford Park District launched the Young3 League on July 1 in partnership with RCX Sports and BIG3 to offer a pilot youth basketball program.

Registration is open (deadline: Monday, July 6) at (401 S. Main Street) for young athletes to improve skills in 3-on-3 play.

An Evening with The Brass Queens

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Ticket pricing not specified — Enjoy an energetic performance by the female-led brass band making waves since 2019.

I Love The 90's Tour

7 p.m. — Hard Rock Live — Ticket prices vary — Dance the night away to hits from Milli Vanilli, C&C Music Factory, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Young MC.

I Love The 90's Tour

7-10 p.m. — Hard Rock Casino Rockford — Ticket prices vary — Relive the essence of the 90's with an exciting music tour that brings back nostalgic memories.

Girls of Summer: AAGPBL and A League of Their Own Cast Q&A

12-2 p.m. — Midway Village Museum — Free admission — Hear personal stories from legendary AAGPBL players and cast members from A League of Their Own during this engaging Q&A session.

A Rockford Evening with Hollywood: Players from A League of Their Own

5-8:30 p.m. — Rockford Woman's Club — Paid entry — Celebrate baseball history and Hollywood with AAGPBL players and cast members in a fun-filled evening.

All White Affair Rockford

4-9 p.m. — Burpee Museum of Natural History — Enjoy an evening with live R&B from ANN MARIE at this elegant summer affair.