Looking for local events in Rockford that celebrate the literary arts? From book signings to poetry slams, live readings to arts events, and our bi-weekly RAWMeet, we highlight all the events in the area that are perfect for writers and book lovers alike. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect with the local writing community and discover new works from local authors. Check out the events below for all the latest updates and mark your calendars today.
- Tuesday, May 12 2026
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Bobbo Byrnes
Tuesday, May 12 2026 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
321 State Street, Beloit, WI, United States, Wisconsin 53511Join us at The Rogue Bookshop for an unforgettable afternoon of music and storytelling with Bobbo Byrnes on May 12th at 4:30 PM.
Blending live acoustic performance with behind-the-scenes stories from life on tour, Bobbo will share songs and reflections from his memoir Too Many Miles: On the Road with an Unofficial Rock and Roll Goodwill Ambassador. From the grit and grind of the open road to the unexpected moments of connection that define a life in music, this event offers a rare, intimate look at what it really means to chase a dream across countless miles.
Whether you’re a music lover, memoir reader, or just someone who appreciates a good story well told, this is your chance to experience both the sound and soul of a life lived on stage. Books will be available for purchase, and Bobbo will be signing copies after the event.
Pre-order the book here: https://theroguebookshop.com/events/4943020260512
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- Wednesday, May 13 2026
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OPEN MIC NIGHT
Wednesday, May 13 2026 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
513 E State St, Rockford, IL, United States, Illinois 61104Moon Dog Theatre & The Office NiteClub Present: Open Mic Night!
📅 2nd Wednesdays of the Month
🕢 7:30 PM
📍 The Office NiteClub – Rockford, ILJoin us again for an evening of creativity, laughter, and local talent! Moon Dog Theatre and The Office are teaming up to host an Open Mic Night where all art forms are welcome — comedy, music, poetry, storytelling, monologues, and more.
Whether you want to perform or just come support your friends, it’s going to be a fun, laid-back night full of community and self-expression.🎤 Want to perform?
Sign up in advance through SignUpGenius or message Nick Barelli directly to reserve your spot.We can’t wait to see what everyone brings to the stage and to share another great night of local art together. See less
https://www.facebook.com/events/891098580761344/?event_time_id=891098600761342
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- Friday, May 15 2026
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How We See the Gray - Rachel Leon Book Launch!
Friday, May 15 2026 5:01 pm - 8:01 pm
406 E. State St. , Rockford, IL, United States, Illinois 61104Please join us to celebrate the release of Rachel León’s debut novel, HOW WE SEE THE GRAY. The event will feature live music from Phil Goudreau and Kevin Schwitters, snacks, giveaways, and more. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and Rachel will sign copies at the end of the event. All are welcome!
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How We See the Gray - Rachel León Book Launch!
Friday, May 15 2026 5:01 pm - 8:01 pm
406 E. State St. , Rockford, IL, United States, Illinois 61104Please join us to celebrate the release of Rachel León’s debut novel, HOW WE SEE THE GRAY. The event will feature live music from Phil Goudreau and Kevin Schwitters, snacks, giveaways, and more. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and Rachel will sign copies at the end of the event. All are welcome!
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Calliope’s Musings: Grown Up Book Fair Edition
Friday, May 15 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
130 N 1st Street Rockford ILWe thought it would be fun to kick off the literary weekend with a Calliope’s Musings Open Mic Poetry event!
We will be located at 130 N 1st (same location as the grown up book fair) with a happy “two” hour opportunity to share your poetry.
The theme is: “I Don’t Want to Grow Up” 🦒(but off theme poems also accepted 😉). Tag your name on this page if you want to read, or message Callie Hunter and we’ll add you to the line up 😊
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- Saturday, May 16 2026
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Spring 2026 Grown-Up Book Fair 📚
Saturday, May 16 2026 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
126 N 1st St, Rockford, IL, United States, Illinois 61107📚✨ Rockford’s Grown-Up Book Fair ✨📚
Remember the excitement of walking into a Scholastic Book Fair as a kid? We’re bringing that feeling back with the second Grown-Up Book Fair at Bennie's!
Join us for an evening celebrating the magic of books, creativity, and community. Browse tables from local bookstores, meet talented local authors, and shop handmade, book-inspired crafts and merchandise. Plus, unleash your inner child with activities like DIY bookmark making and other literary-themed surprises.
Whether you’re a lifelong reader, a casual book lover, or just looking for a fun way to spend your night, this event is for you. Come shop, create, connect, and rediscover the joy of book fairs – grown-up style.
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- Sunday, May 17 2026
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NM/OM4 An Open Mic Afternoon.
Sunday, May 17 2026 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
526 7th St., Rockford, ILNo Mic, Open Mic.
Ready for NM/OM4???!
An Open Mic Afternoon for
Poets, Musicians and Comedians!!
All are welcome!Hosted by Mazey Knox
Come early!
Summer is approaching
so we are starting off with
our first HOTDOG Social Hour (2p).13 and over please.
Free event but donations
are greatly appreciated.
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- Monday, May 18 2026
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RAWMeet - A Local Writers meetup, eat, and hang out
Monday, May 18 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Prairie Street Brewing Co.Rockford Area Writers Meet Ups (RAWMeets) bring writers together, creating a space to talk all things writing from just starting out to well-seasoned writers with no expectations.
All meetups are open for any writer in the area.
Since we often meet at restaurants, we do ask that you come hungry and support the business.
Please mark if you will be attending so I can make a proper reservation.
***Location is subject to change
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- Friday, May 22 2026
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May Book Club - The Elven Prince
Friday, May 22 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
516 Main St, Pecatonica, ILJoin us for May's Book Club pick: "The Elven Prince" by local author Cat Stark.
"The Elven Prince" is a fantasy romance novel about Eloran, a prince who falls in love with Anan, a powerful elven warrior, leading to a story of love, prejudice, and overcoming obstacles in a world with political tension between their realms.
Stop in this weekend to sign up for this book club. It's $20 for a paperback copy and $5 for no copy but joining the discussion. Both options include the following: a matching bookmark, an additional 10% off in-store purchases for the day of the meeting, and snacks/water for the meeting (attendees are welcome to bring their own snacks to pass, but it is not required).
Visit our website for more information, and we hope to see you there!
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- Monday, Jun 08 2026
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RAWMeet - A Local Writers meetup, eat, and hang out
Monday, Jun 08 2026 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Ramen & TeaRockford Area Writers Meet Ups (RAWMeets) bring writers together, creating a space to talk all things writing from just starting out to well-seasoned writers with no expectations.
All meetups are open for any writer in the area.
Since we often meet at restaurants, we do ask that you come hungry and support the business.
Please mark if you will be attending so I can make a proper reservation.
***Location is subject to change
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