New Beats and Bites lunch series aims to bring good food, good vibes to downtown Rockford

Karel Rogers, with Eden, 2, and Nicole Rogers, with Elias, 3, play games Thursday, June 6, 2024, at the first Beats & Bites event in downtown Rockford. The weekly lunch series runs through Aug. 29. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current)
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — A new summertime series aims to create a vibrant lunchtime gathering place in downtown with weekly themes, music and meals from local food trucks.

Beats & Bites is a 12-week series put on by the River District Association in partnership with the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. It takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Thursday through Aug. 29 in the parking lot and vendor space at the corner of South Church and West State streets.

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This week’s theme is Summer Garden, and attendees will receive a complimentary seed packet to kickstart their garden. There are also small planters to take home for your own mini garden, and you can take part in a variety of games and giveaways. Think of it as similar to last year’s Art Alley Party or the Rockford Day downtown picnic party, which were both midday food and music get-togethers.

Vendors for the first Beats & Bites this week are Downtown Fancy Franks, The Nenas Food Truck, Blaz’in Magic BBQ and Fuego Baked Empenadas.

Fast facts | Beats & Bites

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays, June 6 to Aug. 29

Where: 330 W. State St. (the parking lot and vendor space at the corner of South Church and West State streets)