A 3-day celebration of culture, community, and excellence

From soulful sounds and spirited games to fashion, dance, and spiritual uplift, this year's festival has something for everyone. Duel it out to become the Spades, Bid Whist, Tonk, or Dominoes Champion—and come hungry to enjoy delicious soul food all weekend long.

Friday, July 18 – Blues, Jazz & R&B Celebration

Festival Hours: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM

A tribute to the rich traditions of Blues and Jazz, spun all day by DJ ROC NOIZY

Official Festival Welcome & Community Kickoff

Meet the Contestants – Introduction of all Miss Bookerfest participants:

Lil Miss (Grades 4–5)

Jr. Miss (Grades 6–8)

Sr. Miss (Grades 9–10)

Game Tournaments Begin: Spades, Bid Whist, Tonk, and Dominoes

Finals take place on Saturday

Black History Gallery Experience opens – running all weekend, featuring:

Black history

Inventions

Culture

Local businesses

Community heritage

Saturday, July 19 – R&B & Dance Day

Festival Hours: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM

DJ ROC NOIZY spins the best of 1980s–2000s R&B

Community Line Dances – Electric Slide, Casper Slide, and more

Miss Bookerfest Pageant Finals – Lil Miss, Jr. Miss, and Sr. Miss compete for the crown

Cleta’s Stay & Sew Fashion Show – Bold, original designs from local creators hit the runway

Live Dance Performance by Fab Academy

Game Tournament Finals – Spades, Bid Whist, Tonk, and Dominoes champions crowned

Sunday, July 20 – Gospel Explosion: "The Great Invitation"

Festival Hours: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Led by Demorris “Da Minister” Flannigan

Guest preachers deliver messages of hope and renewal

Special performance by Rockford's Gospel Choir, lifting voices in praise and unity

Breakout Sessions to Empower the Community

Step into focused sessions designed to uplift and connect you with real-world opportunities:

Adult Education Access – Learn how adults 21+ can earn an accredited high school diploma

Workforce Pathways – Explore trades and apprenticeship careers with direct pathways to success

Employment Assistance – Get resume tips and job-search guidance from experienced community partners

Cultural Enrichment – Participate in a Black History Discussion led by Deacon Eldredge Gilbert, reflecting on the past and inspiring the future

Vendor Spotlight: “How You Do!” Podcast

All participating vendors will be featured in the official festival podcast—highlighting your mission, story, and community impact.

Don’t Miss This Powerful Weekend

A celebration of education, culture, connection, and community spirit.

Bookerfest is where Rockford comes together.