Downtown Sterling will come alive with live music, local makers, family activities, great food and community spirit during the inaugural Sterling Street Fest, taking place Saturday, July 25, from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. in downtown Sterling.
Presented through a partnership between Sterling Main Street and the City of Sterling, Street Fest is a free, family-friendly community celebration designed to showcase everything that makes downtown Sterling a great place to gather, explore and enjoy.
“We wanted to create an event that truly has something for everyone,” said Sterling Main Street Executive Director Janna Groharing. “Whether you’re coming for the live music, shopping the Makers Market, enjoying time with family, grabbing dinner downtown or simply spending a summer afternoon with friends, Street Fest is all about celebrating our community.”
The afternoon and evening will feature an exciting lineup of live entertainment on the main stage:
- The Solution | 2:00–4:00 p.m.
- Loess Hills | 4:30–5:30 p.m.
- The Breakfast Club | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Between performances, families can enjoy special Kids Dance Party sessions featuring favorite Taylor Swift and Disney hits.
The live music continues following the conclustion of the main event with Desiree & the Wilde performing on the Brink’s Patio.
Throughout the festival, children can take part in a variety of free activities including The 9th Hole’s Mobile 18 mini-golf course, an inflatable obstacle course, yard games, bubbles, face painting, and other family-friendly fun.
Visitors are also encouraged to browse the Makers Market, featuring over 30 talented artisans, crafters and small businesses located along East 3rd Street and in Dale Park. From handmade jewelry and candles to artwork, woodworking, home décor, fiber arts and specialty gifts, the market offers a unique opportunity to support local entrepreneurs and discover one-of-a-kind creations.
When hunger strikes, festivalgoers won’t have to go far. In addition to food vendors, many of downtown’s restaurants, bars and businesses will be offering food and beverage specials throughout the day. Guests are encouraged to visit local establishments before, during and after enjoying the festival activities. Participating businesses adjacent to the festival will also offer beverages in approved event containers, allowing attendees to continue enjoying the festivities throughout the designated event area.
Organizers emphasize that Street Fest is only possible because of the generous support of community sponsors who believe in investing in downtown Sterling and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to gather together.
Sterling Main Street and the City of Sterling extends its sincere appreciation to all of this year’s sponsors and in-kind contributors: 1st Gateway Credit Union, Astec, Bonnell Industries, Central Bank Illinois, CGH Medical Center, Comcast/Xfinity, Dunk’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, Edward Jones – Nick Lareau, First Onsite, HELM-Civil, HELM-Electric, Hooties Design, JJM Printing, Jeff Bright RV, Joe Strabala Bright, Johnson Oil Co./Shell Expresslane, Kuz It’s Fun, Loescher HVAC, Martin & Co., McCue Tax & Accounting, Mead & Hunt, Mertes Law Firm, Midland States Bank, MO-ST Plumbing & Mechanical, Northern Illinois Home Medical, Republic Services, Rock River Ready Mix, Sauk Valley Bank, Select Employees Credit Union, Shaw Local Radio, Smeltzer Insurance Co., Sterling Federal Bank, Sterling Fire Department, Sterling Park District, Strand Associates, Surf Broadband, Verifacts and Willett, Hofmann & Associates. “This is truly a community event,” Groharing said. “Our sponsors, volunteers, businesses, vendors and performers have all come together to help create something special. We hope everyone comes downtown, enjoys everything the day has to offer, and helps us build Street Fest into an annual signature event that continues to grow for years to come.”
Admission is free. While some seating will be available, attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs, and encouraged to explore downtown businesses, support local vendors, and spend the afternoon and evening experiencing everything Sterling Street Fest has to offer.
For event updates, a complete schedule and additional information, visit www.SterlingMainStreet.org or follow Sterling Main Street on Facebook.
