WHAT A FIRST YEAR!
The inaugural Sterling Street Fest was one for the books!
Downtown Sterling came alive with live music, local makers and artists, family fun, great food and drinks, and plenty of community spirit. What started as a brand-new idea quickly showed us that Street Fest has the makings of a new Sterling tradition.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who helped bring the day to life — our event sponsors and community partners, Makers Market and food vendors, downtown businesses, volunteers, performers, planning team, and, of course, everyone who came downtown and joined the fun. We couldn’t have done it without you!
SAVE THE DATE — JUNE 12, 2027
Planning is already underway for the 2027 Sterling Street Fest, and we’re excited to build on the success of year one with even more Music, Makers & More!
Details will be announced as plans come together, including entertainment, vendor opportunities, activities, sponsorships and ways to get involved.
Check back for updates — and in the meantime, take a look back at some of our favorite moments from the inaugural Sterling Street Fest!
Music. Makers. Family Fun. Community. One fantastic day in Downtown Sterling.
Entertainment Line Up:
2:00-4:00 PM – The Solution
4:00-4:30 PM – Kids Dance Party Break
4:30-5:30 PM – Loess Hills
5:30-6:00 PM – Kids Dance Party Break
6:00 PM – 50/50 Drawing – must be present to win
6:00-8:00 PM – The Breakfast Club
8:00 PM – after party with Desiree & The Wilde on the Brink’s Patio
Kids Zone Activities:
All activities are FREE!
2:00-6:00 PM
in the Light Street Alley
- Free Facepainting
- Inflatable Obstacle Course
- The 9th Hole Mini Golf “Mobile 18”
- Graffiti Wall
- Giant Connect Four and other yard games
- Ring Toss hosted by Sterling Kiwanis
- Hula Hoops, Bubbles and more!
Food & Beverage Options
21+ beverages may be purchased from the adjacent establishments and brought into the festival area in designated cups – Brink’s, Lisa’s Brickhouse, Kelly’s, The Rusty Fox, Lucky Lucy’s, Champ’s, Dunk’s and El Jacalito
On Light Street:
- Sterling American Legion Grilling
- with Whiteside County Honor Flight
- Brito’s Grill
- Charlie’s Cake Pops
- Kokomo’s Shaved Ice
- Main Squeeze
- Sterling Theater Popcorn
- Sundae Funday
- Foody Brit Bakes
- IL American Water
Surrounding Businesses & Specials
- Dunk’s Pizza by the Slice
- Pulled Pork BBQ @ Champs on Light Street
- $1 PBR cans at Lisa’s Brickhouse
- More to Come!
Makers Market:
2:00-6:00 PM (or later)
Along E. 3rd Street and in Dale Park (next to Brink’s)
On 3rd Street:
- Bracelets by Bahr
- Cannon Shenanigans
- E. Jayne DeMarco
- Gina’s Diamond Art
- Henna by Roo
- Hires Handmade with Love
- J & B Crafts
- JC Creations
- JoJo’s Custom CNC Creations
- Just US Pearl Pretties
- Kemetic Creations
- Mountain Roots Candle Company
- Ol’ Lady Customs
- Retro Can Creations
- Richter Relic Designs
- Stone Creek Crochet
- Uniquely Yours
- Wandering Thru Time
Dale Park:
- A Click to Remember
- Carolann’s & MAC Creations
- Extreme Lighting
- Fays Crochet Creations
- HandCrafted Haven
- Heather Shore Designs LLC
- In the Moment Crafts
- JennyLee’s Melted Moments & More
- Kim’s Kards
- Lindsay Unraveled
- Made by Makaylee
- Madhouse Creations
- Mud & Moo Boutique
- Page & Stitch
- Purses by Steph
- Timberlight Creations
- Yarn Cuties
- Surf Internet (Event Sponsor)
- Xfinity (Event Sponsor)
And More!
While you’re here, explore Downtown Sterling and see more of the good things happening here…
Shoppes at Grandon Plaza
Check out this retail incubator project and the 6 small businesses that call it home – Amber + Smoke, Leigh Alan Design, Pirate Mom Soapworks, BonBaby Boutique, The Midwest Mercantile, and Still Story Kitchen. Get a Tarot reading from our special guest Moonbeam Remedies and enjoy a mocktail from The Roaming Mare.
Coffee & Cocktails…
A short block East you’ll find great options for caffeine, craft beers and creative cocktails from the likes of Air Play Espresso & Bakery, Crafted Roots and The Precinct.
The Murals
20 murals tell the history of Sterling. Find them, and a few other public art displays, scattered throughout the Downtown.
Get Involved!
Volunteers play a vital role in creating a fun, welcoming, and successful experience for thousands of attendees. Sign up to help make this exciting community event happen!
Call for Makers, Artists & Vendors
Sterling Street Fest is seeking makers, artists, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to be part of this exciting new downtown tradition! This family-friendly block party will feature three live bands, markers, artists & entrepreneurs, fun activities for all ages, and food and beverage offerings from onsite vendors and surrounding businesses — all celebrating the spirit of Sterling and our “Steel Your Heart” community pride.
Space within the main festival footprint is limited, so vendor applications will be reviewed and selected participants will be notified by April 15. Applications are open through April 1, and we encourage you to apply early to secure consideration for prime festival placement. Additional vendor areas may be opened as demand calls for.
If you’re ready to showcase your products, connect with the community, and be part of Sterling Street Fest’s inaugural year, we’d love to hear from you!
Meet our Street Fest Sponsors!
Without the support of these businesses and individuals, community events like the new Sterling Street Fest don’t happen. Thanks for investing in Sterling! For more information how YOU can support Street Fest and other great community events, Click HERE.
Signature Sponsors
Cornerstone Sponsors
Community Builders
and our Media Partner
