Dinner on the Dock

Rockford's Favorite Summer Tradition

Join us every Thursday for Dinner on the Dock (DOD), where great food, cold beer, and live music come together on the riverfront. Set against the backdrop of the Rock River, this weekly event is all about community, good vibes, and summer nights done right.

There are plenty of options to soak up the DOD atmosphere, whether you’re sitting down for dinner, relaxing in the lounge, finding a spot on the lower dock, or pulling up by boat—there’s no better place to be on a Thursday night.

Event Details

  • Seating Opens: 4 PM
  • Live Music: 6–9 PM
  • Kitchen Open Until: 10 PM
  • Sizz N Fizz Open: 5 – 9 PM
  • Drinks Flow Until: 11 PM or later

DOD Schedule

  • Thursdays | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • May 15 – September 11, 2025
  • Live Music | 6:00 – 9:00 PM

Event Dates

Dinner on the Dock featuring Petty Cash

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

PettyCash is the ultimate celebration of two iconic legends, Tom Petty and Johnny Cash, brought to life by five musicians who share a passion for amazing tunes and good times. Whether you're sipping a cold brew at your favorite festival or dancing in the aisles, PettyCash delivers a high-energy stage show that brings all the hits you know and love. With a combined 1,000 years of musical experience, this band guarantees a performance full of shredding, sing-alongs, and unforgettable moments. So don’t be Petty—give ‘em some Cash and get ready to fall in love with this rocking tribute to Johnny & June!

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 19 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Sunset Strip

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Sunset Strip, the ultimate 80s Hairband Tribute from Rockford, Illinois, brings the glory days of big hair, leather, and rock 'n' roll back to life. Known for electrifying performances across the Midwest, they’ve played everything from colossal festivals to intimate clubs, earning rave reviews for their high-energy shows. Along their journey, they've shared the stage with 80s legends like Bret Michaels, L.A. Guns, Vince Neil, and Kip Winger, solidifying their place in the rock scene. A multi-year recipient of the prestigious Rockford Area Music Industry (RAMI) Awards, including a 2019 induction into the RAMI Hall of Fame, Sunset Strip’s commitment to authenticity and showmanship is undeniable. With their flamboyant stage presence, killer riffs, and nostalgic anthems, Sunset Strip stands as a tribute to the enduring spirit of 80s rock, unleashing the grit, glam, and irresistible energy of a bygone era.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 5 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Indika

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Indika Reggae Band, formed in 1990, is one of the Midwest’s most influential reggae bands, blending reggae, soca, calypso, R&B, jazz, and more. Led by the dynamic Uroy Mushla, the band’s diverse lineup and energetic performances have earned them numerous awards. After expanding in 2010, Indika became the premier backing band for artists like Bushman, Gregory Isaacs, and Lady Saw. They’ve played iconic venues such as The Wild Hare and Navy Pier and performed at festivals across the Midwest and southern U.S.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 24 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Harlan Jefferson

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Harlan Jefferson is a versatile saxophonist, flutist, vocalist, composer, and actor known for his soulful artistry and heartfelt performances. Blending jazz, hip hop, and funk, Harlan creates soothing music that combines melody with spontaneous expression. Recently, he has made his mark on the Chicago scene with his neo-soul group So So Tight, performing at venues like Anthony's Jazz Club, the Cotton Club, and The Back Room. Harlan's 2004 appearance on BET’s The Bobby Jones Show launched his career, and he continues to grow with upcoming college tours and corporate gigs.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 18 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring The Tree Dogs

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Formed in 2016, The Tree Dogs are dedicated to preserving the art of Rock and Roll. Hailing from Rockford, IL, the hometown of pop/rock legends Cheap Trick, the band blends a mix of everything they’ve heard on the radio to create their own unique brand of rock.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 24 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Miles Nilesen & The Rusted Hearts

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Rockford-based Miles Nielsen has spent nearly a decade captivating audiences with music that blends Western-influenced rock and classic '60s soul. Drawing influences from Otis Redding’s soul and Jellyfish’s power pop, Nielsen has released two critically acclaimed albums—his 2009 solo debut and 2012’s Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts. The band’s chemistry has grown over the years, transforming Nielsen’s past solo songs into vivid, full-band anthems. Raised in a musical family, Miles’ background in classical voice and recording engineering shines through in his heartfelt vocals and pristine production. His work is a testament to his talent as both a musician and songwriter.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 7 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Lola Blu

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Lola Blu, a rising country singer-songwriter from Rockford, Illinois, is quickly making a name for herself with her striking voice, effortless elegance, and captivating stage presence. Drawing inspiration from artists like Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, and Whiskey Myers, she blends country and southern rock with her own unique flair. Known for transforming personal stories into relatable anthems, Lola's lyrics explore love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, resonating with listeners across genres. With accolades from The Josie Music Awards and growing recognition in the industry, Lola has already shared the stage with artists like Terri Clark and Mackenzie Carpenter. Her debut singles, "Better Believe" and "3," along with her highly anticipated EP Good Ole Days, have earned attention from over 60 radio stations. With her band backing her, Lola Blu's electrifying performances and mesmerizing presence make her an artist to watch.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 17 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Random AF

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Random AF is a high-energy cover band from Rockford, Illinois, known for their electrifying performances that blend Funk, Classic Rock, and Pop. With a dynamic mix of favorites and hidden gems from the 1970s to today, the band creates an atmosphere of pure fun and excitement, keeping the crowd moving all night long. As the 2024 People's Choice and Funk/R&B RAMI award winners, Random AF has made their mark in the local music scene, bringing infectious energy and diverse sounds to every show. With a nomination for Female Vocalist in the 2025 RAMI awards, they’re set to continue their journey of musical success and high-energy performances.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 23 tickets left

Dinner on the Dock featuring Flannel Daze

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

FLANNEL DAZE is a Rock-Alternative and Grunge cover band from Rockford, Illinois, specializing in the hits of the 1990s. With decades of combined experience, the band brings a high-energy performance with a repertoire of over 60 songs, making it easy to fill a four-hour show. Known for their passion for learning new music, Flannel Daze delivers top-notch sound by partnering with professional sound engineers and using high-quality gear for every performance. The band has earned recognition by winning the Tribute (Genre) category at the Rockford Area Music Industry (RAMI) Awards for four consecutive years, from 2020 to 2023.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 23 tickets left

Docktoberfest featuring Die Musikmeisters

Prairie Street Brewing Co. 200 Prairie St., Rockford, IL, United States

Die Musikmeisters is a lively German band performing traditional instrumental and vocal songs in the Chicago area and available to travel throughout the Midwest and U.S. They perform at Oktoberfest events, corporate functions, weddings, festivals, and more. Offering a range of sizes from a three-piece to a nine-piece band, Die Musikmeisters delivers an entertaining blend of German polkas, waltzes, marches, dance music, and American favorites. With over 500 songs in their repertoire, including classics like "Edelweiss," "Beer Barrel Polka," and "Ein Prosit," the band sings in both German and English, and can incorporate dixieland and American tunes upon request.

Get Tickets $40.00 – $150.00 24 tickets left

FAQ’s

Is Dinner on the Dock free?

Free and open to all ages.

Where can I sit?

  • Reserved premium seating – Located on the upper dock, these tables are close to the stage and have tableside service.
  • Host seating – Head to the host stand for first come, first served seating with tableside service on the upper dock.
  • Open seating – Choose your own open seating or bring your lawn chairs to the lower dock or the lounge. There are self-serve areas.
  • Reserved Boat Slips – These slips include boatside service.
  • Open Boat Slips – Look for open slip signs to indicate the slip is open. Food and beverage is self-serve.
  • Petritz Board Room: Reserve our private Board Room that overlooks the Dinner on the Dock stage and has seating for 14.

What can I eat?

  • Brewpub menu – order with your server, or grab to-go from the Ice Cellar or upstairs Brewpub.
  • Sizz N Fizz – order online or place your order at the truck in the south parking lot.

Drinks?

Order from your server or visit any of our bars:

  • Dockside Taproom
  • Ice Cellar
  • Brewpub

Reservations?

Reserve a table just like in past years – find your event in the schedule above, pick your spot and pay in advance.

Can I bring a lawn chair?

Absolutely! We recommend setting up on the lower dock or north end of the dock for BYOLC – Bring Your Own Lawn Chair seating.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome on the dock. Keep in mind, the event is lively and can get crowded, so consider if it’s the right setting for your pup.

Where do I park?

Park in any of our three lots or grab street parking nearby.

Can I pull up by boat?

Absolutely! Limited slips are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

What if it rains?

Sometimes weather happens! If needed, we’ll move the party inside. If the event is canceled, we’ll post an update as soon as possible.

Come As You Are, Stay As Long As You Like

Dinner on the Dock is all about good people, good times, and good vibes on the river. Whether you’re coming straight from work, meeting friends for a night out, or just looking for a place to soak up summer, you’re in the right place.

See you Thursday!

Thanks to our sponsors!

Rockford Community Bank
Lexus of Rockford
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100.5 Rockfords Greatest Hits
Flanagan Orthodontics