The Downtown Rock Island Arts & Entertainment District

Events in The District

Quad Cities Criterium

Memorial Day, Monday, May 26 
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.



The public is invited to experience a Memorial Day tradition, the 42nd Quad Cities Criterium, presented by Criterium Financial, on May 26, 2008 in The District. Thirteen criterium races, eight kids’ races, and an emergency service mountain bike race will be held. The event features over 600 cyclists, men and women riders from novice to professional, aged 10 to over 60, from all parts of the United States, with speeds up to 40 mph. Races start at 8:25 a.m. and will conclude at 5:30 p.m. The Criterium is the culmination of a weekend of racing throughout the area including races in Burlington and Muscatine. The free event is hosted by the Quad Cities Bicycle Club, Double “I” Cycling Experience (DICE), and The District.

Gumbo Ya Ya

Friday, June 6, 2008 starts at 5 p.m.
Saturday, June 7, 2008 starts at noon


GET YOUR BEADS ON! Enjoy live zydeco music and great Cajun food as we bring Bourbon Street to Rock Island. Gumbo and jambalaya will spice you up and the happy sounds of zydeco will keep you dancing. Saturday afternoon will be family fun and as the sun goes down the Mardi Gras party really gets going!

Rock The District

Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14, 2008
7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.


Live outdoor concerts. Entertainment to be announced.

Dodgeball Showdown

Friday, June 27 & Saturday, June 28, 2008



Two nights, two bands, and a whole lotta balls. 

Red, White & Boom!

Thursday, July 3, 2008
5 to 10:30 p.m.


Spectacular fireworks display over the Mississippi River between downtown Rock Island and Davenport.

Rock The District II

Friday, July 18 & Saturday, July 19, 2008
7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.


Live outdoor concerts. Entertainment to be announced.

Ya Maka My Weekend

Friday, August 15, 2008 starts at 5 p.m.
Saturday, August 16, 2008 starts at noon


Caribbean fest with reggae music, steel drums, Caribbean food, open air marketplace, island activities for children, and sand volleyball tournament.

Rock Island Grand Prix

Labor Day Weekend
Saturday, August 30, 2008 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday, August 31, 2008 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.


Professional kart racing event. Food and beverage vendors, kid's activities, and top notch racing action. Free admission.

 

Erin Feis

Sunday, September 21, 2008
11 a.m.  to 8 p.m.


Irish family festival with music, dancing, food, games, history, and culture.

Fright Night

Thursday, October 30, 2008
5 to 9 p.m.


Children's costume contest, treasure hunt, ghost stories, magicians, and make-and-take activities. Free admission.

Gallery (Holiday) Hop!

Friday, December 5, 2008
5 to 9 p.m.


Galleries, shops, clubs, and restaurants offer a variety of music, visual, and performing arts. Free admission.