Downtown Sterling, IL, will offer live music, local makers, family activities, great food, and community spirit, during the inaugural “Sterling Street Fest.” It takes place Saturday, July 25, 2026,from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free. Some seating will be available; bring lawn chairs. Explore downtown businesses, support local vendors, and spend the afternoon and evening experiencing everything “Sterling Street Fest” has to offer.
Presented through a partnership between Sterling Main Street and the City of Sterling, Street Fest is a 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 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, enjoy Kids Dance Party sessions featuring Taylor Swift and Disney hits.
StartLive 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
For event updates, a complete schedule, and additional information, visit www.SterlingMainStreet.org or follow Sterling Main Street on Facebook.
Food vendors, downtown restaurants, bars, and businesses will be offering food and beverage specials throughout the day. 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.
Street Fest is possible because of our generous support of sponsors. They believe in investing in downtown Sterling and creating opportunities for residents and visitors to gather together. Sterling Main Street and the City of Sterling extend sincere appreciation to all of this year’s sponsors and in-kind contributors. They include 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, LLC; 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: 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.”