Celebrate 50 Years of Fall Traditions: Rockford’s 50th Annual Harvest Fest!

Mark your calendars, Rockford! Autumn’s most anticipated tradition is reaching a major milestone. From September 25–27, 2026, Downtown Rockford will come alive with fall foliage, bustling streets, and community spirit for the 50th Annual Harvest Fest.


For half a century, Harvest Fest has brought neighbors, families, and visitors together to kick off autumn in West Michigan. This year’s golden anniversary promises to be packed with beloved traditions, local crafts, and family fun for all ages.

🍂 What’s Happening at the 50th Harvest Fest?

Whether you're looking for classic cars, hearty comfort food, or hands-on activities for the kids, Harvest Fest has something happening around every corner of downtown:

  • The Classic Car Show Returns Downtown: Back by popular demand, the iconic Car Show will once again occupy the downtown streets! Walk through rows of polished classics, hot rods, and vintage beauties right in the heart of Rockford.
  • Chili Cook-Off & Bloody Mary Bar: Warm up and cast your vote! Sample local chili recipes at the Lions Club Beer Tent and grab a signature Bloody Mary as you take in the festivities.
  • Make & Take Scarecrows in Memorial Park: A favorite tradition for families! Build your very own custom scarecrow to take home and decorate your porch for the season.
  • Inflatable Corn Maze & Family Fun Zone: Memorial Park will also have an inflatable corn maze alongside kids' activities and interactive entertainment all weekend long.
  • Craft Show & Local Non-Profits: Browse dozens of talented crafters, makers, and artisans offering handmade seasonal decor, gifts, jewelry, and specialty goods, plus connect with community organizations making a difference.

🤝 Become a 50th Anniversary Event Sponsor!

An event of this scale is only possible through the generosity of our local business community. The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is currently seeking sponsors to help power this historic 50th-anniversary celebration.

Sponsoring Harvest Fest offers high visibility to thousands of event attendees throughout the weekend and demonstrates your organization’s commitment to supporting Rockford’s vibrant community traditions.


Interested in sponsoring an activity or stage?

Review our available sponsorship packages and sign up online at the link below*

Sponsorships

* Sponsorships area available to secure online for Chamber member businesses only. To inquire on sponsoring as a non-member, please contact the Chamber office.

🎨 Calling All Artisans & Crafters: Apply Now!

Are you a maker or crafter with unique, handmade goods? Applications are officially open for our Juried Craft Show! This is a premier opportunity to present your work to eager fall shoppers from across the region. Spots fill up quickly for this landmark year, so be sure to submit your application early.

Crafters Application

🌶️ Think You Have the Best Chili in Town? Register Your Team!

Do you have a secret family recipe or a crowd-pleasing chili that deserves bragging rights? Put your culinary skills to the test in the Chili Cook-Off! We are calling on local chefs, backyard cooks, businesses, and community organizations to register a team and compete for top honors (and hungry festival-goers' votes).

Register a Team

📍 Event Details at a Glance

  • Dates: September 25–27, 2026
  • Location: Downtown Rockford & Memorial Park
  • Admission: Free family-friendly admission throughout the weekend!
  • Inquiries: Have questions about attending, volunteering, or participating? Please contact the Rockford Chamber of Commerce directly at 616-866-2000



Join us in making the 50th Annual Harvest Fest our best one yet—we can't wait to see you downtown this September!

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By Megan Randall July 15, 2026
How Our Chamber Nation Tools Put Rockford Businesses on the Map
By Megan Randall June 17, 2026
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