Opening Night Block Party Presented By:

Start the IceHogs 2026-27 season off with a bang again this season as Hard Rock Casino - Rockford presents the IceHogs Opening Night Block Party!

When: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026 at 4:00 p.m.

Where: Elm and Main Streets outside of BMO Center; Music stage in Lot 7

Cost: Admission to the block party is FREE and you do not need a ticket to the IceHogs game to attend the pregame block party, but attendees will need to pay for food and beverage at the event (with the exception of the free craft beer tasting and Fire Department Coffee truck that will have free samples). 

This is a rain or shine event.

IceHogs T-shirt Giveaway presented by Hard Rock Casino - Rockford

The IceHogs are teaming up with Hard Rock Casino-Rockford to present free T-shirts to the first 3,000 fans on Opening Night at the block party. Similar to last year, the shirt is a concert shirt inspired design featuring IceHogs home game dates on the back, only this time it is Screw City themed to coincide with our first Screw City "White Out" night of the season.

Live Music from That 70's Band

That 70's Band Chicagoland is a two-time RAMI award-winning band known for delivering a high-energy, nostalgia-packed performance of the 70’s best rock, pop, and disco with spot-on performances from classic rock legends like Led Zeppelin, Styx, Heart, Foreigner, Kansas, Journey, and more.

Food and Drinks

Delectable food and beverages will be on sale from numerous local food trucks, including Blaz'in Magic BBQ, Cheezy's Grilled Cheeses, and Olivo Taco, plus Fire Department Coffee will be on site with their truck passing out free coffee samples and some Fire Department Coffee items!

Free Craft Beer Tasting

Fans 21 and older can sample some craft beers at various tables courtesy of Lamonica Beverages. The beer tasting is free but interested fans must present their ID at the check-in table to receive a wrist band.

Activities

The Rockford Park District "Junior StreetHogs" inflatable street hockey rink will be set up on Elm Street for the kids!

Red Carpet Player Arrivals

IceHogs players are expected to walk the red carpet through the block party and into the arena at approximately 4:30 p.m.

IceHogs vs. Admirals at 7 p.m.

Oh yeah, after the party, there's also a game! The IceHogs open their 28th season at home with the Milwaukee Admirals when puck drops at 7 p.m.! While you do not need a ticket for the block party, you will need a ticket for the game. Single game tickets go on sale Tuesday, Sept. 8 at 10 a.m.!