The Free QC Rock Academy Summer Kickoff Concert Is Back

May is concert month, and while that might empty our bank accounts a bit more than normal, here is one that is free, featuring the future of rock in the Quad Cities.

The QC Rock Academy’s 5th Annual Summer Kickoff Concert at Schwiebert Riverfront Park in Rock Island is Saturday, May 17th, from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The QC Rock Academy Training The Future Bands In The Quad Cities

For over a decade, the QC Rock Academy has been a place for kids to learn music. If it's setting them up for a life of playing or just knowing enough to appreciate it more, having your child become more musical will serve them well in the future.

When you see them on stage at such a young age, you'll appreciate that not only are they teaching music, but they are also teaching them the confidence to stand in front of a crowd.

Schwiebert Riverfront Park in Rock Island, Illinois

Schwiebert Riverfront Park is located on 1st and 17th Street in Rock Island, with plenty of parking at the park or across the street between 17th and 18th.

The park also has playground equipment for the little ones to burn some energy.

Bring your lawn chair or a blanket, or just sit in the grass to enjoy the evening.  And no matter what the weather says, it's always a little cooler by the river.  So toss a hoodie or blanket in the car for when the sun starts to set on the Quad Cities.

QC Rock Academy 2025 Summer Kickoff Concert

The concert is free for all ages and will feature performances by Mercury’s Crown, Hartwood, 7 Ark, Impossible Wonder, Facecarver, Mental Riot, Nonetheless, Pick Your Poison, New Monday, and solo acts.