Downtown Rock Island to host Alternating Currents Aug. 14-17

For the fifth consecutive year, Downtown Rock Island is hosting Alternating Currents events with a diverse mix of free, all-ages programs Thursday, Aug. 14, through Sunday, Aug. 17, at a variety of public spaces and venues hosted by festival placemaking partner Rock Island Downtown Alliance.

The Thursday night kickoff begins with a wide range of fun activities at the Arts Alley Block Party, including the progressive soul band out Siri Lorece, a photo scavenger hunt and pop-up shops, along with food and beverages for purchase from downtown businesses. Silent Disco Under the Lights in Arts Alley will close out the first night of festivities.

At Schwiebert Riverfront Park on Thursday evening, headliner New Breed Brass Band of New Orleans will take the stage.

The conclusion to Alternating Currents on Sunday in Downtown Rock Island features a car show, professional wrestling, live music and more at a variety of venues.

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“As Alternating Currents continues to grow, we are prioritizing creative programming on Thursday and Sunday to maximize our exposure and incentivize festival-goers to explore the region during this exciting weekend in the Quad Cities,” said Jack Cullen, executive director of the Rock Island Downtown Alliance. “There’s something on this schedule for everyone, and we’re proud of that.”

New public art will surface in Downtown Rock Island as part of Alternating Currents Mural Fest. Artists will paint murals on walls at M&J International Food Market, 1706 3rd Ave., and WHBF-TV, 231 18th St.

See the full schedule of festival programs in Downtown Rock Island at alternatingcurrentsqc.com/line-up.

Free parking is available Thursday in the lot at 112 18th St. between the riverfront and Arts Alley. Bicycle taxis called pedicabs will be on site offering free rides to attendees between downtown businesses and participating venues on Thursday and Sunday.