Kiwanis Brat Days: 50 Years of Doing Good

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked brat on a hot Summer day. Outdoor grilling is something Americans love, and this pastime has been bringing families and friends together for generations. So, what could be better than purchasing delicious grilled food to support a terrific local charity?

The Alpine Kiwanis Club of Rockford will celebrate its 50th anniversary of Brat Days on Friday, July 30 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is the annual signature fundraising event for the Alpine Kiwanis Club. Residents are excited to see the staple event return, especially since it was sidelined due to COVID-19 restrictions last year.

The two-day event will take place at two locations: Blain’s Farm & Fleet, 7300 E. Riverside Blvd. and U-HAUL on the corner of East State Street and Mulford Road. Drive-thru and walk-up service will be available at both locations for carryout only.

Ticket prices are $6 in advance and $7 on the day of event. They include a choice of Johnsonville brat, all-beef Johnsonville hot dog, meatless barbecue, vegan/vegetarian brat and Mrs. Fisher’s Chips, plus a Pepsi product or water.

If you’re looking to enjoy a breakfast brat with your morning coffee, they’ve got you covered. “Take Your Brat to Work Day” is offered at the Blain’s Farm & Fleet location only, on Friday, July 30 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Breakfast Brats are $3 each, and will be available for Drive-thru.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at Blain’s Farm & Fleet at 7300 E. Riverside Blvd. and 4725 W. State St.; Midland States Banks’ four Rockford locations; Fleet Feet at Edgebrook Center; Mrs. Fisher’s Chips at 1231 Fulton Ave.; and Members Alliance Credit Union locations at the corner of South Alpine/Harrison and the corner of Olde Creek/Perryville roads.

ALL of the proceeds – that’s 100 percent – raised by Kiwanis Brat Days are donated directly to local non-profits and area youths for scholarships. In the past 49 years, The Alpine Kiwanis Club has raised more than $1,940,000 to support our local community.

Be sure to stop by for breakfast or lunch this year to help Alpine Kiwanis surpass $2 million! ❚