Join the MLK Center, Rock Island Parks and Recreation, The West End Rib Fest, Community Caring Conference, and the Rock Island County NAACP for Soul of the City 2025 — an outdoor community block party celebrating culture, diversity, strong neighborhoods, and families.

Nearly 5,000 people attend each year, making this one of the largest celebrations in Rock Island. Admission is free and open to all.

Festivities begin with the Soul of the City Parade at 10:00 AM, starting at Frances Willard Elementary School (25th Avenue and 9th Street) and marching north on 9th Street before disbanding at Franklin Field.

Highlights

Performances & Entertainment

• Jesse White Tumblers

• Funktastic Five

• Rock Island Boxing Club exhibition

• Dynamic Status Gems Dance Team

• Six of the QC’s most sought-after DJs

Food & Vendors

• West End Rib Festival & Contest

• Food trucks & local vendors

• Community resource booths

Family Fun

• Kidz Zone with bounce houses, games, and activities

• Face painting & balloon twisting

• Youth activities and GoCarts with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)