The weekend brings Stroll on State, Festival of Lights and An Evening with Peter Billingsley, along with fundraisers, live music, holiday events and more to the Rockford area. Get ready to shop with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday events!
Rockford Ice Hogs hockey game
What: The first 1,500 fans will receive a hat designed by a local artist. It's also another $2 Beer Friday, featuring select $2 cans of beer or 12-ounch soft drinks available at concession areas through the end of the second intermission. It's also a Screw City Night, as the IceHogs will wear Screw City jerseys and fans can shop for all new Screw City merchandise in the team store as the Hogs pay homage to Rockford's rich manufacturing history. The Hogs will play the Chicago Wolves.
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
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Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: $22 and up
Stevee Nix Rockin the Patio
What: Get your dancing shoes on and get ready to party as the local band performs.
When: 8 p.m. – midnight Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Benny’s at Nest, 8790 N. Second St., Machesney Park
The Raven’s Nest Storytime: Shoe Stamped Ornaments
What: At the shop’s first ever story time session, kids ages three and older can enjoy a tale and get hands-on with clay. Read "Snowmen at Night" and create Shoe Stamped ornaments. Each little one can use his or her own shoes to press fun, unique textures into clay slabs, making a one-of-a-kind keepsake for the holiday season.
When: Noon – 1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
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Where: Three Ravens Pottery, 1005 Fifth Ave., Rockford
Cost: $25
Last Friday Wine Tasting
What: Help raise money for Comprehensive Community Solutions by sampling a variety of wine, beer and spirits from around the globe. CCS is a nonprofit organization that drives the fundamental transformation of neighborhoods, communities and the circumstances of those who reside there through the facilitation of workforce development that leads to a sustainable wage, meaningful community engagement and affordable housing.
When: 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Artale Wine Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $20 cash/check donation to CCS
Random AF final show of the year
What: Enjoy some rock music and dancing with this popular local band.
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When: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Shattered Saloon, 5440 N. Second St., Loves Park
Opt Outside Hike
What: Celebrate the outdoors with family and friends by taking a walk to the Dells and back, in an alternative activity to shopping. Strap on your hiking shoes and meet at the Nature Center. For ages 7 and older.
When: 11 a.m. – noon Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: Free but registration is required
Toys for Tots 2024
What: The annual Toys for Tots benefit will be held on Black Friday this year, so grab an extra toy while you're out and about doing your holiday shopping drop it off. Enjoy performances by Our Dying Whisper, Embers Rise, Dystology and Wrong Remedies, plus acoustic performances by Mike Labay of ModiFiRe and Last Call 815, and Zachary Jacoby of Jacoby and Don't Think Twice. Music starts at 7 p.m. This is a free show, but please bring an unopened toy to donate to Toys for Tots. Event is all ages until 10 p.m; it is for ages 21 and older after the kitchen closes.
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When: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Whiskey’s Roadhouse, 3207 N. Main St., Rockford
Record Store Day Black Friday
What: Enjoy sales on your favorite vinyl selections and more.
When: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Culture Shock, 2239 Charles St., Rockford and Toad Hall, 2106 Broadway, Rockford
Taboo Blah Blah with Silhouette
What: Taboo Blah Blah returns to Mary's Place for a special Black Friday show with newcomers, Silhouette.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St., Rockford
2024 All Star Comedy Show
What: Chris Barnes and Mike Green headline the show.
When: 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29
Where: Franchesco’s Ristorante, 7128 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $30-$50
Holiday Pop-Up
What: Enjoy entertainment and refreshments while browsing the collection of artisanal goods. Jeff Layne of Groove Hotel is playing at 5 p.m. Friday. Book fair comprised of local authors will be from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday. Holiday refreshments and gifts start at just $2! Special gift wrapping available, too.
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When: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29 and 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Inscape Collective, 201 Seventh St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Holidaze Art Market 2024
What: The annual Holiday Artist Market features handmade gifts by more than 15 local artists. Support local artists by buying one-of-a kind gifts. There will also be a last chance day for last minute shoppers from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21. The gift store, WEIRDO ART COLLECTIBLES, onsite, will be open throughout the market. Check out the last weekend of the group show, Partners In Crime, in the gallery while you’re here.
When: Noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29 and Saturday, Nov. 30
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Where: 317 Art Collaborative, 317 Market St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Festival of Lights
What: Drive through Sinnissippi Park and enjoy dozens of holiday light displays. Festival of Lights has been a stateline family tradition since 1989.
When: 5-10:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29-Sunday, Dec. 1; Tuesday, Dec. 5 – Sunday, Dec. 8; Thursday, Dec. 12 – Sunday, Dec. 15; Monday, Dec. 16 – Saturday, Dec. 23; 24 hours Sunday, Dec. 24 and Monday, Dec. 25; 5-10:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26-Monday, Dec. 30 and 5 p.m. to midnight Tuesday, Dec. 31
Where: Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; donations welcomed
All Aglow
What: Celebrate the holidays by coming to see sparkling holiday lights in the outdoor gardens. The outdoor display features familiar favorites, light-wrapped trees and shrubs as well as new surprises. View illuminated stars and 50 jumbo lighted candy canes, all handmade by staff. There will be 300,000 lights, including many glistening lights. Lights are on from dusk to dawn.
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When: Dusk to dawn Saturday, Nov. 30 through Jan. 6, 2025
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; donations appreciated online or at the purple donation poles within the display
Rockford Choral Union: Messiah
What: G. F. Handel's "Messiah' has been one of the most performed classical works since its first performance in Dublin, Ireland, in 1742, in the presence of King George II of England. This three-part oratorio includes the prophecy of the coming Redeemer, the details of His birth, life and suffering; and the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ; and ends with His victory over death by His glorification. The moving ending consists of the well-known "Worthy is the Lamb" and the choral masterpiece "Amen."
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When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30 and Sunday, Dec. 1
Where: Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free
Rockford’s Hometown Heroes
What: Students from Harlem Veteran's Project will share their professionally-developed documentaries of Rockford's veterans and their families. Meet several local heroes and talk with the students telling their stories. Documentaries include “Finding Purpose,” directed by Corbin Kuehne, about Adam Palmer, a Purple Heart veteran; and “Running to Remember,” directed by Lauren Johnson, about Cathy Powers, a gold star mother. Entrance to the museum galleries is included in admission. The program will begin promptly at 1 p.m. Members, call for reservations or check in when you arrive.
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When: 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Cost: $10; $8 for children age 5-12 or seniors 62 and older; free for members
Love Local Market & Expo
What: The Love Local Market & Expo features local home-based small businesses from the greater Rockford area. Get your Christmas shopping started by choosing local and supporting small businesses. Vendors will have high-quality handmade items, original artwork and some of your favorite home-based business brands.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: IBEW 364 Henry Miller Hall, 6820 Mill Road, Rockford
Stroll on State
What: This annual community event in downtown Rockford kicks off the holiday season. It features a tree lighting, parade, fireworks, horse and wagon rides, visits and cookies with Santa, the Dasher Dash, free ice skating, a classic car show, a holiday market and many more events and attractions.
When: 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: downtown Rockford
Cost: free admission
Holiday Merry Market
What: Visit two floors of local vendors, hear live music and enjoy seasonal drinks and holiday cheer.
When: 2-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Indoor City Market, 116 N. Madison St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Terrace Tidings: A Holiday Social
What: Set against the backdrop of the library terrace on the third floor, attendees will enjoy an evening filled with seasonal cheer, including live music, hot specialty cocktails (Tom & Jerry) with a cash bar, complimentary appetizers, festive decorations, holiday-themed activities and a firework viewing at 8:30 p.m. Experience the cozy atmosphere inside the library with a hot beverage and access to a clean bathroom after the Stroll on State Tree lighting at 6:15 p.m. This is a private event and requires a ticket for admission. Children aged 1 to 16 must have a ticket for admission at a discounted rate.
When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: $15-$20
8th Annual 2024 Advocates Club
What: Winnebago County CASA is hosting this event during which attendees can enjoy Stroll on State’s free activities including a parade, tree lighting, fireworks and more, with a spectacular view. Advocates’ Club will be open all night with re-entry permitted. Warm up after the Stroll to live music, food, a cash-bar and family-friendly fun. All proceeds benefit of Winnebago County CASA, a 501c(3) nonprofit organization providing support to foster children and families involved with the juvenile justice system.
When: 4-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: The Standard, 214 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $15-$50
The All Black Affair
What: This formal all black attire event (no tennis shoes) hosted by Dr. Litesa Wallace features music provided by four legendary 815 DJs: Khadijah Samb -DJ Queen, DJ Neal Howard, DJ Antwon AG (Rated AG) and DJ Silk. Photography and 360 Booth. Live band performance by Jermaine Rideout and the band Soul Serious. Hip Hop and R&B performances by JustMike Gee and Jaylin Armani-Martiez Hilton featuring Bando Santana. For ages 25 and older.
When: 5:45 p.m. midnight Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Riverview Inn & Suites, 700 W. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
Cost: $55-$125
Friendship Bracelet Making
What: Celebrate shopping small and shopping local on Small Business Saturday. Make a "Rockton Roadies" friendship bracelet. This event is for all ages and all people; it's a thank you for choosing to shop small and shop local. Pick up your starter kit at Talcott Library (101 E. Main St.) starting as soon as 10 a.m., then visit any and all participating locations to pick up unique beads and charms.
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: downtown Rockton
Cost: Free
Pop Up Punk Outing
What: Pop up punk outing with the sweet sounds of Fuzzy Kitty. Also playing will be The Deathbirds, as they make their debut to the Rockford music scene.
When: 8-11:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: The McPherson, 1210 Buchanan St., Rockford
Cost: $10 donation to support local music and arts
Fairy Workshop: Storytime and Craft
What: Enjoy a Winter Fairy Workshop featuring story times, crafts and a whimsical coloring station. Story sessions are held every half hour. There will also be a wand-making station for aspiring little fairies and a winter-themed coloring area with take-home packets for the chilly days ahead. The last story slot is at 2:30 p.m.
When: 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St., Rockford
Old Fashioned Holiday Open House
What: Shop local vendors during Small Business Saturday. There will be coffee, a hot chocolate bar and door prizes.
When: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30
Where: Winnebago County Historical Society, 116 S. Benton St., Winnebago
An Evening with Peter Billingsley and A Christmas Story
What: See Peter Billingsley on his limited tour this holiday, hosting a screening of “A Christmas Story.” The event includes a pre-show meet and greet, screening of the 1983 film, and a question-and-answer session, in which Billingsley will share stories, behind-the-scenes photos and memories from the Christmas classic. Each screening will feature a Toy for Tots fundraiser and a leg lamp giveaway to one lucky winner. Billingsley began his acting career at the age of 3, in some of the '70s most memorable television commercials and became a pop-culture icon when he played Ralphie in “A Christmas Story.”
When: 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $30-$74
Grinchmas
What: Paint a Christmas ornament (choose design at event), enjoy milk and cookies. There will be a special appearance from the Grinch for photo opportunities. Tickets are required for entry and are non-refundable.
When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1
Where: The Pottery Lounge, 312 N. Alpine Road #104, Rockford
Cost: $12 per child (age 17 and younger); includes an ornament, use of paints and snacks
Santa Paws Photos
What: Bring your dogs to get pet photos at the Rockford area's new indoor/outdoor dog park/ pet care facility. Dogs must be friendly, social and up-to-date on rabies vaccinations to meet Santa.
When: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1
Where: Doggo Sit Stay Play, 5129 Forest Hills Court, Loves Park
Cost: $15; free for members; monthly membership for $20
World AIDS Day ceremony and remembrance
What: Come for a moment of remembrance for those lost to the AIDS epidemic. Gather at Rockford’s AIDS Memorial Garden. Red ribbons will be distributed as a symbol of solidarity and remembrance. At 11:45 a.m., there will be a presentation about local resources available to the LGBTQIA+ community, focusing on healthcare and education efforts. Wreath Laying Ceremony and ringing of the Pride Bell will be at noon, with a moment of silence to honor those lost to the epidemic.
When: 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 30
Where: Crusader Clinic, 1200 W. State St., Rockford
Coming next week
Mugs, Marshmallows and Mingling
What: Join She Hive 815 for an evening of hot cocoa and company. Whether you're looking to meet new people or simply enjoy the company of friends, this event is about fostering meaningful connections within our community. Warm up with hot cocoa, whipped cream and a selection of toppings. There will be options for everyone, including vegan and gluten-free alternatives. My Cafe Amore will be offering both hot and cold specialty beverages to suit every taste. Whether you're competing for the grand prize or just having fun, games will keep the excitement going. Capture the cozy vibes and new connections at a festive photo booth area. Both men and women are welcome.
When: 6-8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2
Where: My Café Amore, 125 E. State St., Cherry Valley
Cost: $5-$15
Christmas Sip & Paint
What: Bring your friends to enjoy a night out sipping Christmas cocktails and painting the grinch. Complimentary appetizers.
When: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2
Where: Rural on Tap, 1710 Rural St., Rockford
Cost: $35
Walk-In Board Painting
What: Boards are pre-sanded and stained in a variety of colors, ready for you to paint.Many designs will be available. No ticket required; this is a walk-in event and the first one at Carlyle.
When: 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3
Where: Carlyle Brewing Co., 215 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $15-$35 depending on selection; cash, card or Venmo
Community Scholarship Fair
What: This event is designed for scholarship seekers and their supporters from Northern Illinois (Ogle, Boone, Stephenson and Winnebago counties). Learn about $1.5 million in local scholarships from local providers and financial aid experts. Visit dozens of booths staffed by local scholarship providers to learn about their available awards. Stop by booths staffed by local organizations that provide services and supports for youth and their families. Learn how to apply for scholarships from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. Learn how to write an effective essay and personal statement. Rock Valley College and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission will give a presentation about the FAFSA, financial aid programs and how to apply for RVC Foundation scholarships. This is an open-house style event; drop in when you can and stay as long as you like.
When: 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3
Where: Embassy Suites Rockford, 629 S. Wyman St., Rockford
Cost: Free
There’s Something About Merry Holiday Artisan Market
What: Support the arts while shopping local. Find unique, handcrafted items created by local artists. Jewelry, woodcraft, pottery, fiber, fine art, coffee and more. Enjoy festive refreshments while shopping.
When: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5; 1-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 and 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8
Where: Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford
Santa for All Guest Bartending Event
What: Expect to see familiar faces behind the bar, as well as several new additions. Support a great cause and kick off your holiday season at this pop-up holiday bartending event. There will be a live band, local vendors, games and more. Open to the public.
When: 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: Rockford Verdi Club, 782 N. Madison St., Rockford
Community Conversation
What: Welcome With Dignity 815 invites the community to gather for a time of sharing concerns and resources available to support immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers in the Rockford region.
When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford
Christmas Beer Tasting
What: Enjoy the sips of the season with a Christmas Beer tasting. Lamonica Beverages and 8th Ward Pub are partnering to deliver the most tasteful sips of the season, with samples of a variety of Christmas brews from several different breweries.
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: 8th Ward Pub, 3905 Broadway, Rockford
Holiday Cookie Decorating & Cocktails
What: Come decorate cookies and sip holiday drinks. Each ticket includes six sugar cookies to decorate, one holiday cocktail, all the frosting and sprinkles and a gift box to put the cookies in when you're done. Enjoy holiday music in the background.
When: 7-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: Bago Lounge, 817 N. Elida St., Winnebago
Cost: $25
Family Peace Center Fundraiser Night
What: This ELF themed night will benefit the Family Peace Center. Prize drawings from local businesses include the Olympic, i3 Broadband, Larson & Darby and more local supporters. Buy raffle tickets and enter to win prizes.
When: 5-11 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: Olympic Tavern, 2327 N. Main St., Rockford
Happy Hour Guest Bartending
What: Raise a glass and raise funds for Alignment Rockford at event hosted by The Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Rockford. Proceeds will helps the organization continue empowering youth and building a stronger community.
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5
Where: Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 6246 E. Riverside Bld., Loves Park
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: 30 things to do this weekend in the Rockford area
