Events in Winnebago County, IL

Edgebrook Farmers Market features local farmers offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, colorful flowers and garden plants, and a variety of prepared and pantry items. Browse freshly baked treats, honey, farm eggs, jams and jellies, mixes, crisp cheese snacks, and more.

Babes and Books is a small-group storytime designed for infants and toddlers from birth to 24 months. The interactive format encourages early development through stories, songs, movement, and playful activities. Miss Erin leads the program, guiding little ones with music, reading, and gentle motion. Older preschoolers are welcome to participate as well.

Designed for ages 12 and up, this ceramics class welcomes every skill level. Newcomers receive clear, step-by-step guidance, while those with some experience can focus on personal projects. Choose from hand building or working on the potter’s wheel, and move at a comfortable pace.

This Play Lab introduces the Pokemon Trading Card Game through guided demonstrations led by Professors, with learn-to-play materials provided. New players may keep the demo decks they use while supplies last. There is no cost to participate.

In the Youth Services area at Rockford Public Library, families can craft their own spooky slime by blending an assortment of eerie ingredients for a personalized creation. Guests may come dressed as a favorite character or ghoul. Registration is required.

Connect with local professionals at a free networking meetup hosted at PC Tech 2U, the PC store owned by Robert Lockwood. Bring your tech questions and any devices you have been considering for repair, since the setting is well suited for conversations about electronics. The gathering also includes time to learn about Darkhorse Lodge, which is dedicated to giving veterans a place for healing and camaraderie. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and a friendly smile.

This free film series in the J. R. Sullivan Theater at the RPL Nordlof Center in Rockford marks 250 years of American independence. Screenings include complimentary popcorn and a lineup that ranges from family favorites to classics and contemporary hits. Titles on the schedule include The Super Mario Bros. Movie (PG), The Princess Bride (PG), 42 (PG-13), Superman (PG-13), Independence Day (PG-13), Fantastic Mr. Fox (PG), The Karate Kid (PG), Sinners (R), Frankenweenie (PG), Pride and Prejudice (PG), and Muppet Christmas Carol (G).

This teen craft session focuses on making Halloween plushies with no sewing required. Create a character that is spooky, silly, or adorably cute without using a needle or thread. All supplies are provided as long as materials are available. Open to students in grades 6 through 12.

A Halloween-themed tattoo flash event featuring hundreds of designs priced from $60 to $150. A gift card will be awarded for the best costume chosen during the night. Tattooing will be available using the event’s flash designs, and the full set of designs will be shared a few days beforehand.

Saturday Nexus Night centers on Riftbound Constructed with a $10 entry. Players compete using 40-card decks with up to three copies of any single card, one Legend, three Battlefields, and twelve Runes. Matches use a best-of-three format, and an optional sideboard of up to eight cards can be used between games as long as it follows the same deckbuilding limits. Prize support scales with attendance. For every registered player, two packs from the current set are added to the prize pool. Each participant receives one booster and a Nexus Night pack while supplies last, with the remaining packs awarded to the top finishers.

Experience the Nightmare in N 2nd Halloween Bash, with DJ Jay Jefe keeping the music going all night.

Best Dam Bar hosts a Halloween party featuring Six-Pack Rocks, a cover band delivering a high energy mix of classic and modern rock. The set spans The Eagles and Tom Petty through All American Rejects and Cage the Elephant, with playful throwbacks from the Go-Go's, Spice Girls, and Beastie Boys. A lively playlist that aims to offer something for everyone.

Celebrate Halloween at Mulligans with a spooky session of wubs and dubs featuring Fontaine Friggin Sinclaire alongside Lil Byte. Costumes are encouraged for the festivities. Additional details will be announced.

This weekly Pokemon League features Standard format play, plus a monthly League Challenge that is slightly more competitive with a higher entry fee and additional prizes. Regular League entry is $9 and the League Challenge entry is $15. Participants receive prize packs when available, and prizes include the most recent Standard set booster packs.

Designed for LGBTQ+ community members ages 45 and up, this monthly brunch creates a warm space to share stories, connect with peers, and celebrate collective journeys. Coffee and light refreshments are provided, and bringing a dish to share is welcome but optional.

Concerts On The Creek in Rockford, IL presents a special Sunday afternoon program featuring an uplifting blend of secular and sacred songs performed by regional favorites Denny Diamond, Chip Messiner, and Trinadora, the duo of Janel Nelson and Ron Holm. Strong attendance is typical for each of these artists and a full house is possible, so early donations are recommended to secure open seating, which ensures a spot but not a specific location. Bottled soft beverages and prepackaged snacks will be available before the music begins and during intermission. Free off-street parking is available for 95 vehicles, and the listening area is on one level with easy access. Tipping the artists at digital checkout is encouraged, and additional in-person donations are welcome. Thanks to Downtown Discount Drugs, City Center Market, and O’Briens & Dobbins Pharmacy for their support.

Season 1 features a Pokemon GO League Cup followed immediately by a Challenge for a full slate of friendly competition. Bring your Great Ball team and battle for the top spot in the Cup, then keep going as the Challenge begins right after. Each event has a $15 entry fee, and store credit prizes will be awarded to the top finishers in both competitions.

At Red Robin Gourmet Burgers in Rockford, a fundraiser will direct 20 percent of eligible sales to the Brandon Dodrill Memorial Foundation, helping support members of the Rochelle Township High School bowling teams. In the restaurant, show the fundraiser flyer or mention it to your server so your purchase is counted. Orders placed online or in the Red Robin mobile app can qualify as well, provided the fundraiser is selected and added to your cart before you complete checkout. Eligible sales include dine-in and takeout, and do not include catering, orders made through third party platforms, alcohol, gift cards, retail items, tax, or gratuity.

Mercyhealth clinical dietitian Beth Christine Gillette leads a conversation at the Mercyhealth Cancer Institute in Rockford focused on the new food pyramid. The program reflects Mercyhealth’s commitment to supporting people through the cancer journey and beyond. There is no cost to attend, it is open to everyone, and attendance is not limited to Mercyhealth patients. Advance registration is not necessary.

United European Ballet brings the beloved fairytale to life at the Coronado Theatre in a lively staging filled with humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments for all ages. Presented by Classical Arts Entertainment, this production follows Snow White, the jealous Queen, and the seven spirited dwarfs through expressive choreography and vivid character portrayals, all set to the music of Bogdan Pavlovsky. An international cast from more than 15 European countries, including leading artists from Ukraine, performs amid hand-painted scenery and colorful costumes that create a rich storybook atmosphere. The ballet is presented in two acts with one intermission and is designed to be family-friendly, offering playful touches for children and plenty to enjoy for adults.

Classical Arts Entertainment presents a vibrant staging of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs performed by the United European Ballet Company. An international ensemble, including leading principal artists from Ukraine, brings the story to life to Bogdan Pawowski’s spirited score. The production blends classical ballet with a Broadway-style flair, mixing humor, energy, and a sense of magic. Audiences can look forward to hand-painted scenery, imaginative storytelling, and finely crafted costumes by European designers. Fast-paced and visually rich, it offers a warm, family-friendly experience, from the playful charm of the seven dwarfs to Snow White’s elegance and the tale’s lively twists. Presented at the Coronado Theatre.

Young builders ages 7 to 13 can dive into creative play at the library, where all LEGO bricks are provided. Design and build an original creation, then see it showcased on display at the library for a full month. Registration is not required, so participants can simply stop in and start building.

This free, supportive and affirming space welcomes ages 10 to 13 to connect, build confidence, and feel comfortable being themselves. The group focuses on navigating identity, friendships, and the ups and downs of growing up, together. Food and refreshments are provided. Bringing a friend is welcome, and the atmosphere centers on celebrating who you are. For questions, text or call (331) 303-0818.

Now in its 12th year, this holiday arts and crafts showcase takes place at the Mercyhealth Indoor Sports Center, filling 25,000 square feet with creators and their work. The location sits about a mile from the I-90/39 tollway, which links Chicago and southern Wisconsin. Expect a broad selection of handmade goods for the season and beyond, including decor for home and yard, floral pieces, crocheted items, pet accessories, woodcrafts, clothing and fashion accessories, outfits for dolls and babies, jewelry and purses, pottery, quilts, toys, glass and ceramic art, wood signs, hair accessories, photography, embroidered items, natural bath products, kitchen accessories, and wreaths. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and up, children under 12 are free, and parking is free.

The Rockford Fall Craft & Vendor Market offers a warm, family-friendly shopping experience with local sellers showcasing handmade goods, seasonal decor, gifts, treats, and other autumn-inspired finds. Explore fall home accents, comforting candles, self-care picks, apparel, sweets, and unique seasonal pieces. Vendor registration is open, and space is limited, providing artisans and small businesses an opportunity to reach families, weekend browsers, and fall enthusiasts preparing for festivals, home refreshes, and early holiday buying.

Settle in for a cozy book discussion with fika at the Nordic Cultural Center. Everyone is welcome, and membership in SHS is not required. The featured read is The Ice Princess by Camilla Läckberg, a crime thriller set in Fjallbacka. Conversation will explore characters, themes, plot, and everything else book related. Finishing the novel is recommended, though readers who are partway through are still invited to take part. Organizers ask that those planning to attend let them know in advance so there will be enough treats and hot drinks. A suggested $5 donation at the door helps cover fika. The story follows writer Erica Falck as she returns home after her parents’ funeral and becomes drawn into the mysterious death of her childhood friend, Alex, found with slashed wrists in an ice-cold bath in what first appears to be a suicide. As Erica’s interest grows, local detective Patrik Hedstrom pursues his own suspicions, and together they begin to uncover unsettling truths about a small town with a deeply disturbing past. Those who prefer other genres may want to consider a future session instead.

Slip into a 1920s world of intrigue and humor at Historic Attractions Museum as a glamorous mob-era wedding reception turns deadly. Attendees become part of the unfolding drama, mingling with colorful characters, witnessing startling twists, and teaming up to piece together clues. Suspicions swirl around a spurned lover, a competing crime boss, and even the bride herself, and only sharp observation will reveal the culprit before the night is over. The experience features a speakeasy-inspired setting within the museum, a cast of performers driving the story with unexpected moments, and a multi-course dinner served while the investigation continues. Participants can take on roles, question suspects, and compete for prizes awarded to standout sleuths. Period attire such as flapper dresses, pinstripe suits, fedoras, and pearls is encouraged for added fun, though not required.

Barrels & Vines hosts an evening of live music, refined pours, and a warm, easygoing atmosphere.

Marriage on Tap returns with Dominick and Rebecca Albano sharing lessons from two decades together. They will offer five practical, real-life strategies for choosing one another each day, with insights that speak to couples at every stage, from newlyweds and busy parents to those enjoying an empty nest. The gathering takes place in the St. Bridget Parish Hall and features snacks and cocktails, followed by dinner and the presentation. Tickets are $40 per couple, dinner included, and can be purchased online through the ticket link or in person at St. Bridget, St. Rita, and Holy Family parishes.

Alton Brown takes the stage at Coronado Theatre with a live show that revisits fan favorites in surprising new ways while adding fresh demonstrations, music, and a touch of scaled-down mayhem. The creator and host behind Good Eats, Iron Chef America, Cutthroat Kitchen, and Food Network Star has toured to more than 300 cities and entertained over half a million people. This outing trims back the spectacle to spotlight real connection, spur-of-the-moment surprises, and storytelling. Expect a personal evening that blends humor, curious science, and food with genuine heart, offering a closer look at Brown’s signature mix of brains and banter.

DRR brings a high-energy country party to The Mill Saloon in Machesney Park, IL. Round up friends, enjoy a cold drink, and get ready for a loud, lively night of fun. Do not miss this show.

Wait, What? brings a full-band set of 90s and 00s alternative hits to Shattered Saloon in Loves Park. Expect a lively night of familiar tunes from that era performed live by the band.

Celebrating 30 years, this bike show and swap brings together a wide array of bicycles and parts. Attendees can bring a bike to enter in the categories listed on the flyer. It is consistently a fun gathering with a strong turnout.

At Roscoe Township Community Center, this hands-on floral design workshop guides participants through crafting beautiful arrangements with step-by-step instruction. All supplies are provided, and the flower selection will differ from any example images. Cost is $50.

A welcoming, nonjudgmental space for men to connect around mental wellness. Participants share experiences, encourage one another, and build community through honest conversation and fellowship. Open to men seeking support, meaningful connection, or a place to belong. For more information, contact Cory at 815-519-2695 or Tony at 207-557-8092.

Stop & Paint presents a Twilight themed paint night steeped in the rainy mood of Forks, star-crossed romance, and the world of vampires and werewolves. The session follows an open studio format rather than a single step by step class. Attendees can pick from Twilight inspired designs or create something entirely their own, then paint at their own pace with creative guidance, tips, and tricks available throughout. Tickets are $35 and include an 11 by 14 canvas, all painting supplies, a selection of Twilight motifs for inspiration, light snacks, and a cozy atmosphere that nods to the classic Team Edward versus Team Jacob debate. No painting experience is required. Only 10 seats are available.

Ray of Hope is a monthly support group for people grieving the loss of someone to suicide. It offers a caring space to talk openly about the weight of grief, the questions that linger, and the full range of emotions, or to sit quietly among others who understand. There is no expectation to share and no pressure to feel okay. Whether you come to speak, to listen, or to find quiet support, you are welcome. For more information, contact Nita Osbern at 815-871-2569 or erichad@comcast.net.

Fats Productions presents a free stand up comedy open mic at The Hope & Anchor, hosted by Michael Palmenderi. It welcomes first timers, up and coming comics, and stage regulars who want to try new jokes or tighten a working set. To keep things friendly for everyone, material should follow a few simple guidelines. Light swearing is acceptable, but heavy profanity is discouraged. Jokes can be suggestive without becoming explicit. Dark or edgy humor is fine as long as it does not veer into violent or overly disturbing territory. Hate speech, slurs, and targeting marginalized groups are not allowed. There are 20 spots available. Sets are 5 minutes, and comedians traveling from outside the Stateline area receive 7 minutes. Performers coming from out of town can contact the Fats Productions Presents Facebook Page to secure a guaranteed place on the list.

Enjoy a cozy fall evening of cocktail making at Victory Pickleball with Rush Creek Distilling. Participants will shake, stir, and sip while learning three seasonal recipes that highlight autumn flavors, including the French Drive Pumpkin Pie, the Rose Lane Cranberry Martini, and a Bourbon Cider Smash. Pick up a few bartender tricks, discover new favorites, and unwind with a night of fun. No membership is required, and admission is $25. Space is limited.

Explore an array of collectibles and crafts at the GQ Collectible Show at CherryVale Mall in Rockford, IL. The event showcases sports cards, comic books, Pokémon items, and many other collectible categories, along with offerings from crafters and home-based businesses.

At Park Lanes, this event features a genuine blind draw format. The cost is $11 per player with 200 percent payback, and participants can earn PRP and NADO points. Registration is followed by the start of play.

Explore spiritual topics in a relaxed, thoughtful setting with this monthly group. Each meeting centers on a theme, beginning with a brief presentation to introduce the topic, then moving into open conversation and shared reflections. Many gatherings conclude with a short visualization or guided process, and the format shifts to fit the needs of participants. It welcomes those deeply engaged in spiritual study as well as anyone simply curious, with an emphasis on meaningful, real-world exploration and connection. Cost is $20 per person when paying by Zelle, CashApp, or Venmo, or $22 per person by credit card.

Celebrate the season with a festive shopping crawl along N. 2nd Street in Loves Park, IL. Hidden Treasures Mall & Antiques is adding extra cheer with complimentary Miracle Mimosas, giveaways and sales, an Ugly Sweater Marketplace, food served all day by Bake Flight LLC, and more holiday fun throughout the store. The celebration spans seven local businesses along a two mile stretch, each offering its own specials. Pick up a punch card at any participating location, visit all seven in any order, then leave the completed card at your final stop to be entered into a grand prize drawing. The grand prize combines a $25 gift card from each business plus at least one holiday themed item from every stop to create one large gift basket. Participating locations include Hidden Treasures, Seek & Find Consignment, A Mother’s Love, Mexico Market, Backyard Bar & Grill, Storage Chics & Unique Gifts, and Eclectic Elephant.

Take part in a guided serenity walk at Anderson Japanese Gardens that centers on gratitude. This calm, nature-focused experience encourages mindfulness, helps ease everyday stress, and supports well-being for both mind and body. Each walk in the series explores a different theme, and this one highlights gratitude. The cost is $10 per person. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited.

Chip Messiner, a well known Stateline musician who performs more than 150 shows each year, presents a program shaped by his long run on country radio. After 31 years on the air and retirement in 2025, he revisits songs popularized by the country legends he featured on his broadcasts and shares memorable stories from that career. There is no set admission charge, and audience donations support the musicians and help cover the church’s hosting costs. Attendance is capped at 150. A $5 nonrefundable early donation offers guaranteed general seating, which secures a seat but not a specific location, and those unable to purchase online can make special arrangements by email or phone. A total contribution of $10 is suggested, though any amount is appreciated. Light refreshments and bottled soft drinks will be available. Free off street parking is provided for 95 vehicles. The listening area is on a single level for easy access, and the acoustics are noted as excellent. Sponsors include Downtown Discount Drugs, City Center Market, and O’Briens & Dobbins Pharmacy.

Marking a decade of tradition, the Kendel Sherman Foundation presents its tenth annual community Thanksgiving dinner, a welcoming gathering centered on togetherness. Attendees can enjoy food and drinks, music, vendors, and time for fellowship. For ten years, it has brought people together to create memories and to make sure everyone has a seat at the table.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra presents Mozart's Requiem, the composer's final work, in a program that contemplates legacy and remembrance. Performing with the Nielsen Chamber Choir and four featured vocal soloists, the orchestra explores music's ability to unite drama, beauty, loss, and hope. The evening offers vivid orchestral color, expressive singing, and moments for reflection at the Coronado Theatre.

Flannel Daze fills Splitter's Bar & Grill with 90s rock and alternative music for a night dedicated to the decade's sound.

Take a break from everyday noise and settle into a sound bowl meditation that supports nervous system regulation and a sense of harmony. Gentle vibrations and calming frequencies foster deep rest, encourage emotional release, and help restore balance. As the tones move through the space, the mind grows quiet, the body softens, and energy finds coherence. Participants will rest on the floor for roughly an hour. Please bring a yoga mat and any comfort items that make relaxation easy, such as a blanket, a bolster, or a pillow. Come as you are and leave feeling lighter, clearer, and grounded. The cost is $20 per person. Payment options include Venmo, Zelle, CashApp, or cash at the door. Prepayment secures your place, and reservations are recommended since capacity is limited.

Enjoy food, drinks, and games while RAMI-winning Boom Boom Room performs favorite songs.

Holiday cheer fills Machesney Park at the 9th Annual Holiday Blitz, a seasonal marketplace featuring festive shopping, unique handmade finds, and a welcoming sense of community. Browse gifts and goodies from Aadoorable Creations, Alost Creations, Big Baluka Snacks, Caitlin's Lovely Crochet, Colys Creations, Diamond Art by Michelle and Teri, Elements of Nature, F3D Creations, g's Creative Company, Healthy Hemp Huntley, Holy Grain LLC, Ix-Chel Boutique llc, Janine's Crafts, Kristin Kay’s Loops on a Loom, Loaves by Lauren, Missy Makes, MMM Custom, O.L.S. Crystals, Poppy and Pine, RAD, Roses and Ruby’s Crafts, Soy Candles & Wax Melts By Jen, The Image Gallery, The Krafty Korner, EverSnap Co, Sarita's Crafts, and Wonderfully Knitted. This annual tradition brings together gifts, fun, and community spirit.

Paul Bronson brings acoustic music back to Top Dog Pizza & Pub in Machesney Park. Guests can start with dinner from a wide ranging menu, then unwind with drinks as he provides a relaxed acoustic backdrop.

At Coronado Theatre in Rockford, STAYIN' ALIVE pays tribute to the Bee Gees with a full evening of classics. The set features hits like Night Fever, Jive Talkin', How Deep Is Your Love, You Should Be Dancing, Nights on Broadway, and Stayin' Alive, along with tender ballads such as I Started a Joke, Massachusetts, Fanny Be Tender, Words, and To Love Somebody. The production enhances the music with big-screen video, photo montages, and vivid imagery, and the group has appeared in configurations ranging from a six-piece band to performances backed by a 62-piece orchestra. The show is crafted to capture the excitement of a live concert while honoring the group’s signature harmonies.

A pre-Thanksgiving comedy night at The Hope & Anchor features a $10 cover. Table reservations are available by calling 815-633-2552 during normal business hours, and limited walk-up seating may be possible the night of the show. The lineup includes Vinny Cerone, a 23-year-old Chicago comic known for quick, dark, and clever material and a regular at the Comedy Vault in Batavia. Main feature Kevin Wood is a comic, writer, and musician, formerly a radio personality with Rockford’s 104.9 The X, blending crisp punchlines with off-the-cuff energy, with appearances at the Chicago Improv, The Comedy Shrine, and CG’s Comedy Club. Headliner Larry Reeb, known as "Uncle Lar", offers tongue-in-cheek guidance on everything from dating and driving to raising kids. Honors include being named Chicago Comedian of the Year twice, wins at the Las Vegas Comedy Festival and the Dubuque 10k Comedy Festival, and a finalist berth at the Great American Comedy Festival, with credits that include Billy Gardell Presents Road Dogs, HBO’s Opening Night at Rodney’s hosted by Rodney Dangerfield, NBC’s Last Comic Standing, and numerous visits to The Bob & Tom Radio Show.

A holiday craft show returns to the area. Admission is $2. Vendors interested in participating can request a registration form by emailing DurandCharm@gmail.com.

A fall recital at The Norwegian spotlights performances by students of Underground Squirrel Studio. The Norwegian will offer beverages for purchase. Admission is free, the event is open to the public, and attendees of all ages are welcome.

Marking its fourteenth year, this Black Wednesday celebration at Pig Minds Brewing Co. spotlights barrel aged beers with fresh releases and a special food menu created for the occasion. For updates and additional details, check the brewery’s Facebook page.

Celebrate the start of Thanksgiving weekend as The Real Deal kicks things off at Best Dam Bar.

DRR brings a Blackout Wednesday party to Neighbors Bar & Grill, setting the stage for the night before turkey day. Expect cold drinks, lots of singing and dancing, and a rowdy, old-school vibe with friends.

Acoustic Reverie performs original acoustic pieces alongside other songs that cover a wide range of genres and decades.

A long-standing post-holiday tradition returns as Chicago-based Americana artist Ernie Hendrickson brings his day-after-Thanksgiving concert back to the creek. He honed his skills in Rockford and holds an ISU degree in classical guitar. In addition to standout guitar work, he is known for strong songwriting, studio craft, and a resonant singing voice that reviewers have praised for its unexpected maturity. There is no fixed admission. Audience donations support the musician and help cover the church’s hosting costs. Attendance is capped at 150. An early $5 nonrefundable donation can secure general seating, which is open and does not reserve a particular spot. Special arrangements are available for those unable to purchase online. The suggested total contribution is $10, with any amount appreciated. Light refreshments and bottled soft drinks will be available. Free off-street parking is offered for 95 vehicles. The single-level listening area is accessible and features excellent acoustics. Support for this performance is provided by Downtown Discount Drugs, City Center Market, and O’Briens & Dobbins Pharmacy.

Experience a free indoor holiday shopping event at Blackhawk Athletic Club, open to all. Explore home decor, jewelry, crafts, and more from 20 local vendors. Participants include Wandering Lilac Co., Quilted Creations Plus, Janine's Crafts, Core Memory Co, Amers Made, A.J.C. 3D, Alchemy Aromantique LLC, Odyssey's Jungle Weeds, T&T Creations, and Polish Deluxe. The club will also offer selections from the kitchen, with details to be announced.

INCROWD815’s annual Christmas party and fundraiser celebrates another banner year of networking with Dr. Chris and Elizabeth Sahli at Elevated Health Essentials. A cheerful gathering in the spirit of the season brings the community together.

Festive attire is encouraged for a fun night of Christmas Singo. Karaoke and an open mic follow to keep the celebration going.

This holiday gathering at The Mercato by Lino’s in Loves Park kicks off the Christmas season with shopping, drinks, food, and surprises. Additional details and special announcements will be shared as the event approaches.

Experience a calming guided Serenity Walk that encourages mindfulness and eases everyday stress within the peaceful setting of Anderson Japanese Gardens. Each walk features a distinct theme and offers time to connect with nature while supporting both mental and physical well-being. The cost is $10 per person. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited.

Follow Clara and the Nutcracker Prince on a magical adventure from the shimmering Land of Snow to the delightful Kingdom of Sweets. This ballet features elegant choreography, striking costumes, and grand scenery, all performed to the music of a live orchestra. Experience whirling snowflakes, the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy, and vibrant dances representing cultures from around the world. It is a timeless tale for all ages and a wonderful way to build a family holiday tradition.

Soul 2 Soul celebrates 70s classic rock with a mix of favorites from Boston, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, Heart, The Cars, ZZ Top, The Rolling Stones, Foreigner, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more. With more than two decades of experience, the group continues its focus on this era. As of 2024, the lineup features founder and leader Robby Demos on guitar and vocals, Curt Schreiner on drums, Tracy Jane Comer on keyboards and vocals, and Jeremy Toledo on bass. The set draws from artists like Styx, Supertramp, Toto, Kansas, Aerosmith, Pat Benatar, The Beatles, Tom Petty, Blue Oyster Cult, Head East, Ted Nugent, Peter Frampton, Thin Lizzy, and The Doors.

Celebrate the season at a Christmas wreath workshop at Roscoe Township Community Center. Create a wired wreath or swag with fresh evergreens, accented with pinecones and a bow, and bring home a festive piece for your entryway. The cost is $65.

Fats Productions presents an open mic night of stand-up at The Hope & Anchor, hosted by Michael Palmenderi, with free admission. Newcomers, first-time performers, and stage regulars can try out new jokes or fine-tune a current set. To keep the room welcoming, keep language mild and avoid heavy profanity, keep suggestive material non-graphic, and steer clear of violent or overly disturbing themes. Hate speech, slurs, and targeting marginalized communities are not permitted. There are 20 performance spots. Sets run 5 minutes, and comics traveling from outside the Stateline area receive 7 minutes. Sign-ups take place before the show begins. Out-of-town performers can message the Fats Productions Presents Facebook Page to secure a guaranteed spot on the list.

Experience the festive spirit at the Rockford Winter Wonderland Craft & Vendor Market, a family-friendly shopping event with cozy seasonal vibes. Browse a range of local vendors featuring handmade goods, winter decor, thoughtful gifts, sweet treats, candles, self-care items, and other unique finds suited to the season. Shoppers can look for holiday presents, stocking stuffers, cozy essentials, and one-of-a-kind items not typically found in big-box stores. Vendor registration is open, with a limited number of spaces available for makers and small businesses interested in connecting with families, last-minute shoppers, and others seeking seasonal favorites.

Chili enthusiasts are invited to put their recipes to the test at the third official chili cookoff. Entry is free for cooks. Guests who want to sample and participate in judging can do so for $5 per person, and this fee also applies to entrants. Organizers are seeking 30 chili entries and will post updates as spots are filled. A sign up link will be shared. The cookoff coincides with the Army/Navy Game.

The Dirt Road Rebelz perform live at Rascal's Bar & Grill in Loves Park, Illinois. Expect an upbeat night made for dancing and good times.

At Roscoe Middle School, a festive marketplace brings together local creators, artisans, small business owners, and independent vendors. Explore handcrafted items, gifts for the holidays, seasonal sweets, and home accents while making headway on your shopping list. The focus is on supporting local sellers and celebrating the spirit of the season with distinctive finds.

Winter brings the Roscoe Community Market indoors at the Roscoe Township Community Center, creating a cozy way to support local businesses with no cost to enter. Expect a changing roster of carefully selected vendors offering handmade creations, distinctive gifts, home decor, specialty foods, sweet treats, boutique finds, seasonal items, and more, so every visit offers new discoveries. This is one of several winter markets held at the same indoor venue, and vendor spots are available for single dates, multiple dates, or the full season, with limited space.

On the Cafe Stage at Hard Rock Casino Rockford, The Real Deal presents a hometown funk, soul, and dance party from Rockford, IL. The show blends old school and new school R&B, Top 40 favorites, feel good funk, smooth soul, and a splash of pop with a touch of country. Built to keep everyone on their feet, the set features today's dance floor anthems and plenty of sing along moments.

To lend Santa a hand this holiday season, Hidden Treasures Mall & Antiques is extending store hours for a limited stretch so shoppers can stay a little later. It is a helpful chance to wrap up Christmas lists, whether you are searching for vintage treasures, unique gifts, or last minute stocking stuffers. Take advantage of the added time to explore and find something special.

Families with children ages 7 to 12 can take part in a supportive workshop focused on understanding common mental health challenges. The session emphasizes open communication at home and teaches practical coping strategies that families can learn together. It is part of a continuing series, dinner is provided, and registration is collected through a confidential form.

Warm up with live music from El Lobo at Top Dog Pizza & Pub. Settle in for an evening of tunes.

LynSkynyrd is back at Louie’s Tap House for an evening devoted entirely to Skynyrd.

Rockford Symphony Orchestra brings a joyful holiday pops celebration to Coronado Theatre. Expect beloved seasonal music, sparkling lights, and cheerful surprises, with the Nielsen Chorale and Kantorei Youth Choir joining the orchestra. Nearly two hundred musicians and guests unite to fill the venue with the sounds of the season, offering a festive experience for families and friends.

A cherished Rockford holiday tradition brings the Rockford Symphony Orchestra together with the Nielsen Chorale and the Kantorei Youth Choir. Close to 200 musicians and guests will fill the Coronado with favorite seasonal music, vivid lights, and cheerful surprises. The program celebrates the music and magic of this special time of year.

Cheer on a head-to-head matchup between the Rockford IceHogs and the Grand Rapids Griffins at the BMO Center. Please be aware of venue security procedures, which include walk-through metal detectors and bag inspections. Guests will be asked to remove hats and empty pockets before screening. There is no re-entry, so anyone who exits the building will not be admitted again. Bag rules are strictly enforced, allowing purses up to 8.5 by 11 inches and clear plastic bags up to 12 by 6 by 12 inches, with contents easily visible for inspection. Diaper bags and bags containing medically necessary items are permitted after a check. All sales are final and cannot be refunded or exchanged.

Disney On Ice brings a heartfelt celebration of family to the BMO Center in Rockford. Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy welcome audiences into two tales filled with love. Journey through frosty Arendelle with Anna and Elsa as the bond between sisters warms the ice. Then step into the colorful world of Encanto with Mirabel and the Madrigal family, alive with music and energy. Stitch and Angel add playful mischief that keeps the laughter going on the ice. Disney On Ice presents Magic of Family showcases favorite characters and feel good moments to share. Costumes are not permitted for guests 14 years and older.

Disney On Ice brings the Magic of Family to the BMO Center in Rockford, celebrating the power of love on the ice. Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy open the show and lead the audience through two heartfelt adventures. Glide into snowy Arendelle with Anna and Elsa as the bond between sisters warms the rink, then experience a colorful, musical celebration as Mirabel and the Madrigal family from Encanto bring their story to life. Stitch and Angel also take the ice with playful mischief and plenty of laughs. Costumes are not permitted for guests aged 14 and older.