Welcome to Rockford Buzz! Your Guide for Things to Do in Rockford IL

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As we dive into the new year 🎉 we want to know: What are you most looking forward to in 2025? Vote below and let’s kick off the year with some local love! 💖

Rockford isn’t just made up of streets and neighborhoods, it’s made up of memories, milestones, and moments that often begin in our high schools. Whether you're a proud alum, a current student, or a parent checking out the options, there's something special about the halls that helped shape who we are. Let’s take a walk through Rockford’s high schools and see what makes each one unique.Auburn High School: Home of the Knights, Auburn is known for its strong focus on the arts and academics. Their CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) program is one of the crown jewels of the Rockford Public Schools system, attracting students who want to shine in theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. Their music and theatre programs are top tier, and if you've ever caught one of their performances, you know the talent runs deep. Auburn also instills leadership and discipline in students through the ROTC Program, go Drill team!!East High School: You’ll find Red and Black pride at East High, home of the E Rabs. With a diverse student body and a growing emphasis on career pathways, East has built up its Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings, perfect for students looking to gain real-world skills while still in high school. Their sports programs, especially basketball, are well known, and community support for the E Rabs runs strong. #IraMathews Guilford High School: Viking pride lives at Guilford. Known for its balance between academics, athletics, and arts, Guilford continues to evolve with programs in engineering, health sciences, and more. Their strong alumni network means you’re never far from someone who’s walked those same halls, and we mean strong NETWORK!!!!Jefferson High School: Jefferson is where J Hawk pride soars. A school with a strong sense of community, Jefferson emphasizes equity and inclusion, making it a welcoming environment for all students. Their arts programs, particularly visual arts, stand out along with their strong athletic programs, especially in basketball and bowling. Plus, they have an amazing boys' volleyball team and library!Roosevelt Community Education Center: For students needing a more personalized or alternative approach to education, Roosevelt offers flexibility and support. It’s a second chance for many students, and the staff’s dedication to helping each student succeed creates an atmosphere of respect and empowerment. While Roosevelt does not follow the Academy model like the other public high schools, its mission is no less impactful, offering individualized learning environments tailored to each student’s needs.The Academy Model: Preparing Students for Real Life: One of the most exciting elements of Rockford Public Schools is the Academy model, which is used in all high schools except Roosevelt. Each high school offers career-focused pathways that begin in a student’s sophomore year and include three-course sequences. These programs connect students with local businesses and professionals, giving them hands-on experience while learning core subjects like math, English, and science. Students can even earn dual credit or industry certifications. It’s not just about getting a diploma—it’s about preparing for life after graduation in a way that feels relevant and meaningful.Honoring the Legacy: Maybe you remember your Friday night football games, homecoming week, or that one teacher who believed in you when you didn’t believe in yourself. Maybe you met your best friend, or even your spouse, on one of these campuses. Rockford’s high schools are more than just institutions; they’re where our stories began.Still Part of the Story: Even if you haven’t walked through those doors in years, your school is still shaping lives, creating futures, and building community. And if you're new to Rockford or looking ahead for your kids, just know, there’s a lot of heart behind these walls.No matter where you went, one thing’s for sure: high school in Rockford leaves a mark.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

Rockford’s nickname isn’t just for show—The Forest City truly lives up to the name. With thousands of acres of parks, gardens, and preserves across Rockford, Loves Park, and Machesney Park, our local green spaces are more than beautiful backdrops—they're where memories are made.Whether you’re chasing silence or adventure, here’s a handpicked guide to standout parks that’ll bring joy, reflection, and that deep breath of fresh air we all need.🌿 Anderson Japanese GardensA place of calm, connection, and curated beauty. Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford feels like stepping into a living painting. With koi ponds, waterfalls, and winding paths, it’s the kind of space that slows you down in the best way. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a summer music night under the stars—it’s unforgettable.🌲 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic GardenIn every season, Klehm stuns. 155 acres of cultivated gardens, natural woodlands, and themed areas like the prehistoric garden and butterfly haven. Walk the trails, find your favorite tree, or bring the kids for creek splashing and nature adventures. It’s science, peace, and play rolled into one.🌸 Sinnissippi Park & Rose GardenRight along the Rock River, Sinnissippi Park is one of the city’s oldest and most beloved parks. Grab a blanket and a book, stroll the stunning rose garden, or head over for Music in the Park concerts at the band shell. There’s a reason generations have grown up here—it’s timeless.🌎 Keeling-Puri Peace PlazaIt’s not your typical park, but the message hits home. This contemplative green space in Loves Park celebrates unity, diversity, and peaceful living with sculptures and global flags. Sometimes the quietest spaces say the most.🏞️ Rock Cut State ParkTechnically just a whisper outside Rockford’s borders in Loves Park, Rock Cut is where wild days and quiet nights collide. Kayaking, hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding—you name it. Pierce Lake is the perfect paddling spot, and those sunset views? Postcard-worthy.🐦 Severson Dells Nature CenterTucked away but never forgotten, Severson Dells in Rockford offers forest paths, wildlife sightings, and a nature center that sparks curiosity in kids and adults alike. Great for birdwatchers, nature photographers, or anyone who needs to hear leaves crunching underfoot.🐴 Atwood Park and Nature CenterHome to the Birds of Prey exhibit and mountain biking trails, Atwood in Rockford has that perfect mix of history and adventure. It even has remnants of Camp Grant bunkers if you’re in the mood to explore something a little offbeat.🐾 Searls Park Dog ParkIn the heart of Rockford, this off-leash dog park lets pups run wild while you relax under shade trees. It’s big, it’s friendly, and it’s the kind of place where tails—and friendships—wag freely.🐢 Beattie Park MoundsA quiet, spiritual space in downtown Rockford. Home to Native American effigy mounds shaped like turtles and cones, Beattie Park connects us to ancient history. It's a place for reflection more than recreation, but it holds something powerful.🌱 Blackhawk Springs Forest PreserveLocated in Rockford, this lush preserve is the go-to for those seeking a long walk in nature. Trails wind through prairie and woods, and you might just spot deer, foxes, or soaring hawks on your journey.🌊 Nicholas Conservatory & GardensOn the banks of the Rock River, this indoor garden paradise lets you enjoy tropical plants, fountains, and sunshine—even in the middle of winter. Step outside to explore the Eclipse Lagoon or take a walk on the river path—it’s an all-season escape.Why It MattersParks aren’t just places to visit—they’re places to feel. To breathe, to laugh, to recharge. From spontaneous picnics to long walks and moments of wonder, Rockford area parks have a way of turning ordinary days into unforgettable ones.So whether you're planning your next outdoor adventure or just need a reset, there’s a green corner of Rockford, Loves Park, or Machesney Park waiting for you.GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

In every strong community, there’s a spark, something that keeps people going when the weight gets heavy. In Rockford, that spark is the Rockford Empowerment Center.You may know them from the book bag drives or the Christmas Hope giveaways. Maybe you've danced at one of their monthly block parties or seen them show up with food, supplies, or a simple helping hand. But what you might not know is why they do it, or how deep that commitment runs.Let’s take a closer look at the heart behind the REC.🏡 A Neighborhood First MissionThe Rockford Empowerment Center isn’t just a faith based nonprofit, it’s a lifeline. Their mission is clear and powerful, transforming lives with tangible help and hope.From work to food, health to housing, youth support to spiritual care, REC meets people where they are. There’s no checklist to qualify. If there’s a need, they’ll find a way.They believe that true transformation happens through relationships, not handouts. That means walking alongside neighbors, not just offering support, but building community.🎒 Backpacks, Block Parties, and a Whole Lot of HopeEvery year, REC hosts a massive book bag drive, delivering school supplies to around 2,500 local students because confidence in the classroom starts with the right tools.In the winter, they partner with elementary schools across the city to bring joy through their Christmas Hope program, making sure every child in those schools receives a gift. It’s more than presents, it’s presence.And all year long? Monthly block parties that turn city streets into celebration zones, complete with food, music, and unity. These events don’t just lift spirits, they revive communities.It’s easy to imagine one of those Christmas mornings. A child quietly opening a gift they never expected, holding it close like it means the world. Those small, silent moments, that’s the kind of hope REC gives. Not loud or flashy. Just real.💡 Why They Do It, Hope as a StrategyThe REC doesn’t exist to patch over problems. It exists to build lasting change.Their philosophy is simple but profound: hope reaffirms change. And no one should have to fight for change alone.They work with community partners, residents, volunteers, and organizations, bridging gaps that often leave people feeling forgotten. Whether it’s food insecurity, job access, or emotional support, REC steps into the gap with intention.📍 Where It All StartedBack in 2022, the City of Rockford launched a bold plan to invest in six neighborhoods most affected by crime. Three of those neighborhoods fell within the 13th Ward, and REC knew it was time to act.With a heart rooted in these very streets, REC stepped in with a vision:Build safe, supportive environmentsConnect residents to the services they need to thriveToday, that vision continues. They’re working toward a permanent building in one of these underserved neighborhoods, a place where consistency, community, and care come together daily.🌱 The Bigger Picture, Empowering the EmpowerersREC doesn’t just help individuals, they’re building a model. One that can uplift organizations, too.Their goal? To develop systems that guide and empower other local groups on the same mission of hope. Because when one organization succeeds, the whole city rises.💬 Final WordAt the Rockford Empowerment Center, there’s no “us” and “them.” There’s only we. We, the neighbors who care. We are the families who need a little help. We, the changemakers, are building something better. This is Rockford, real, resilient, and rising. And with the REC in our corner, the future looks a little brighter. If you're wanting to reach out and find out more about REC, or help the link to their website, click HERE!GO LOCAL & STAY IN THE BUZZ

When Victoria founded VPW Studios, it was more than just a venue—it was a mission. As an artist herself, she saw the gap in support and space for creatives in Rockford. So, she built something different.VPW Studios is now a vibrant home for local art, music, design, and self-expression. With gallery walls, event space, a boutique, and constant community vibes, this women-owned business is here to uplift and empower.Looking for a place to grow, connect, or get inspired? Start at VPW Studios.🖼️ Events • 🎤 Performance Space • 🛍️ Boutique • 💬 Community📍 Support local art. Support each other.

What happens when two people step out on faith—and bring the heat with them? You get Honey Boy’s BBQ.They left their day jobs behind to do what they love most: barbecue, host, and make people smile. Every bite is made with care, consistency, and a whole lot of heart—and trust us, you can taste it.This isn’t just BBQ. It’s a family-run mission to bring people together through food and unforgettable service.🍖 Slow-smoked flavor😊 Service with a smile🙏 Built on faithFollow Honey Boy’s BBQ to see where they’re poppin' up next.

Looking for a piece that actually makes a statement?Meet Jonathan and Kelly, the duo behind K&J Hardwood Lumber, where every piece is custom-made with care, character, and craftsmanship. From sourcing raw wood to letting its natural beauty guide the design, they create furniture and home goods that grow with you and last a lifetime.Their dream? Turn this passion into a full-time business by year’s end.Whether you’re redecorating, renovating, or just love locally made art, this is your sign to check out K&J Woodworking.🪵 Custom designs🛠 Statement furniture🛋 Built to lastCome see K&J Hardwood Lumber and find something that’s made just for you.

Did you know Juneteenth marks the true end of slavery in the U.S.? On June 19, 1865—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation—freedom finally reached the last enslaved people in Texas. That moment became Juneteenth, a powerful reminder that freedom delayed is still worth celebrating.This isn’t just a holiday. It’s a day to honor resilience, Black excellence, and the journey toward justice.Rockford’s Juneteenth Celebration brings all of that and more:🎶 Soulful music🍗 Delicious food🛍️ Black-owned vendors🎨 Art and activities for all ages💃🏾 Performances that lift up history and joy🗓 Thursday, June 19🕐 Festivities begin at 1 PM📍 Sinnissippi Park, 1401 N 2nd St, Rockford, ILThis celebration is for everyone because freedom, unity, and culture belong to us all.Come celebrate. Come learn. Come connect.