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

Welcome to Rockford IL's ultimate guide to things to do! Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, Rockford IL has a wealth of activities and attractions to offer. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to shopping, dining, and entertainment, this website is your one-stop-shop for discovering the best things to do in Rockford IL. We've handpicked the most popular and unique experiences to bring you an extensive list of activities to suit every interest, age group, and budget. Whether you're looking to have a family day out, a romantic getaway, or an exciting solo adventure, you'll find it all right here. Get ready to discover Rockford IL like never before, and make your next trip to this amazing city unforgettable!

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Today's Events & Things to Do | Rockford IL Region

Welcome to Rockford IL's one-stop-shop for today's events! This website is your go-to source for finding the latest and greatest happenings in Rockford IL. Whether you're looking for a fun family activity, a night out with friends, or a unique cultural experience, you'll find it all right here. We've handpicked a variety of events to suit every interest and budget, so you can easily plan your day and make the most of your time in Rockford IL. From festivals and concerts to exhibitions and workshops, there's always something exciting happening in this vibrant city. So check out our calendar of events and get ready to experience Rockford IL like never before!

Full Events Calendar

Today's Lunch, Dinner, & Drink Specials | Rockford IL Region

Welcome to Rockford IL's guide to today's lunch, dinner, and drink specials! If you're looking for the best food and drinks in town, you've come to the right place. Here, you'll find a comprehensive list of the latest specials and promotions offered by Rockford IL's top restaurants and bars. Whether you're in the mood for a delicious lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends, you'll find the perfect meal or drink to suit your taste and budget. From classic comfort food to gourmet cuisine, and from refreshing cocktails to local brews, Rockford IL has something for everyone. So check out our list of specials and get ready to indulge in the best that Rockford IL has to offer!

Barnstormer Distillery

Barnstormer Distillery

Captain's Reserve Now Available

Captain's Reserve Now Available

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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Inzombia Coffee

Inzombia Coffee

Birthday Club

Birthday Club

Always Available

Hours Today: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

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RBI / Bourbon Street Lounge

RBI / Bourbon Street Lounge

Night Shift Diff

Night Shift Diff

Always Available

Hours Today: 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

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Baked Wings

Baked Wings

Munchie Hour 4:20pm-6:00pm

Munchie Hour 4:20pm-6:00pm

Always Available

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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Murphy’s Pub

Murphy’s Pub

Murphy's Happy Hour : 3 - 6 PM

Murphy's Happy Hour : 3 - 6 PM

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Hours Today: 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM

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5BAR

5BAR

Happy Hour

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Hours Today: 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM

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Murphy’s Pub

Murphy’s Pub

Wine Night

Wine Night

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM

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Reel Nutrition

Reel Nutrition

Winning Wednesdays

Winning Wednesdays

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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27 Aluna

27 Aluna

Bao-wow-Wednesdays

Bao-wow-Wednesdays

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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Screw City Tavern

Screw City Tavern

Wing Wednesday and Fish Fry

Wing Wednesday and Fish Fry

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

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The Canna Cafe & Bar

The Canna Cafe & Bar

Happy Hour

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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The Pomodoro

The Pomodoro

Wine Wednesday at The Pomodoro

Wine Wednesday at The Pomodoro

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

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Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Happy Hour

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

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Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Wing Wednesday

Wing Wednesday

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

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Baked Wings

Baked Wings

40% Off Waffle Wednesday

40% Off Waffle Wednesday

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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Rockford Buzz Logo

Rockford Buzz

Missing Special

Send Us Your Lunch/Dinner/Drink Special

Don't see your favorite special? Please send us an email with the details and we'll add it to the website ASAP!

All Things Food

Deals, Sales, & Shopping | Rockford IL Region

Welcome to Rockford IL's ultimate shopping guide! We're your one-stop-shop for the latest deals, sales, and shopping experiences in Rockford IL. Whether you're looking for a unique gift, a stylish outfit, or just a great deal, you'll find it all right here. From trendy fashion and home goods to electronics and toys, Rockford IL has something for every shopper. So check out our list of deals and get ready to hit the shops in Rockford IL!

Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic

Hulsebus Rockford Chiropractic

Take the Same Supplements Your Doctor Uses

Take the Same Supplements Your Doctor Uses

Always Available

Hours Today: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM

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MembersAlliance Credit Union

MembersAlliance Credit Union

Save to Win Account

Save to Win Account

Always Available

Hours Today: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

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Varo Fence Co.

Varo Fence Co.

Free Estimates

Free Estimates

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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John Berlin Agency

John Berlin Agency

GET A FREE QUOTE

GET A FREE QUOTE

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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Moving Guys

Moving Guys

Power Washing  free estimate

Power Washing free estimate

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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Inzombia Coffee

Inzombia Coffee

Zombie Discount

Zombie Discount

Always Available

Hours Today: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

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SPoRT Makeup, Apparel, & Collectibles

SPoRT Makeup, Apparel, & Collectibles

Use Code

Use Code "BUZZ20" to Get 20% Off All Products

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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Rockford IceHogs

Rockford IceHogs

Hamboni Rides

Hamboni Rides

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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First Class General Contracting

First Class General Contracting

Free Home Inspection

Free Home Inspection

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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Rockford Buzz Logo

Rockford Buzz

Missing Deal

Send Us Your Sales/Promotions

If you know of an upcoming sale or promotion, please send us an email with the details and we'll add it to the website ASAP!

All Shopping Deals & Sales

Local Businesses & Cool Places | Rockford IL Region

Welcome to Rockford IL's Random Adventure Generator! Every time you refresh the page, you'll be presented with a new set of four randomly selected destinations, each offering its own unique experience. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, these random draws will inspire you to explore Rockford IL in new and exciting ways. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to shopping, dining, and entertainment, there's always something new to discover. So join us on this journey and get ready to explore Rockford IL like never before!

Urbane Design Studio, Ltd

Urbane Design Studio, Ltd

Urbane Design Studio, Ltd

Today: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Urbane Design Studio is a growing interior design firm and furniture dealer that services northern Illinois and the Chicago area. A boutique commercial and residential design firm, Urbane Design Studio works with homeowners, business owners, realtors, and general contractors to provide a cohesive, well-planned interior. Services include: Finish Selection, Fabric and Furniture Selection and Sourcing, Lighting Design and Sourcing, Color Consultations, Aging in Place Consulting, Window Treatments, Accessories.

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Steam Plant Family Restaurant

Steam Plant Family Restaurant

Steam Plant Family Restaurant

Today: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Serve breakfast lunch and dinner Place when you never leave hungry Good food good service good atmosphere you never go wrong !!

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Hanz Brew Fest

Hanz Brew Fest

Hanz Brew Fest

Today: Closed

A festival for beer enthusiasts to celebrate their love of beer while raising money for the Hansmeier Memorial Fund.Sept 29th, Noon - 6pmSettlers Park

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Signature Ink and Beauty

Signature Ink and Beauty

Signature Ink and Beauty

Today: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Looking to elevate your beauty and wellbeing? Our team of skilled artists specializes in providing top-notch self-care and cosmetic services that are tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you're looking for a rejuvenating facial, a stunning new hairstyle, or any other beauty treatment, we have got you covered. With our expert services, you'll not only look your best but also feel your best. So why wait? Schedule an appointment today and experience the transformation!

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Current Poll & Positive Rockford IL News

Our goal is to shed light on the Rockford IL's rich history, vibrant culture, and bright future. From local events and attractions to restaurant reviews and positive movements, this website has got you covered. Take part in our polls and have your voice heard, and stay informed with our articles written by us. Join us in celebrating everything that makes Rockford IL the incredible place that it is.

Top Haunt in the 815!

Top Haunt in the 815!

It's October and that means it's time for Spooks! I’m dying to know… what’s your favorite haunted house to visit in the 815?

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Wired Cafe readies for return

Wired Cafe readies for return

Josh Patterson and the staff at Wired Cafe were pretty excited for the second week of October. Patterson and his partners at Eight Fifteen Capital bought the 13-year-old coffee shop in January, learned the ropes, learned the customers, and wanted to take the next step by roasting their own coffee beans."We'd just gotten the roaster on Friday (Oct. 4)," said Patterson, who owns the cafe along with his brother, Matt Simpson, Terrance Hall, Clydale Hilson and Jaron Hite.Sunday morning, he got a call. Someone had broken into Wired and set three different fires."That day there was just a lot of uncertainty, a lot of just wrapping my head around what happened, why it happened," Patterson said.The next few days were a whirlwind of meeting with representatives of their insurance company. "That helped as far as just addressing, we talk about triage, stopping the bleeding, that helped us in terms of starting to pick up the pieces."Once the group could see a path forward, they wanted to take control of what others were seeing and saying."One of the seven principals of Kwanzaa is kujichagulia, which means self determination in Swahili," Patterson said. Kwanzaa is the annual holiday affirming African family and social values that is celebrated the seven days after Christmas. Kujichagulia emphasizes the right and responsibility to define, name, create for oneself, and speak for oneself."We knew that the longer that we're not open, there's opportunity for our customers to get what they get from us from other places," Patterson said. "There were a lot of questions about what happened and we wanted to stay connected with our Wired Family."Wired worked with Pablo Korona, the filmmaker behind the Our City, Our Story series, to document its path to reopening. The group released videos on Oct. 13 and Nov. 4 on its Facebook and Instagram pages giving its customers an insiders view.Patterson said the videos have been cleansing."It's empowering to tell your own story," he said. "This happened to us, but we control what happens next."Patterson is excited about the next video, which is scheduled to be posted on Nov. 19. It will include Wired Cafe's reopening date."It's going to be sooner rather than later."You can find Wired Cafe at facebook.com/@wiredcaferockford or instagram.com/wiredcaferkfd/.

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Plume breathes new life into community favorite

Plume breathes new life into community favorite

Der Rathskeller was a North End staple for 90 years. What started out as a sausage shop and delicatessen in 1931 at 1132 Auburn St. eventually evolved to include a bar, restaurant and outdoor beer garden.Beginning in 2016, though, the restaurant went through three ownership changes before closing for good in October, 2021, unable to survive the COVID-19 pandemic.In June, the property sprung back to life as Plume under the direction of husband-wife duo Lia Pennacchi and Chase Williams. The two know the Rockford restaurant scene well. They started working together when Williams was the executive chef at Social Urban Bar & Restaurant in downtown Rockford.For those who remember Der Rathskeller, Plume is a bit of a change. It's much brighter with an upscale decor and pricing. It's also an Italian restaurant - but with a slight twist. The cuisine is northern Italian - the Pennacchis' heritage traces back to northern Italy - and the food has Austrian and German influences. So there's still that little tie to Der Rathskeller.My sister and I stopped in to try it out on Halloween, even sitting next to a couple dressed as a British king and queen. One thing to note. You will not be offered a menu. There are QR codes to scan to find the drink and food menus. They will bring you one if you ask. The goal of Plume is to change the menu regularly as produce is in season without having to routinely print new menus.We split a small plate, the tigelle. That came on a wooden board and included thin biscuits that you slice to make small sandwiches stuffed with mortadella (thin slices of Italian sausage), coppa picante (cured pork), pesto Modenese (a spread made of cured pork fat, garlic and rosemary) and blueberry preserves. For one, that would have been a meal in and of itself.We also split the Eickman's beef tenderloin, which was an 8-oz filet placed on top of potatoes cooked with onions and balsamic vinegar. The steak was so tender it seemed to melt in your mouth and the potatoes were sweet almost like sweet potatoes.We plan on going back to check out the bar and desserts on another day. On the night we went, it had Nutella Pot de Creme (hazelnut butter, chocolate and Frangelico whipped cream) and Tiramasu on the menu.Plume is a welcome addition to the North Main-Auburn corridor that also features the Norwegian at 1402 N. Main St. You should put both on your restaurant rotation.

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Halloween has a unique Rockford history tie

Halloween has a unique Rockford history tie

There will be tens of thousands of kids out on Halloween in Rockford, in the annual quest for some cool candy. On Halloween in 1956, Rockford native and U.S. Navy Admiral George Dufek was hoping not to get too cold.On Oct. 31, 1956, Dufek became the first American to stand at the South Pole. He was one of seven U.S. Navy pilots who landed an airplane for the first time at the bottom of the world. With the engines running to avoid freeze-up, Dufek stepped out onto the frozen terrain and planted the U.S. Flag.The flight was part of Operation Deep Freeze, which had the ultimate goal of establishing a research station on the continent. In 1957, Dufek returned to the South Pole to establish a supply base, which he named Little Rockford.Today, the National Science Foundation's South Pole Station is host to cutting-edge science and home to as many 150 people at a time. Dufek was born in Rockford in 1903. He joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Rockford High School and was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy in 1921.Dufek became a pilot and served in World War II and the Korean War, when he was placed in command of the aircraft carrier USS Antietam. Dufek retired from the Navy in 1959 and died in 1977. The Navy stopped using Little Rockford in 1965.

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Latest Rockford Buzz Videos

Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, our videos will inspire you to explore Rockford IL like never before. From outdoor adventures and scenic drives to shopping and dining experiences, we've got it all covered. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the latest videos about Rockford IL. Get ready to experience the city in a whole new way!

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Nafsi is offering a special lung cancer screening and consultation package for just $300. Early detection is key, and Dr. Nafsi is here to support you every step of the way. Take this opportunity to prioritize your health—schedule your screening today and take control of your lung health with Rockford Pulmonary Clinic! Call or text 815-566-7781 to book your appointment. 💙

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Great Food & Great Rewards

Looking for the best way to enjoy some amazing local flavors? I highly suggest joining the Bourbon Barrel Club and Dinner Club at Bourbon St Lounge! There's nothing like supporting local, and trust me—local food is always the best food! 🍽️🥃

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Oktoberfest 2024

I had the chance to catch up with Mark from the German Society of Rockford about this year’s Oktoberfest, and I even learned a bit of a German dance—thanks, Mark! 💃🇩🇪The 60th Annual GSR Oktoberfest is happening this Saturday, September 28th, from 11 am to 11 pm, and it’s going to be one for the books! 🎟️ Grab your tickets now for just $7 (or $10 on the day of the event).Expect amazing authentic German cuisine from Café 20, a cultural booth, souvenirs, a children’s area, stein holding and racing contests, and of course, the famous tapping of the keg with Mayor Jury! 🍻 Plus, we'll be crowning Miss Oktoberfest 2024 and enjoying some authentic German dancing and beer. 🍺🕺Music for the day will be provided by The Amazing Mike Band, The Legendary Barefoot Becky, and The Zweibel Brothers! 🎶Tickets are still available through Friday, September 27th, at these local sponsor locations (cash only!):Woodman's (Rockford, IL)Windsor Pizza ParlorTop Cut Comics (Loves Park)Pig Minds Brewing Co.Culture Shock - Clothing and RecordsWired Cafe'The DetourCherry Blossom FloristEmbroid ThisDon't miss out on this incredible return of the 60th Annual GSR Oktoberfest! 🍂🎃

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The Angel Next Door

✨🎭 I'm beyond excited for Artists' Ensemble Theater's production of THE ANGEL NEXT DOOR by Paul Slade Smith, hitting the stage from September 5 – 22! 🌟 Set in 1948, this screwball comedy follows husband-and-wife playwrights Charlotte and Arthur as they navigate the chaotic mishaps that threaten their next Broadway hit. With a lovestruck novelist, a charming actress, a vain leading man, and a hilariously cranky housekeeper, this play promises nonstop laughs and romance! 🤩💖Don't miss the "perfect storm of comic chaos!" Grab your tickets now and get ready for a "laugh-a-minute romantic romp!" — LA Splash Magazine🎟️ Tickets on sale at https://artistsensemble.csstix.com/event-details.php?e=282!

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