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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!

Rocktown Adventures

Rocktown Adventures

Kids on Water

Fri

26

Jul

Kids on Water

10:00 AM @ Pierce Lake- Rock Cut State Park

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Discovery Center Museum

Discovery Center Museum

Puppy Palls Live-The Comedic Stunt Dog Show

Fri

26

Jul

Puppy Palls Live-The Comedic Stunt Dog Show

10:00 AM @ Discovery Center Museum

Free - $10.00

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Rockford City Market

Rockford City Market

Rockford City Market!

Fri

26

Jul

Rockford City Market!

4:00 PM @ Rockford City Market

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Franchesco’s Ristorante

Franchesco’s Ristorante

Summer Concert Series: Jestin Jay Trio

Fri

26

Jul

Summer Concert Series: Jestin Jay Trio

6:00 PM @ Franchesco’s Ristorante

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The Pottery Lounge

The Pottery Lounge

Christmas in July, Vintage Tree Edition

Fri

26

Jul

Christmas in July, Vintage Tree Edition

6:00 PM @ The Pottery Lounge

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Rockford Park District

Rockford Park District

Paint and Sip

Fri

26

Jul

Paint and Sip

6:00 PM @ Lockwood Park

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Coronado Performing Arts Center

Coronado Performing Arts Center

Mark Normand: Ya Don't Say Tour

Fri

26

Jul

Mark Normand: Ya Don't Say Tour

7:00 PM @ Coronado Performing Arts Center

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Ski Broncs

Ski Broncs

Ski Broncs Water Ski Show

Fri

26

Jul

Ski Broncs Water Ski Show

7:00 PM @ Ski Broncs

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RVC Starlight Theatre

RVC Starlight Theatre

The Color Purple at RVC Starlight Theatre

Fri

26

Jul

The Color Purple at RVC Starlight Theatre

8:00 PM @ RVC Starlight Theatre

$7.00 - $28.00

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Rockford Park District

Rockford Park District

Glow Golf

Fri

26

Jul

Glow Golf

9:00 PM @ Aldeen Golf Club

$20.00

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Rockford Buzz Logo

Rockford Buzz

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

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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!

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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Artists’ Ensemble Theater

Artists’ Ensemble Theater

The Please Be Seated Sale

The Please Be Seated Sale

Limited Time Offer : Wednesday, Jul 24 - Wednesday, Jul 31

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

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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!

Rock River Valley Blood Center

Rock River Valley Blood Center

Rock River Valley Blood Center

Today: Closed

Saving Lives since 1952. RRVBC serves as a centralized, community blood center to hospitals in Boone, McHenry, Ogle, Rock, Stephenson & Winnebago counties

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Magpie

Magpie

Magpie

Today: 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM

Breakfast served till 11:30 weekdays, all day long on weekends.Carry-out available on all menu items.Reservations accepted.Outdoor dining available.

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Crimson Ridge

Crimson Ridge

Crimson Ridge

Today: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Crimson Ridge is a lovely, retail shop, with things you would love to have. We have a full service floral dept, fine jewelry, and a multitude of items you can’t live with out. Did we mention we offer Free gift wrap.

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Open World Gaming

Open World Gaming

Open World Gaming

Today: Closed

Open World Gaming is a top tier lounge that offers gamers a safe haven to enjoy the latest and greatest games on the newest consoles, & PCs. GLHF!

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Full Business Directory

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.

Best Tattoo Parlor in the 815

Best Tattoo Parlor in the 815

In honor of National Tattoo Day on July 17th, we're celebrating the incredible tattoo artists in our community! 🎉🖤 Whether you have a collection of tattoos or are just a fan of the art, we want to know: which local tattoo parlor is your favorite.Vote for the best local tattoo parlor below!

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A Rockford Patio Classic at Olympic Tavern

A Rockford Patio Classic at Olympic Tavern

It's time for a Rockford patio classic, the Olympic Tavern! Located at 2327 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103, the Olympic Tavern has been a Rockford staple for 80 years. A large patio with covered and open areas to suit everyone's preferences means you can't go wrong with summer dining.We started with a couple of beverages, one being a fun peach special, No Crying in Baseball, is perfect for summer sipping. It has white sangria with riesling, peach nectar, Stoli Citros vodka, ginger ale, and lemon juice, and peach rings for garnish. With a massive beer and cocktail list, you can enjoy hours of summer sun with your refreshment of choice.Next up, an appetizer! Volcano Shrimp are flour-dusted shrimp tossed in creamy Thai chili sauce, over napa cabbage & jicama slaw. This generous portion of slightly sweet and spicy shrimp is a great shareable for 2 or a light meal for 1. The slaw is a light crunchy salad that compliments the shrimp nicely. The shrimp is tail off and ready to pop in your mouth.We ended with the Prime Rib Sandwich, an 8oz prime rib grilled with provolone, horseradish cream, and onions on a toasted Turano hoagie roll with fries. This beast of a sandwich won't leave you hungry! It requires two hands to support this delicious sandwich, prepared to medium temp and towering with onions and fries on the side. Served with a steak knife to cut as needed, you can easily share this or keep the glory all to yourself. The prime rib was prepared perfectly because this was still a sandwich you could sink your teeth into and eat comfortably.Get out this summer and enjoy a classic patio experience. You can bring your (well behaved) pups on Monday to make it a family affair! See you there, Rockford!

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Summer Dining at Franchesco's Ristorante

Summer Dining at Franchesco's Ristorante

Sometimes you want a fancy feel with your summer patio dining. Franchesco's Ristorante, located at 7128 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford, IL 61107, is serving up summer patio dining with some serious style.  The manicure patio has beautiful landscaping and a fountain to bring your date night that romantic flair, while still enjoying the summer breeze. Part of the patio is covered to offer protection from the sun, or a surprise summer rainfall. Enjoy white table clothe dining under the roof, or a more traditional patio set up in the open air.Do not, I repeat, do not skip the bread basket. You're welcome.  We started with Linguine Charlie: 6 Garlic encrusted Shrimp, tossed with Olive Oil, Garlic, Red Pepper, and Romano Cheese. This seemingly simple dish is loaded with stunning flavor and perfectly prepped shrimp. The garlic shines as the star of this plate and pairs perfectly with the red pepper and olive oil sauce. With perfect al dente linguine, this is a fast favorite.Next up, the classic Chicken Parmesan: Jumbo Chicken Breast pan fried, with Mozzarella and Pomodoro. Served with Penne. Jumbo is no understatement, this chicken breast is a protein motherload that is pan fried to perfection, layered with mozzarella, and dripping in red Pomodoro sauce. This classic is a crowd pleaser that comes to the table in delicious perfection every time. The chicken is juicy, the sauce is generous, and the penne adds that carb balance. This dish transports you to Grandma's kitchen and warms your soul.No matter what you order at Frachesco's, you cannot go wrong. The menu is full of stunning flavors and for the rest of the season you can enjoy them and summer at the same time! See you on the patio, Rockford!

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Easy Tiger is Now a Brick & Mortar!

Easy Tiger is Now a Brick & Mortar!

Tour de Patio trucks along as we explored food truck turned brick and mortar Easy Tiger! With garage doors opening up to a spacious patio, pull up a chair, order a delicious meal, and soak up the sun.Easy Tiger opened up with a fun drink menu with plenty of spicy and fruity flavors to give you that tropical island feel. The fresh garnish and spicy rims take these drinks to a new level.After you order a beverage, make sure to explore the food menu! We tried the Pork Nachos and...wow. These piled high nachos have all your favorite toppings and sweet and savory pulled pork. This is a table shareable, or a meal for our nacho fanatics out there. The veggies were fresh, and the pork was tender and delicious. You can add this pork to plenty of options on the menu, and we recommend doing just that. The flavor is one you can't get enough of!Easy Tiger also boasts an Asian flair, so we had to tried the classic fried rice. We opted for shrimp this time, which was cooked to perfection and generously portioned. The fried rice itself is out of this world! The salty sweet medley is different than your average take out and will have you clamoring for the next bite! This is a classic dish with Easy Tiger's signature twist.Add Easy Tiger to your Tour de Patio, and we'll see you there Rockford!

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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!

A Historic Nickname!

Rockford, Illinois got its nickname "Reaper City" back in the 19th century. In short, the story goes a little something like this: John H. Manny put Rockford on the map and kick-started our industrial revolution with his invention, the Manny Reaper. 🚜 This led to a major legal battle over patent rights, and guess who showed up in Rockford to work the case? None other than Abraham Lincoln! 🤩 This was possibly the only time Honest Abe ever visited our city. This case is also how he met his future Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton.Fun fact: Stanton wasn't very nice to Lincoln at first, but Lincoln was never one to hold a grudge. 😉So, let’s celebrate our rich history and the innovations that shaped our community—and maybe even helped win the Civil War! 🌟 You can see the Manny Reaper featured in this video at Midway Village Museum and learn more of the story from their incredible staff!

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Love Your Mental 2024

Come on out to this year’s Love Your Mental Event, organized by Lesly Chittavong! 🌟 This fantastic event will showcase both traditional and nontraditional mental health resources, supporting the Tommy Corral Memorial Foundation (TCMF) with 100% of the entry fees. Plus, the first 75 guests will get a free tote bag! 🎉Love Your Mental is a wonderful opportunity to explore the various mental health resources available in Rockford. From traditional to alternative therapies for all ages, you'll also find local artists and businesses that support mental health awareness. Expect local non-profits, dog therapy, retail therapy, art therapy, massage therapy, live music, food trucks, and much more. They’ve raised over $3,000 for mental health awareness at past events, and this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better, creating an inclusive, family-friendly atmosphere with free mental health resources and interactive vendors.Love Your Mental is this Sunday, July 28th, from 11 am to 5 pm at the IBEW 364 Henry Miller Hall on Mill Rd! I hope to see you all there! 💚

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Inferno Clay Studio Needs Your Help

🔥🎨 Inferno Clay Studio is putting the fun in fundraising! Join Alyssa and Emily at RealBeautifulYOU, LLC for a night of fun! 🎉 This in-person event is your chance to support their journey as they build Inferno, a space where Ceramic artists can gather, create, and even display their pieces. 🏺✨ They'll be sharing more updates, selling highly discounted pottery from our founders, hosting a silent auction, and running a 50/50 raffle! 🎟️🤑You can purchase tickets to the fundraiser at www.eventbrite.com/e/inferno-clay-studio-fundraising-extravaganza-tickets-896551929957 🎫

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Free Water Ski Show!

🎉🌊 Hey Rockford! 🌊🎉Come on down and watch your very own Loves Park Ski Broncs for an amazing, free, unforgettable experience! The Ski Broncs put on spectacular shows every Wednesday and Friday night at 7 pm at Shorewood Park from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. 🎪 This year's theme is circus, and every night brings something new with this ever-changing show. 🤡🎭This dedicated team, made up of people of all ages, loves bringing the community together with Learn-to-Ski and Adaptive Ski events, as well as local clean-ups. 🏆 They also host regional and national tournaments!Their show is an experience you won’t want to miss. I’ll see you there at Shorewood Park! 🌟👀

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