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!

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!

Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

Fri

12

Dec

Sinnissippi Station Model Garden Railway Exhibit

12:00 AM @ Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

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Sinnissippi Station Model Garden Railway Exhibit

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The Norwegian

Fri

12

Dec

Snømarket

3:00 PM @ The Norwegian

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Snømarket

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The Pottery Lounge

Fri

12

Dec

Paint with Santa!

6:00 PM @ The Pottery Lounge

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Paint with Santa!

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Coronado Theatre

Fri

12

Dec

Lady A: This Winter's Night Tour 2025

7:30 PM @ Coronado Theatre

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Lady A: This Winter's Night Tour 2025

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Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Fri

12

Dec

DJ Visio

9:00 PM @ Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

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DJ Visio

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Anderson Japanese Gardens

ON

GO

ING

ILLUMINATED

12:00 AM @ Anderson Japanese Gardens

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ILLUMINATED

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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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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

Captain's Reserve Now Available

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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Captain's Reserve Now Available

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Inzombia Coffee

Birthday Club

Always Available

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

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Birthday Club

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Bourbon Street Lounge

Night Shift Diff

Always Available

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

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Night Shift Diff

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Baked Wings

Munchie Hour 4:20pm-6:00pm

Always Available

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

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Munchie Hour 4:20pm-6:00pm

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Murphy’s Pub

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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Murphy's Happy Hour : 3 - 6 PM

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Reel Nutrition

Bring a Friend Friday

Every Friday

Hours Today: 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM

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Bring a Friend Friday

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Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

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

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Happy Hour

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The Canna Cafe & Bar

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

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Happy Hour

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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!

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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

Take the Same Supplements Your Doctor Uses

Always Available

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

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Take the Same Supplements Your Doctor Uses

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MembersAlliance Credit Union

Save to Win Account

Always Available

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

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Save to Win Account

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Varo Fence Co.

Free Estimates

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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Free Estimates

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John Berlin Agency

GET A FREE QUOTE

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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GET A FREE QUOTE

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Moving Guys

Power Washing free estimate

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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Power Washing free estimate

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Inzombia Coffee

Zombie Discount

Always Available

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

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Zombie Discount

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SPoRT Makeup, Apparel, & Collectibles

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

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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

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Rockford IceHogs

Hamboni Rides

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

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Hamboni Rides

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First Class General Contracting

Free Home Inspection

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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Free Home Inspection

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Rockford Buzz

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!

Let Us Know

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!

Viking Lanes

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Today: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

We have served the Beloit, Rocton & Roscoe communities for the past 50 years. Our 24 lane center offers bumper bowling for kids, league and open play, parties for all occasions. Not your typical bowling alley!

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Viking Lanes

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Carrie's Pooch paradise

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Today: Closed

A caring, trusting and loving place to bring your pet to get groomed and pampered!!!!

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Carrie's Pooch paradise

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Mainfraim

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Today: Closed

MainfraiM specializes in made-to-order pieces large and small. To provide the perfect habitat for a special document, photograph or other item, contact us for a consultation.

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Mainfraim

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Dusty Boots Saloon & Eatery

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Today: 8:00 AM - 2:00 AM

We at Dusty Boots Saloon & Eatery hope to deliver a great country experience with our food, drink, and live country music every Saturday night.

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Dusty Boots Saloon & Eatery

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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.

In 2025 I'm looking forward too...

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! 💖

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In 2025 I'm looking forward too...

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❄️ Rockford Roads Are At It Again, But At Least We Are In This Together

If you have been out driving in Rockford this week, you already know. The roads have entered their winter personality. A little snow. A little ice. A little surprise pothole waking up from hibernation. It is the annual moment when every one of us grips the steering wheel a little tighter and says a quiet prayer before turning onto East State.This is not our usual kind of article, but sometimes we all deserve a minute to laugh about the things that make life here a little extra. We are all juggling holiday plans, work, kids, relationships, and families. We are running from store to store, looking for lost boots, scraping windows, and trying to make dinner before someone reminds us that they forgot there was a school project due tomorrow. So if you are feeling a little overwhelmed by the winter roads, trust me, you are in good company. The truth is, Rockford roads in the winter bring us together in a strange way. You can be in completely different cars with completely different lives and still lock eyes through the windshield with the person beside you and share the same look that says, “These roads are something else today.” It is a bonding experience. A community handshake without the handshake.And yet, in the middle of the slipping and sliding, there is something kind of heartwarming. People slow down for each other. They let someone merge with a little wave. They stop to help push a stranger out of a snowbank. We may tease our streets, but we also show up for one another every single winter. That is the good part. That is the Rockford part. So here is your reminder that if the roads have been stressing you out, you are not alone. We are all right there with you, sliding around together, choosing to laugh instead of yell, and doing our best to make it through another Midwest winter. And you know what? We always do. With a little patience, a little humor, and a lot of community.Drive safely. Take your time. Be kind. And remember that even on the slipperiest winter day, Rockford is full of people doing their best to take care of each other.Remember, it is a good day to go local.

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❄️ Rockford Roads Are At It Again, But At Least We Are In This Together

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City Of Rockford New Business Advancement Program To Help With $25k Loans

Rockford Launches New Business Advancement ProgramRockford is rolling out something big for our local business community. The City is preparing to launch the Business Advancement Program, a new effort designed to help local businesses grow, strengthen their operations, and invest in their future. It focuses on supporting the people who drive our local economy every day.Mayor Tom McNamara shared that the goal is to help businesses expand and innovate. He explained that local owners play a major role in Rockford’s economic health and this program gives them a chance to scale up as they take the next step in their company’s growth.💼 What The Program OffersThis program provides five-year forgivable loans for qualifying for-profit businesses that operate out of a brick and mortar location in a commercial or industrial zone within the city. The intent is to support business advancement, job creation and long-term investment in Rockford.Loans can help cover many operational costs tied directly to business growth. Eligible expenses may include equipment upgrades, rent, salaries, marketing and other needs that support advancement. Applications will be reviewed on a competitive basis using a program scoring chart. Funding is offered as a 1 to 1 match up to $25,000. Even if a project costs more than $50,000, $25,000 is the maximum reward. Loans are fully forgiven after five years if the business stays open, remains compliant with zoning and licensing and maintains operations within Rockford.📝 Who QualifiesTo be eligible for the Business Advancement Program, businesses must meet the following requirements.They must be for profit. They must operate from a commercial or industrial brick-and-mortar location within the Rockford city limits. Eligible project costs must be tied directly to the advancement of the business. Funds cannot be used for capital improvements or the construction of any kind. Applicants must agree to the terms of the Development Agreement, which guides loan forgiveness.Examples of qualifying expenses include equipment upgrades, marketing, salaries, rent and other operational costs that move the business forward.📋 Program HighlightsFive-year forgivable loansFor-profit businesses in eligible brick-and-mortar commercial or industrial zonesNo funding for construction or capital improvementsLoan forgiveness requires full compliance with the Development AgreementAdministered by the City of Rockford Economic Development Department with support available to applicants📅 Important DatesApplications open December 1, 2025 and close December 31, 2025. An informational webinar takes place November 26, 2025. Office hours will also be available for owners who want help preparing their applications.Businesses can visit the City of Rockford website for full eligibility details and the complete application guide.Rockford continues to invest in the success of its business community and this program is another strong step toward long-term growth.Remember, it is a good day to go local.

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🎄 Shop Local Rockford: Your Ultimate Guide to Supporting Local This Christmas

The Christmas season is the perfect time to lift the small businesses that make Rockford feel like home. When you shop local, you keep money in our community, support real families, and help keep our community vibrant. And the best part is that Rockford has so many incredible places to shop, eat, explore, and enjoy during the holidays.Here is your ultimate Rockford shopping guide, broken down by category so you can support local in every way possible.🛍️ Shops and BoutiquesRockford is packed with unique spots filled with gifts, home goods, clothing, antiques, and items you will not find anywhere else.🎁 Gift Shops and Boutiques • Great Hang Ups • The ScrapJar • Urban Farmgirl📚 Books, Music, Records, and Creative Finds• Toad Hall Books and Records • Maze Books • Rockford Art Deli • The Norwegian Book Nook • Culture Shock Clothing and Records🪩 Vintage, Antiques, and Curated Collectibles• 29 Palms The Collector’s Oasis• Scavenged Parts Antiques + Oddities• Salvaged by Sonya• Quaint Shop at Edgebrook🍽️ Rockford Restaurants to Support This Holiday SeasonGift cards, date nights, holiday dinners, and warm meals always support local restaurants in a big way.🍝 Local Favorites• Franchesco’s Ristorante• Tavern on Clark• The District Bar and Grill• The GOAT Pub and Grill• The Norwegian• Plume🍔 Pubs, Grills, and Comfort Food• Pour House Restaurant and Bar• Ernie’s Midtown Pub• Beefaroo• Stockholm Inn🍩 Treats, Cafes, and Coffee• Meg’s Daily Grind • Katie’s Cup• Rockford Roasting Company• The Crust and Crumble Bakery🎨 Arts, Handmade Gifts, and Creative ExperiencesPerfect for gifting, making memories, or finding something one of a kind.• The Pottery Lounge• Klehm Arboretum Gift Shop• Rockford Art Museum Store• Anderson Japanese Gardens Gift Shop🧸 Kids, Toys, Family Gifts, and Fun ExperiencesGreat for gifting memories instead of more stuff.• Discovery Center Museum• Burpee Museum of Natural History• Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens• UW Health Sports Factory events• Rockford Park District programs💪 Services and Experience-Based GiftsExperiences are some of the best gifts you can give during the holidays.🏋️ Health, Wellness, and Fitness• Maximum Performance 🧖 Beauty and Self Care• Treat Yourself Aesthetic Studio• Bare Beauty Studio🛠️ Local Services• PC Tech 2U• Giddens Property Service• Law Office of Doyle and James• All Auto Parts• Bennie's Cleaners🎄 Why This Matters During the Christmas SeasonShopping local is not just about buying something. It is about choosing community over convenience. Every time you walk into a Rockford business instead of clicking add to cart, you help keep our city vibrant, creative, and full of life.This Christmas, choose local when you can. Grab a coffee from a local café before you shop. Buy a gift card for a friend. Explore a place you have never visited. Post your favorite local find and tag the business. Tell someone else to check it out. Every small action makes a huge difference.Rockford thrives when we show up for each other.Remember, it is a good day to go local.

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🎄 Shop Local Rockford: Your Ultimate Guide to Supporting Local This Christmas

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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!