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

Thu

18

Dec

Sinnissippi Station Model Garden Railway Exhibit

12:00 AM @ Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens

Share

Info

Share this post

Sinnissippi Station Model Garden Railway Exhibit

Copy Link

Coronado Theatre

Thu

18

Dec

Dean Z The Ultimate Elvis Christmas

7:30 PM @ Coronado Performing Arts Center

Share

Info

Share this post

Dean Z The Ultimate Elvis Christmas

Copy Link

Anderson Japanese Gardens

ON

GO

ING

ILLUMINATED

12:00 AM @ Anderson Japanese Gardens

Share

Info

Share this post

ILLUMINATED

Copy Link

Rockford Buzz

Send Us Your Event

If you know of an upcoming event, 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 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

Share

Info

Share this post

Captain's Reserve Now Available

Copy Link

Inzombia Coffee

Birthday Club

Always Available

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Birthday Club

Copy Link

Bourbon Street Lounge

Night Shift Diff

Always Available

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Night Shift Diff

Copy Link

Baked Wings

Munchie Hour 4:20pm-6:00pm

Always Available

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Munchie Hour 4:20pm-6:00pm

Copy Link

Murphy’s Pub

Murphy's Happy Hour : 3 - 6 PM

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Murphy's Happy Hour : 3 - 6 PM

Copy Link

The Pomodoro

$5 Martinis at The Pomodoro

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

$5 Martinis at The Pomodoro

Copy Link

5BAR

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Happy Hour

Copy Link

Murphy’s Pub

Karaoke

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Karaoke

Copy Link

Reel Nutrition

Toys for Tots Thursdays

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Toys for Tots Thursdays

Copy Link

Screw City Tavern

Superhero Thursdays

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Superhero Thursdays

Copy Link

Franchesco’s Ristorante

Thursday Craft Cocktail Deal

Every Thursday

Hours Today: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Share

Info

Share this post

Thursday Craft Cocktail Deal

Copy Link

Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Signature Bourbon Cocktails

Every Monday Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Signature Bourbon Cocktails

Copy Link

Fozzy’s Bar & Grill

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Happy Hour

Copy Link

Screw City Tavern

Steak Night Deal

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Steak Night Deal

Copy Link

The Canna Cafe & Bar

Happy Hour

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Happy Hour

Copy Link

Baked Wings

#GETSMASHED THURSDAYS

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

#GETSMASHED THURSDAYS

Copy Link

Rockford Buzz

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!

Let Us Know

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Take the Same Supplements Your Doctor Uses

Copy Link

MembersAlliance Credit Union

Save to Win Account

Always Available

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Save to Win Account

Copy Link

Varo Fence Co.

Free Estimates

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

Share

Info

Share this post

Free Estimates

Copy Link

John Berlin Agency

GET A FREE QUOTE

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

Share

Info

Share this post

GET A FREE QUOTE

Copy Link

Moving Guys

Power Washing free estimate

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

Share

Info

Share this post

Power Washing free estimate

Copy Link

Inzombia Coffee

Zombie Discount

Always Available

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Zombie Discount

Copy Link

SPoRT Makeup, Apparel, & Collectibles

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

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

Share

Info

Share this post

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

Copy Link

Rockford IceHogs

Hamboni Rides

Always Available

Hours Today: Closed

Share

Info

Share this post

Hamboni Rides

Copy Link

Murphy’s Pub

Karaoke

Every Thursday

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

Share

Info

Share this post

Karaoke

Copy Link

First Class General Contracting

Free Home Inspection

Every Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Hours Today: 24 Hours

Share

Info

Share this post

Free Home Inspection

Copy Link

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!

Mainfraim

Call

Map

Web

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.

Share

Info

Share this post

Mainfraim

Copy Link

Savvy Event Co

Call

Map

Web

Today: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

The 815’s first & only Luxury Picnic Service Serving Rockford IL and surrounding areas

Share

Info

Share this post

Savvy Event Co

Copy Link

Stems Floral & More

Call

Map

Web

Today: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Stems Floral and The Landscape Connection is Rockford Newest Floral Shop and Florist, We offer all types and sorts of flowers and floral arrangements for delivery and pickup in Rockford and all surrounding cities. Order flowers online with Same Day Delivery from Stems Floral & More. Fresh flowers and hand delivered right to your door.

Share

Info

Share this post

Stems Floral & More

Copy Link

Changes Salon

Call

Map

Web

Today: 12:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Our salon has something for everyone. Dedicated artists are here to help you find the right look and the best tools to complete it. Looking for your favorite product? We carry Goldwell, Aquage, Biolage, Rusk, Keratin Complex, and Chi!

Share

Info

Share this post

Changes Salon

Copy Link

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! 💖

Share

Results

Share this post

In 2025 I'm looking forward too...

Copy Link

This Christmas in the 815 lets talk about The Do’s, the Don’ts, and Affordable Ways to Support Small Businesses!

The Christmas season in Rockford hits different. The lights go up at Sinnissippi, Stroll on State fills downtown, and the whole city feels ready to slow down, warm up, and make memories with the people we care about. But this time of year is also one of the most important for the small businesses that make the 815 feel like home.Shopping local during the holidays is not just about gifts. It is about community. It is about keeping our dollars here, helping our neighbors, and making sure the places we love are still here next Christmas. And the best part is that you don't have to spend a lot to make a real impact.Here are the dos, the don’ts, and simple ways to support local this Christmas without breaking the bank.✔️ The Do’s of Shopping Local for the Holidays🎁 Do choose local first when gift shoppingRockford is home to a diverse range of unique shops, makers, and small businesses offering items that cannot be found online. Vintage treasures, handmade goods, specialty foods, local art, candles, clothing, toys, and so much more.🌟 Do give meaningful giftsA gift card to someone’s favorite local spot, tickets to a local event, or a handmade holiday gift from a local maker means more than a big box purchase ever will.👍 Do show love on social mediaLike their holiday posts, comment something supportive, share their sales or open hours. Small actions help more people see them.💬 Do leave reviewsHoliday shoppers read reviews more than ever. Your kind words can boost their visibility and build trust.🎄 Do bring friends and family with youMake it a tradition. Hot chocolates, Christmas lights, and shopping local together is a memory on its own.❌ The Don’ts of Holiday Shopping Local🚫 Do not expect small shops to move like big chainsThis season is their busiest time and they are juggling staff, inventory, and long hours. A little patience goes a long way.🚫 Do not compare prices to online giantsYou are supporting people, not corporations. Your dollars stay in Rockford and help real families thrive.🚫 Do not skip over local for convenienceA quick online order might save you five minutes, but a local purchase makes a real difference in your community.🚫 Do not wait until the last minuteHoliday stress hits small businesses harder. Shop early when you can.💸 Ways to Support Local Without Spending Much📣 1. Share their holiday postsIt costs nothing and helps a lot.❤️ 2. Tell your friends about themWord of mouth is a Christmas gift small businesses love.👀 3. Visit their holiday open houses and eventsEven if you browse, showing up supports momentum and visibility.🎁 4. Buy small itemsA cookie, a coffee, a small stocking stuffer, a holiday card. It all adds up.☕ 5. Grab a warm drink from a local café on your way to see the lightsMeg’s Daily Grind, Mary’s Market, Rockford Roasting Company, and more. Small purchases help keep them thriving through winter.🎄 6. Attend holiday pop-ups and marketsRockford is loaded with them this time of year, and they are perfect for affordable, thoughtful gifts.📸 7. Post photos of your gifts and tag the businessThis is huge. Free advertising with real people behind it.🎅 Why It Matters During ChristmasThe holidays can make or break a small business. For many, this season is what carries them into the new year. When you choose local, you help keep favorite shops open, support local families, and keep Rockford vibrant and full of life.Shopping local does not mean spending more. It means spending with purpose. It means choosing connection over convenience and community over corporations.So this Christmas, before clicking add to cart, ask yourself one question.Is there a local business that can give me this instead?Most of the time, the answer is yes.Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Share

Info

Share this post

This Christmas in the 815 lets talk about The Do’s, the Don’ts, and Affordable Ways to Support Small Businesses!

Copy Link

❄️ 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.

Share

Info

Share this post

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

Copy Link

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.

Share

Info

Share this post

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

Copy Link

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!