First Fridays

The Element is a unique network of committed individuals who are working to help power the growth of Rockford’s downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods —the goal is to generate an up-to-date urban lifestyle at our residents’ doorsteps and to increase public awareness this lifestyle is available to them . Preferred by young professionals and artists of all ages, the urban lifestyle includes a large dose of culture, music, entertainment, visual arts, recreation, and opportunities for learning. This lifestyle and its building blocks are crucial in recruiting and retaining talent in today’s competitive world marketplace. Study after study commissioned by Rockford’s leadership has told Rockford that we must build this type of environment in order to be successful at recruiting & retaining the employers and employees of today and tomorrows economy. The Element feels strongly that a vibrant urban lifestyle and Downtown is a critical component of all successful cities. A diverse urban lifestyle should be a central piece in Rockford’s movement to be a world-class place to live, work, play and learn. The Element is committed to continuing, creating, and supporting the elements of this urban lifestyle; now, more than ever, we are committed to promoting and marketing all the events & developments in Downtown Rockford. Some of The Element current efforts are: First Fridays The Element Film Series The Element Singer /Song Writers Series Downtown Implementation Planning Marketing special events with Downtown establishments