Stroll on State

01/22/2026

It's the best time of year to try Rockford's food scene!
Taste flavors from around the world from Jan. 29 - Feb. 8 during Rockford Restaurant Week. You can find special limited-time menus and bundled meal deals at participating restaurants. Full details at https://www.gorockford.com/restaurant-week/

01/05/2026

We cannot believe the holidays are already over! Help us give the season a proper sendoff by volunteering for Back in 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘅 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗝𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟭𝟬, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲. We’ll be taking down and storing holiday decorations throughout downtown, and we’d love an extra set of hands to make it happen. It’s a feel-good way to close out the season and support the heart of Rockford.

⏰ Volunteer Shifts
• 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
• 1 – 5 p.m.

📍 Meet at
Santa’s Workshop
310 Winnebago St.
👉Sign up here:https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/27251580057 #/invitation

12/23/2025

A special thanks to Salt.Rockford for sponsoring Stroll on State photo spots this year. You can find one of the photo spots inside Stewart Square until January 11th.

Read the holiday dining guide here to elevate your dining experience this holiday season, whether it be a night out with friends or NYE plans:
https://www.gorockford.com/blog/stories/post/an-elevated-holiday-dining-experience-in-rockford/

12/21/2025

We’re proud to see the magic of Rockford featured on NBC Nightly News.

This heartwarming story, shared with millions across the country, began with Stroll on State and the simple act of answering children’s letters to Santa became something much bigger: a reminder of what community, generosity, and joy truly look like.

Moments like this are why we do what we do, creating experiences that feel special locally and resonate nationally.

Way to go, Rockford and Mrs. Claus.

Every December, Mrs. Claus travels from the North Pole down to the city of Rockford, Illinois, to help Santa Claus collect children’s Christmas wishes and hand-write responses to each of them. NBC News’ Peter Alexander has the story.

12/19/2025

From moments of wonder beneath our city’s Christmas tree to the magic of Stroll on State and heartfelt Letters to Santa, Rockford is truly showing up this season with joy, generosity, and connection.

We were honored to welcome a very special visitor — Mrs. Claus herself — as she spread holiday cheer across the community.

Tune in this Saturday at 5:30 p.m. to NBC Nightly News to catch a glimpse of how Rockford does the holidays with heart. We hope you’ll see Mrs. Claus sharing how she and Rockford are helping make this season bright. ✨🎁

12/04/2025

𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗿𝘀

Stroll on State wouldn’t be possible without the incredible businesses and organizations that help us bring the magic to life each year.

This year, over 75 partners contributed resources, time, and volunteers, a true community effort. We are deeply grateful for your partnership!

Thank you for helping make the season bright!

12/03/2025

11/30/2025

Happy holidays everyone!

11/29/2025

Stroll on State presented by UMB Bank Parade highlights! Thank you Rock River Current! Parade sponsor is IBEW and balloons are sponsored by Hard Rock Casino Rockford.

11/29/2025

Dasher Dash is about to begin! These runners are ready for a fun run Midwestern style!❄️