What: GoRockford is pleased to announce the 13th annual Rockford Tree Harvest Day on Tuesday, November 18, beginning at 7 a.m. Media partners are invited to capture photos and video of the tree harvest, thanks to local community partners.
The tree is approximately 40 feet tall and will be transported and installed at its holiday home at Main & Elm Streets in downtown Rockford in preparation for the 13th Annual Stroll on State holiday festival on November 29, 2025.
When: Tuesday, November 18, 2024
7 a.m. – Crews from Tree Care Enterprises Inc., Howe Freightways, Inc., Creative Crane and Stenstrom crews will be on-site to harvest and transport the tree
7:50 a.m. – Police escort will lead the tree transport crew to downtown Rockford
9:00 a.m. – Trimming and installation of the tree in downtown Rockford
All times are approximate and are subject to change. Follow GoRockford social media channels for live updates.
Where: Harvest: 545 Sandra Lane, Rockford, IL 61107; Installation: Main & Elm Street, Downtown Rockford
Why: “The lighting of the city of Rockford tree is the heart of Stroll on State and a gathering place for residents and visitors throughout the season” said Kristen Paul, GoRockford Executive Vice President. “If you love seeing behind the scenes, watching the tree be installed is the perfect opportunity to see how the magic comes together.”
Tree selection continues to prioritize trees that require removal due to size, health, safety, or obstruction issues. The official tree lighting will take place during Stroll on State on Saturday, November 29 at 6:15 p.m. and remain lit throughout the holiday season until January.
Other: GoRockford is grateful to local partners Tree Care Enterprises Inc., Howe Freightways, Inc., Creative Crane, Stenstrom, and the Rockford Police Department, who donate time, services, and equipment to bring the community tree to life. The City of Rockford’s Christmas Tree is proudly sponsored by the Northwestern Illinois Building Trades Unions.
Additional Media Opportunities
Downtown Decoration Days-Friday, November 21 & Saturday, November 22, 2025
Crews and volunteers will be downtown decorating, installing displays, and preparing key zones for Stroll on State.
Media is welcome throughout both days to capture volunteers in action, décor installation, and behind-the-scenes
preparation that brings downtown Rockford to life.
Final Santa’s Workshop of 2025-Tuesday, November 25, 2025 — 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Volunteers will complete the finishing touches on décor and stage items for event day delivery during the final Santa’s Workshop, located at 310 Winnebago St in Rockford. Media may film, photograph, and interview volunteers during this final night of holiday build-out.
Interested volunteers can sign up for shifts for downtown Decoration Days, Santa’s Workshops, and shifts during
Stroll on State: www.gorockford.com/stroll-on-state/volunteering.
Stroll on State is made possible by over 50 local companies donating their finances, time and talents along with countless volunteers spending the months leading up to the event building and repairing decorations. More details about Stroll on State, can be found at www.strollonstate.com.
