Top Attractions
Drone Show
Can you picture hundreds of drones lighting up the skies in downtown Rockford? Drones will come together to form displays that uniquely represent the holidays in Rockford. Prepare to be dazzled by this show!
Fireworks
We’re kicking off the holiday season with a bang. Literally. Find a spot with a view of the Jefferson Street bridge, and you’ll see a bright and dynamic fireworks show!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
You’ll know it’s time for the Holidays in Rockford when you see the official tree standing tall. Don’t miss the opportunity to see it illuminated for the first time. The ceremony is a lively gathering with musical performances by talented artists.
Santa Visits
Did you know that the man in red himself comes to Stroll on State? You can chat with him and snap a photo. Santa wants to see everyone! New this year, sensory friendly Santa visits will also be available.
Parade
The Stroll on State parade gets bigger and better every year. Catch all the action including larger-than-life balloons, holiday characters, marching bands, performers, and endless friendly faces!
Food & Drink
Make S’mores
New this year, you can purchase a s’mores kit from one of the Festival Fuel stops. Take it over to the firepits and make your very own warm and gooey treat.
Adult beverages
Adults have a festive menu of alcoholic beverages to choose a drink from. Boozy Hot Chocolate, Beer, and Warm Wine will available for purchase.
Hot chocolate
Also offered at the Festival Fuel stops, warm up with a classic cup of hot chocolate. Who doesn’t love getting warm from a decadent and chocolatey treat?
Frosty’s Merry Market
Downtown Rockford will be filled with tons of food vendors. You can expect to find a wide variety of cuisines and a craving cure for everyone!
For the Kids
Horse & Wagon
Make your way over to the Iconic Tower (formerly Register Star), to hop on for a horse and wagon ride. This magical experience will help you see the Stroll on State in a new way!
Snow Much Fun
The parking lot of District Bar and Grill is the spot for family fun! The area will be brought to life by activities for all ages! Play some street hockey at the inflatable street hockey rink!
Letters to Santa
Don’t miss this one of a kind opportunity to become pen pals with Santa. Kids will be able to write and decorate letters that are sent directly to the North Pole!
Watch a Holiday Movie
With the cold temperatures of winter, you may need some time to warm up. The space inside Stewart Square is dedicated to movie lovers. You can get warm while enjoying “The Grinch”!
More Can't-Miss Activities
Live performances
Do you love live music? There’s a chance to enjoy dazzling performances at stroll on state! Spend some time at one of the stages to hear some festive beats.
Fire & Ice
This is a must-see spectacle. At State and 1st and State and Wyman, giant blocks of ice are illuminated with fire. Watch as the ice melts and creates an icy display of art.
Shopping at Frosty’s Merry Market
Stroll through the market to check out all the unique items for sale. Get some holiday shopping done to round out the Stroll on State experience. Stroll on State is also a celebration of Small Business Saturday which is reflected by all the vendors at the festival!
Take Photos
There are several picture-perfect moments throughout the Stroll on State footprint. Capture the magic of the holiday season at a selfie station! (Don’t forget to tag #strollonstate.)
Santa’s Offroad Outpost
Jeeps are bringing joy to this year’s festival. An impressive collection of Jeeps will be decorated for all to enjoy at the Jeeps Car Show!
Ice Skating
Channel your inner Icehog! You can lace up some skates at the BMO Center and spend some time on the Ice. This classic winter activity is sure to get you in the spirit.
Memorial Hall Festivities
On the main level, model trains will be displayed. If you would like to experience some performing arts, head upstairs. Rockford Dance Company will be enhancing the holiday spirit with great performances.
There will be action everywhere you turn at Stroll on State. Eat, drink, dance, play, and experience the true magic of the event. We don’t want you to miss out on anything! Check out the schedule of events to plan your day! RMTD will be running shuttles to make navigation as easy as possible
