Holiday season in Rockford can only mean one thing: It’s time for Stroll on State! It is a holiday festival that lasts all day. The day starts off with Dasher Dash, a festive 5k, followed by a parade, and an evening full of fun activities! Those who attend can expect delicious food and drinks, great entertainment, and unforgettable activities. This year, the 12th annual celebration will be held on November 30th, and it is gearing up to be the best year yet. Whether you’ve been before or not, here are some of the things you don’t want to miss!
New Attractions
New attractions this year will delight first time visitors and Stroll on State veterans alike.
Drone Show
Be sure to look up to catch this spectacle in the sky. Once the sun goes down and the tree is lit, several unique Rockford and holiday themed symbols will be displayed by hundreds of drones in the night sky. This is such an exciting new addition to the holiday extravaganza!
Santa Visits
For the first time since 2019, Santa visits are back! He can be found at two locations at this year’s Stroll on State. (2nd St. and E. State St.) Say hello, tell him about your Christmas list, or pose for a photo op!
More Active Stages
This year, Stroll on State will be filled with more music than ever. There is an impressive line-up of bands who are ready to fill the streets of Rockford with holiday cheer. Several talented artists will be performing on two different stages between 3-9pm. There is nothing like music to bring people together for the holidays!
Living Window and Street performances
You can catch dancers from Rockford Dance Company putting on an amazing show in the windows at 324 East State St. and along the street. We know this will be a great addition to the holiday festivities!
All the new attractions are so exciting, but don’t forget about the classics that have become a staple for those who attend the celebration.
Tree Lighting
Lighting up Rockford Christmas Tree is something that you don’t want to miss. Gather around for the magical moment at 6:00 pm on the corner of Main and Elm. Join the countdown and help us officially kick off the holiday season. The ceremony leading up to the main event and the events that follow are a full production that create memories that will last a lifetime!
Fireworks
The firework show is a memorable way to cap off the holiday festivities of Stroll on State. As always, the show will light up the sky at 8:30 pm sharp. Look toward the Jefferson Street bridge to catch the display!
Parade
At 2 pm, Stroll on State’s biggest parade ever will kick off! Find a spot along the parade route to catch all the cool things in the parade including several giant inflatable balloons! The Stroll on State parade for 2024 is looking to be the biggest one yet. You also don't want to miss out on the unveiling of a brand new Rockford themed holiday balloon!
Hot Chocolate & Adult Beverages
The delicious beverage options are sure to help you stay warm. Visit the Hot Chocolate express for some cocoa, or one of the several bars for an adult beverage including warm wine.
More information about The Hot Chocolate Express.
More information about adult beverages.
Vendors
Shop 'til you drop and enjoy some delicious food! With over 70, there will be more vendors than ever this year! From retail tents to food trucks, there will be so much to see, do, and shop.
You won't regret coming to downtown Rockford for the 12th annual Stroll on State. There is something for everyone to do and see. There is no better way to kick off the holiday season than to spend the day surrounded by endless festive activities, so put on your Santa hat and get in the holiday spirit! You can find a map of the 2024 Stroll on State attractions here.
