Located just a few hours from several major cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Madison is Rockford, Illinois. It is the perfect holiday destination. A weekend in the cheer-filled city will leave you feeling jolly. Fill the weekend with great food, unforgettable events, holiday shopping, and unique attractions. Here's what you can do to have weekend that is festive and fun!

EVENTS

Rockford surely knows how to celebrate the holiday season! There are so many events in the months of November-January that bring all the holiday joy. Here are some events that you can’t miss when you visit the forest city.

Stroll on State

The best holiday festival in the Midwest will be on November 29, 2025. Picture thousands of people walking down a festively decorated downtown. Everywhere you look there is food, activities, and entertainment. Highlights of Stroll on State include a lively parade, official tree lighting, live music, and a drone show! The event is a celebration of small businesses as it occurs on small business Saturday. This is the best time to experience Rockford!

stroll tree

All Aglow

Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens is a one-of-a-kind attraction year-round. During the holiday season, the paths of the gardens are lined with over 300,000 festive holiday lights. The gardens light up into the night hours creating an indescribable winter experience. All Aglow runs November 29, 2025 - January 11, 2026.

All Aglow at Nicholas Conservatory

Illuminated

Rockford’s award winning and world-renowned attraction also becomes a holiday destination. Visit Anderson Japanese Gardens December 4,, 2025- January 4, 2025 for Illuminated. Walk through the picturesque Japanese gardens as they are lit up by beautiful lights that create a winter wonderland. Food and drinks are also available for guests.

Illuminated Lights at Anderson Japanese Gardens

Festival of Lights

Sinnissippi Park is home to another one of Rockford’s beloved holiday traditions. Enter the park through a tunnel of lights that leads you on a journey through tons of light displays. You can drive through this event at no charge. Festival of Lights starts November 28, 2025 and will run most days through New Years Eve. Hours and dates vary. Find more information here.

festival of lights

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

The Rockford Region is full of local businesses that are celebrating the holidays. For many, tree farms are a classic tradition. Stop by Williams Tree Farm or Valley View Tree Farm. Pick out your own Christmas tree and pick up a gift at their shops. Ambrose Christmas Store makes it easy to deck the halls of your own home! The store is an unbelievable collection of beautiful décor. For more home décor and gifts, check out Urban Farmgirl and Loom. If you want to bring home a piece of Rockford, Rockford Art Deli has a wide selection of themed gifts.

More shopping here.

EAT & DRINK

Food

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a hearty meal, we have the perfect food spot for you. Start your day off with a tasty brunch! The Norwegian is a Nordic restaurant that offers unique cuisine and brunch that will leave you satisfied. In Downtown Rockford, you can find 27 Aluna. Their menu is filled with several traditional Filipino Dishes and so many tasty flavors. Brunch is available Sundays 9:00 am- 2:00 pm.

The Norwegian

When it’s time for lunch or dinner, you have endless excellent choices. The holiday season may call for an elevated dining experience. For delicious food and a peaceful ambiance, check out Abreo. As another option, Prairie Street Brewing Co. has a menu that ranges from pub-style food to fresh dishes and bowls. If you’re looking for a creative menu with unique dishes, you will love Lucha Cantina. It offers Latin/Mexican dishes with a twist!

prairie street burger

 

Drinks

Are you looking for food and drinks that will get you in the holiday spirit? Look no further! Rockford has a wide variety of options at many great restaurants, bars, pubs, etc. When planning a holiday weekend, add a winery to your bucket list. Take in the beautiful grounds while enjoying a glass of wine at Hidden Creek Estates or DC Estate Winery.

Imagine enjoying a cocktail or beer surrounded by holiday lights and décor. If this sounds like a way you’d like to spend a holiday weekend, you should check out the bar and pub scene in Rockford. Carlyle Brewing Co. is located in Downtown Rockford and pairs its delicious brews with an unforgettable experience. Rural on Tap and 8th Ward Pub are additional spots that will have you saying “cheers!” to Rockford!

Coffee

A perfect holiday day is completed with a coffee or tea. Creative menus, fun drinks, high quality creations, and flavorful treats are just some of the things the local shops offer. Inzombia Coffee, Wired Cafe, Rockford Roasting Co., and Katie’s Cup are all options in Downtown Rockford. Meg’s Daily Grind is also a staple to many coffee lovers! Check out all of their menus to see the festive flavors to try.

Rockford Roasting Cappuccino

WHERE TO STAY

You will want to spend more than one day exploring all the things Rockford has to offer during the holiday season. In the area, there are several lodging accommodations for a convenient stay. To stay in Downtown Rockford, book at The Embassy Suites Hotel. With a restaurant, rooftop bar, and coffee shop on site, you will have everything you need for your ultimate holiday weekend. You can take in the view of all the holiday festivities from the 12th floor while enjoying a drink from The Top Rooftop Bar & Lounge. Book your stay here.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront

There’s no better place to make your holidays merry and bright than Rockford, Illinois! From sparkling light displays and festive parades to cozy coffee shops and unforgettable meals, this city truly knows how to bring the cheer. Whether you’re strolling through twinkling gardens, shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, or toasting to the season at a local brewery, Rockford will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a holiday movie.