Fall Events in Rockford

Fall Into Fun

The air is crisp and so are the apples: It's fall in Rockford! From apple orchards to community festivals, there is an endless supply of activities in our region.

Download a PDF of Fall Into Fun events here!

Jump to category:   Fall Colors  |  Local Orchards  |  Festivals & Events

Fall Colors

One of the best parts about living in the Midwest is the ability to experience all four seasons. This includes witnessing the splendor of the outdoors as the leaves change colors during the transition into fall. Winnebago County is home to plenty of forest preserves and parks, so there is no shortage of great places to view these colors!

Nygren Wetland Preserve - This 721-acre tract near the confluence of the Rock River and Pecatonica River is an important stopover and nesting spot for many species of birds, including the Sandhill Crane. The 2.5-mile grass footpath is open from dawn to dusk to hikers and cross-country skiers. 

Pecatonica Prairie Path & Bike Trail - An 18-mile long biking, hiking and nature trail extending from Illinois route 75 and River Road, east of Freeport, to the Village of Winnebago. The path is open to the public year-round for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing at no cost.

Rock Cut State Park - Beautiful Illinois state park with two lakes set off the park's 3,092 acres. There is fishing, boat launches, restored prairie and birdwatching, hiking, extensive campgrounds, paddleboat and canoe rental, horse and bike trails, cross-country ski trails and concessions.

Local Orchards

Three great orchards call Winnebago County home and delight families with a variety of activities throughout the season. There is something magical about handpicking your own bushel of apples or simply biting into a fresh apple cider donut.

Curran's Orchard - More than a dozen varieties of apples are available, either pre-picked or you can pick them yourself! You'll also find delectable apple pies, apple donuts, award-winning apple cider, pumpkins and more. Kids will have fun in the petting corral, corn tunnel, and looking at the glass-sided beehive.

Edwards Apple Orchard West - This orchard is located in the rolling hills of scenic Northwest Winnebago County and features apples, cider, pumpkins, raspberries, the dairy barn store and children's play areas.

Valley Orchard - This 35-acre family-owned orchard has approximately 5,000 apple trees. You can purchase or pick your own apples, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. The store offers 100% pure apple juice cider, donuts, apple pies, fall decorations, jams, salsa and much more.

Festivals & Events

There's no better way to celebrate fall than taking a hayride, building your own scarecrow, or drinking hot cider while doing some afternoon shopping. Pack your fall full of fun by attending these local events and festivals!
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