Stroll On State Events & Attractions
Scroll down to explore all the exciting events and attractions for Stroll on State, presented by UMB Bank, including the tree lighting, parade, ice skating, fire and ice displays, Santa visits, s’mores stations, and more. Be sure to check out the map and schedule sections below to plan your evening of holiday magic in downtown Rockford!
- Stroll on State Parade
- Tree Lighting Ceremony
- Drone Show
- Fireworks
- Santa
- Horse & Wagon Rides
- Letters to Santa
- Fire & Ice
- Ice Skating at BMO Center
- Snow Much Fun
- Live Performances
- Movie Land
- Food & Drink
- Festival Fuel
- S'mores Station
- Dasher Dash
- Holiday Décor
- Social Media
- Santa's Offroad Outpost
- Veteran's Memorial Hall
- RMTD Shuttles
Stroll on State Parade
Back to Top of ListStroll on State’s Holiday Parade, sponsored by The Power Connection – IBEW 364 & NECA steps off on S. Main Street at Chestnut Street at 2 p.m. and will move north to State Street then east across the State Street Bridge, ending at 3rd Street. Parade onlookers are encouraged to find a spot along the route starting at 1 p.m. Hard Rock Casino Rockford is rocking the parade as the official balloon sponsor, including a SURPRISE new balloon built custom for the Stroll parade!
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Back to Top of ListOne of the event’s most popular moments – the lighting of the city tree – will take place at 6 p.m. at the Main Stage at Main and Elm streets. This year’s City of Rockford tree is sponsored by the Northwestern Illinois Building Trades. The Main Stage will feature music and other entertainment throughout the day. Additional trees are located at Eddie Green Park (sponsored by Great Water 360 Autocare) and Main/Mulberry (sponsored by Rosecrance)
Drone Show
Back to Top of ListImmediately following the tree lighting, turn your attention back to the main stage for a drone show featuring a variety of Holiday and Rockford images. Special thanks to Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 23 for this fan-favorite attraction!
Fireworks
Back to Top of ListSky Lights Fireworks, presented by Pierce Distribution, will once again light up the skies of downtown Rockford. They will be launched from the Jefferson Street Bridge at 8:30 p.m. Viewers will be able to see the fireworks from anywhere in the festival if they can see the Jefferson Street Bridge.
Santa
Back to Top of ListSanta is bringing a piece of his North Pole home to Stroll on State with the perfect photo op with the man himself! This kid-approved attraction is brought to you by Midland States Bank.
Horse & Wagon Rides
Back to Top of ListLine up for a horse and wagon ride outside of Iconic Tower (formerly RRStar) at State and Water for a magical ride across the State St. Bridge. Special thanks to Amazon for making this magical experience possible.
Letters to Santa
Back to Top of ListDuring Stroll, your favorite group of elves will be back at Rockford City Hall to collect letters and give them to Santa! Sponsored by FurstStaffing, kids can write a letter to Santa, decorate the paper and mail it on-site to the North Pole.
Fire & Ice
Back to Top of ListThis is a must-see event, sponsored by OSF Medical Center is located on State (between Madison and 1st) and a 2nd location at State and Wyman. Warm up with the Fire Pits, sponsored by Fehr Graham and watch as blocks of ice dissolve into beautiful bonfires, creating an enchanting display. Towers are lit at 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30!
Ice Skating at BMO Center
Back to Top of ListTake a break from strolling the grounds and lace up some ice skates at the BMO Center put on by the Rockford Park District.
Snow Much Fun
Back to Top of ListRun, jump and play with the Rockford Park District in the lot outside of The District Bar and Grill. Packed full of family-friendly activities and games for all ages. Additionally, there will be blow-up street hockey provided by the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation and Rockford IceHogs Community Fund.
Live Performances
Back to Top of ListMovie Land
Back to Top of ListFood & Drink
Back to Top of ListFestival Fuel
Back to Top of ListS'mores Station
Back to Top of ListNew this year! There are four S'mores stations to purchase and MAKE YOUR OWN toasted treat! You can purchase a kit at the Festival Fuel stops or at the firepits to make your own, or get assistance from one of the great volunteers.
Dasher Dash
Back to Top of ListThe most festive 5k of the year! More Information Link Get your custom Dasher Dash Medal (Sponsored by Field Fastner) along with a long-sleeved shirt, finisher drink and more! Race sponsored by Field Fastener, Fleet Feet, Members Alliance Credit Union, Data Point, Entre Computer Systems and Rock River Multisport
