Good morning, Rockford.

Rockford City Market will feature themed Friday events during its 2026 season, starting May 15 with vendor spots at $100 and musical acts — vendors and performers can apply online after February as the market adjusts indoor hours from 2 to 6 p.m. and outdoor from 4 to 8:30 p.m.

Platt Hill Nursery is set to open a new location at 6101 E.

Riverside Blvd. in spring 2026, and a job fair is scheduled on Jan. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon to recruit retail and greenhouse workers.

Illinois students in 2025 voted for their favorite books, awarding K-3 with “There's a Ghost in this House”, 3rd-5th with “Odder”, 4th-8th with “The Inheritance Games”, and teens with “I'm Glad My Mom Died”.

Officials praise the picks for engaging art + exciting plots.

The City of Rockford launched two new grants to support local business associations, with the BAG Program offering up to $40,000 and the BADGE Program providing up to $10,000 to improve commercial corridors.

The programs aim to boost local economic activity and encourage community collaboration.

Rockford City Council planning committee did not overturn a Jan.

5 layover delaying a senior center project at the former River Valley Community Church on East State Street. Supporters expect a vote on Jan. 26 as they review local data to ensure the center meets seniors’ needs.

Lamont Jones, founder of NFL FLAG and youth sports manager with the Park District, received two Super Bowl LX tickets from NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after leading 45 local athletes in a halftime flag football scrimmage at the Bears-Packers game in Soldier Field.

His work has boosted local flag football.

Susan Nelson – Soprano Performance

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the powerful and sensitive performances of soprano Susan Nelson as she celebrates women composers.

Ernie Hendrickson Band Tribute to The Grateful Dead

8-10 p.m. — The Music Box — Ticket info available — Join Ernie Hendrickson Band for a nostalgic tribute to The Grateful Dead.

AHL All Star Classic

1-9 p.m. — BMO Center — Ticket prices vary — Cheer on top hockey players as they showcase their skills at this all-star event.