Daily
Rockford
Saturday, January 17th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Rockford Park District announced that the 40th Annual Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition is postponed two weeks to Feb. 11-14 at Sinnissippi Park because of a mechanical issue with its snowmaking equipment. The free, family-friendly event draws teams from across the state + officials expect it to welcome over 30,000 visitors. WIFR
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Franchesco's Ristorante in Rockford celebrates 40 years with a limited-time 'Pick 4 for $40 deal' offering a four-course anniversary meal + house wine, salad, entree, and homemade gelato. Owner Benny Salamone invites locals to join the celebration and enjoy a taste of community tradition. WIFR
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Components from the AIDS Memorial Quilt honoring over 110,000 individuals are on display at City Hall’s lobby until Jan. 23, with special viewing hours at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Monday — organized by the Kaleidoscope Employee Resource Group to remind the community of progress in HIV care. Rock River Current
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Galentine's Pop-Up
4-8 p.m. — Rockford City Market — Free entry — Celebrate friendship with themed drinks and local vendors for a fun Galentine's get-together.
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Valentine's Day Ski-Plane Fly-In
5 PM — Midtown District — Free entry — Enjoy a winter cookout with lots of fun and ski planes at Cottonwood Airport.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The chains of habit are too light to be felt until they are too heavy to be broken.
~ Benjamin Franklin
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