Daily
Rockford
Sunday, January 18th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 18th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ YWCA Northwestern Illinois has extended its nomination deadline for the 2026 Women of Achievement Awards to Friday, Jan. 23 due to strong community interest. It will honor leaders in several fields and winners will be named on March 2 at Hard Rock Casino in Rockford. WIFR
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ 7 Brew will open its first drive-thru coffee shop on IL 173 in Machesney Park in 2026. Mayor Steve Johnson expressed excitement — the store will fill a former parking lot near Kohl’s and boost the busy corridor. WIFR
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A local event hosted by the Swedish Historical Society introduced Rockford residents to the Scandinavian concept of Hygge. Local speaker Jan Peterson Hincapie explained the philosophy—centered on comfort, calm and self-care—as a way to create intentional, joyful routines. WIFR
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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
Don't mistake motion for progress.
~ Alfred Montapert
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