Daily
Rockford
Monday, January 26th, 2026
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 26th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Illinois invites residents to volunteer as part of the Illinois United in Service initiative marking the country’s 250th anniversary, with logging already open through Serve Illinois (volunteers receive a commemorative certificate). More opportunities and event details will be shared on il250.org. Rockford Register Star
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Due to repairs on its snowmaking equipment, the 40th Annual Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition will be held Feb. 11-14 instead of Jan. 28-31. The free event will take place at Sinnissippi Park (1401 N. Second St.) and attract teams from across the state. Rockford Register Star
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Former Winnebago County Board Chairman Scott Christiansen died at 72 over the weekend as announced by board Chairman Joseph V. Chiarelli. His 12-year leadership helped fund county projects including the Justice Center, Nicholas Conservatory, and Rockford Metro Center renovations. Northern Public Radio
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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.
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Dexter Patterson Meet & Greet and Book Signing
3-7 p.m. — RPL Nordlof Center — Free for general admission; VIP tickets available — Celebrate Black History Month with author Dexter Patterson sharing his passion for birding and signing his new book.
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An Evening with Laid Back Country Picker
7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Cost not specified — A unique concert blending country rock with a powerful duo performance.
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 cure for pain is in the pain.
~ Rumi
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