Good morning, Rockford.

Volunteers planted ten new trees at West View Elementary School on Saturday as part of Rockford’s Arbor Day event — the city’s urban forestry initiative and grant funds helped support the planting, and residents received false indigos, yellow birches, and buckeye trees from a Kirkland grower. This giveaway aimed to boost the city’s green efforts and celebrate Arbor Day with a larger crowd.

Village Green celebrated 60 years in Rockford with sales on select items held on April 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 6101 Riverside Blvd — the co-owners credited local customers and their father's vision with the store's long-standing success.

Rockford Community Bank held a grand opening at its new Machesney Park branch at 1825 North Perryville Road where Chicago Cubs legend Andre Dawson met over 100 fans seeking photos and autographs—an event made possible by a partnership with Wintrust Community Bank that sets the branch to operate Monday through Saturday.

A Skein Away, a specialty yarn shop owned by Sara Wirth, opened yesterday at 10 a.m. at 5003 Hononegah Road, suite 2 in Roscoe — a former Helping Hands Rehab space — and now offers specialty yarns, classes and community events for knitters and crocheters in time for Local Yarn Store Day. The new shop gives local fiber artists a closer option after having to drive far for supplies.

The Arab Rockford Chamber of Commerce held its first Arab Heritage Festival on Saturday, drawing over 700 people to Rockford as it featured a car show + food, drinks, Henna, music and dancing led by FAA entertainment + singer Hassam Allabad.

Organizer Mustafa Abdall said the event celebrated Rockford's diverse community including white, African American, Latino, Arab and Pakistani groups.

Midway Village Museum hosted a World War I reenactment that began Saturday and shows living history with displays of a mock trench system and the women's suffrage movement.

The exhibit continues this weekend—today it is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with $15 admission for adults and $13 for children.

Winnebago County taxpayers paid $955,466 in sales tax in February—down 13% from January’s $1.1 million—and the 12-month total reached $11.6 million that funds county government services.

Bergstrom Corporate Headquarters Tour

5:30-8 p.m. — Bergstrom Inc — Free entry — Explore the heart of Bergstrom operations since 1971 and network with industry peers.

Steve Trevino at Coronado Theatre

8:00–9:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices starting at $38 — Experience a night of laughter with comedian Steve Trevino.

Fresh Finds Spring Market

12-5 p.m. — Rockford Wholesalers — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful day of shopping local with handmade goods and fresh finds.

Open Mosque Day

4:30-6:30 p.m. — 1110 Arthur Ave — Free entry — Explore the beauty of the mosque and connect with the local Muslim community.

Mother's Day Brunch

10 AM – 2 PM — The Standard — $35 per person — Celebrate with a delightful brunch and unlimited mimosas in honor of Mom.

Prairie Street Golden Apple Give Back Day

Rockford City Tin participant, Prairie Street Brewhouse, is giving back! Golden Apple will receive 20% of the receipts for purchases from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, May 14. Join us on the dock (or inside) at 200 Prairie St., Rockford, for some great food and drinks!

Lola Blu Solo Sunday Funday

2-8 p.m. — Louie's Tap House — Free entry — Experience the soulful sounds of rising country star Lola Blu with her captivating voice live on stage.

Info Session on the Impact of Property Tax Sales

Join us for an important community event focused on property tax sales and how they impact Rockford residents. This is a FREE event open to the public—everyone is welcome! 📍 Location: Crusader Community Health Clinic | 📅 Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 | ⏰ Time: 5:30 PM | 📍 Address: 1200 W State St, Rockford, IL 61102

8th Annual Miracle Mile Car Show

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Don Carter Lanes — Entry fee $20, spectators free — Celebrate automotive passion with a showcase of cool rides and live music.

On-Site Tour at Grand Victorian

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Grand Victorian of Rockford — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living activities and dining options in a welcoming environment.