Good morning, Rockford.

On Sunday, 10 farms in Ogle County showcased unique agriculture displays such as stone collections and bee farms at the annual Farm Stroll—bringing community members together and sparking interest in local farming.

Local organizers said the event, now in its fifth year, has grown steadily after a pandemic break.

The North Park community held a benefit event called 'Battle for Brian' to support Deputy Chief Brian Kunce as he battles stage four cancer—event funds raised more than $10,000 from online T-shirt and sweatshirt sales and will continue for another week and a half.

The support boosts his fight and shows the neighborhood's strong care for one of its own.

Gamers gathered in Rockford on Oct 12 at Cliffbreakers for the Rock River Video Game Convention, which featured free play on classic consoles, arcade machines, virtual reality experiences, and demos of unreleased games.

Organizer Scott Clark said the event brought together multiple generations of gamers — sparking interest in gaming, anime, Pokemon cards, and cosplay — and aimed to break negative views of gaming culture.

Rockford is now accepting nominations for the 2026-2027 Poet Laureate and 2026 Youth Poet to promote poetry and creativity in the community—applications are reviewed with the help of the public library and Rockford Area Arts Council.

The Poet Laureate will serve for two years while the Youth Poet will serve for one year.

Rockford Reads is seeking volunteers to work one-on-one with second and third grade students to boost reading skills; the program started 24 years ago with the Rockford Rotary Club partnering with local schools and libraries.

Volunteers must pass a background check with RPS205 and attend a training session (1 p.m. Oct. 15 at the downtown library or 6 p.m. Oct. 21 at the Eastside branch) to begin their one-hour weekly sessions.

Winnebago County residents paid about $7.1 million in sales taxes in August, ranking as the fifth highest total in the Prairie State.

The Special County Retailers Occupation Tax provided most of that revenue—over 80% of the total.

Rockford residents paid about $5.1 million in sales taxes in August, ranking the city eighth among Illinois municipalities — most revenue came from the municipal sales tax that supports local government services.

Approximately 2,000 athletes from 15 states raced in the Head of the Rock Regatta held on the Rock River Sunday, with 50 collegiate, junior and club crews competing on a 3.1-mile course.

The event, hosted by the Rock River Valley YMCA Rowing Club — organizers began planning in January — attracted over 7,500 fans and generated $925,000 in economic impact — competitors ranged from age 14 to 75.

Broadway And Beyond

7:30-9 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — $35-85 — Experience Broadway hits with star Ben Crawford in an unforgettable evening.

An Evening with Miles & Kelly

7:30-9:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of music, stories, and improvisation from Miles Nielsen & Kelly Steward.

Herbie Hancock Performance

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Ticket prices vary — Experience jazz legend Herbie Hancock in an evening of musical mastery.

Rockford Poké Fest

10 a.m.-6 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront — $5 Adult Admission — Celebrate Pokémon with family-friendly activities and fun for all ages.

Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Tribute

7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Tickets required — Experience the powerful tribute to Led Zeppelin with Jason Bonham at the Rockford Casino.

Halloween Night with Taboo Blah Blah

8-11 p.m. — The Music Box — Check website for tickets — Enjoy an evening of rhythmic sounds and heartfelt songwriting with local band Taboo Blah Blah.

An Evening with Long-Shot

8-10:30 p.m. — The Music Box — Ticket information not provided — Enjoy an evening of music with Rockford's own twin brothers and their band Long-Shot.

X Bar Bingo Night at Chewy’s

7-9 p.m. — Chewy’s Sports Bar & Grill — Bring your own markers — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of bingo with prizes and delightful dinner specials.

Ninja Kidz Live

6-7:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of the Ninja Kidz Live show in Rockford's historic theatre.

2025 Annual Diwali Night Celebration

5-9 p.m. — Harlem High School — $15-$35 — Celebrate Diwali with dinner, dancing, performances, and cultural festivities.