Good morning, Rockford.

Klehm Arboretum has transformed its gardens with 14,000 feet of lighting for Eerie Autumn Lights—a Halloween event running from Oct.

23 through Oct. 26 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and featuring a heated tent with Rockford’s biggest pumpkin; tickets are only available online with the last entry at 8 p.m.

On November 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Court Street United Methodist Church in downtown Rockford will host a free Thanksgiving meal – offering turkey breast, mashed potatoes, and drive-through pick-up along with winter clothing and personal care items for those in need.

More than 1,000 people and 125 volunteers are expected to participate in this tradition that has served the community since 1981.

On Oct 19th, children at Winnebago High School enjoyed the Monster Dash 1K event—hosted by the Winnebago Park District and PTO—that had kids running two-and-a-half laps around the track before moving to a Trunk or Treat in the parking lot.

The safe local event let families celebrate Halloween while connecting with neighbors.

Rockford residents walked Sunday as part of the annual CROP Walk to raise funds to fight hunger by supporting local food pantries and Church World Services—local donations will stock pantries serving over 2,300 people monthly—and the rest will help feed people worldwide amid cuts to food programs.

Anderson Japanese Gardens hosts its 4th annual Path of Pumpkins event where 12 area schools show off carved jack-o-lanterns while visitors vote until October 25.

Winners will be announced on October 27 and the top three schools win cash prizes (the event highlights creative fall art).

The Rockford Art Museum opened its Echoes of Presence and Place exhibit Sunday, curated by a Chicago based artist.

The exhibit shows art made over more than 40 years and will run until February 15th — giving visitors a chance to see pieces inspired by city streets and family homes.

The Holidazzle Craft Show in Pecatonica brought over 150 vendors to the Winnebago County Fairgrounds on Oct 19, offering handmade goods that help locals get ready for the holiday season.

Vendors stressed affordable prices—supporting local artisans and encouraging community shopping.

Rockford is accepting nominations for its 2026 Poet Laureate and Youth Poet roles, with the two-year and one-year terms set to boost local literacy and creativity.

The program is a collaboration among the city, the public library and the Rockford Area Arts Council, and residents can apply online.

Highland Elementary School will soon enjoy new playground options following a donation from Northern Illinois CPR — First Aid, which will buy soccer goals, cornhole boards and sports balls to boost recess play.

The new gear is expected to ease congestion and offer varied activities for all students.

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.

Beyond the Scoreboard: A Night of Champions

6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Rockford Riverfront — $12 individual, $50 family of five — Celebrate mental health awareness in sports with MLB champion Ben Zobrist and local leaders.