Daily
Rockford
Wednesday, November 26th, 2025
Good morning, Rockford. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 26th of November.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ GoRockford launched its second year of the “Move Home” billboard campaign to encourage former residents to return permanently as billboards with playful messages go up today at key intersections. The campaign comes as Rockford’s housing market grows—spurring tens of thousands to visit the Move to Rockford website for more information. WIFR
- ➤ Susie and Phil Smalley have sold the beloved Skateland Roller Rink after 33 years at 4843 Stenstrom Road—new family owners will keep it operating starting December 5th as the Smalleys retire. WTVO
- ➤ A Rockford pre-holiday event called Stroll on State will let children share their Christmas wish list at City Hall on Saturday, Nov 29 — secret volunteers will reply to each letter as participation has grown over the last three years. Northern Public Radio
- ➤ Goldie Floberg’s annual Mother Christmas Program has returned to help local children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities get personalized holiday gifts (drop-off sites are set at Rockford locations). Community members may sponsor gifts costing $10 to $40 and donate items by December 12 (for more details call 8153956070). WIFR
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Shoppers are warned by the Better Business Bureau that Black Friday scams may trick buyers with deals that hide extra fees—read the fine print and check seller reviews before purchasing. WIFR
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Rockford’s Code and Regulation Committee postponed its decision on a proposed McDonald’s restaurant at 1869 North Perryville Road Monday night because several aldermen raised concerns over dumpster placement near the busy intersection; city staff had recommended approval after reviewing the design, and the proposal—seeking a special use permit for a drive-thru—will return for further discussion as developers work to adjust site plans. WTVO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Prairie Farms recalled Gallon Fat Free Milk sold at Woodman's stores in Illinois and Wisconsin due to potential food-grade cleaning agent residue — a portion of the DEC08 batch produced between 5:51 p.m. and 9:23 p.m. on November 24 was affected — and customers are advised to dispose of the product or return it for a refund. WIFR
- ➤ Hard Rock Casino Rockford donated over $4,000 to the American Cancer Society during Celebrity Couples’ nights last month to help cancer patients get rides and temporary housing — local figures including John Groh and Sheriff Gary Caruana aided in raising the funds. The casino announced that Pinktober will return next year — it aims to boost support for breast cancer care. WTVO
- ➤ John Muzzarelli, a longtime stage manager for Cheap Trick who developed hearing loss from years on the road, received free hearing aids from the Miracle Ear Foundation on Tuesday in Rockford—he is credited on the iconic Cheap Trick at Budokan album. WTVO
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Rockford pizzerias offer a mix of styles from classic Italian sausage pies at Lino’s to wood-fired gourmet options at Woodfire Brick Oven Pizza, with TripAdvisor ratings from 4.2 to 5.0 stars. The guide also features Giordano’s, Giuseppi’s, Gulotta’s, GreenFire, and John’s Restaurant to ensure locals enjoy both traditional and creative pizza choices. WTVO
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2025 NorthPointe Wellness Turkey Trot
2:30-4:00 p.m. — 5605 E Rockton Rd, Roscoe, IL — Registration fee may apply — Participate in a fun-filled annual Turkey Trot event promoting health and community spirit.
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Dasher Dash 5K Run/Walk
12 – 4 PM — Beattie Park — Entry fee applies — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive run in downtown Rockford.
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An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee
7-10 p.m. — Rockford Casino — Ticket information unavailable — Enjoy a night of musical brilliance with renowned composer David Foster and soprano Katharine McPhee.
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The Nutcracker by Rockford Dance Company
6-7:30 p.m. — Coronado Theatre — $35-67 — Experience the magic of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince in this beloved holiday ballet featuring local talent.
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Riverview Inn & Suites Winter Wonderland
11 AM - 5 PM — Riverview Inn & Suites — $10/person at the door — Experience holiday cheer with Santa photos, crafts, and live music.
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NLI’s Holiday Open House
4-7 p.m. — Natural Land Institute — Free entry — Celebrate the holidays with cider, snacks, and mingling at NLI's festive headquarters.
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2025 Excalibur & Excelsior Awards Celebration
6-8 p.m. — Prairie Street Brewing Co. — Free entry — Celebrate community service excellence at the Annual Excalibur & Excelsior Award Ceremony.
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An Evening with Kevin Gordon
8-10 p.m. — The Music Box — From $15.08 — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Louisiana's own Kevin Gordon as he shares stories through his songs.
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A Christmas Carol Performance
7:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Cheek Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magical story of Ebenezer Scrooge brought to life through a one-man play by Greg Oliver Bodine.
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Holiday Pops - Rockford Symphony Orchestra
3:00 – 4:30 PM — Coronado Theatre — $35-85 — A festive performance featuring nearly 200 community performers, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Rockford
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