Good morning, Rockford.

Today, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois awarded $1.63M in grants to 91 nonprofits in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson & Winnebago counties to support local projects in arts, health, education and more.

Teens with Rock House Kids launched a 3-month art exhibit benefiting the Broadway Food Pantry, with 40 works on display in eight local businesses from December until Jan.

21. The pieces will be showcased at City Hall from Jan. 25 until Feb. 28, followed by an auction on March 20.

The Zarco family launched a GoFundMe fundraiser aiming at $23,000 to help cover funeral costs and support those left behind after Cristian, a 22 year old, died in a single car crash on Saturday, Nov.

29 on Newburg Road in Rockford.

Kids Spot announced today it acquired Wight Tumble Academy and J&J Dance and Tumbling to expand elite gymnastics, tumbling, cheerleading and dance programs in Pecatonica + Roscoe.

The company will maintain current staff while rolling out expanded classes and events.

Penny Wirtjes, founder of Gigi's Playhouse Rockford, was named a finalist for the 2025 Excalibur Award for her work with children and adults with Down syndrome; she founded the center to support families including her grandson (16).

The Swedish Historical Society will host its annual Lucia Concert on Dec.

5 at First Lutheran Church at 7 p.m.—the free event will feature a traditional procession, candlelit choral singing, and performances by the Lucia Court to celebrate Nordic heritage.

J.R. Sullivan's Hometown Holiday returns on December 12 & 13 at the Nordlof Center J.R.

Sullivan Theater, offering a traditional holiday variety show that brings families together.

GoRockford refunded 66 vendors from the 2025 Stroll on State after a winter storm lowered turnout — returning $13,600 in permit fees and waiving food vendor commissions to support local small businesses.

Marshmallow’s HOPE has partnered with Rockford Public Schools to provide free mental health services for students, including therapy, parent education, and assemblies.

The program is available now at the center on 1628 Temple Lane, with free transportation & a guaranteed response time within 24 to 48 hours.

Former Rockford Metro area high school athletes will compete Saturday, Dec.

6 at scheduled matchups, plus teams from Belvidere North, Rockford Lutheran, Guilford and other schools will face regional opponents at set times.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sleigh Bar: A Holiday Pop-Up Experience

4-11 p.m. — Rockford City Market — Cost info not provided — Sip on festive cocktails and soak in the Christmas decor for a fun holiday season celebration.