Good morning, Rockford.

Santa’s Wonderland Workshop will be held on Dec.

7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Cliffbreakers Event Center (700 W. Riverside Blvd) featuring crafts, live music, story readings and a photo session with Santa; tickets are $5 in advance and free for children 2 and under.

Authorities have released a list of warming centers in Boone and Winnebago counties to help residents during dangerously cold weather.

The list includes centers in Rockford such as Carpenter’s Place and Rockford Rescue Mission with hours varying by location and subject to change.

The Oregon Area Chamber of Commerce said it will suspend operations effective Dec.

31 due to persistent financial challenges. The board will work with members on a restructuring plan+ return 2026 dues to support local businesses.

TreeHouse Foods will wind down its South Beloit cookie plant, which may result in about 150 job losses in the coming months.

The company plans to file a WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) notice once scheduling is finalized, and local officials hope a new snack manufacturer eventually reoccupies the space.

On Tuesday, Nov. 2, Hard Rock Casino workers in Rockford voted against joining the United Auto Workers union; a dozen union members rallied nearby while union leader Matt Frantzen thanked supporters on Facebook.

Dozens of residents attended a forum at Second/First Church on Dec.

4 to ask legal experts and local leaders about immigration and public safety. The event was hosted by the League of Women Voters + organizers handed out 'Know Your Rights' packets to help families understand their legal protections.

Nine new firefighters finished a rigorous four-month training program at the Fall Recruit Academy and graduated on Thursday, Dec.

4 — they will now serve at various stations across Rockford.

Purpose Simba runs Inner Strength Therapeutic Loc Services on Broadway Street, offering a calming hair experience with soothing music, incense, and herbal remedies.

Clients like Asiah Price return every six to eight weeks to relax and leave their stress behind — fostering healing and genuine connection in Rockford.

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.