GoRockford (formerly the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau) is excited to announce the 12th annual Stroll on State, presented by Illinois Bank & Trust, is set for Saturday, November 30 in downtown Rockford.
A magical winter wonderland will take shape for the Midwest’s Best Holiday Fest, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Stroll on State team, along with partners, volunteers and sponsors. Local businesses in and around downtown Rockford will also take part in the holiday transformation and event festivities. The day will start with the Dasher Dash 5K presented by Northwest Bank at 12 p.m. followed by the festival from 2 – 9 p.m. complete with new enhancements, attractions, live entertainment, and vendors for attendees to enjoy.
The free event, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, attracts tens of thousands of guests each year.
“Stroll on State is a cornerstone of community pride and has built a deep connection between Rockford residents and visitors alike. This holiday event highlights a spirit of collaboration, bringing businesses, volunteers and organizations together to create something truly special,” said Kristen Paul, GoRockford’s executive vice president. “Beyond the festivities, Stroll on State leaves a lasting impact by increasing tourism, giving back to our locals and providing an annual tradition that guests can look forward to every year. This year is no different, we cannot wait to bring the magic of the holidays to downtown Rockford for all to enjoy.”
Sponsor Support Makes Stroll Possible
In total, 50 companies and organizations are providing financial support through sponsorships of this year’s Stroll on State and Dasher Dash 5K presented. Their investment allows GoRockford to present the event as a free gift to the community and visitors.
“Stroll on State is now a time-honored tradition, bringing together droves of people to celebrate the holiday season with their loved ones in downtown Rockford. On behalf of Illinois Bank & Trust, we are proud to continue serving as presenting sponsor for this event because it aligns so closely with our core mission to enrich lives,” said Illinois Bank & Trust’s president, Tom D. Budd. We believe in the power of community and the lasting impact of shared experiences, which is a joyful way to strengthen the local economy and foster a sense of pride in our city. Supporting events like this allows us to give back to our hometown and we are excited to be part of such a special holiday tradition for years to come.”
Additional local organizations, media companies and individuals provide support invaluable to the production of Stroll on State. A complete list of sponsors is below.
“It’s inspiring to be a part of Stroll on State, a truly remarkable and impactful tradition put on by the community, for the community. This holiday kick-off event also plays such a vital role in supporting our hardworking local businesses—especially on Small Business Saturday—by generating a significant boost of economic prosperity ahead of the holidays,” said City of Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara. “Stroll on State certainly enhances our reputation as a welcoming and vibrant community, making it a highlight of the season for all to look forward to year after year in the Rockford region. It is exciting to realize that in 12 years, Stroll has brought more than 637,000 people to our downtown.”
New This Year for Stroll on State 2024
1. Santa Visits are BACK
Capture holiday memories by taking photos and visiting with Santa thanks to Gemini Solar. There will be festive huts adorned with holiday-themed backdrops located at two North Pole locations on the East side (2nd and E. State Streets) and West side (Memorial Hall Lot - Mulberry and Main Streets) sides of downtown Rockford. Join us from 3 – 8 p.m. for all the festive magic.
Be sure to find other photo opportunities at the North Pole Village experience, with the returning Snow Globe photo station, Igloo photo station and under the “freshly fallen” faux snow sponsored by Comfort First Insulation.
2. A Holiday Drone Show Will Illuminate the Night Sky
Get ready to be amazed by a spectacular drone show that will light up the skies immediately following the Stroll on State tree lighting in downtown Rockford. This synchronized aerial show will feature over 200 drones flying in unison, creating holiday and Rockford-themed pictures and animations. Be sure to gather near the viewing area located in the BMO Center parking lot and look towards the southeast above the Stroll on State Main Stage. Thanks to Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 23 for sponsoring this new attraction.
3. A Dasher Dash 5K Toy Drive
This brand-new toy drive at the Dasher Dash 5K is presented by the Illinois Lottery and benefits the local Boys and Girls Club of Rockford. Adults aged 18 and older who donates a new unwrapped toy will receive a free Holiday Scratch Instant Ticket (limit one ticket per donation). In addition, all who donate will receive an entry into a grand prize drawing that will take place following the race. Participation is open to all—everyone is welcome, not only Dasher Dash participants. Find the Illinois Lottery Fun Truck at the intersection of Park and Wyman Streets to make a difference this holiday season.
Note: This holiday-themed run/walk starts and finishes near Beattie Park (near 100 Park Avenue). Participants will travel across the beautiful Rock River and decorated East State Street area. The run/walk starts at noon. Registration ends Nov. 29. There will not be registration on the day of the festival. Visit here to register. Register by Nov. 7 to guarantee your t-shirt. Thank you to Illinois Lottery, T-Fiber, MembersAlliance Credit Union, DataPoint, Entre Computer Solutions, LaMonica Beverages for sponsoring.
4. Participate in the FIRST EVER Stroll on State Holiday T-Shirt Contest
Stroll on State is excited to announce a call for t-shirt designs from local artists. From October 30 to November 14, artists are invited to submit their designs and two winners from full-color and single-color categories will be chosen. The selected designs will be showcased as this year’s official Stroll on State shirts, and will be available for pre-sale, live printing at the event and post-event sales. Winners will receive a prize and a unique opportunity to share their artwork with the community. This is a chance for local talent to shine and for everyone to take home a piece of the Stroll experience! More information and the application form can be found at Strollonstate.com. Day of, check out the merch shop located at W. State and S. Main St.
5. Inflatable Balloons to Highlight Biggest Parade Yet
Stroll on State’s Holiday Parade, sponsored by The Power Connection – IBEW Local 364 & NECA steps off on S. Main Street at Chestnut Street at 2 p.m. and will move north to State Street then east across the State Street Bridge, ending at 3rd Street. Parade onlookers are encouraged to find a spot along the route starting at 1 p.m. Mercyhealth is graciously sponsoring a holiday-themed balloon and Hard Rock Casino Rockford is rocking the parade by sponsoring nine total balloons, including a surprise brand new 20-foot helium balloon built custom for the Stroll parade. The balloon will be unveiled at the Parade.
“IBEW Local 364 is truly honored to sponsor Stroll on State’s Holiday Parade. Celebrating the holidays with the Rockford community and being a part of this larger-than-life experience is something that is very important to our team. When the parade kicks off and you see the wonder and smiles from the crowd, it’s the greatest feeling,” said Alan Golden, principal officer and business manager of IBEW Local 364. “It’s one of those moments you never forget. We want to continue helping to put smiles on faces and are proud to sponsor this event each year.”
In the St. Nick of Time: Local organizations and businesses are invited to participate in the parade. Deadline to register is November 7. For pricing options and information, contact Julie Huber at strollonstate@gorockford.com. Visit www.gorockford.com/stroll-on-state/parade/ for a list of rules, more information and to download a registration form.
6. Randy Finch ‘The Ice Guru’ RETURNS for Stroll on State
We are thrilled to welcome Randy Finch and his ice carving team back to Stroll on State. Watch as they transform blocks of ice into stunning sculptures at Eddie Green Place located at 331 E. State Street. Sculptures will be preserved throughout the event and after, but are weather-dependent so catch them while you can. Thank you to our Merry and Bright Tree Sponsor, GreatWater 360 Auto Care, at Eddie Green Place.
7. Big Artists Take the Stage at Two Locations this Year
Get ready for an expanded Stroll on State lineup of tremendously talented artists beginning at 3 p.m. and concluding at 9 p.m. This year’s acts will perform at two main stages: one across from the BMO Center at Wyman and Elm Streets and another at State and Madison/1st Streets near Jimmy John’s in downtown Rockford. Santa will make a special appearance during the tree lighting, along with special guests and live musical performances. See the performer schedule for details.
PERFORMER LINEUP:
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Movie Land is the perfect spot for families and friends to relax and enjoy a classic holiday movie together. This year, Movie Land moves indoors to Stewart Square, where you can watch The Grinch in a cozy, festive setting. Thanks to Xfinity, guests can settle in and warm up while taking in the holiday magic on the big screen. The Outdoor Movie Land experience will be located along 1st St. in the lot between Rockford IceHogs office and Galaxy Salon.
9.Watch Whimsical Holiday Window & Street Performances
The Rockford Dance Company will have their dancers creating whimsical micro-performances in the windows at 324 East State St. and along the street. These holiday-themed performances will bring the enchantment of a music box to life with a choreographed blend of music and movement.
Classic Attractions and Additional Event Favorites:
·The main event grounds will be along State Street in downtown Rockford bordered by Jefferson, Church, Chestnut and Third Streets. Look out for new and upgraded decorations throughout the event this year. Thanks to UW Health, Winnebago County, PCI Pharma Services, OSF Medical Center and ComEd for sponsoring our beautiful decorations this year. We would also like to thank Two Men and a Truck for helping with decoration days, set up and tear down.
·Download the Stroll on State interactive map and get ready to plan your Stroll experience in advance with helpful resources, descriptions and navigation at the touch of a button. Once the map is downloaded set it to favorites and have it handy to also use the night of the event. The map is conveniently found on Stroll on State’s brand-new website, sponsored by Project First Rate, www.gorockford.com/stroll-on-state/map/.
·Gather for the Annual Tree Lighting
One of the event’s most popular moments – the lighting of the city Christmas tree – will take place at 6 p.m. at the Main Stage at Main and Elm streets. This year’s City of Rockford tree is sponsored by the Northwestern Illinois Building Trades. The Main Stage will feature music and other entertainment throughout the day.
·The popular Hot Chocolate Express will be at two locations – in the Veterans Memorial Hall parking lot and the parking lot located directly behind Jimmy John’s on State St. There will also be an Igloo photo opportunity, a big stage with live performances happening all night, a bar and more at this location. Hot Chocolate Express, not only helps cover the cost of Stroll, it is also a Stroll giveback supporting the Rockford Marlins Swim Club and 815 Afterhours Rotary.
·Rudolph’s Reindeer Village, sponsored by Mercyhealth, is back with a new home at the eastside North Pole location at State/2nd streets.
· Your favorite group of elves will be back at Rockford City Hall to collect letters and give them to Santa! At Letters to Santa, sponsored by FurstStaffing, kids are encouraged to write and decorate their letters to Santa, and then mail them on site to the North Pole. It’s been said Santa loves to write back to children who attend Stroll on State!
·S’mores stations will be set up in three locations. These yummy, gooey snacks are made fresh to order by Stroll grill masters. S’mores stations, not only helps cover the cost of Stroll, it is also a Stroll giveback supporting Comprehensive Community Solutions, The Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois and Scouting of America Troop 32 and 432.
·Stroll on State Adult Beverage and Merch stands will be throughout the footprint and in the center of all the action. This year’s drinks include a variety of beers, warm wine and a featured drink, a Peppermint White Russian. In addition, bars will sell the coveted Stroll on State stocking cap, gloves and limited other merch items. Stroll Adult beverage stands not only help cover the cost of Stroll, it is also a Stroll giveback supporting the Rockford Cosmo Club, Junior League of Rockford, LaOnda, and Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter.
·Horse & Wagon Rides, sponsored by Amazon, will be in one location – there will be one continuous loop on the west side of the Rock River with pickup and drop off locations near the corner of Wyman and Elm Streets.
·Two Outdoor Holiday Markets with local retail and food vendors sponsored by the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation and Rockford IceHogs. The markets will be located at Rockford City Market Pavilion (116 N. Madison St.) and Wyman Street District (Wyman St., North and South sides of W. State St.).
·Veterans Memorial Hall, sponsored by Sheet Metal Workers Local 219, will feature a toy train display on the main level and stage. From princesses to heroes and everything in between, Blitzen’s Ball, a Character Dance Party for Kids, is located directly upstairs and is hosted by Characters 2 Life. The characters, kids’ activities and music will be around throughout the event so be sure to stop by to create another set of memories. This lively dance party is sponsored by OSF Medical Center.
·Sky Lights Fireworks, presented by Pierce Distribution, will once again be lighting up the skies of downtown Rockford. The fireworks will be launched from the Jefferson Street Bridge to end the evening with a dazzling display at 8:30 p.m. sharp. Viewers will be able to see the skies burst with color from anywhere in the festival as long as they can see the Jefferson Street Bridge.
·Frozen in Time Selfie Stations
Stop at any, or better yet all, of our Selfie Stations at Stroll on State. Check out the map for this year’s locations and pose for your perfect photos. This interactive activity is sponsored by General Mills, Field Fastener and i3Broadband. Also, a special thanks to Galaxy Salon for hosting a selfie station inside their salon.
·Ice Skating at BMO Center
Take a break from strolling the grounds and lace up some ice skates at the BMO Center put on by the Rockford Park District and the Rockford IceHogs. Additionally, there will be street hockey provided by the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation along with family friendly activities powered by the Rockford Park District in the lot outside of Veterans Memorial Hall.
A full listing of events and attractions is available at www.strollonstate.com.
Stroll on State Gives Back
Stroll on State has always prioritized giving back to the community. That’s why, the various bars, hot chocolate and s’mores stations are all designed to bring joy and warmth during the holidays, and proceeds from these attractions directly support local organizations and causes. By participating in Stroll on State, attendees not only create cherished memories but also contribute to enhancing the well-being of our neighborhoods and supporting those in need. Non-Profits benefiting from Stroll on State:
· Comprehensive Community Solutions
· The Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois
· Scouting of America Troop 32 and Troop 432
· RAMP
· Rockford Cosmo Club
· Junior League of Rockford
· LaOnda
· Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter
· Rockford Marlins Swim Club
· 815 After Hours Rotary
Shop Small Business Saturday
Stroll on State takes place in conjunction with Small Business Saturday which is an annual holiday tradition that encourages people to support local shop owners. Locally owned businesses throughout the downtown River District will offer holiday specials and fun events. Be sure to visit the wide range of stores and restaurants, both during Stroll and throughout the holiday season.
Volunteers Help Make It Happen
Stroll on State is made possible in part with the help of several organizations, businesses and volunteers. Volunteer Workshops are held Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. and Tuesday evenings from 6 – 9 p.m. at 310 Winnebago Street, on the corner of Winnebago and Chestnut Streets. Children ages 12-15 may volunteer with an adult and a signed waiver; 16- and 17-year-olds must provide a signed waiver.
Volunteers are welcome to come to the workshops without prior registration. Workshops end on Tuesday, November 19. Volunteers are needed for the Downtown Decorating Days on Friday and Saturday, November 22-23, Friday, November 29 and the day of the event. Those looking to lend a helping, including post-event volunteer opportunities, can get more information at www.strollonstate.com.
Parking and Transportation
In addition to the interactive map, there will be parking options specified on detailed maps. On-street parking and surface parking lots will be available as posted. The event map with suggested parking areas is available at www.strollonstate.com. There also will be three Remote Parking Lots with free shuttle bus. transportation, sponsored by Rockford Mass Transit District:
· YMCA (200 Y Boulevard) - Handicap accessible paratransit buses are available at this location only.
· Crusader Community Health (1200 W. State Street) – This is well-lit parking lot, just minutes away from the event grounds.
· Bethesda Covenant Church (2101 E. State Street) - Their members are excited to help people park, enjoy hot cocoa and use restrooms while waiting for the shuttle bus to arrive.
Shuttle buses run continuously every 20 minutes from 1 – 9:30 p.m. All shuttles drop off near Third and State Streets, in specially reserved Stroll on State Bus Shuttle Lots.
Supporters & Partners
Led by GoRockford, in addition to many partners, the following entities have come together to generously support Stroll on State.
Presenting Sponsor:
· Illinois Bank & Trust
· The Power Connection IBEW 364 & NECA
· Hard Rock Casino Rockford
· Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 23
Partner Organizations:
· City of Rockford
· Two Men and a Truck
· BMO Center
· Rockford Mass Transit
· Rockford Park District
· Rock River Multisport
Shining Star Sponsors:
· Northwestern Illinois Building Trades Unions
· OSF Medical Center
· Gemini Solar
· UW Health
· Amazon
· Comfort 1st Insulation
Merry & Bright Sponsors:
· Chicago Blackhawks Foundation
· Illinois Lottery
· Winnebago County
· Pierce Distribution
· Rockford IceHogs Community Fund
· Mercyhealth
· PCI Pharma Services
· Xfinity
· LaMonica Beverages
Santa’s Helper Sponsors:
· Pearson Plumbing
· Sheet Metal Workers Local 219
· T-Mobile Fiber
· Rosecrance
· Field Fastener
· Project First Rate
· ComEd
· United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers & Allied Workers Local 11
· Furst Staffing
· General Mills
· Great Water
· i3Broadband
Friends of Stroll on State:
· Entre Computer Solutions
· Data Point
· Event Floral
· Rockford Dance Company
· Ware Crane & Rigging, LLC
· Sunbelt Rentals
· Fehr Graham
· Arbisi’s City Body Shop
· MembersAlliance Credit Union
· Lino’s
· Iconic Energy
· Rockford Marlins Swim Club
· Aetna Building Solutions
· Tree Care Enterprises
· Rockford Ornamental Iron
· County Materials Corporation
· CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc.
· City First Church
· Characters 2 Life
· Bennie’s Dry Cleaning Laundry Services
· Creative Crane & Rigging Inc.
· Stenstrom
· Prographics
Dasher Dash 5K Sponsor:
· Presenting Sponsor: Northwest Bank
· Illinois Lotto
· Data Point Inc.
· Fehr Graham
· Fleet Feet
· MembersAlliance Credit Union
· LaMonica Beverages
Media Sponsors:
· WREX Channel 13
· Northwest Quarterly
· Townsquare Media
· 102.3 The Coyote
· WTVO Channel 17
· El Sol De Rockford
· La Bamba Radio TV
· WIFR Channel 23
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