RockBuzz Rockford

BD4 A Burger Joint is serving up more than just burgers! 🍔 Behind BD4 are Randy and Betsy Baker, two people who have spent years in the restaurant and hospitality industry and believe a good restaurant starts with how you treat people. They're also the couple behind the original Baker Street Burgers concept! What we love about their story is that they've always wanted to build more than a place to grab lunch or dinner. They want customers to feel welcome, employees to feel appreciated, and everyone who walks through the doors to feel like they belong. And Randy and Betsy are still actively involved, making sure that philosophy stays part of BD4. So next time you're craving a burger, give BD4 A Burger Joint a try! 🍔❤️ Have you eaten at BD4 yet? What's your go-to order? Remember, it is a good day to go local. #BD4ABurgerJoint #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #LocalRestaurants #GoLocal

🎃 Weekend Roundup | October 30 through November 1, 2026 Need plans that aren’t just eating the candy you bought for trick-or-treaters? Here are three events to check out around Rockford! 🎸 Halloween Hijinks at Mary’s Place Friday, October 30 | 8 PM 602 N. Madison Street, Rockford Local musicians are taking the stage in “musical costume,” performing songs from The Misfits, Against Me!, and Black Sabbath. Grab your costume and make a night of it. 👻 Twisted Crypt Haunted House Friday, October 30 and Saturday, October 31 | 6:30 to 11 PM 5420 E. State Street, Rockford Fourteen rooms and more than 40 characters are waiting to test how brave you actually are. General admission is $20, and the haunt is recommended for ages 13 and older. Anyone 16 or younger must come with an adult. Bring that friend who keeps saying nothing scares them. 🎃 Smashing Pumpkins at Discovery Center Museum Sunday, November 1 | 10:30 AM to 2 PM 711 N. Main Street, Rockford Your pumpkin’s work isn’t done yet! Bring it along and watch it fly from a real trebuchet, then enjoy bubble art, lawn games, and creative activities. The event is included with museum admission or membership. That’s one way to retire the Halloween decorations. For more local events, check out Rockbuzz.com or download the Rockbuzz Social app. Which one are you adding to your weekend? Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #RockfordBuzz #GoLocalRockford #ThingsToDoInRockford

Soooo we wanted to be trendy, but couldn't do it alone. 😂👻 Huge shoutout to Harmonic Haze, Wired Cafe, and All Auto Parts for joining us! Everyone's been doing the ghost costume trend, but we figured why not give it a little Scream twist? 🔪😂 Turns out getting a bunch of local businesses together to do something ridiculous is exactly our kind of fun. We might be a little late to the trend, but hey, at least we showed up in costume! Who do you think understood the assignment best? 👀 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #HarmonicHaze #WiredCafe #AllAutoParts

Rockford’s Spooky History Comes With a Few Plot Twists Ever heard a noise in an old building and suddenly decided the tour was over? Rockford has a few places that might test your bravery. But a good ghost story and a proven historical fact are not the same thing. Take Tinker Swiss Cottage. Robert Tinker began building it in 1865, and the museum still holds the family’s furniture, clothing, and diaries. You’re walking through someone’s actual home, not a Halloween set. Its “A House in Mourning” exhibit explores Victorian funeral customs, while separate paranormal events introduce visitors to the cottage’s ghost stories. History by day, questioning every floorboard by night. We respect your choice to stick with daylight. Then there’s the Coronado Theatre, which opened in 1927. The Ghost Research Society recounts an employee’s report of a woman in white appearing among the balcony seats before vanishing. That is a reported experience, not proof of a haunting. Still, it gives “Who’s sitting behind me?” a whole new feeling. Just outside Rockford, Blood’s Point Road in Boone County has collected tales of phantom vehicles and strange happenings. Here’s the twist: historian Michael Kleen traces the name to the Blood family, citing an 1877 county history. Not a massacre. A surname. Sometimes the scariest part of a story is what gets added when somebody retells it. That’s what makes exploring local history interesting. You can enjoy the chills while learning about the real people behind the buildings and place names. Their lives deserve more than becoming the scary part of somebody’s story. Stick to public visiting hours or organized tours, respect private property, and leave cemeteries exactly as you found them. Being curious is fine. Becoming the reason someone calls the sheriff is not the goal. What Rockford-area ghost story did you grow up hearing? Tell us in the comments. We’ll read them with the lights on. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

40 years of @[8fb0e56a-cb8c-4e2a-b1ac-1d2c8942bc9c](Franchesco's Ristorante) in Rockford, Illinois! 🎉🍝 Since 1986, Franchesco's has been part of so many celebrations in our community. First dates, birthdays, graduations, weddings, anniversaries, and those dinners where the whole family finally gets together. And after four decades, you can still find the owner walking around the restaurant, talking with customers and making people feel welcome. ❤️ That's one of the things we love about locally owned restaurants. They're not just places to eat. They become part of our memories. Of course, we had to show a little love to the food too! This visit included their Tortelloni Vodka, with jumbo cheese-stuffed tortelloni, signature vodka sauce, and spinach. And yes, it was GOOD! 😂 So cheers to you, Franchesco's, and happy belated 40th birthday! 🥂 What's your favorite memory at Franchesco's? We'd love to hear it in the comments! Remember, it is a good day to go local. #FranchescosRistorante #RockfordIL #RockfordRestaurants #RockfordBuzz #SupportLocal

We went to meet a beauty business owner in Rockford and found out she's also a singer! 🎤💙 Meet Charise Murphy, the woman behind Chariibomb Beauty! Charise started her business in 2021, bringing her creativity and love for helping people feel their best into the world of skincare and beauty. As a licensed esthetician, she offers lash extensions, facials, waxing, and brow services, all with a personal touch that makes you feel right at home. But here's the fun part! Charise is also a musician, and the song you're hearing in the background of our Buzz Video is actually her own song, "September Ends!" 🍁🎶 How cool is that? We got to learn about her business AND feature her music in the same video! Give her song a listen at https://linktree.com/charise and show some love to another talented local business owner. ❤️ Remember, it is a good day to go local. #ChariibombBeauty #ChariseMurphy #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #SupportLocal

Imagine retiring, buying a business, and fast-forwarding to becoming part of an 80-year Rockford tradition. 😂 That's how Bob Blosser found himself at Bennie's Cleaners in downtown Rockford! Bob knew he wanted to buy a business after retirement. He just wasn't sure what kind. Then he met Larry Sheets, the longtime owner of Bennie's, who was getting ready to retire himself. Fast-forward to now, and Bennie's Cleaners is celebrating 80 years in Rockford! From dry cleaning and laundry services to being a popular stop during Rockford's ArtScene, Bennie's has become more than just a place to drop off your clothes. It's pretty cool seeing a business that's been around for eight decades continue to be part of our downtown community. ❤️ Remember, it is a good day to go local. #BenniesCleaners #DowntownRockford #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #GoLocal

Candy, costumes, haunted houses, and witches taking over downtown? Rockford is going ALL OUT for Halloween! 🎃👻 Here's what's happening around Rockford and Loves Park this weekend, October 23 through 25! 🍬 Friday: YMCA Trunk or Treat 🕠 5:30 to 8 PM 📍 8451 Orth Rd., Loves Park FREE trick-or-treating, crafts, photo opportunities, and family fun! 👻 Saturday: Spook the Blocks 🕛 Noon to 4 PM 📍 Downtown Rockford More than 20 downtown businesses are handing out candy! Enjoy pumpkin painting, games, and free family activities. 🏚️ Saturday: All Hallows' Eve 🕛 Noon to 5 PM 📍 Midway Village, 6799 Guilford Rd., Rockford Trick-or-treat through more than 20 decorated historic buildings, meet costumed characters, and enjoy Halloween games. Admission is $6 for ages 3 and up. 🎃 Saturday: Spooktacular 🕐 1 to 4 PM 📍 Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Rd., Rockford Costumes, trick-or-treating, and Halloween activities surrounded by beautiful fall scenery! 🧙‍♀️ Saturday: Witches Faire 🕓 4 to 9 PM 📍 130 N. First St., Rockford Over 40 vendors, a Witches Dance, drum circle, and potion-making scavenger hunt. FREE admission! 🎶 Sunday: Rockford Wind Ensemble 🕒 3 PM 📍 Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford Guest conductor Vinnie Inendino leads a concert featuring music inspired by The Lord of the Rings and Broadway favorites! Looks like we're going to need some extra candy bags this weekend. 😂 Get out there, have fun, and enjoy everything happening in our community! Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #LovesParkIL #RockfordEvents #GoLocal

One of our favorite parts of the RockBuzz monthly polls isn't announcing the winner. It's getting to show up, hand them their award, and hear what winning means to them. ❤️ Last month's winner for Favorite Local Coffee Shop was Meg's Daily Grind! ☕🏆 We love getting to celebrate the people behind our local businesses. Hearing their stories and seeing their reactions reminds us why we started these polls in the first place. Congratulations again to Meg's Daily Grind, and thank you to everyone who voted and continues to support our local businesses! Remember, it is a good day to go local. #MegsDailyGrind #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #SupportLocal #RockfordCoffee

Yoga With Horses Is Happening This Saturday at Lockwood Park If your week has been a lot, Lockwood Park has a pretty unexpected way to slow things down. This Saturday, October 24, the Perks Family Equine Center at Lockwood Park, 4989 Safford Road in Rockford, is hosting another Hooves & Harmony session from 10 to 11:15 AM. It is exactly what it sounds like. Yoga. With horses. The session combines gentle, meditative yoga with time around the park’s horses, giving participants a chance to slow down, stretch, breathe, and get out of their heads for a bit. At the end, everyone gets time to groom and pet the horses, which is probably one of the better ways we have heard of ending a yoga class. You do not need yoga experience, and you do not need horse experience either. The session is designed for all levels, and participants should bring a yoga mat if possible. Cost is $20 per person, and anyone age 14 or younger must be accompanied by an adult. If this Saturday does not work, there is another session scheduled for November 28. Hooves & Harmony is held every fourth Saturday throughout the year. There is something nice about an activity that does not ask you to be productive, competitive, or particularly good at anything. You just show up, move a little, breathe a little, and spend some time around animals. That sounds like a pretty good reset. Registration is available through Lockwood Park or at Rockford Park District customer service locations. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Brand-new dresses for a THIRD of the original price? 👀👗 That's just one of the things you'll find at Great Hang-Ups in Rockford! 613 S Rockford Ave, Rockford, IL 61104 Diane took over the business in 2005, and since then, she's continued helping people find quality name brands, affordable fashion, and styles that make them feel good. From everyday clothing to formal wear rentals, Great Hang-Ups is about more than finding a good deal. It's also about personalized styling and making customers feel like family. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #GreatHangUps #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #ShopLocal #GoLocal

Rockford, who's ready for a little Lord of the Rings? 👀🎶 The Rockford Wind Ensemble is bringing its Guest Conductor Series to the Nordlof Center on Sunday, October 25, with guest conductor Vinnie Inendino! We got to sit down with the group for a little conversation about the music, the people behind it, and what you can expect from the upcoming performance. And if you're a Lord of the Rings fan, this might be one to put on your calendar. 💍 📅 Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 3 PM. 📍 Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford, IL. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordWindEnsemble #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #RockfordEvents #GoLocal

If you are ever looking for Mid Century Modern Antiques & Collectibles shop located in downtown Rockford, Illinois. Then go see Kenn & Robby at 29 Palms The Collector's Oasis at 420 7Th Street, Rockford, IL. They not only take the cutest couple award, but also one of Rockford's best finds!

Ghost stories, hockey, and Christmas shopping in October? Rockford, we've got some explaining to do. 😂👻 There's a LOT happening around Rockford this weekend, October 16 through 18. Here are a few things worth getting out of the house for! 🏒 Friday & Saturday: Rockford IceHogs Hockey 🕖 7 PM both nights 📍 BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford The IceHogs are home for two nights! Friday they're taking on the Iowa Wild for 90s Night, and Saturday they're back against the Grand Rapids Griffins for Book Club Night. Grab your jerseys and cheer on the hometown team! 🎄 Saturday & Sunday: Holidazzle Arts & Crafts Show 🕘 Saturday 9 AM to 4 PM | Sunday 9 AM to 3 PM 📍 Winnebago County Fairgrounds, 500 W. First St., Pecatonica Yes, we're talking about Christmas shopping in October. 😂 Browse more than 150 crafters and get a head start on finding some handmade gifts. Admission is $5, kids 12 and under are free, and parking is free! 🕓 VIP 3 to 5 PM | General Admission 4 to 6 PM 📍 Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St., Rockford Whiskey, wine, and ghost stories inside the historic Coronado Theatre! Enjoy tastings, self-guided ghost tours, tarot readings, and more. Tickets start at $18.55 for designated drivers, $61.80 for general admission, and $105 for VIP. 🎃 Saturday: Twisted Crypt Trunk or Treat & Crypt Kids Lights On Tour 🕓 4 to 6 PM 📍 5420 E. State St., Rockford Want to take the kids through a haunted house without all the scares? Twisted Crypt is hosting a free trunk-or-treat, plus an optional Lights On Tour for $7 per person. The regular haunted house opens at 7 PM for those who want the full scare! 🎮 Saturday & Sunday: Rockford Comic, Toy & TCG Card Show 📍 CherryVale Mall, 7200 Harrison Ave., Rockford Comic books, Pokémon, vintage video games, action figures, collectibles, and plenty of nostalgia. Quad Con is taking over both levels of CherryVale Mall during regular mall hours. Admission is completely free, and there's a cosplay showcase Saturday afternoon! Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #ThingsToDoRockford #GoLocal

Your favorite little shop shouldn’t be a secret. Especially when telling one friend could help someone new discover it. 💛 We’re putting M’s Gems 4626 E State St, Rockford, IL 61108, and owner Melody on your radar. In this video, you’ll meet the person behind the shop and hear what keeping those doors open means to her. Already visited? Tell us what you loved about it. Your recommendation might be the reason someone finally stops in. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #MsGems #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #ShopLocal #SupportSmallBusiness

Women's Baseball Is Coming Back to Rockford Baseball For All Nationals is coming back to the Rockford region in 2027, and this is not a small tournament. From July 20 through July 24, 2027, the nation’s largest girls’ baseball tournament will return for a second straight year. It will once again happen alongside the WBSC Women’s Baseball World Cup, giving young players the chance to compete and then watch some of the best women in the world play the same game. For a young player, that means the weekend is not just about the games they are playing. It is also a chance to see what the next level can look like. The 2026 tournament brought more than 1,100 players and coaches to the area, with athletes ranging from ages 6 to 18. Players came from across the United States and from countries including Canada, South Africa, Brazil, Curaçao, and Australia. And there is something extra fitting about having it here. Rockford is part of women’s baseball history thanks to the Rockford Peaches, and some of the 2027 games are expected to be played at historic Beyer Stadium, along with Mercyhealth Sportscore Two, Rock Valley College, ABC Stadium, and Beloit College. Imagine being a young girl playing baseball and getting to compete in the same city where women helped shape the history of the sport, then turning around and watching the best players in the world compete on the international stage. There is also a big local impact beyond the field. Hundreds of visiting players, coaches, and families mean more people staying in local hotels, eating at restaurants, shopping, and spending time around the Rockford region. But the part we love most is what a weekend like this can show a kid. You can play. You can compete. And there is a path in front of you. Rockford gets another chance in 2027 to be part of that story. More young players get to compete here, more families get to experience the region, and another generation gets to see just how far baseball can take them. For Rockford, that sounds like a pretty good grand slam. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Whiskey, wine, and ghost stories inside one of Rockford's most historic theatres? 👻🥃 The 2nd Annual Spirits & Spirits returns to the Coronado Theatre on Saturday, October 17! Explore the historic theatre with self-guided ghost story tours while enjoying whiskey, wine, and other tastings. There will also be tarot readings and a few other surprises throughout the event! 🎟️ Ticket Options: 🥃 VIP | $105 | 3 to 5 PM. Get early access to an exclusive on-stage lounge with appetizers, specialty pours, tarot readings, a photo booth, and everything included with general admission. 🍷 General Admission | $61.80 | 4 to 6 PM. Includes a souvenir tasting glass, tastings throughout the theatre, and self-guided ghost story tours. 👻 Designated Driver | $18.55 | 4 to 6 PM. Includes the ghost story tours and a complimentary water or soda. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit the Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society, helping support a piece of the Coronado's history. The event is sponsored by Mid-West Family Northern Illinois, with Velour Haus Photobooth providing the photobooth experience. Now the real question is, are you going for the spirits in your glass or the spirits in the theatre? 😂👻 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #SpiritsAndSpirits #CoronadoTheatre #RockfordIL #GoLocal

Rockford, IL, look out! The whole RockBuzz Network team was in town! 😂 This is from logan - (Do you think everyone will love my fancy hat?) We only get everyone together about four times a year, and this time, Rockford was the meeting spot. So naturally, we had to make a meet-the-team video, right? You see us out in the community all the time, but now you get to meet a few of the people behind RockBuzz! Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockBuzzNetwork #RockfordIL #MeetTheTeam #GoLocal

A thrift store with a mission that goes way beyond shopping. 🛍️❤️ This week's Saturday Business Highlight takes us to Carpenter's Corner Thrift Store at 2512 S. Alpine Rd. in Rockford, IL. But to understand the mission behind Carpenter's Place, we have to go back to June 2000, when Al and Cathy Barsema founded the organization. Al knew firsthand what it was like to struggle with addiction and homelessness. After spending eight years rebuilding his own life and career with the help of his family, he wanted to create a place where others could have that same opportunity. That dream became Carpenter's Place, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives. Today, its center at 1149 Railroad Avenue in Rockford offers much more than a place to get off the streets. People can access showers, laundry facilities, storage for personal belongings, classrooms, an art room, and other essential resources. The organization also provides case management and connections to services that help people work toward stability and rebuilding their lives. What started with two founders has grown into an organization serving people throughout our community. So while you're out looking for your next thrift store find, remember there's a much bigger mission behind the Carpenter's Place name. ❤️ 📍 Carpenter's Corner Thrift Store 2512 S. Alpine Rd., Rockford, IL 61108 📍 Carpenter's Place 1149 Railroad Ave., Rockford, IL Remember, it is a good day to go local. #CarpentersCorner #CarpentersPlace #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #GoLocal

Rockford Weekend Roundup | October 9th to 11th Pumpkins, trunk-or-treating, live music, fall festivals, and yes... plenty of spooky stuff. 🎃👀 October is doing exactly what October is supposed to do in Rockford. Here are a few things worth getting out of the house for this weekend. 🎃 Saturday: Memorial Baptist Church Fall Fest 🕛 12 to 3 PM 📍 7007 Flora Rd., Rockford This one is completely FREE and packed with things for the kids. There’ll be a petting zoo, mini-hayrides, bounce houses, trunk-or-treat candy booths, carnival games, pumpkin painting, face painting, a kids maze, special guest characters, a fall photo booth, and even free lunch. 🍂 Saturday: Fall on the Farm 📍 Lockwood Park, Rockford Fall on the Farm continues at Lockwood with plenty of ways to enjoy the season, including the corn maze, wagon rides, animals, pumpkins, and other fall activities. 🎃 All Weekend: Eerie Autumn Lights 🕔 5 to 9 PM 📍 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford More than 14,000 feet of Halloween lights, a giant spooky straw bale maze, Rockford’s Biggest Pumpkin, the Ghostly Market, and plenty more to explore after dark. 👻 All Weekend: Twisted Crypt Haunted House 📍 5420 E. State St., Rockford If the family-friendly Halloween stuff isn't quite scary enough for you, Twisted Crypt is back for its 13th season with 14 rooms, special effects, fog, gore, and more than 40 characters waiting inside. 🎨 Sunday: Family Fun Day at Rockford Art Museum 📍 Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., Rockford Spend part of Sunday getting creative with the family at RAM with hands-on art activities inspired by what's happening inside the museum. Basically, if you own a flannel, this is its weekend. 😂🍂 Grab the family, grab some friends, and go make a day out of something happening right here in our community. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #ThingsToDoRockford #GoLocal

Northwest Community Center has been part of Rockford since 1948, but it is doing a lot more than simply providing a building or a place to hang out. 📍 1325 N. Johnston Avenue, Rockford, IL 61101 They serve children, teens, adults, seniors, and families with programs that include after-school support, summer camp, teen leadership and mentoring, workforce development, educational opportunities, community events, and space for local organizations and partners. One of the strongest parts of their story is the person leading it today. Their Executive Director grew up in the neighborhood, attended Northwest Community Center as a kid, and later returned to lead the same organization that helped shape her. That is the kind of impact a community center can have. It can give kids a safe place to go, help teens build confidence, give adults access to career support, and create a place where families can stay connected close to home. Northwest is also looking for continued community support through volunteers, program partners, event sponsors, donated supplies, and financial contributions. Remember, it is a great day to donate. #NorthwestCommunityCenter #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #SupportLocal #DonateLocal

Día de los Muertos Returns to Nicholas Conservatory Nicholas Conservatory is getting ready to look a little different this fall. From October 23 through November 8, the Conservatory will be filled with colorful Día de los Muertos decorations, including alebrijes hidden among the plants, papel picado, community Catrinas, a community ofrenda, and plenty of calaveras placed throughout the gardens. Some will be easy to spot. Others might take a second look. The display celebrates Día de los Muertos, a tradition centered on remembering and honoring loved ones who have passed while also celebrating life, family, and memory. You can even make your own Catrina to add to the display, and guests can vote for their favorite Catrina or Catrin while visiting. Two special events are also coming this year! On Friday, November 6 from 6 to 10 PM, adults 21 and older can attend Noche de las Calaveras, with music, food vendors, a cash bar, and plenty of encouragement to show up in Catrina or Catrin attire. Then on Saturday, November 7 from 5 to 8 PM, families can come out for Nicholas at Night: Día de los Muertos, featuring music, dancing, art, activities, and more. The two nights give people a couple different ways to experience the celebration, whether you are looking for an adults-only night out or something you can bring the whole family to. One thing to note is that capacity is limited for the all-ages event, and pre-registration is encouraged. Admission prices vary depending on age, membership status, and when you register. Never experienced Día de los Muertos before, this might be a good chance to learn a little more about the tradition while seeing Nicholas Conservatory in a completely different way. Links to fee listings, registration, and information for the events are at https://nicholasconservatory.com/activities. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Fall weekends at Lockwood Park are officially back. 🍂 Fall on the Farm runs every Saturday and Sunday through November 7 from 11 AM to 5 PM, with free admission to the park. You’ll find animals, games, photo ops, the straw slide, and plenty more included, plus ticketed activities like pony rides, the goat experience, barrel train rides, pumpkin patch fun, corn maze, s’mores, and pumpkin launching. Some activities require tickets, which can be purchased at the park. If you’ve been looking for an easy fall day with the family, this one gives you plenty to do without overcomplicating it. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #LockwoodPark #FallOnTheFarm #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #GoLocalRockford

Something new is coming to RockBuzz Rockford. 👀 Every Saturday, we’re highlighting one local business and giving you a quick look at the people, places, products, and stories that make our area what it is. No long setup. No overcomplicated production. Just a short business highlight to help you discover somewhere new or learn a little more about a place you already know. So check back every Saturday to see this week’s Business Highlight. And if you know a local business that deserves a little more attention, message us or tag them in the comments so we can add them to the list. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #GoLocalRockford #SupportLocal #LocalBusiness

👻 October’s RockBuzz Poll is here! This month we want to know your 2026 Favorite Local Haunted House! 🎃 Twisted Crypt Haunted House 🎃 Hoppers Haunted House Two local haunted houses. One winner. 🏆👻 Cast your vote in the comments, and tell us which one scared you the most. 😂 Know another local haunted house that should be included? Tag them in the comments so we can check them out and add them to the conversation. We’ll count everything up at the end of October and crown your 2026 Favorite Local Haunted House! Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #HauntedHouse #RockfordHalloween #GoLocal

Rockford apparently looked at the calendar, saw October, and immediately went FULL fall. 😂🍂 Art everywhere, cider donuts, pumpkins, spooky lights, and even some paranormal Rockford history. Here are a few things happening around town October 2 through 4. 🎨 Friday & Saturday: Fall ArtScene 🕔 Friday 5 to 9 PM | Saturday 4 to 9 PM 📍 Locations throughout the Rockford area One of Rockford’s longest-running art traditions is back. ArtScene is completely free and lets you bounce between local galleries, studios, businesses, and other spaces to see work from artists throughout the region. 🍎 Saturday & Sunday: Cider n’ Cinnamon Arts & Crafts Fair 🕙 Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM | Sunday 10 AM to 4 PM 📍 Edgebrook, 1639 N. Alpine Rd., Rockford This one pretty much screams fall. Shop handmade goods while grabbing cider, cider donuts, kettle corn, cinnamon-roasted nuts, baked goods, and more. There’ll also be free live music throughout the weekend. 📄 Saturday: Super Shred Day 🕙 10 AM to 2 PM 📍 Guilford High School, 5620 Spring Creek Rd., East Parking Lot Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful and State Representative Dave Vella are hosting a free Super Shred Day. 🎃 Saturday: Pumpkin Palooza 🕙 10 AM to 2 PM 📍 Patriots Gateway Center, 615 S. 5th St., Rockford Pumpkins, a petting zoo, face painting, treats, a pumpkin carving workshop, and plenty of activities for the kids. 👻 All Weekend: Eerie Autumn Lights 🕔 5 to 9 PM 📍 Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford Klehm has officially gone spooky. Walk through more than 14,000 feet of Halloween lighting, tackle the huge spooky straw bale maze, find Rockford’s Biggest Pumpkin, and check out the Ghostly Market. 😳 Saturday: Eerie Tales of the Dead 🕖 7 PM 📍 Ethnic Heritage Museum Want something a little creepier? Haunted Rockford and local paranormal investigators will share stories of encounters connected to the Ethnic Heritage Museum and Graham-Ginestra House, followed by a tour of both museums. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #ThingsToDoRockford #GoLocal

☕🏆 Rockford, you picked your favorite! Congratulations to Meg’s Daily Grind, your 2026 Favorite Local Coffee Shop or Cafe! Thank you to everyone who voted and showed some love to our local coffee shops. And a big congratulations to Meg’s Daily Grind on taking this month’s title! Now we have an important question. 👀 What’s your go-to order at Meg’s? Remember, it is a good day to go local. #MegsDailyGrind #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #LocalCoffee #GoLocal

The IceHogs are back, and we’re pretty excited about it. 🏒 We caught up with two players to hear about their favorite IceHogs memories, what Rockford means to them, and some of the silliest things they’ve done in the locker room. Then this Saturday, October 3, the season kicks off with the IceHogs Opening Night Block Party starting at 4 PM at Elm and Main Streets outside the BMO Center. There’ll be live music in Lot 7, food, drinks, free craft beer tastings, and free samples from the Fire Department Coffee truck. You do not need a ticket to the game to attend the block party, and admission is free. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordIceHogs #RockfordIL #BMOcenter #RockfordBuzz

Missed the River District’s fall quarterly? Here’s a peek at people connecting, laughing, and sharing ideas with the folks behind downtown Rockford’s businesses. 🍂 And their next event gives you a reason to bring the kids. Spook the Blocks is Saturday, October 24, 2026, from noon to 4 PM in downtown Rockford, with trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, and kids’ activities. It’s free to attend! They get candy. You get more than five minutes downtown. Everybody wins. 😂 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordRiverDistrict #SpookTheBlocks #RockfordIL #DowntownRockford #RockfordBuzz

Fall in Rockford, IL means Edwards Apple Orchard West. 🍎🍂 Apple cider donuts, fresh cider, pumpkins, the petting farm, and that first trip of the season that makes it finally feel like fall. If Edwards West is already part of your fall tradition, you get it. And if you’ve never been, maybe this is the year. 📍 8218 Cemetery Rd., Winnebago, IL 61088 Who are you bringing with you this fall? 👀 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #EdwardsAppleOrchardWest #RockfordIL #WinnebagoIL #RockfordBuzz #GoLocal

Rockford Weekend Roundup | September 25 to 27 Bikes, German beer, live music, local art, and free tacos... Rockford packed a LOT into one Saturday. 😂 If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, September 25 through 27, here are a few worth checking out. 🚲 Saturday: Tour de North End 🕚 Starts at 11 AM 📍 Olympic Tavern, 2327 N. Main St., Rockford Ride through Rockford’s North End, stop at local businesses, collect passport stamps, catch live music, and hang out for the neighborhood block party. The group ride takes off at 1 PM. 🇩🇪 Saturday: 62nd Annual GSR Oktoberfest 🕚 11 AM to 11 PM 📍 Loves Park City Hall A full day of German food, beer, live music, dancing, stein competitions, kids activities, the tapping of the keg with Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury, and the crowning of Miss Oktoberfest 2026. 🎨 Saturday: Art in the Park...ing Lot 🕛 Noon to 5 PM 📍 Behind Inscape Midtown Collective, 201 7th St., Rockford Formerly the Midtown Strong Block Party, this free community event brings together live music, local artists and vendors, kids art and games, free produce, free children’s books, and food. Olivos Tacos will have 3 FREE tacos for the first 100 guests, plus Honey’s Lemonade will be there! ✂️ Saturday: Hispanic Heritage Button Making 🕜 1:30 to 2:30 PM 📍 Rockford Public Library, 215 N. Wyman St. Stop by the Teen Zone and create your own button celebrating Hispanic heritage, from flags to prominent people and culture. 🧶 Sunday: Crafternoons at Inscape 🕐 1 to 3 PM 📍 Inscape Midtown Collective, 201 7th St., Rockford Bring whatever you’re working on and spend the afternoon crafting alongside other local creatives. Water, coffee, and a few treats will be available, and space is limited. Honestly, Saturday might require a game plan. 😂 Pick a couple, grab somebody to go with you, and enjoy the weekend. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #ThingsToDoRockford #GoLocal

62 years of Oktoberfest, packed into ONE day in Loves Park. 🍺🇩🇪 The 62nd Annual GSR Oktoberfest takes over Loves Park City Hall this Saturday, September 26 from 11 AM to 11 PM! Expect authentic German food from Cafe 20, German beer, live music all day, German dancing, a stein holding contest, stein racing, kids activities, the tapping of the keg with Mayor Greg Jury, and the crowning of Miss Oktoberfest 2026. 🎟️ $5 pre-sale tickets, cash only. 🎟️ $10 day of the event. If you’ve never been, maybe year 62 is the year. 😂🍺 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #GSROktoberfest #LovesParkIL #RockfordBuzz #Oktoberfest #GoLocal

Is It Local, or Just Down the Street? You want to support local. But how do you know whether a business is locally owned or just happens to be five minutes from your house? Here’s a trick: Google the business name without adding “Rockford,” then zoom out on the map. Seeing five or ten locations across different cities? Check the company’s website to see whether those locations are connected and who owns them. That’s a clue, not a verdict. We’re doing a little homework, not opening a detective agency. Start with the About page. Look for the current owners, where they’re based, and how the business started. Local ownership and control are what distinguish a locally owned, independent business from one that simply has a nearby address. Still unsure? Ask, “Is this locally owned? Is it independent or part of a franchise?” You don’t need to interrogate someone while they’re making your sandwich. A friendly question works. Here’s where it gets interesting. A franchise can have a local owner while using a larger company’s name and business model. Locally owned and independent aren’t always the same thing. The larger brand may set rules about products, suppliers, and how the business runs. And don’t count a business out just because it grew. A second location or a nice website doesn’t settle the ownership question. We want our local businesses to succeed, not stay tiny to prove a point. One more thing: locally owned and locally made are different questions. Ask where a product comes from if you’re hoping to support local makers, too. The point isn’t to shame anyone over where they shop. It’s to help you know who you’re supporting and get a little closer to the people behind the places you love. Pick a favorite in Rockford, Loves Park, or Machesney Park and learn its story. Then tell us about a locally owned business more people should know in the comments. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Did you miss the Hot Bag Sale at Mrs. Fisher’s? 👀🔥 Well... now you know not to miss the next one. 😂 Make sure you’re following Mrs. Fisher’s Potato Chips so you know when the next Hot Bag Sale is happening. While we were there, we also learned more about the history of a Rockford favorite that got its start all the way back in 1932. More than 90 years later, Mrs. Fisher’s is still part of Rockford. And yes, we left with chips. Obviously. 🥔😂 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #MrsFishers #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #PotatoChips #GoLocal

We had to make another stop at The Sandwich Spot. 🥪 Right in downtown Rockford at 201 W. State Street, Linda is still serving up the kind of lunch that keeps things simple and good. Homemade soups, grilled paninis, build-your-own sandwiches, and one of the few spots around where you can build your own salad from the salad bar. Of course, grab some lunch while we were there (Chicken, Bacon, Ranch). Remember, it is a good day to go local. #TheSandwichSpot #RockfordIL #DowntownRockford #RockfordBuzz #GoLocal

📣 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: TWO FREE FAMILY EVENTS TOMORROW IN ROCKFORD! A parade on Broadway and a celebration at the Sports Factory are bringing together veterans, families, and Latin American culture. These are two separate events, with organizers working together to help both succeed. 🎉 Veterans Parade: Honoring Service & Fiestas Patrias 2026 Presented by 11th Ward Alderman Salgado, the parade travels along Broadway from Parmele to 4th Street. Expect performers, eye-catching vehicles, candy and merchandise giveaways, and even a chance to meet goats. Yes, goats made the plans too! 🎶 Fiestas Patrias at the Sports Factory Domingos En El Parque, in partnership with the Rockford Park District, brings music, food, and family fun. The Kids Zone includes bounce houses, crafts, and face painting, with a vehicle showcase outside. Enter through the main entrance or the large side door. We also asked the organizers what they want you to understand beyond the activities. What do you hope families feel? They told us inclusion, unity, curiosity, pride, and joy. Even if you don’t know anyone when you arrive, they want you to feel like family. What’s the meaning behind the different flags? Flags from across Latin America will highlight the many countries and cultures within the Latino community. The organizers described these celebrations as a way to honor their Latin American roots while sharing their pride in being American. What would you tell someone who’s never attended before? Everyone is welcome to respectfully enjoy the culture, music, and food. Their hope is that you leave talking about the fun you had and already looking forward to next year. Bring your curiosity and someone you love. There’s room for you in this celebration. ❤️ Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordIL #FiestasPatrias #DomingosEnElParque #RockfordBuzz #GoLocalRockford

Rockford Weekend Roundup | September 18 to 20 I’d lean into how packed Saturday and Sunday are this week. The parade into Domingos en el Parque gives Sunday a really nice centerpiece, and I found a few strong options around it. Parade, art, rugby, live music, and a huge Fiestas Patrias celebration. Rockford is BUSY this weekend. 👀 Here are a few things happening around town September 18 through 20. 🎨 Saturday & Sunday: 78th Greenwich Village Art Fair 📍 Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St. One of Rockford’s longest-running traditions is back with original artwork from juried artists, live music, food, drinks, and hands-on activities for kids. 🏉 Saturday: Rockford Ravens Youth Field Day 📍 Lyran Park, 4781 S. Bend Road The Rockford Ravens are inviting kids out to give rugby a try. No experience is necessary, and there’ll also be face painting, a live DJ, concessions, and free drinks. 🎻 Saturday: Rockford Symphony Orchestra, The Planets 🕢 7:30 PM 📍 Coronado Theatre, 314 N. Main St. The RSO kicks off its season with Holst’s The Planets, plus violinist Philippe Quint performing music from some familiar films. 🇲🇽 Sunday: Honoring Service Fiestas Patrias Parade 🕐 1 PM 📍 Broadway, beginning at Parmele Street Sunday starts with a parade down Broadway celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month while honoring local veterans and the late 11th Ward Alderman Tuffy Quinonez. Expect dance groups, businesses, clubs, teams, and plenty of color along the route. 🎶 Sunday: Domingos en el Parque presents Fiestas Patrias 🕑 2 PM to 8 PM 📍 UW Health Sports Factory, 305 S. Madison St. After the parade, the celebration keeps going with free admission, live music, folkloric dance, food, vendors, family fun, and more. The flyer lists performances from Banda Los Torridos and Evidente, along with several local dance groups. This is one of those weekends where you could leave the house Saturday morning and somehow not make it back until Sunday night. 😂 Get out there, support something local, and enjoy Rockford. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #ThingsToDoRockford #GoLocal

Rockford, are you ready to walk through a haunted house with the lights OFF? 😳 Twisted Crypt Haunted House is back for its 13th year at 5420 E. State Street, and they’re kicking things off Friday, September 18 with Twisted Darkness for ONE NIGHT ONLY. Every light inside the haunted house will be turned off. Your entire group gets one glowstick while Twisted Crypt’s “Family” roams through the darkness. Good luck with that. 😂 Then on Saturday, September 19, the regular 2026 season officially begins with 14 different rooms, more than 40 characters, special effects, fog, strobe lights, strong smells, and plenty of gore. Twisted Crypt has also earned some serious recognition over the years, including multiple Top Ten Illinois Haunted House honors from HauntedIllinois.com. 🎟️ Tickets are available now at TwistedCrypt.com. Who are you trusting to hold the ONE glowstick? Tag them. 👀 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #TwistedCrypt #RockfordIL #HauntedHouse #Halloween

Free Electronics Drive Coming To Rockford This Saturday If you have an old TV sitting in the basement, a printer you have been ignoring, or a drawer full of computer parts that feels one bad day away from becoming a science project, this is your sign. Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, in partnership with Winnebago County and UIC Retzky College of Pharmacy, is holding a free Electronics Drive this Saturday, September 19, from 9 AM to noon. The event will take place at the UIC University of Illinois College of Pharmacy parking lot, located at 1601 Parkview Avenue in Rockford. And yes, this is one of those events that makes cleaning out the house feel a little less painful. Accepted items include TVs, computers, keyboards, mice, printers, servers, video game consoles, and more. So if you have old electronics taking up space, this is a good chance to get rid of them the right way instead of letting them collect dust forever. There are a few important things to know before you go. They will not accept trucks, trailers, or business electronics. This event is meant for community drop offs, so plan accordingly. Also, once the 53 foot truck is full, the event is done. So if you are planning to stop by, going early is probably the smart move. Another big note. KNIB’s recycle centers will be closed this Saturday because of this event. Events like this matter because recycling electronics the right way helps keep items out of landfills and gives people an easier option to clear out things they no longer use. It is simple, helpful, and good for the community. For more information, visit knib.org. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Rockford has had its own rugby club since 1976. 🏉 The Rockford Ravens Rugby Club has been part of our community for 50 years, and on September 19, they’re inviting everyone out to Lyran Park for their Youth Field Day! 10am-12pm. No rugby experience is needed. Just come out, give it a try, and enjoy face painting, a live DJ, concessions, and free drinks for everyone. 📍 4781 S Bend Road, Rockford, IL 61109 Maybe Rockford’s next rugby player finds the sport that day. 👀 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordRavens #RockfordIL #RockfordRugby #RockfordBuzz #GoLocal

Rockford Feels Different Than It Did 10 Years Ago Did you notice Rockford does not feel quite the same as it did 10 years ago? And no, before someone starts yelling in the comments, nobody is saying everything is fixed. We still have work to do. Roads still need love. Some neighborhoods still need more attention. There are still problems we cannot just positive-vibe our way out of. But come on, you can feel the change. Downtown has more life than it used to. People are going out to eat, walking around for events, heading to City Market, catching shows, visiting shops, and spending time in places that used to feel a little too quiet. You have the Embassy Suites, the riverfront, the Sports Factory, new restaurants, new apartments, and more people actually choosing to hang out in Rockford instead of acting like the only plan is leaving town. It is not just the big projects either. Some of the best changes have been smaller. Coffee shops opening, local businesses taking chances, nonprofits getting more attention, artists finding places to create, events bringing people together, and families showing up for things again. That is the stuff that makes a city feel alive. Rockford still has its issues. Nobody who lives here is confused about that. But it also has people who keep building anyway. People who open the doors every morning. People who start the nonprofit. People who clean up the space. People who host the event. People who say, “Maybe this can be better,” and then actually do something about it. That is what has changed. It feels like more people are done waiting for someone else to fix everything. So no, Rockford is not perfect. But we're moving. And that is worth noticing. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

Ever wonder what’s actually happening behind the counter at Mary’s Market? 👀 We got a little behind-the-scenes look at Mary’s Market here in Rockford to see how some of their food is made, meet the people making it, and learn a little more about what goes into everything before it reaches your table. Turns out there’s a lot happening back there. 😂 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #MarysMarket #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #RockfordFood #GoLocal

For some people, baking is a hobby. For Sweet Noah Bakery, it’s a love language. 🥰🍰 Behind it is a mom and her little warrior, Noah, who lives with severe HIE, cerebral palsy, visual impairment, and epilepsy. Now she’s taking something she loves and turning it into Sweet Noah Bakery, a home cottage bakery coming in 2026. We got to hear a little more about Noah, her love for baking, and what she hopes to build. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #SweetNoahBakery #RockfordIL #RockfordBuzz #LocalBakery #GoLocal

We asked for your favorite local tattoo shop last month. You voted, and A To Z Tattoo took the W! 🏆 Thank you to everyone who voted and showed some love to Rockford’s tattoo community. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #AToZTattoo #RockfordIL #TattooShop #SupportLocal

Beer festival. Mexican Independence celebration. Fall on the farm. And a whole lot of rocks. 👀 Yeah, Rockford has a little bit of everything going on this weekend. Here are a few things worth getting out of the house for September 11 through 13. 🍺 Saturday: Screw City Beer Festival 12 PM to 4 PM River Front Lot at Riverview Ice House, 200 N. Water St., Rockford The 16th annual festival brings around 30 breweries together along the Rock River with local food and plenty to try. This one is 21+. 💎 Saturday: Rock River Valley Gem & Mineral Society Annual Show 9:30 AM to 3 PM 1665 Elmwood Rd., Rockford Rocks, minerals, fossils, jewelry and activities for the kids. Admission and parking are both free. 🍂 Saturday & Sunday: Fall on the Farm at Lockwood Park Lockwood Park, Rockford Fall on the Farm is back for the season, giving families another excuse to get outside and enjoy the farm as we start getting into fall. 🇲🇽 Sunday: Fiestas Patrias of Greater Illinois 1 PM to 10 PM Marinelli Field, 126 15th Ave., Rockford Celebrate Mexican Independence and local culture with live entertainment, food, vendors, art and a full day of bringing the community together. The event is free and family friendly. There’s a little something for everybody this weekend. Grab somebody and go make a day out of it. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordEvents #ThingsToDoRockford #GoLocal

Two cops. Three crooks. Eight doors. What could possibly go wrong? 😂 If you don’t have plans, well, here you go! Unnecessary Farce by Paul Slade Smith hits the AET stage September 10 through 27, and things get confusing fast. Undercover cops, a mysterious Scottish hitman, someone named “Big Mac,” and a whole lot of chaos. We definitely needed a good laugh when we recorded this video, and this show delivered. 😂 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #UnnecessaryFarce #RockfordTheatre #GoLocal #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #UnnecessaryFarce #RockfordTheatre #GoLocal

What Happens When A Child Finally Sees Themselves In A Story? Most of us remember the books we grew up reading. The heroes, villains, princes and princesses. But have you ever considered what it feels like when none of those stories resemble you? That question is what led Antonia Royal-Whitmore to create Publack Library Publishing, an independent publishing company dedicated to creating books that better reflect Black culture and experiences. "We believe when people see themselves in books, it not only creates the habit of reading, but it improves readers' self-esteem, self-image, and community participation," she told us. For Antonia, the idea started years ago in middle school. While she enjoyed reading, she noticed the lead characters rarely looked like her. And when they did, the stories often centered around trauma instead of everyday life. She wanted children to have something different. Something they could relate to. Something that reminded them they belonged. That mission continues today. Publack Library Publishing creates books for children and adults while also helping more Black authors bring their stories to life in an industry where they remain underrepresented. One book in particular, Before You Go to Heaven, has left a lasting impact. Written as a tribute to loved ones who have passed, Antonia said the book has led to countless conversations with readers who shared stories, memories, and even tears while reflecting on the people they miss most. When asked what supporting Publack Library Publishing really means, her answer was simple. "You are supporting the future of children within our community." Sometimes a book is more than a story. Sometimes it helps someone see themselves for the very first time. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

If you live in Rockford, there’s a good chance you’ve heard their music. 🎻 For 92 years, the Rockford Symphony Orchestra has been making music and memories in our community. But what makes RSO special to the people actually making that music? We asked some of them, and it’s probably no surprise that the number one answer was the time spent together. Making music, building friendships, and being part of the Rockford community. Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordSymphony #RSO #GoLocal #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #RockfordSymphony #RSO #GoLocal

Happy Labor Day, Rockford. 🇺🇸 Today is a good day to slow down a little. Spend time with family, fire up the grill, sit outside, or just enjoy having nowhere you need to be for a while. But we also want to say thank you. To the small business owners who open the doors every morning. The people working long shifts. The teachers, first responders, tradespeople, healthcare workers, restaurant crews, factory workers, and everyone else who keeps our community moving. And especially to the people doing the work that rarely gets noticed or thanked. Rockford is built by people who show up every day and put in the work. We're grateful we get to meet so many of you and share a little bit of what you do. Enjoy the day. You've earned it. Remember, it is a good day to go local.

☕ September’s RockBuzz Poll is here! This month, we want to know your Favorite Local Coffee Shop or Cafe! ☕ Wired Cafe ☕ Rockford Roasting Company ☕ Mary’s Market ☕ Meg’s Daily Grind ☕ Almoká Coffee House Cast your vote! If your favorite isn’t on the list, tell us who we missed in the comments. 👇 We’ll count up the votes at the end of the month and crown your 2026 Favorite Local Coffee Shop or Cafe! 🏆 Remember, it is a good day to go local. #RockfordBuzz #RockfordIL #LocalCoffee #CoffeeShop #SupportLocal