Stroll on State returns to Rockford in 2025 with new holiday magic and fun

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Downtown Rockford will once again transform into a winter wonderland as Stroll on State, the city’s signature holiday celebration, returns on Saturday, November 29.

The free event is expected to draw more than 80,000 visitors in 2025.

“Every year, our community shows up to make it magical,” said Kristen Paul, executive vice president of GoRockford. “2025 is going to be our brightest yet.”

The day kicks off with the Dasher Dash 5K at noon, followed by the Merry & Bright Holiday Parade at 2 p.m., which will feature a secret Rockford-themed balloon sponsored by Hard Rock Casino Rockford. The parade route winds through Main Street and across the State Street Bridge, ending at 3rd Street.

At 6 p.m., the City of Rockford Tree Lighting Ceremony will illuminate the downtown skyline, followed by a drone show and fireworks finale at 8:30 p.m., launched from the Jefferson Street Bridge.

New this year is a Sensory Santa experience at the Rockford Public Library, designed for families who benefit from quieter environments. Additional attractions include horse and wagon rides, s’mores stations, outdoor movie screenings, and live musical performances across two stages.

More than 70 sponsors and hundreds of volunteers are behind the scenes, transforming downtown into a festive spectacle.

“We’re all doing it for the same reason,” said Morgan Dolphin, a longtime volunteer. “It’s all for the joy of it.”

Major sponsors include IBEW Local 364 & NECA, OSF HealthCare, UW Health, and Pierce Distribution, among others. Local businesses will also participate in Small Business Saturday, with pop-up shops and holiday markets encouraging visitors to shop local.

Mayor Tom McNamara praised the event’s impact, saying, “Stroll on State brings visitors downtown, supports our local businesses, and fills Rockford with a joyful, welcoming spirit.”