10 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays Rockford-Style

Someone cue up "Deck the Halls" because this holiday season I'm in the mood to do it up right. No matter how broke we might be, how bitterly cold it might get or how much snow is on the ground, we all owe it to ourselves a mass amount of cheer this year.

Take a look at these ten things happening in and around Rockford now through the end of the year that should definitely make yours and your family's spirits bright.

Stroll on State

Kick of the holidays with Stroll on State this Saturday, November 26th. Visit with Santa, sip on hot chocolate, indulge in gooey s'mores, shop, watch the Christmas tree being lit up and don't miss the fireworks.

See a play

Support your local theater companies and make it a new tradition to see a play. The Gateway Performing Arts Studio is putting together a production of the popular film, Footloose. The show runs December 1st - 4th; get tickets here.

Take a romantic stroll by the Rock River

Kiss and snuggle as you walk along a beautifully illuminated path filled with colorful lights and the sounds of Christmas music.

Take a Christmas Walk

Fun for the entire family.  The Rockton Christmas walk takes place December 2nd - 4th with a candy cane craft fair, lighted parade, and the lighting of the park. For more details visit their Facebook page.

Visit Santa at CherryVale Mall

Festival of Lights

Beginning November 25th through Christmas you can take your family through Sinnissippi Park for the "Festival of Lights." Viewing hours are 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

All Aglow

Celebrate the holidays at Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens with All Aglow. There's sparkling holiday lights in and outside of the gardens and beautiful floral displays inside. The holiday display begins November 26th. Get more details here.

Sugar Plum Tea Party

Here's something different. The Rockford Dance Company is holding a Sugar Plum Tea Party but it's this Saturday, November 19th so you need to get your tickets now. Purchase tickets here.  According to Facebook, you'll "Meet the Sugar Plum Fairy, Create Crafts, Eat Sweets, watch nutcracker dress rehearsal and Dance. It is going to be a magical experience for children and adults."

Pick out a Tree at Williams Tree Farm

Make it a tradition to take the family to Williams Tree Farm and pick out the most perfect tree.

Night at the North Pole

Night at the North Pole returns Saturday, December 3.  Join 97ZOK at the Hilton Garden Inn for a fun evening including games, food, fun, a pool party, photos with Santa, and movie in PJs. The event sold out last year so make sure you get your tickets now. Get your tickets below.