What a wonderful weekend to kick off the holiday season! I love the lighting up of holiday lights all around coloring the cold nights with special sparkle. This weekend, we made a road trip to Rockford, IL to launch our holiday season with the revelry during Stroll on State!
Stroll on State is a yearly street party bringing holiday merriment to State Street and adjacent avenues. The festival is easily one of the largest holiday fests we have been to and immediate charms guests with holiday cheer. We arrived shortly after 3PM, so we canvassed the fest a bit in the light. Our first stop was the city hall which was transformed into a warm nook for holiday story times and a space for kids activities. The tree was quite a delight and worth a stop as well!
Our next stop was the Hot Chocolate Express which has to be one of the cutest set ups for hot chocolate I have ever seen! Not only was this the place for a chocolaty warm up but movies were also projected on the wall a bit later in the evening.
Activities were positioned on both sides of the Rock River. We benefited from a pleasant evening and enjoyed absorbing views of the river both with the waning sun and with the glow of lights later on.
Positioned in a central location, the main stage lifted spirits with rotating entertainment.
Horse and wagon rides, ice skating, Santa visits, local food vendors, s'mores, fireworks, ice carving, a parade, live reindeer and more really ignite the holiday spirit in revelers of all ages.
Of course, the best part of Stroll on State is the glow of holiday lights! We loved a walk along the river marveling in the holiday trees set against the water. Very beautiful from either side!
Lights are truly my favorite part of the holiday season! Before we left, we took in the ice on fire display. Stunning and a striking way to launch into the season!
Stroll on State encompasses so many holiday favorites easily making it a treasured yearly event for families. Holiday cheer, brilliant lights and the jubilant atmosphere will definitely have us returning!
Tips:
- Dress for the weather.
- There is a restroom in the City Hall and port-a-potties around.
- Hot chocolate is a must as a treat and to keep warm!
- Check the schedule that is posted throughout.
- Arrive early if you wish to park close. Otherwise, take advantage of the many shuttle stops provided.
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