The weekend brings Ice Hogs games and a pancake breakfast, along with comedy shows, fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Rockford Ice Hogs vs. Chicago Wolves
What: The Rockford IceHogs take on the Chicago Wolves on a $2 beer or soft drink night. The arena will be transformed into a celebration of iconic British music and culture. From The Beatles to Queen, expect themed entertainment, music and surprises throughout the night.
When: 7 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: Tickets start at $22
Paraiso Comedy Salute to Veterans
What: Marcos hosts live stand-up comedy starring Mitch (Army), Anthony Hernandez (Marines) and Joe Oday (Navy).
When: 8 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: El Paraiso Lumbre Y Mar Restaurant, 515 N. Second St., Loves Park
Cost: No cover charge
Kings of Debauchery
What: Get ready for a whole night of David Lee Roth era Van Halen in this tribute-themed performance.
When: 9 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: District Bar & Grill, 205 W. State St., Rockford,
Cost: $10
Lucha Cantina Comedy Night
What: Host Michael Palmenderi is a Rockford native. Guest Feature Keaton Ford is a Chicago-based comedian. His comedy blends self-deprecation with dark takes on generational differences, social absurdities and whatever crisis he’s currently navigating. The main feature, Max Sorich, is a comic based out of Chicago. He’s been featured at Skankfest and was the 2024 Chicago Roast Battle Champion. He draws most of his material from the long list of poor decisions he’s made. The headliner, Josh Ocean Thomas, is a Tunisian-American stand-up comedian known for his energetic stage presence, quick wit and larger-than-life physicality.
When: 7 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: Lucha Cantina, 1641 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: $10 cover charge
Karaoke
What: DJ Chris Mather from Stix Productions hosts karaoke on Fridays. Everyone is welcome. Enjoy delicious food and drink specials, including gluten-free and vegan options. Bring friends and show off your singing skills.
When: 6:30-10:30 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: Victory Pickleball Pub, 7003 N. Alpine Road, Loves Park
Cost: Free admission
Wine Tasting
What: Join Shelter Care for a “friend-raiser.” Sample more than 20 varieties of wine. Ticket proceeds support Shelter Care programs. Buy tickets at the door.
When: 5:30-8 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: Artale & Co., 6876 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: $20
Family Garden Hikes
What: Join Nicholas Conservatory program staff each month on a guided hike to discover the plants, animals, and insects that call the gardens home. The 45-minute hikes are held the second Friday of the month year-round, and start by the outdoor restrooms. Programs take place rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Registration is required. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver.
When: 10 a.m. Jan. 9
Where: Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens, 1354 N. Second St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Frosty Fridays Public Skate
What: Frosty Fridays discounted indoor public ice skating sessions are scheduled every Friday from Oct. 3 through May 1. Admission fee includes skate rental; no discount coupons are accepted. The events also feature music by a DJ and concession food specials for purchase.
When: 7-9 p.m. Jan. 9
Where: Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Rockford
Cost: $10
Robin’ Banks Reunion Show
What: Don’t miss the return of the iconic Rockford band Robin’ Banks.
When: 8 p.m. Jan. 10
Where: Mary’s Place, 602 N. Madison St., Rockford
The Bells of St. Mary’s Epiphany Concert
What: This Epiphany concert features the Children’s Choir of St. Mary’s, whose voices – the “bells” – will ring out in celebration of the season. The children will be joined by the adult choir and other guest musicians. Your support will help restore the steeple, which has inspired generations. There will be a reception after the concert.
When: 6 p.m. Jan. 10
Where: St. Mary Oratory, 517 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: $25-$100
Rockford Ice Hogs vs. Manitoba Moose
What: The Rockford IceHogs take on the Manitoba Moose. Join your favorite heroes and villains from a galaxy far, far away for Star Wars Night. Fans can enjoy out-of-this-world entertainment, character appearances and special photo opportunities throughout the arena. Costumes are encouraged.
When: 7 p.m. Jan. 10
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: Tickets start at $22
Hope & Anchor Comedy Night
What: Host Mark Krikorian is a Chicago-based stand-up comedian known for sharp observations, self-aware humor and confident, relatable storytelling. Guest feature, Zoe Dodson, has a style that is goofy (and surprisingly dark) and has performed at numerous venues around Chicago. The main feature, Brando Harris, is a Chicago-based comedian and producer known for rapid-fire punchlines, chaotic storytelling and his effortlessly likable presence. Headliner, AJ Leidig, is a Chicago-based stand-up comedian. AJ started making videos online during college and quickly developed a following of more than 100,000 on various social media apps.
When: 8 p.m. Jan. 10
Where: Hope & Anchor English Pub, 5040 N. Second St., Loves Park
Cost: $10 cover charge
Dirty Fishnet Stockings
What: DFS will be playing three hours of Rockabilly tunes inside Splitters’ bar.
When: 8-11 p.m. Jan. 10
Where: Splitters, 5318 N. Second St., Loves Park
Cost: No cover charge
Firefighters Association Pancake Breakfast
What: The NBFD#3 Firefighters Association will be serving pancakes, eggs made to order, whole hog sausage, toast, milk, coffee and apple sauce.
When: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m. Jan. 11
Where: North Boone Fire Dept., Poplar Grove
Cost: Donations
Coming next week
Tuesday Night Music Club: Mossy Vaughn
What: Mossy Vaughn (The Heavils, Lizard Skynard, Name the Moon) writes sad songs about depression, vampires, Satan, sunsets, the moon and stars, and life and death. Born and raised in Rockford, Mossy eventually stopped trying to please anyone. These days, he just writes what he feels. He says his songs are little gifts of light and hope for anyone who’s really listening and hopes they find a small connection.
When: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13
Where: The Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission; suggested donation $10 for the musician
Rockford Ice Hogs vs. Manitoba Moose
What: The Rockford IceHogs face off against the Manitoba Moose. Enjoy $2 tacos while watching all the on-ice action.
When: 7 p.m. Jan. 13
Where: BMO Center, 300 Elm St., Rockford
Cost: Tickets start at $22
Guided Bird Hike
What: Enjoy a guided bird walk with wildlife biologist Liz, who will discuss bird identification, helpful birding technology and nature journaling while the group searches for winter residents. This hike is aimed at beginner birders. Please bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Plan to hike two-three miles on mixed terrain (paved, grass, some incline/decline).
When: 8:30 a.m. Jan. 14
Where: Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Third Thursday Swing Dance
What: A beginner swing lesson is offered from 7-8 p.m. No partner is required. Social dancing is from 8-10 p.m. All ages are welcome. Learn the Shim Sham line dance from 8:45-9 p.m. in the main lobby.
When: 7-10 p.m. Jan. 14
Where: Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, 2001 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: $5 admission
Fireside Music Series
What: Gather with friends, relax by the fire and savor the warmth of live music performed by local and Rockford Symphony Orchestra musicians. Meg’s Daily Grind offers light lunches, coffees, teas and pastries for purchase daily. The series is from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays for eight weeks, starting Jan. 14. Nanette Felix, RSO principal harpist performs Jan. 14 and Joel Ross, RSO principal keyboardist performs Jan. 15
When: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Jan. 14 and Jan. 15
Where: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: From comedy nights to karaoke, 14 things to do in the Rockford area
Reporting by Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star / Rockford Register Star
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