By Chelsea Meyer
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — If you’re a Rockfordian, you know Friday nights in the summer are reserved for shopping, grabbing a bite to eat, and spending time with friends underneath the Rockford City Market Pavilion.
This year, the official last day of Rockford City Market was Sept. 24 — or so we thought.
Last year, City Market held pop-up markets throughout the winter season. Now they have decided to host weekly markets, just in time for the holidays.
The difference is markets this year will be hosted inside at 116 N. Madison St. in downtown, rather than outside in the freezing Midwest weather.
Related: Rockford City Markets rebound in 2021 season
Shoppers will have plenty of options and opportunities to shop local for their holiday gifts this year. Just like Rockford City Market in the summer, these winter and holiday markets will be free for all ages to attend.
Starting this Friday, from 4-8 p.m., Rockford City Market Winter Markets will be held the first Friday of each month through April and will include lots of local goods such as apparel, baked goods, jewelry, soap, vintage items and more.
The winter markets will also have live music. This Friday, enjoy acoustic sounds from The Shoes from 5-7:30 p.m.
Holiday-themed markets
There will also be three other holiday-themed markets in the Rockford City Market building this year including:
- During Stroll on State, on Nov. 27, stop into the market and explore three floors of local vendors selling honey, candles, soap, vintage goods, jewelry, decor and more. Shop around while enjoying a holiday cocktail, live music, and food and beverages from shops like Guzel, Crust & Crumbles, Velvet Robot and Quixotic Bakery.
Related: 9 things to know for Stroll on State’s ninth year
- Get your friends together for the Holiday Vintage Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, and check out three floors of vintage apparel, decor and more.
- The final Holiday Market will be held Saturday, Dec. 18 from 10 a.m. to 2 pm. Grab some coffee from Velvet Robot and some brunch and grab those last-minute Christmas gifts at this holiday-themed market with two floors of local vendors and live music.