rockford-chamber-of-commerce

Start of Summer Celebration 2026

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:06:40 GMT

57th Annual Start of Summer Celebration in Rockford

Sun’s out, fun’s out! It is time to kick off the best season of the year in the heart of West Michigan. Get ready for the 57th Annual Start of Summer Celebration in beautiful downtown Rockford!

From June 4–7, 2026, our charming riverside town transforms into a high-energy festival hub where memories are made and summer officially begins. Whether you're a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, there is an electric energy in the air that you simply can't miss.

✨ The Highlights You Love:

The Parade: Grab a spot on the curb and cheer as the streets come alive with music, floats, and community spirit!
Sky-High Fireworks: Watch the night sky explode into a breathtaking symphony of color.
The Carnival: Feel the rush of the rides and the thrill of the midway—fun for the little ones and the young at heart!
Foodie Heaven: From classic elephant ears and corn dogs to local gourmet treats, come hungry and leave happy.
Artisan Village: Discover unique treasures from talented crafters and local vendors lining the streets.
Live Entertainment: Dance the night away with live music and performances that will keep the vibes high all weekend long.

�� Fun for the Whole Family

We’ve got a dedicated lineup of children’s activities to keep the kiddos smiling, plus plenty of space to explore the scenic White Pine Trail and the iconic Rockford Dam.

"There’s no better way to welcome the sunshine than with 50,000 of your closest friends in the most picturesque town in Michigan!" says Executive Director, Megan Randall.

Pack your sunglasses, bring your lawn chairs, and invite your favorite people. We can't wait to celebrate the 57th year of this incredible tradition with you!

Crafter and Food Vendor spaces are FULL for 2026!

Sponsorship coming soon!

Rockford Chamber Scholarship 2026

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 21:18:09 GMT

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Offers Scholarships to 2025/2026 Graduates!

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the continuation of its annual scholarship program, now with an expanded focus to include students pursuing careers in trades and vocational programs as well as academics.

Funded by the proceeds of the annual RCC Scholarship Golf Outing held each July, these scholarships aim to support the educational aspirations of graduating seniors in the Rockford community. When this program started, RCC was able to award 1 scholarship for $500. We are proud to award 6 scholarships valued at $1,500 each in 2026, the same as what was awarded in 2025.

In 2021, the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Foundation was established to further enhance this vital program.

The scholarship program will provide greater access to financial assistance for a wide range of students, helping them achieve their educational and career goals.

Graduating seniors are encouraged to review the scholarship information on our website https://www.rockfordmichamber.com/scholarships for the appropriate application based on their career path. Deadline for submission is March 31, 2026. For questions or more information, please contact the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Rockford's 21st Annual Community EXPO Slated for March 7th

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 19:26:01 GMT

Local Businesses, Giveaways, Connection & More!

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the 21st Annual Community EXPO held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Rockford High School. This EXPO is one of the largest Community EXPO's in West Michigan featuring over 120 local business booths.

The Community EXPO brings community and local businesses together to make connections and build clientele. Each year this event brings thousands of community members and gives businesses an opportunity to showcase everything they have to offer.

Chamber members are able to reserve a booth for $150 while non-Chamber members pay $300. There are also some great sponsorship opportunities for those businesses who are looking for additional exposure. Chamber members are welcome to apply at any time. Non-Chamber members are welcome to apply after February 1, 2026.

EXPO will also have giveaways for Rockford Cash and prizes, a travel giveaway sponsored by Antor Travel, and appearances from local mascots.

Thank you EXPO Sponsors!

Business of Distinction Nominees 2025

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 19:10:15 GMT

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Announces Nominees for 2025 Business of Distinction Awards

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Business of Distinction Awards. These awards celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit, professional excellence, and community commitment of the businesses that make Rockford a thriving place to live and work.

Winners will be revealed during the Chamber’s Annual Meeting of the Membership, held on January 30, 2026, at BattleGR. This year’s event promises an evening of celebration and reflection, featuring a festive Mardi Gras theme.

2026 Award Nominees

The Chamber is pleased to recognize the following businesses and individuals for their outstanding contributions over the past year:

New Business of the Year Nominees Recognizing emerging businesses that have shown exceptional growth and community engagement in their first years of operation.

Andrew Pawlowski – Bellabay Realty
Hotel Rose
Prime Focus Real Estate Photography

Business of the Year Nominees Recognizing established organizations that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a long-standing commitment to the Rockford area.

ChoiceOne Bank
Kellermeier Plumbing
Seger Tax & Accounting
Young Insurance

A Night of Celebration

The Annual Meeting is the Rockford Chamber’s premier event of the year. In addition to the awards ceremony, the evening will include:

Networking: Connect with fellow business leaders and community influencers.
Dinner: Enjoy a meal and cash bar while taking in the event
State of the Chamber: A presentation highlighting the milestones and successes of the past year.

“Our local businesses are the heartbeat of Rockford,” said Megan Dean, Executive Director of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “The Business of Distinction Awards allow us to pause and honor the hard work, resilience, and passion these nominees bring to our community every day.”

Event Details & Registration

Date: January 30, 2026

Location: BattleGR

Theme: Mardi Gras

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now at the link below.

State of the Community Luncheon 2025

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:57:42 GMT

Rockford Chamber of Commerce hosts Annual State of the Community Luncheon

Each year the Chamber hosts the State of the Community Luncheon to bring community updates from representatives in the area to our business leaders. This year, we will have presentations from the Rockford area townships, schools, and Chamber.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Justin Goushaw, Vice President of Rockford Chamber

Justin Goushaw Agency - Farm Bureau Insurance

Algoma Township

Kevin Green, Supervisor

City of Rockford

Courtland Township

Rachel Crowther, Trustee

Rockford Public Schools

Dr. Steven Matthews, Superintendent

Discover a Rockford Christmas

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:46:20 GMT

Discover the Magic of Christmas is Downtown Rockford!

The Holiday season in Downtown Rockford is one that you don't want to miss! From the twinkling lights that are flipped on at the Lighting Ceremony to the unique thoughtful gift you found in a boutique, there's nothing quite like Rockford to celebrate the Christmas season.

Join us for a line up of seasonal activities to help you bring the spirit to the holiday season! Click on the hyperlinks on each event to find more details:

❄️ November 13-15: The Holiday Walk in downtown Rockford

❄️ November 21: Holiday Lighting Ceremony

❄️ November 22: Rockford Farm Market - Holiday Market

❄️ December 1: Painting with Santa - hosted by Accidental Art

❄️ December 6: Santa Parade

❄️ December 10 & 17 : Santa Visits at the Pavilion

❄️ December 13 & 14: Christmas Character Brunch

* Session 1 : December 13 (10am-11:30am)

* Session 2: December 13 (12pm-1:30pm)

* Session 3: December 14 (10am-11:30am)

* Session 4: December 14 (12pm-1:30pm)

❄️ December 19: Live Nativity (TBD)

❄️ December 20: Christmas Bar Crawl

Make sure to follow the Chamber on Facebook for more updates and details!

Trunk or Treat 2025

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:33:28 GMT

Spooky Vibes & Sweet Treats! It's time for Rockford's Trunk or Treat!

Join us for Trunk or Treat in downtown Rockford! NEW LOCATION this year at Ram Stadium just a 5 minute walk from Downtown Rockford!

Local businesses will be set up in the Ram Stadium/Parkside parking lot to hand out candy. There will be balloon animals and photo ops while you wait to enter!

Free for all to attend! Costume contest, live music, entertainment, and more! We hope to see you there!

Follow along on Facebook for more updates!

Harvest Fest 2025

membership@rockfordmichamber.com (Megan Randall) — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 17:33:32 GMT

Harvest Fest Celebrates Beginning of Fall in Downtown Rockford

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is excited to once again host the Annual Harvest Fest in downtown Rockford September 26-28, 2025! This year will showcase many local non-profits and organizations to bring tons of family-fun to Rockford!

Here is a list of some of the fun activities you can find in Rockford that weekend:

Classic Car Show benefitting K9 Camo Companions - More Info
Chili Cook Off
Lions Beer Tent
Rotary Chicken Dinners
Make-It N' Take-It Scarecrows
Grandma's Attic Sale benefitting Rockford Area Museum
Antique Tractor Show & Parade
Crafters
Hayrides
Live entertainment & MORE

Start of Summer Artwork Contest 2025

membership@rockfordmichamber.com (Megan Randall) — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 18:22:15 GMT

Rockford Chamber and Rockford High School Art Students Unite for Start of Summer Celebration Artwork Contest

Rockford, MI – April 3, 2025 – The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce a vibrant collaboration with the talented art students of Rockford High School, resulting in a stunning collection of artwork for this year’s Start of Summer Celebration. This unique partnership aims to foster community spirit and showcase the incredible talent within Rockford’s educational system, with the goal of establishing this project as an annual tradition.

Four exceptional pieces of art, each capturing the essence of summer in Rockford, have been created by the high school students. These artworks are now available for public viewing and voting, allowing the community to directly participate in selecting the official artwork for the 2025 Start of Summer Celebration posters.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with Rockford High School’s art department,” said Megan Dean, Executive Director of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. “This collaboration not only brings fresh, creative energy to our annual celebration but also provides a platform for our young artists to shine. The talent displayed by these students is truly remarkable, and we are proud to showcase their work.”

The project has been a collaborative effort, involving close coordination between the Rockford Chamber, Rockford High School art students, and dedicated Rockford Public Schools (RPS) staff. This partnership has provided students with real-world experience, allowing them to understand the process of creating artwork for a public event and the importance of community engagement.

Community Voting Details:

Members of the Rockford community are invited to view the four submitted artworks below and read about each submission.
Voting will be open from April 3, 2025 until April 30, 2025
Votes can be cast at the link below. One vote per email address.
The artwork with the most votes will be featured on the official 2025 Start of Summer Celebration posters.

“We encourage everyone in Rockford to participate in this exciting process,” added Dean. “Your vote will directly impact the visual representation of our beloved Start of Summer Celebration this year. This is a wonderful opportunity to support our local artists and be a part of creating a lasting tradition.”

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce and Rockford High School look forward to celebrating the artistic talents of the community and continuing this partnership for years to come.

1. Sparking Evening

Artist: Sophia Mendham

Junior

Digital Painting

I wanted to capture the ephemeral and nostalgic feeling of buzzing summer nights at the Start of Summer festival. The indescribable experience of feeling closer to your friends, family, and community as a whole has and always will assist in tying Rockford closer together. I specifically wanted to capture how the Start of Summer festival feels in the moment when dusk is just settling in and everything feels bright and hopeful.

2. As Though It Were a Dream

Artist: Esther Mol

Senior

Digital Painting

The kids are in their own world and you’re just peeking into it, nothing else matters and it’s just them, capturing childhood innocence and the sibling bond because youth is very fleeting, like a dream. I actually drew my niece and nephew, remembering taking them to the start of summer festival and seeing them run around, the sister hand in hand with her best friend as they explore the attractions. I wanted to express the dream-like atmosphere of not having a care in the world.

3. Turning the Corner

Artist: Alexander Roberts

Junior

Watercolor

4. Marching Into Summer

Artist: Malerie Zupin

Senior

Acrylic Painting

During my time at Rockford High School I was lucky enough to be a part of the school’s marching band. The marching band has had a huge impact on my life and has provided me with many creative opportunities. Not only that but I have accrued thousands of happy memories with my fellow bandmates, among those being marching in the Start of Summer Parade! Being a part of the community in this way was such a positive experience, seeing my family, friends, and even strangers sing along to our fight song as we marched through downtown.

Rockford Business Leadership Series 2025

membership@rockfordmichamber.com (Megan Randall) — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 17:02:17 GMT

Rockford Chamber Expands Benefits to Include Leadership Series in 2025

Whether your business is brand new, or an established entity, this series will provide you the opportunity to gain a fresh perspective and strategic plan to grow.

If you are committed to building a better business, this series is for you!

Increase profit
Determine your niche market and dominate it
Clarify your immediate and long-term goals
Inspire your team to align with the company vision
Develop a comprehensive plan to guide your growth
Avoid burnout, reduce stress, and find excitement in your business again
Become part of a strong leadership roundtable that you can lean on

This is a hands-on, action oriented process during which you will develop your strategic plan and grow your business.

The five-session seminar focuses on the key elements that you must have in place to grow: Mindset, Metrics, Marketing, Methods & Management

Through this process you will detail out your personal game plan to grow your business and hit your targets!

Each session will include hands-on exercises, a roundtable of fellow business leaders to learn with, and resources for you to utilize for years to come.

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Dr. Kevin Mays (Mays Leadership) and Teresa Schissler-Boichot (Boichot Insurance Agency) to offer the most impactful Business Growth Series you have experienced. This process will help you achieve your goals more quickly while creating a thriving business environment.

Dates:

This series will meet from 4-6pm on the following dates at the Corner Bar.

March 27
April 17
May 22
June 26
July 31

You must commit to attending all sessions to apply.

At the end of the series, there will be a celebration dinner with your fellow attendees. (Date to be determined)

Investment: INTRO offer of $250 for the first session. (Rate going forward will be $300+) Included is a binder with learning material and personal goals from the seminar that you can refer back to year-after-year. Additionally, you will gain a deep bond with fellow local leaders that will forever change your connection to the Rockford community.

Meet the Seminar Hosts

Rockford Chamber Scholarship 2025

membership@rockfordmichamber.com (Megan Randall) — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 19:43:24 GMT

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Expands Scholarship Opportunities

In 2021, the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Foundation was established to further enhance this vital program. Under the leadership of Foundation President Blaine Kellermeier, the Chamber has collaborated with local business leaders in the trades to develop a dedicated application for students pursuing careers in these fields.

The expanded scholarship program will provide greater access to financial assistance for a wider range of students, helping them achieve their educational and career goals.

Graduating seniors are encouraged to review the scholarship information on our website https://www.rockfordmichamber.com/scholarships for the appropriate application based on their career path. Deadline for submission is March 30, 2025. For questions or more information, please contact the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Business of Distinction Finalists 2024

membership@rockfordmichamber.com (Megan Randall) — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 17:51:22 GMT

Rockford Chamber Announces Finalists for Business of Distinction Awards 2024

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the finalists for the Business of Distinction Awards for 2024. The Business of Distinction Awards highlight local businesses and leaders from the past year in the following categories: Business of the Year, New Business of the Year, Networker of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year.

“The Rockford Chamber of Commerce reached a record of 455 Chamber members in 2024 which made this task especially challenging this year” states Megan Dean, Executive Director of the Rockford Chamber. “Our board of directors and ambassador team looked at a wide variety of criteria including engagement, attendance, and investment to narrow down the top candidates in each category and are proud to announce these finalists.”

Fellow Chamber members are welcome to cast their vote for Business of the Year and New Business of the Year here . Networker of the Year and Volunteer of the Year are based on numbers collected throughout the year.

The finalist for each award is as follows:

Business of the Year: BattleGR, Fido & Stitch (Rockford), Modern Woodmen Fraternal Financial, and United Bank of Michigan
New Business of the Year: Boochie Bar, Communicare Michigan, Get It Done Guy Handyman Services, and Prime Focus Real Estate Photography.
Networker of the Year: Andrea Nucci (MK Builds), Matt Bachicha and Teresa Schissler-Boichot (Boichot Insurance)
Volunteer of the Year: Mackenzie Woodward (ChoiceOne Bank), Diane Druckenmiller (Druckenmiller Painting), and Caitlin Russo (ChoiceOne Bank)

Winners for each category will be awarded at the RCC Annual Meeting of the Membership in January. More details regarding this event will be posted soon at www.rockfordmichamber.com

Congratulations to all of these deserving businesses and individuals!