On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Camryn Johnson and Marissa Razo from the Rock Falls Chamber to discuss this year’s lineup of events, returning traditions, exciting prizes, and the community spirit that makes Hometown Holidays a special part of the season.
The festivities will take place November 19 through November 21, featuring Bingo, the Christmas Walk and Grinch Dodgeball.
A Holiday Tradition Nearly 40 Years in the Making
The Christmas Walk has been a Rock Falls tradition for approximately 40 years, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate the holiday season. While events like Bingo and Grinch Dodgeball are newer additions, they have quickly become community favorites.
This year’s Hometown Holidays celebration kicks off Thursday, November 19th with the popular Bingo event at the McCormick Event Center. With more than 600 players expected, Bingo continues to be one of the weekend’s biggest attractions.
Players can compete for a variety of prizes, including a stand mixer and baking accessories, a stainless steel grill, and the highly anticipated Shop Local Jackpot. The Shop Local Jackpot features more than $1,000 in gift cards from area businesses, making it one of the biggest prize packages the Chamber has offered.
Regular Bingo packages are $18 online and include 10 games. Bonus packages are $39 online and include the 10 regular games plus six additional jackpot and bonus games. Tickets are also available through Sauk Valley Bank. Anyone interested in attending should contact the Rock Falls Chamber to inquire about availability. If the event sells out, a waiting list will be available.
Christmas Walk Brings Holiday Magic Downtown
Friday, November 20th is the annual Christmas Walk, featuring festive activities, participating businesses, vendors, holiday characters, and opportunities to celebrate with family and friends.
One of the most meaningful traditions is the Love Light Ceremony, which will take place at 6 p.m. at Rock Falls United Methodist Church. The ceremony honors loved ones who have passed away, providing an opportunity for the community to remember those who remain an important part of the holiday season.
The Christmas Walk will also feature a $1,000 giveaway sponsored by Wichert Insurance. Entry is free, and visitors can collect entries at five different locations throughout the event, giving attendees multiple opportunities to win.
Santa and the Grinch will make appearances, while downtown businesses will participate by welcoming visitors and offering seasonal refreshments. Vendors will once again be located inside The Foundry, providing a warm indoor space to shop and explore local businesses.
With holiday decorations, community participation, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season, the Christmas Walk offers a festive experience right in the heart of Rock Falls.
Grinch Dodgeball Wraps Up the Weekend
Saturday, November 21st brings one of the most entertaining events of the weekend: Grinch Dodgeball.
The free event is open to children from preschool through seventh grade. Participants are divided into age groups to ensure everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the game. The teams then face off against the Grinch in a friendly dodgeball competition, with Santa serving as the referee.
The event has become a fun addition to Hometown Holidays, giving younger community members their own opportunity to participate in the holiday festivities.
More Holiday Activities Around the Community
Beyond the Chamber’s three main events, there are several other opportunities for families to enjoy the holiday season around the Rock Falls area.
The Coloma Park District’s holiday light display offers a drive-through experience, allowing visitors to enjoy festive decorations from the comfort of their vehicles. Horse-drawn carriage rides are also available on select evenings.
The East Coloma Christmas Craft Show, held at Harvest Bible Church, provides another opportunity to shop for handmade items and seasonal gifts while supporting local vendors.
Together, these activities help create a full holiday experience throughout the community.
Bringing the Community Together
For the Rock Falls Chamber, Hometown Holidays is about more than organizing a weekend of activities. It is an opportunity to see local businesses, volunteers, and residents come together to celebrate the community.
With a small Chamber staff, Johnson and Razo depend heavily on their board members, ambassadors and volunteers to help bring the events to life. The support from local businesses is also a major part of making the weekend successful.
This year’s Bingo event is already seeing strong business participation, including a group of 26 employees from Boss Roofing, the largest business group the event has hosted.
From sponsorships and donations to employees attending events and volunteers helping behind the scenes, the weekend highlights the connections that make the Rock Falls community special.
For Johnson and Razo, the excitement of seeing hundreds of people enjoying the events is one of the most rewarding parts of Hometown Holidays. Whether it is the energy inside a packed Bingo hall, families exploring the Christmas Walk, or children taking on the Grinch, the celebration creates memories that bring people back year after year.
Hometown Holidays is a reminder that residents do not have to travel far to experience the magic of the holiday season. Rock Falls has its own traditions, festive atmosphere, and community spirit to make the season special.
With Bingo on November 19th, the Christmas Walk on November 20th, and Grinch Dodgeball on November 21st, the Rock Falls Chamber is preparing for another memorable weekend.
To learn more about Hometown Holidays and the Rock Falls Chamber’s upcoming events, visit the Rock Falls Chamber website or contact the Chamber directly.
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