IGNITE February 2022

What to do in the winter

Don’t let the cold weather stop you

Winter in the Rockford area can last from December to March; sometimes even April. We are getting closer to the end of the winter season, but spring still feels so far away.

For some, winter is their favorite season, and they love to be outside and enjoy every aspect of the season. Others are not huge winter supporters and love to stay warm inside. Below you can find activities for the outside lover and for those who love to stay inside.

For the Outdoor Lovers

Head over to Snow Park Alpine Hills, where you can snowboard, ski and tube all in one location. According to the website, “This 5-acre snow park is divided into separate tubing and terrain park sections designed to accommodate riders of all abilities. On-site snowmaking equipment will keep the snow park covered with fresh powder and the snow cat machines will help maintain perfectly-groomed hills. The handy surface lift will bring tubers and boarders to the top of the hill so more time is spent riding down and less time hiking up.” For more information, head to the website at alpinehillsadventure.com.

Enjoy snowshoeing and cross country skiing with Rocktown Adventures. They have a snow sports course for anyone, from a beginner to expert. Through these courses, you are able to experience different trails through the Rockford area. Rocktown Adventures has equipment you can rent, plus winter gear for purchase. For more information, check out the website at rocktownadventures.com.

Take a winter hike. 815 Outside has some tips on how to stay safe during those hikes. Check them out here: 815outside. com/winter-activities.

For Those Who Love to Stay Warm Inside

Do some local shopping at stores around the area, such as Rockford Art Deli, Roxy Carmichael or the multitude of stores in Forest Plaza.

Stay warm with a cup of coffee from Rockford Roasting Company, Wired Café or Meg’s Daily Grind.

Take some time to enjoy Rockford’s local museums, such as Burpee Museum, Discovery Center Museum, Midway Village Museum, Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum, Ethnic Heritage Museum, Rockford Art Museum or Swedish Historical Society.

For more events in the Rockford area, visit the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau website at www.gorockford.com.

IGNITE Rockford- Events to Attend

IGNITE Rockford hosts a multitude of events each month, which allow young professionals to network, create friendships and enjoy time in the Rockford area.

Lunch with a Leader: This event series features local leaders in an intimate lunch setting answering questions on leadership. Usually more of a conversation than a presentation, this is a great time to learn from a VIP in the community in an easy, laid-back way.

After 5s: Join IGNITE for some fun networking with fellow IGNITE members! Whether you’re interested in personal/ professional development or community involvement, IGNITE’s After 5s will have all of these opportunities!

IGNITE Meets a Non-Profit: The goal of this series is to allow IGNITE members to learn more about some of the non-profits in the Rockford area and engage with them. IGNITE members are able to work on personal development and volunteering through these events.

All of these IGNITE events can be found on the events calendar on the Rockford Chamber of Commerce website, the IGNITE Facebook page, IGNITE Instagram page or IGNITE LinkedIn page.

Carmen Kellerman is IGNITE coordinator and the event & program coordinator with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

The views expressed are those of Kellerman’s and do not necessarily represent those of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.