This year was a big year for Rockford and not just because of the headlines. From hosting major sporting events to breaking ground on projects such as Davis Park and renovations at Beyer Stadium, the future is full of promise. With strong partnerships, GoRockford helped drive visitation, economic impact, and community pride across the region. Here are 25 highlights in the region in the year ’25.
Rockford in 2025: Key Wins & Milestones
June 22 marked the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford, Illinois, with 2,700 athletes registered and thousands of spectators to watch the first IRONMAN event in Illinois. Tri-athletes traveled from 45 countries, and 45 U.S. States. Over 1,500 volunteers helped make the event a success, whether it was an ambassador at a hotel welcoming athletes, or running an aid station. This was the first of a three-year contract, bringing in an estimated economic impact of $7+ million dollars in 2025, and filling hotels to 98% occupancy. Next year’s IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford, Illinois, will be held on June 14, 2026.
GoRockford was honored as the 2025 Sports Tourism Organization of the Year by the Sports Events & Tourism Association (Sports ETA) on April 23 at the Sports ETA Symposium in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Chosen from more than 80 national entries, GoRockford earned the award for its significant impact in attracting and hosting sporting events that drive economic growth and strengthen Rockford’s reputation as a top-tier sports destination.
Neither Toil Nor Spin by Ben Pierce
CRE8IV: transformational art biannual sculpture program, made possible thanks to an arts grant funding from the City of Rockford brought 18 new sculpture installations to Rockford. The total number of sculptures in the region is currently at 33, bringing art and color to new areas and neighborhoods. The iconic ROCKFORD letters were repaired and found a new home by the beautiful Rock River, close to the Rockford Public Library.
Beyer Stadium Groundbreaking …