December 23, 2024

Celebrating the Season of Togetherness and Tradition

Happy Holidays from all of us at Transform Rockford!


This year brings a unique moment to celebrate, as Christmas and the beginning of Hanukkah align on the same day—a rare occurrence that’s only happened four times since 1910. The last time this overlap graced our calendars was in 2005, and we’ll see it again in 2035. Looking ahead, Hanukkah in 2025 will run from December 14 through December 22, while Christmas, as always, will fall on December 25.


December is a time for diverse traditions that honor faith, heritage, and community. Kwanzaa, from December 26 to January 1, celebrates African-American heritage and culture.


Other meaningful observances this month include:

  • St. Nicholas Day (December 5 or 6)
  • Immaculate Conception Day (December 8)
  • Bodhi Day (December 8)
  • Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 12)
  • Yule (December 21–January 1)
  • Boxing Day (December 26)
  • Zarathosht Diso (December 26)
  • New Year’s Eve (December 31)


And let’s not forget Festivus—a whimsical celebration popularized by the 1997 Seinfeld episode—observed on December 23 as an alternative to the commercialism of the season.


No matter what you celebrate, or how, this season is a time to reflect, connect, and enjoy the company of loved ones. Let’s embrace the beauty of our diverse traditions and come together as a community that values inclusion and togetherness.


Wishing you all a joyful and meaningful holiday season!


A Holiday Gift

to Celebrate Our Community

This holiday season, we’re thrilled to share an exciting gift for Rockford—Pablo Korona’s beloved video series, Our City, Our Story, is back!


Known for its heartfelt and inspiring storytelling, Our City, Our Story captures the essence of what makes the Rockford Region extraordinary. Through Pablo's lens, we meet individuals whose lives and passions showcase the strength, creativity, and resilience of our community.


Pablo’s work reminds us of the beauty in our everyday moments and the remarkable stories waiting to be told right here in our city. His videos have not only gone viral but have also left a lasting impact, highlighting the connections that make Rockford such a special place to live, work, and dream.


We invite you to take a moment to experience this series and be inspired by the stories that celebrate our shared home. You can learn more about the revival of Our City, Our Story and its powerful impact in an article from Rock River Current:


Read Article HERE >>