Here are 10 ways to celebrate 815 Day in Rockford, Illinois
Ken DeCoster
ROCKFORD — 815 Day, which is also known as Rockford Day, is held each year on Aug. 15 and is designed to showcase the people, places and activities that make the Forest City unique.
Local businesses, agencies, nonprofits and other organizations are encouraged to take part by offering specials and discounts to enhance the celebration. You can also show your Rockford pride on social media using #RockfordDay2022 or #815Day2022.
Here’s a guide to some of the events and deals designed to help you celebrate 815 Day:
Rockford pride
What: Rockford Art Deli is selling their $15 sale tees for $8.15. Styles include kids' (815) tees, "Love Is RAD", Rockford Public Schools 205, select current designs, vintage designs and in-store exclusive sale rack and trade-in rack style. The store will also have a live print day from 12-6 p.m. You can bring your own shirt and get it printed on for $8.15 or buy a shirt and get it printed on for $18.15.
Where: 402 E. State St., Rockford
When: 12-6 p.m. Monday
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Enjoy one of Rockford’s premier attractions at a discount
What: Admission to Anderson Japanese Gardens will be $8.15.
Where: 318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford
When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday
Skate away on 815 Day
What: $8.15 public skate package, including two admissions and two skate rentals.
Where: Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park
When: 11 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. Monday
Such a sweet deal
What: 6 gourmet cookies, Treat Boxes, Decorating Kits on sale for $8.15
Where: Cookies By Design, 6415 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford
When: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday & Tuesday
Donate blood and win prizes
What: Registered donors will be entered to win one of five dinner-for-two vouchers valued at $50 from Baker Street Burgers or Salamone’s North. Three Rock River Valley Blood Center gift baskets will be given away as well. Call 815-965-8751 or visit rrvbc.org to schedule your appointment.
Where: RRVBC locations at 419 N. 6th St. and 3065 N. Perryville Road
When: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday
Commit to getting fit
What: Join the YMCA on Rockford Day for $8.15 for the rest of the month. Individuals may join online or in-person
Where: SwedishAmerican Riverfront YMCA, 200 Y Blvd., Rockford; Northeast Family YMCA, 8451 Orth Road, Loves Park; Puri Family YMCA, 1475 S. Perryville Road, Rockford
When: Monday
Wear 815 merch
What: 815 T-shirts on sale for $18.15, 815 sweatshirts on sale for $28.15, 815 water bottles on sale for $8.15
Where: Kegel’s Bicycle Shop, 2605 Charles St., Rockford
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday
Celebrate Rockford area nostalgia
What: Get 15% off all regularly priced in-stock t-shirts, mugs, beanies and keychains. Receive a free shirt with any purchase over $20. You’ll get your choice of Mayflower or Red Hot Rockford shirts while supplies last.
Where: Bygone Brand, 3600 E. State St., Rockford
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday
Rockford recycles 815
What: Bring the kids to see how Rockford recycles. Take a tour of the warehouse, find out what happens to old TVs, and create a work of art or design a bird feeder using recycled materials.
When: 12 to 3 p.m.
Where: Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, 4665 Hydraulic Road, Rockford
Open wide!
What: Comprehensive dental exam and a complete series of x-rays for $81.50 for patients who do not have dental insurance. Patients must call the office between Monday and Thursday to be eligible for the offer and their appointment must be scheduled and completed by Sep. 30 for the deal to apply.
Where: Soltys Dentistry, 435 N. Mulford Road #11, Rockford
When: Monday, Aug. 15 through Thursday, Aug. 18
For more Rockford Day specials, go to www.gorockford.com/rockford-day.
Ken DeCoster covers business news and features. Contact him at 815-987-1391, kdecoster@rrstar.com or @DeCosterKen.