Illustration of felt carolers in red coats holding songbooks and lanterns on church steps among snowy toy trees at dusk (Rockford Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops)
Christmas Shows

Rockford Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops

Celebrate the season with the Rockford Symphony Orchestra, joined by the Nielsen Chorale and Kantorei Youth Choir. Led by conductor Kevin Stites, nearly 200 musicians and guest performers fill the Coronado Theatre with holiday favorites and dazzling lights. Concertgoers can relax, enjoy the festive music, and follow along using a digital concert guide.

Sat, Dec 19, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

The concert is included in Pops, Grand, and Platinum Subscriptions, which are available for Flex. No ticket prices are stated.

Accessibility

The Coronado Theatre is a fully accessible venue.

Location

Coronado Theatre · 314 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61101 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and fans of festive orchestral music

Vibe

Festive and uplifting

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to park, get through the security check and find your seat before the music starts.
  • Buy your tickets at one of the RSO box offices to avoid extra fees, since phone orders carry credit card fees and postage.
  • Have the RSO digital concert guide ready, because the orchestra uses it at its performances so you can follow along with the program.
  • Wear whatever is comfortable, since there is no dress code and the audience ranges from jeans and t-shirts to suits and cocktail dresses.
  • If you plan to attend other Pops concerts, look at a Pops, Grand or Platinum subscription, since each one includes Holiday Pops.

Special Events & Promotions

  • A separate Holiday Pops matinee is held the following afternoon at the Coronado.
  • An Encore! broadcast of Holiday Pops excerpts airs later in December on Classical WNIU Radio.
  • Holiday Pops is included in the Pops, Grand and Platinum subscriptions, which are also available as Flex options.

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Holiday Pops a good concert for kids?

Yes. It is billed as a holiday tradition for the whole family, and the Kantorei Youth Choir performs alongside the orchestra.

Who performs at Holiday Pops?

Conductor Kevin Stites leads the Rockford Symphony Orchestra with the Nielsen Chorale and the Kantorei Youth Choir. Nearly 200 musicians and guests fill the Coronado with holiday favorites.

What should I wear?

There is no dress code. Most people dress business casual, but you'll see everything from jeans and t-shirts to suits and cocktail dresses.

How long does the concert last?

RSO concerts usually run about 1.5 to 2 hours, including an intermission.

What happens if I arrive after the concert starts?

Latecomers wait in the lobby until there is a break in the performance, so they don't disturb other concertgoers.

Browse Christmas in Rockford

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Contributors & Updates

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