ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – A little rain can’t dampen 815 Day celebrations along the Miracle Mile as businesses take advantage of the wet day to highlight some of the Forest City’s strengths.
Miracle Mile Rockford is revamping its annual 815-Day celebration with a pop-up event at Fairview Shopping Center. From showcasing local mom-and-pop shops to a trip through space, organizers say the indoor event was the perfect backdrop for the gray day.
“A little rain never hurt anyone,” said Paula Olson, executive director of Miracle Mile. “I hope this doesn’t stop people from getting out and enjoying 815 Day.”
Whether it rains or shines, Olson wants people to remember that 815 Day is all about celebrating local pride.
“I think the community is finally realizing that this is a great place to live. There’s been so much negativity in the past,” Olson says. “We’re currently the leading housing market in the country. We’re all doing something right.”
Pregnancy Care Center is one organization that was represented at the event. Customer Service Representative Karin Shaver says this is the perfect opportunity for organizations like hers to tell people what they do. She explains that if they reach even one person, it’s a job well done.
“Because it’s raining, I hope people will want to come out here to the covered area and check out the vendors that are here today,” Shaver said. “I’m glad to be here to learn a little bit more about what’s on offer. I hope a lot of people come.”
Other companies hope the community won’t turn away after August 15. Gail Lee, owner of Lee Innovations Ceramic Studio, says people should celebrate 8.15 every day.
“If they would support us and help us share our talents with each other, it would help us,” Lee says. “Not just today, but on other days too.”
Many of the Miracle Mile activities are over, but deals at Rivera’s Fresh Market are still running until 8 p.m. It’s not too late to join in the fun.
More than 40 locally owned restaurants and 5 parks make up the Miracle Mile. In total, more than $17 million has been invested in the area.
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