Rochester is often referred to as the Festival City, because it hosts a number events and festivals all throughout the summer. While many of us Rochester-natives look forward primarily to the Lilac Fest, there are many other things to do throughout the summer if you're looking to have a good time.
1. ROC City Rib Fest: Memorial Day Weekend
If you're looking for good eats, great music, and an easy way to have fun with the family, the ROC City Rib Fest is the place to be this Memorial Day Weekend. For a $5 admission fee, you'll get the chance to visit great barbecue vendors, food trucks, live music, retail vendors, and fun activities for children. Head on over to Genesee Valley Park, starting on Friday May 27th, to join in on the fun.
2. Rochester Greek Festival: June 2-5
Embrace your Greek roots and head over to the Greek Orthodox Church on East Ave to celebrate the "aromas, tastes, sounds, and traditions of Greece to Rochester." you can experience traditional Greek food and drink, shop among many different vendors, and mingle with Rochester's large Greek population.
3. Fairport Canal Days: June 3-6
Go over to Fairport, NY, to enjoy a festival on the Canal! There will be chicken barbecue, artisans, vendors, and entertainment, wine and chocolate tasting, and fun nighttime activities.
4. GCV&M War of 1812 and Jane Austen Weekend: June 18-19
Over at the Genesee Country Village and Museum, you'll experience the village coming alive with "re-enactors portraying shopkeepers, housewives, merchants and soldiers amidst the sound of fifes and drums; cannons and muskets, and Austen-era music and dancing." You don't have to be a re-enactor to enjoy this festival!
5. Xerox Rochester International Jazz Fest: June 24-July 2
If you're from Rochester, you know it's summer once the Jazz Fest goes underway. Buy a pass to this event and you'll get to enjoy jazz artists from all over the world. If you're into music, Rochester's Jazz Fest something you have to go to.
6. Corn Hill Arts Festival: July 9-10
Head over to Rochester's "oldest residential neighborhood" to enjoy the annual Corn Hill Arts Festival. This festival promises many different creative artists, musical performances, great foods, and the and the annual 'fairy houses tour'. This festival is a great experience for the entire family.
7. ROC City Pride Fest: July 10-17
ROC City Pride is a week long event that includes an annual parade, festival, film fest, and pride games; all celebrating LGBT pride. Lots of fun if you're looking to let loose!
8. GCV&M Civil War Reenactment: July 16-17
Similar to the War of 1812 day hosted by GCV&M, the museum's annual Civil War Reenactment reels in enthusiastic re-enactors from across New York. Travel to the museum to watch professional re-enactors parade around the village, and visit the village's various historic homes to interact with shopkeepers and artisans.
9. Spencerport Canal Days: July 30-31
Ready for a car show, live music, and a alligator race? In late July, visit Spencerport for their annual Canal Days festival. There will be arts, crafts, and commercial, and food vendors to visit too. This annual summer tradition is an excellent festival to visit during the dog-days.
10. Monroe County Fair: August 4-7
Live music, a fun zone for kids, animals, and food trucks; what more can you ask for? Visit the Monroe County Fair in early August to indulge your festival needs.
11. Park Ave Fest: August 6-7
Arguably, the Park Ave Fest is the most anticipated festival in Rochester (besides the Lilac Fest). Visit Rochester's Park Ave neighborhood for a few days of fun in the sun. Visit dozens of artists and enjoy food, art, dancing, and live music.
12. Brockport Summer Arts Fest: August 13-14
If you still haven't had your fill of art festivals come mid-August, head on over to Brockport to enjoy their annual arts festival. Visit dozens of local artists and enjoy their many creations.
Of course, there are hundreds of other things you can do in Rochester besides arts and music festivals. Visit your town's website and find community events, such as camps for children, local gardens to contribute to, block and neighborhood parties, etc. Celebrate responsibly!
