Enjoy the magic that comes with the holiday season when you visit Rochester, NY. Whether you’re returning home for the holidays or visiting for the first time, there is so much to do in Rochester. The holiday season kicks off with a flurry of activities and special holiday-themed events as early as Thanksgiving weekend and ends with the ringing in of the new year. Learn more about our annual holiday events and search to see what special holiday events are happening when you visit Rochester this season.
Genesee Keg Tree Lighting
Thousands gather outside the historic Genesee Brewery and Genesee Brew House for the lighting of the iconic Keg Tree. The tree, made of 520 empty Genesee kegs stacked nearly three-stories high and strung with thousands of lights programmed to flash along to holiday songs, has become an annual holiday tradition. The event includes a countdown, custom-designed wooden sled perfect for photos, food trucks, and of course, Genesee beer!
Lighting of The Liberty Pole
The Liberty Pole is a 190-foot-high stainless-steel public art installation in the heart of downtown Rochester. Strung with lights, the Liberty Pole, illuminates Rochester’s downtown during the winter months. The lighting of the Liberty Pole and family-friendly parade down to Martin Luther King Jr. Park is the kick off to Roc Holiday Village—Rochester’s holiday festival.
Roc Holiday Village Roc Holiday Village is Rochester’s annual holiday festival that brings the magic of the season to people of all ages. The 17 day festival offers family friendly events on Wednesdays - Sundays throughout the month of December. Features include a unique shopping village, free visits and photos with Santa, free ice skating & skate rentals, and indoor and outdoor bar, food trucks, Santa's Workshop, outdoor seating and fire pits, live music, private cozy winter igloos, free crafts for kids, holiday celebrations, special events and more!
Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display
Enjoy the dozen of cleverly designed and deliciously decorated gingerbread houses as you explore the George Eastman Museum and George Eastman’s historic mansion during this beloved Rochester holiday tradition.
Gala Holiday Pops
The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra performs festive carols, joyful melodies, with a 200-member choir at Eastman Theatre for this family-friendly holiday event.
Geva Theatre Center’s A Christmas Carol
First performed on stage in 1985, Geva’s production of the Charles Dickens classic has become a staple of the holiday season for Rochesterians.
Genesee Country Village & Museum’s Yuletide in The Country Tours
Stroll the snow covered restored, historic Genesee Country Village & Museum's as costumed interpreters showcase how many prepared for the holiday season in the 19th century.
