Rochester was once known worldwide by what surprising nickname?

Rochester Flower Fest

Event Details:

📅 June 6, 2026

📍 High Falls District, Rochester, New York

Celebrate Rochester's rich history, creativity, and community spirit at the inaugural Rochester Flower Fest! 🌸🌼🎉

This exciting new festival commemorates the 50th anniversary of Rochester's iconic Flower City Mark, bringing together residents, artists, vendors, musicians, and visitors for a vibrant day of celebration in the historic High Falls District.

Set against the backdrop of the scenic Pont de Rennes Bridge and the Genesee River gorge, attendees can explore local art, shop from community vendors, enjoy live music performances, sample delicious food from local eateries, and participate in family-friendly activities throughout the day.

The festival showcases everything that makes Rochester unique while honoring the city's longstanding connection to horticulture, creativity, and community pride.

Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, Rochester Flower Fest offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the city's culture, history, and growing arts scene.

Silent Disco: Music Through The Decades

Event Details:

📅 June 6, 2026

📍 Photo City Music Hall, Rochester, New York

Get ready to dance through the decades at one of Rochester's most unique nightlife experiences! 🎧🕺💃

Silent Disco: Music Through The Decades transforms the dance floor into an interactive party where every guest controls their own musical journey. Using wireless headphones, attendees can switch between multiple live music channels featuring favorite hits from the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and today's chart-toppers.

Unlike a traditional dance party, Silent Disco lets friends listen to different music at the same time while sharing the same dance floor. One person may be dancing to 80s classics while another is enjoying 90s throwbacks or modern hits, creating a fun and unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

Rochester International Jazz Festival

Event Details:

📅 June 19–27, 2026

📍 Downtown Rochester, New York

Get ready for nine unforgettable days of world-class music at the Rochester International Jazz Festival! 🎷🎶✨

Recognized as one of the premier jazz festivals in the United States, the Rochester International Jazz Festival transforms downtown Rochester into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community. Each year, music lovers from around the world gather to experience hundreds of performances across dozens of venues throughout the city.

The festival features an incredible lineup of internationally acclaimed artists, rising stars, local musicians, and genre-defying performers spanning jazz, blues, soul, funk, Latin, world music, and more.

With more than 1,700 artists participating and performances taking place from morning until late evening, attendees can enjoy intimate club shows, outdoor concerts, major headline performances, and unique musical collaborations throughout the week.

Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply looking for an amazing live music experience, the Rochester International Jazz Festival offers something for every music fan.

New York residents are preparing for a powerful storm system expected to sweep through the state from Sunday evening through Tuesday, bringing damaging winds, thunderstorms, and possible snow showers.

NYSEG and RG&E have stationed crews and equipment in high-risk areas like Rochester, Binghamton, and the Finger Lakes, anticipating power outages.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for much of western and central New York, warning of south winds between 25 and 35 mph and gusts reaching up to 60 mph, particularly close to the lakeshore.

Thunderstorms may develop Monday, with the potential for hail and stronger wind gusts. Colder air could bring a changeover to snow late Monday into Tuesday, though accumulation remains uncertain.

Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items, prepare emergency supplies, and avoid downed power lines.

Crews are ready to respond quickly to any service disruptions across the region.

Few restaurants are as recognizable in Rochester as Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.

Known throughout the region for its legendary slow-smoked barbecue, lively atmosphere, and live music scene, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has become a destination for both locals and visitors looking for authentic Southern-style barbecue and unforgettable experiences.

From tender ribs and pulled pork to smoked brisket, wings, burgers, and signature sides, the restaurant has built a reputation for serving bold flavors and generous portions that keep guests coming back year after year.

As the undisputed home of the original Garbage Plate, this spot serves the unique and beloved comfort food creation that has become a famous piece of city history.

It's a classic, no-frills diner where residents and visitors alike line up for cheeseburgers, white hots, and of course, the iconic plate itself topped with their signature hot sauce.

This spotlight is presented by Nick Tahou Hots. Ready to dive into a local tradition?Explore the full menu online and plan your visit.

For years, The Owl House has earned a loyal following by offering creative cuisine, a welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that appeals to a wide variety of tastes and lifestyles.

Known for its innovative New American dishes, vegetarian-friendly offerings, and locally inspired ingredients, The Owl House has become a favorite gathering place for Rochester residents looking for something beyond the ordinary.

Guests appreciate the restaurant's ability to balance creativity and comfort, serving everything from flavorful house specialties and seasonal dishes to vegetarian and vegan-friendly options that have helped establish its strong reputation throughout the community.

On March 28, 2026, more than 100 'No Kings' protests erupted across New York State as residents rallied against the administration’s policies.

Part of a sweeping nationwide action, over 3,000 events drew an estimated eight million people, securing a place as one of the largest single-day demonstrations in U.S. history.

Times Square became a focal point as thousands marched, joined by Letitia James, Al Sharpton, and Robert De Niro, highlighting broad support across the state.

Communities from Rochester’s Genesee Gateway Park to Nyack Memorial Park saw significant turnouts, reflecting widespread engagement from urban and rural areas alike.

The 'No Kings' movement spotlights concerns over immigration, foreign military action, and perceived government overreach, with organizers stressing nonviolent principles and lawful protest.

The movement’s leaders urge New Yorkers to maintain momentum with weekly rallies and grassroots activism, aiming to protect democratic values statewide.

Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Rochester, NY and the surrounding Finger Lakes area?

A: The Strong National Museum of Play, Rochester Museum and Science Center, Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, Finger Lakes Wine Country

Q: What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in the Rochester, NY and Finger Lakes area?

A: Hiking in Letchworth State Park, boating and fishing on the Finger Lakes, exploring the Erie Canal Trail, visiting Chimney Bluffs State Park

Q: What are some annual events and festivals held in Rochester, NY and the Finger Lakes region?

A: Rochester Lilac Festival, Finger Lakes Wine Festival, Rochester International Jazz Festival, Naples Grape Festival

The Flower City.