Downtown Rochester Events: A Guide To What's Happening In 2023
Introduction
Living in Rochester, NY, I’ve come to appreciate the city’s vibrant downtown scene. One of the things I love most about this area is the variety of events that take place throughout the year. From cultural festivals to food and drink tastings, there’s always something going on in downtown Rochester. In this article, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite events and experiences, as well as providing a guide to what’s happening in 2023.
My Personal Experience
One of my favorite events in downtown Rochester is the annual Lilac Festival. Held every May, this event celebrates the city’s famous lilac bushes and attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival takes place in Highland Park, which is located just a few miles from downtown. I love strolling through the park and taking in the beauty of the blooming flowers, as well as trying all the different foods and drinks from the vendors. There are also live music performances and art shows to enjoy.
List of Events and Competitions
Here are some of the top events and competitions happening in downtown Rochester in 2023:
- ROC the Riverway
- Rochester International Jazz Festival
- ROC City Rib Fest
- Rochester Fringe Festival
- ImageOut – Rochester LGBT Film Festival
Descriptions of Events and Celebrations
ROC the Riverway – This event takes place every summer and celebrates the scenic Genesee River that runs through downtown Rochester. There are boat tours, live music, and food and drink vendors. Rochester International Jazz Festival – This festival brings in world-renowned jazz musicians from all over the world. There are concerts held at venues throughout the city, as well as free performances on the street. ROC City Rib Fest – This event is a must for foodies. It’s a barbecue competition where vendors from all over the country come to show off their best ribs, chicken, and brisket. There are also live music performances and a beer garden. Rochester Fringe Festival – This festival celebrates the arts and features a diverse lineup of performances, including theater, dance, music, and comedy. There are also events for kids and families. ImageOut – Rochester LGBT Film Festival – This film festival showcases the work of LGBTQ+ filmmakers from around the world. There are also panel discussions and Q&A sessions with the filmmakers.
Events Table
Here’s a table of the top downtown Rochester events happening in 2023:
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| ROC the Riverway | July 8-10 | Genesee Valley Park |
| Rochester International Jazz Festival | June 23-July 1 | Venues throughout the city |
| ROC City Rib Fest | August 19-21 | Ontario Beach Park |
| Rochester Fringe Festival | September 14-24 | Venues throughout the city |
| ImageOut – Rochester LGBT Film Festival | October 6-15 | The Little Theatre |
Question and Answer
Here are some frequently asked questions about downtown Rochester events:
Q: Are there any free events in downtown Rochester?
A: Yes, many events in downtown Rochester are free. For example, the Rochester International Jazz Festival has many free performances on the street, and the Rochester Fringe Festival has several free events.
Q: Where can I find more information about downtown Rochester events?
A: You can visit the Visit Rochester website, which has a calendar of events for the city. You can also follow the Rochester Downtown Alliance on social media for updates on events and activities.
Q: What’s the best way to get around downtown Rochester during events?
A: The Rochester Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides bus transportation throughout the city. There are also bike rental stations located throughout downtown, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available.
Conclusion
Downtown Rochester events are a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and community. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or art enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. I hope this guide has helped you plan your next downtown Rochester adventure.