Rochester Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Experience Rochester's beloved holiday tradition with 'A Christmas Carol' at Geva Theatre. This adaptation of Charles Dickens' timeless story follows the transformation of the notorious Ebenezer Scrooge after visits from four ghosts. It's a powerful reminder that change is always possible, making it a perfect festive outing for the whole...

Immerse yourself in the holiday magic of The Nutcracker, a beloved tradition presented by the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester City Ballet. Journey with a young girl on a Christmas Eve dream filled with wonder, from a land of sparkling snow to a realm of delectable sweets, all set to...

Celebrate the magic of the season with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's Gala Holiday Pops. This cherished tradition, now in its fourth decade, offers a delightful escape from the holiday rush. Conducted by Jeff Tyzik and featuring the talented Festival High School Chorale, the concert promises to fill the air with...

The 25-26 BT Concert Series presents a dynamic lineup of musical performances, from Broadway hits to chart-toppers. Ring in the New Year with 'Musical Mayhem,' a unique show where audience choices dictate the songs performed, complete with a festive reception. Experience the energy of 'Divas & Dance,' featuring live music...

Experience the enchantment of The Nutcracker, a magical Christmas ballet presented by the Rochester Broadway Theatre League. This spectacular holiday performance features an international cast, whimsical puppetry, and opulent costumes and sets crafted by European artisans. Celebrate the season with this beloved tradition, set to Tchaikovsky's timeless score, creating cherished...

Immerse yourself in a dazzling holiday spectacle at the Strasenburgh Planetarium's Holiday Laser show. This beloved Rochester tradition features a state-of-the-art laser system and full-dome visualization, creating a vibrant and immersive experience. Enjoy a curated playlist of favorite holiday songs, from classical Vivaldi to modern hits by Mariah Carey and...

Get ready for a swingin' holiday season with The Irondequoit Chorale's 'In The Mood For Christmas' concert. This festive performance features upbeat, jazzy arrangements of beloved Christmas classics, including unique takes on 'God Rest You Merry Gentleman.' Experience the rich sound of the 70-voice chorale as they bring holiday cheer...

Prepare for a heartwarming holiday spectacle as Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical takes the stage. This beloved story follows the cantankerous Grinch as he plots to steal Christmas from the joyful Whos. Witness his change of heart, inspired by the kindness of the tiny Cindy Lou...

Experience the magic of Jim Henson's Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas, a heartwarming musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Follow Ma and Emmet Otter as they navigate tough times and risk what little they have to make each other's holiday dreams come true. Featuring a superb score by Academy Award-winning...

Roc Holiday Village transforms downtown Rochester into a festive wonderland with 16 days of enchanting activities. Visitors can enjoy free ice skating, explore a unique shopping village with artisan crafts, and meet Santa Claus. The event also features live music, delicious food and drinks, and special holiday celebrations hosted by...

Experience the magic of the holidays at the 'It's a Wonderful Life Holiday Festival' in Rochester's South Wedge neighborhood. This free event offers a delightful mix of local artisan vendors, live music, and festive food and drinks. Families can enjoy children's activities, a special visit with Santa, and even purchase...

Discover the 53rd annual Holiday Bazaar Arts & Crafts Sale at the Rochester Museum & Science Center. This juried event features over 150 exhibitors showcasing a spectacular variety of fine arts and unique crafts, including ceramics, jewelry, glass, woodwork, paintings, and photography. Experience the magic of holiday shopping across five...

Experience a cherished Rochester holiday tradition at the Public Market. Browse dozens of vendors offering fresh trees, wreaths, decorations, handcrafted gifts, and specialty foods. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with holiday lights and music, plus free horse-drawn carriage rides and visits with Santa on Sundays. A special Thursday evening event adds...

Experience the magic of Christmas in the Country Rochester, a premier artisan market showcasing exclusively handmade creations from artists nationwide. Discover unique holiday gifts, from gourmet foods and craft spirits to exquisite jewelry and home decor. This festive event offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, allowing direct interaction with talented artisans...

Step into the holiday spirit at Genesee Country Village & Museum's annual Holiday Market and Preparing for Winter event. Discover unique handcrafted gifts from local artisans, explore the Historic Village to see how 19th-century residents prepared for the cold season, and enjoy engaging Indigenous storytelling. It's the perfect family activity...

Kick off the holiday season in downtown Rochester with the annual Liberty Pole Lighting and Family Parade. This festive event begins with Mayor Evans, Santa, and the Prime Time Brass illuminating the Liberty Pole, followed by a cheerful parade to the ROC Holiday Village. Once at the village, enjoy free...

Experience the enchanting RG&E Holiday Lights Tour, a festive driving event that illuminates the Greater Rochester area with dazzling displays. This family-friendly tour supports local children and families while offering a magical way to celebrate the season. Receive a special tour kit filled with goodies and activities to enhance your...

Experience the magic of the Avon Holiday Spectacular as Santa arrives to kick off the wonderland opening! This festive event transforms the Genesee Street Business District with dazzling holiday lights, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere. Families can enjoy a synthetic ice skating rink, festive hayrides, and a special visit...

Join the Rochester Holiday Food Drive, a crucial initiative by Foodlink to combat hunger and build healthier communities. This event encourages individuals, groups, and organizations to donate non-perishable items or participate in virtual food drives. Your contributions directly support over 160,000 neighbors facing food insecurity, ensuring access to nutritious meals...

The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program ensures every child experiences the magic of Christmas by providing new clothing and toys to those in need. Donors can adopt an 'angel' by selecting a child's wish list from an in-store Angel Tree or online registry, then purchasing and returning the gifts. This...

Ring in the New Year with BT's Musical Mayhem, a unique celebration featuring six talented artists performing in a 'musical roulette' format. The first act showcases their signature songs with a live band, while the second act brings an exciting twist as the audience selects songs for the performers. A...

Experience the festive spirit at the Town of Irondequoit's annual Holiday Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony. This cherished community event marks the beginning of the holiday season with a heartwarming display of lights and traditions.

Step back in time with the Holly Trolley Rides at the New York Museum of Transportation. Experience the magic of the season with a festive trolley ride, a chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies. Explore a fascinating collection of vintage transportation artifacts.

All aboard for a magical journey on the Real Santa Train Rides to the North Pole! This unique holiday experience offers a festive train ride where guests can sip hot cocoa while traveling to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus. Explore the Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum's impressive collection of...

Embrace the magic of the holiday season at Stokoe Farms, where the tradition of finding the perfect real Christmas tree comes alive. Take a festive wagon ride to the fields to select and cut your own tree, or choose from their premium precut selection. They meticulously trim their trees to...