Rochester Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Rochester and surrounding areas
Rochester lights up for Christmas 2025 with Christmas lights along East Avenue and the Public Market area, offering a robust mix of things to do. Theater classics like The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet and A Christmas Carol are complemented by winter festivals and holiday activities across Highland Park and the downtown corridor. Wander the Public Market and neighborhood shops for Christmas markets, seasonal tours, and family-friendly attractions that showcase local artisans and seasonal flavors.
Find the best Rochester Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Shows
11 eventsRochester's favorite holiday tradition, a classic tale of redemption.
Christmas Markets
8 eventsHoliday market with festive vendors and activities
Christmas Activities
11 eventsAnnual festival celebrating "It's A Wonderful Life" in its 'real' Bedford Falls.
Editor's Picks (6)
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It's A Wonderful Life Festival
(Seneca Falls)
Annual festival celebrating "It's A Wonderful Life" in its 'real' Bedford Falls.
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A Christmas Carol
Rochester's favorite holiday tradition, a classic tale of redemption.
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The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet
26-year holiday tradition with orchestra and ballet
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BT's New Year's Eve Musical Mayhem
Audience-selected songs for live musical performance
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25-26 BT Concert Series
A la carte concert experiences with Billboard and Broadway hits.
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Holidays at the Market
Holiday market with festive vendors and activities
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Lights Near Rochester
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in Rochester.
Liberty Pole Lighting & Parade to Roc Holiday Village
Kick off the holiday season in downtown Rochester with the annual Liberty Pole...
View full details →RG&E Holiday Lights Tour
Experience the enchanting RG&E Holiday Lights Tour, a festive driving event that illuminates...
View full details →Avon Holiday Spectacular: Santa's Arrival Parade & Wonderland Opening
Experience the magic of the Avon Holiday Spectacular as Santa arrives to kick...
View full details →Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Rochester
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Rochester.
Rochester Holiday Food Drive
Join the Rochester Holiday Food Drive, a crucial initiative by Foodlink to combat...
View full details →The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program
The Salvation Army's Angel Tree program ensures every child experiences the magic of...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near Rochester
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Rochester.
BT's New Year's Eve Musical Mayhem
Ring in the New Year with BT's Musical Mayhem, a unique celebration featuring...
View full details →Rochester Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Rochester
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near Rochester!
Rochester Christmas FAQ
Rochester hosts several significant annual Christmas events, often including large holiday markets and community-wide light display celebrations. Keep an eye on major venues and downtown areas for the most prominent festivities.
While many traditions are shared nationally, Rochester often emphasizes its local artisan markets and community-driven light displays. The city's unique spirit shines through in the creativity of its local makers and neighborhood decorations.
Neighborhoods like the South Wedge and areas around Cobbs Hill are frequently cited for their impressive and creative residential Christmas light displays. Driving or walking through these areas offers a delightful visual experience.
You can find Christmas markets and local makers throughout Rochester, particularly in the downtown area, the East End, and various community centers. These markets showcase a wide array of handmade crafts and local products.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, visiting free holiday markets, and exploring the festive atmosphere downtown are excellent free or budget-friendly activities in Rochester. Many community events also offer low-cost or no-cost entertainment.
Families with kids in Rochester can enjoy visiting Santa, exploring neighborhood light displays, and attending kid-friendly shows or holiday markets. Many venues offer specific programming designed for younger audiences during the festive season.