What to Expect This Christmas in Rochester!
Feel the joy of the holiday season in Rochester! Our guide has all the top festive events and activities. Whether you're deeply rooted in Rochester or just branching out, this guide maximizes your holiday joy. Popular events this season include the picturesque Roc Holiday Village, where visitors can explore local vendors and enjoy seasonal treats. Another highlight is RPO's The Nutcracker, a classic ballet performance that brings the enchanting story to life with mesmerizing music and choreography. And the Holidays at the Rochester Public Market is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with unique gifts and fresh holiday fare. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Find the best Christmas events in Rochester this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Rochester
- Roc Holiday Village
- The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet
- St. John's Illumination of Love
- Holidays at the Market
- Christmas at RCCM
- Liberty Pole Lighting & Parade to Roc Holiday Village
- Gala Holiday Pops
- The Nutcracker by Rochester Broadway Theatre League
- Rochester Holiday Bazaar Arts & Crafts Sale
- Rochester Holiday Show at Lamberton Conservatory
🎃 Explore all 10+ featured events below!
Rochester Christmas Events
Rochester Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment (6)
When
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
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Event Description
The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester City Ballet present their 25th anniversary production of The Nutcracker. This beloved holiday tradition unfolds at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, whisking audiences away to a magical land of sparkling snow and delectable sweets. Delight in the timeless story, brought to life by captivating dance and Tchaikovsky's unforgettable score.
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When
Friday, December 20, 2024
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Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the Gala Holiday Pops, a beloved Rochester tradition for over three decades. The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik, presents a festive program featuring holiday classics, carols, and selections from 'The Nutcracker'.
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When
Tuesday, December 2, 2025
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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 family memories.
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When
Thursday, December 18, 2025
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Immerse yourself in the rich sounds of Baroque music at the Memorial Art Gallery's Third Thursday Concert series. This special performance features 'The Twelve Days of Christmas,' brought to life by talented musicians from the Eastman School of Music. They will perform on the gallery's unique Italian Baroque Organ, a rare instrument dating back to 1770 and the only one of its kind in North America.
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When
Friday, November 7, 2025
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Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's special concert series. From the enchanting "Nutcracker" ballet to the festive "Gala Holiday Pops," these performances offer a delightful escape. Enjoy cinematic scores brought to life with "JAWS In Concert" and "Heroes: A Video Game Symphony."
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When
Wednesday, December 31, 2025
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Ring in the New Year with a spectacular night of musical performances at Blackfriars Theatre's NYE Musical Mayhem. This special event promises an evening of entertainment and festive cheer, perfect for celebrating the transition into the new year with music and community.
MoreRochester Christmas Markets and Shopping (4)
When
Friday, December 5, 2025
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Event Description
Discover the magic of Roc Holiday Village, Rochester's premier winter festival! This enchanting event offers free ice skating, a vibrant shopping village with local artisans, and delightful visits with Santa Claus. Enjoy festive food and drinks, cozy up by fire pits, and explore unique attractions like the Winter Igloo Village. With live music, kids' crafts, and special holiday celebrations, it's the perfect destination for festive family fun.
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When
Sunday, November 30, 2025
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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 even more holiday cheer and shopping opportunities.
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When
Friday, November 21, 2025
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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 floors of displays.
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Discover the charm of the Brockport Winter Market, a festive gathering featuring local artisans and seasonal delights. Explore unique handmade crafts and enjoy delicious food and warm beverages. While vendor information for 2024 is still forthcoming, a map from the previous year offers a glimpse into the delightful experience awaiting visitors.
MoreRochester Christmas Light Displays (3)
When
Friday, December 13, 2024
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Event Description
Step into a world of wonder and Christmas cheer at Christmas at RCCM! This magical event features four major attractions, including the thrilling 4D ride "Miracle" and the immersive "The Name." Families will love "Raffadali's Great Adventure" and creating ornaments at "Star's Yuletide Workshop." Don't miss the breathtaking "illumiNATIONS: Tapestry of Earth" lightshow illuminating the entire campus.
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When
Saturday, December 7, 2024
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Begin the holiday season with the enchanting Liberty Pole Lighting ceremony, followed by a festive family parade to the ROC Holiday Village. Once there, enjoy free visits with Santa, complimentary ice skating, and browse unique gifts from local artisans. It's a perfect start to family holiday traditions.
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Step into a winter wonderland at the Lamberton Conservatory's Rochester Holiday Show. This historic gem, meticulously restored to its 1911 glory, offers a tropical escape with its lush plant collections. During the holiday season, they extend their hours on Fridays and Sundays, allowing visitors to experience the conservatory's beauty under the evening sky, adorned with festive decorations.
MoreRochester Christmas Giving Opportunities (2)
When
Sunday, December 8, 2024
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Event Description
St. John's Illumination of Love is an annual event dedicated to remembering and honoring loved ones. Donations raised directly benefit residents by providing for their personal needs, such as adaptive clothing, eyeglasses, or other comfort items. This event fosters a sense of community and support for those within the St. John's community.
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Experience the spirit of giving during Rochester's Holiday Volunteer Day, a 24-hour online fundraising event. This initiative, powered by United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, connects generous donors with over 600 local nonprofits. It's a powerful opportunity to support vital causes, from youth programs to community health, all through a single, secure online donation.
MoreRochester Other Christmas Activities (1)
When
Saturday, December 7, 2024
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Event Description
Step into a winter wonderland at the Corn Hill Holiday Tour of Homes. This beloved event invites visitors to explore six architecturally diverse homes, each adorned with festive holiday decorations. Wander through the charming, hilly streets of Rochester's historic Corn Hill neighborhood, admiring styles from Greek Revival to Gothic Revival. A special twilight tour offers a magical evening perspective, making this a perfect holiday tradition.
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