Liberty Pole Lighting & Parade to Roc Holiday Village
Visitors gather to watch the lighting of the Liberty Pole alongside Santa, the Mayor, and live music by the Prime Time Brass. Families then march in a downtown parade leading to Dr. MLK Jr. Park for an evening of holiday festivities. At the celebration, attendees can glide across the ice rink, visit Santa, make crafts, and browse items from local artisans.
What to Expect
Includes a holiday parade, live music, Santa visits, and ice skating.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
City of Rochester
Food & Drink
Great food and drink are available at the event.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children
Vibe
Festive and community-minded
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: The page gives no admission price. It lists free visits with Santa until 8 p.m., and free ice skating and skate rentals at Roc Holiday Village.
- Hours: 5 p.m. Liberty Pole lighting; 5:15 p.m. family parade; 5:40 p.m. arrival at Roc Holiday Village; Santa visits until 8 p.m.
- Parking: Free parking is available at Mortimer Street Garage and free street parking is available on weekends. Nearby Washington Square Garage and East End Garage parking costs $7.
- Pets: The City discourages bringing pets to Rochester special events unless the event specifically involves them, citing possible concerns from loud noise, crowds, small children, emergency vehicles, and extreme weather.
Tips & Advice
- Bring your own skates if you have them; rentals are free, but quantities are limited.
- Park at Mortimer Street Garage for free, or use free street parking available on weekends to avoid paid nearby garages.
- Leave pets at home, as the City discourages them at special events because crowds, loud noise, children, and winter weather can pose concerns.
- Wear warm layers for the outdoor lighting, parade, and park festivities, since the event takes place in December.
- Plan for a walk in the family parade from Liberty Pole to Dr. MLK Jr. Park, and wear comfortable shoes.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa visits are free until 8 p.m.
- Ice skating and skate rentals are free; rental quantities are limited.
- Kid crafts are free.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who lights the Liberty Pole?
Mayor Evans and Santa light it, with live music from the Prime Time Brass.
Where does the parade go?
Families walk from the Liberty Pole to the City of Rochester Roc Holiday Village at Dr. MLK Jr. Park.
What is there to do at Roc Holiday Village?
Visit Santa for free, skate for free, shop local artisans' gifts, eat and drink, and stop at the photo spots. Kids can make free crafts.
Where should I park?
The Mortimer Street Garage at 25 Clinton Ave North, between Mortimer St and Division St, is free. Street parking is also free on weekends. Washington Square Garage and East End Garage are paid.
Can I bring my dog?
The City discourages bringing pets unless the event involves them. Loud noise, crowds, small children, emergency vehicles and extreme weather can upset even well-behaved pets.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.