Spring

Organization:

Location:

Highland Park

Rochester, NY, .

United States

Rochester Lilac Festival 2025

Presenting the 127th edition in 2025, the Rochester Lilac Festival is the largest free festival of its kind. Held in Highland Park, a Frederick Law Olmstead-designed park. Beginning on Mother’s Day weekend each May,the Rochester Lilac Festival is more than just a celebration of flowers—it’s an experience like no other! With over 80 bands, from national touring acts to talented regional performers, there’s non-stop entertainment. Beyond the music, the festival is packed with incredible attractions, including a diverse selection of food vendors, the Lilac 5K/10K and Donut Dash, the vibrant Lilac Parade, guided walking tours, a bustling farmers market, and the award-winning Art in the Park art show. The RLF is proud to offer unique experiences like the Sensory Space, the Zero Proof Social Club, and Seniors’ Day, ensuring fun for all ages.

Dates:

05/14/2025

05/15/2025

05/16/2025

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Time:

10:30am – 8:30pm

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New York Museum of Transportation

The New York Museum of Transportation is unique among Western New York's museums. In Rush, just 20 minutes from Rochester, the museum features vintage trolley cars, highway and horse-drawn vehicles, a steam locomotive, several model railroads, photos, exhibits, gallery, and gift shop. Relive holiday memories with the Midtown Plaza Monorail on display! Rides are included with admission on the only electric trolley line in New York State. No reservations needed except for certain special events. Open Sundays only.

6393 East River Rd

W. Henrietta , NY , 14586

Phone: (585) 533-1113

43° 1' 0.2136" N, 77° 42' 35.262" W

See map: Google Maps

Colonial Belle

Family friendly tour boat located in Fairport, NY on the historic waters of the Erie Canal. The Colonial Belle is the largest tour boat operating on the historic Erie Canal. Our vessel is U.S. Coast Guard certified to carry 149 passengers with a fully accessible enclosed lower deck and an upper open-air deck. The enclosed first deck offers comfortable seating, a full-service bar and two restrooms. The upper deck provides seating, scenic viewing and the experience of "ducking down" for low bridges. Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Narrated Lock Cruises, Event Cruises, School Field Trip Cruises & Private Charters available. Cruising season: mid-May through October

400 Packett's Landing

Fairport , NY , 14450

Phone: (585) 223-9470

43° 6' 2.646" N, 77° 26' 26.7216" W

See map: Google Maps

Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve

Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve is a 292-acre complex of forests, ponds and wetlands. We offer a variety of opportunities to explore and learn about nature for families and people of all ages, including guided walks, seasonal programs and events.

93 Honorine Drive

Depew , NY , 14043

Phone: 716-683-5959

42° 53' 34.9116" N, 78° 43' 6.7908" W

See map: Google Maps

Rochester Lilac Festival

Three long weekends in May beginning Mother's Day Weekend (May 6-8, May 12-15, May 19-22). Activities for all ages! The largest free festival of its kind, and collection of lilacs in North America. There are Kids Zones, Lilac 5K/10K, Wine and Craft Beer Tastings, Art Show, Parade, Health and Wellness Experience, and Seniors Day.

Highland Park

Rochester , NY , . 43° 7' 48.9576" N, 77° 36' 16.83" W

See map: Google Maps