Arts, Culture, Recreation in the Rochester New York Area | Beyond the Nest (Rochester)

FEATURED EVENTS

French Heritage Days at Old Fort Niagara

Visitors will meet French explorers, traders, missionaries and soldiers in this interactive living history event. Learn about French cuisine, travel, military life and recreational pursuits of the early 18th century. Friday's program is for students and runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Teachers receive pre-visit information and links to pre-visit videos. To book your visit, contact Marlene at (716) 745-7611 x 223 or email mwessel@oldfortniagara.org
Dates: 
11/06/2026
11/07/2026
10 am - 4 pm
Location: 
Old Fort Niagara, Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174, United States
See map: Google Maps
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Polar Express Train Ride at Medina Railroad Museum 2026

Weekends in November/December starting Nov 21, AND Tuesday, Dec 21: Experience the magic this holiday season! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Medina Railroad Museum is back this season! The 1¼ hour round-trip passenger excursion comes to life as the train departs Medina for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board THE POLAR EXPRESS™, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung as they return back to Medina. Certain dates and car types will sell quickly so you’ll want to book soon to reserve your preferred seating!
Dates: 
11/21/2026
11/22/2026
11/28/2026
varies, see website
Location: 
Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Avenue, Medina, NY 14103, United States
See map: Google Maps
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Santa's Wonderland Express 2026! (SOLD OUT)

*Tickets On Sale Now* All aboard for a magical holiday adventure on Santa’s Wonderland Express at the Arcade & Attica Railroad! During November and December, families can ride a heated vintage train to the North Pole, where Santa and his elves are waiting with festive fun. Children can write and mail their Christmas wish lists, visit the Elf House, enjoy face painting, meet Santa, and take family photos. Hot cocoa, cookies, and other treats are available for purchase, and every child receives a special gift on the return trip. It's a wonderful way to make holiday memories together!
Dates: 
11/21/2026
11/22/2026
11/27/2026
varies, see website
Location: 
278 Arcade and Attica Railroad, Arcade, NY 14009, United States
See map: Google Maps
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Bowling to Raise Bucks at Roseland Bowl

Friday, Nov 6, 6pm-9pm: A high-energy bowling fundraiser supporting programs for people with disabilities: Bowling to Raise Bucks is a fun-filled fundraising event that brings teams, families, and community members together for a night of bowling, prizes, and camaraderie. Funds raised directly support Ability Partners agencies’ programs that serve children, adults, and families across the Rochester & Finger Lakes communities. Registration to the event includes: two games with shoe rental, pizza, beverages, cookies, snacks, candy, and prizes! 
Dates: 
11/06/2026
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Location: 
Roseland Bowl, Recreation Drive, Canandaigua, NY, USA
See map: Google Maps
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