We celebrate Father’s Day at GCV&M with a variety of family fun and activities, and FREE admission for Dad!

Hochstein at High Falls returns this summer! Hosted by WRUR’s Hannah Maier, this fan favorite concert series features performances by local legends and regional favorites, all for free and in the city’s High Falls District. This noontime, lunch hour summer concert series features the sounds of local musicians in the city’s High Falls District. Hochstein at High Falls concerts begin at 12:10 pm on Thursday afternoons in the outer parking lot at 4 Commercial Street, corner of Browns Race.

In October of 1864, the 140th mustered in Monroe County, bolstering, training, and outfitting their regiment with new recruits.

Join us for this special event showcasing our extensive collection of historic trains and locomotives!

The only real Santa Train Rides in Rochester! Sip hot cocoa as we take a magical train ride to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the North Pole!

Year after year, we bring the world here. Since debuting in 2012, the Fringe has drawn more than 750,000 visitors from all over the world to more than 5,000 diverse performances and events. In fact, Rochester’s not-for-profit Fringe has become one of the largest and most successful fringe festivals in the nation, the largest multidisciplinary performing arts festival in New York State, and one of the region’s most anticipated festivals each year. Venues and acts radiate out into the city in every direction! No matter what your taste in entertainment, you're on the fringe of finding it!

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.

Experience vintage trucks, tractors, and train rides at the Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum, just 20 minutes from downtown Rochester! Hop on a historic train, explore the museum grounds, and get a behind-the-scenes look at our Restoration Shop.