See all Rochester Christmas happenings this year!
Rochester anchors Christmas 2025 at iconic landmarks like the Midtown and Strong Museum with streets aglow and festive shows. Visitors find festive events, holiday entertainment and winter gatherings that blend markets, performances and cozy seasonal traditions.
Find the best Rochester Christmas happenings this year!
Top Christmas Events In and Around Rochester
- Roc Holiday Village
- The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet
- A Christmas Carol
- Holidays at the Market
- Sweet Creations Gingerbread Display
- Holiday Laser Show at Strasenburgh Planetarium
- Liberty Pole Lighting & Parade to Roc Holiday Village
- Rochester Gala Holiday Pops
- The Nutcracker by Rochester Broadway Theatre League
- Rochester Holiday Bazaar Arts & Crafts Sale
See even MORE Christmas events below!
Rochester Christmas Events
Rochester Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment
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The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and Rochester City Ballet present their 26th annual holiday tradition, The Nutcracker. This magical performance brings Tchaikovsky's unforgettable score to life with the beautiful ballet, telling the heartwarming story of a young girl's Christmas Eve dream.
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Experience Rochester's beloved holiday tradition with 'A Christmas Carol' at Geva Theatre. This adaptation of Charles Dickens' timeless story follows the transformation of the notorious Ebenezer Scrooge after visits from four ghosts. It's a powerful reminder that change is always possible, making it a perfect festive outing for the whole family.
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Immerse yourself in a dazzling holiday spectacle at the Strasenburgh Planetarium's Holiday Laser show. This beloved Rochester tradition features a state-of-the-art laser system and full-dome visualization, creating a vibrant and immersive experience. Enjoy a curated playlist of favorite holiday songs, from classical Vivaldi to modern hits by Mariah Carey and Trans-Siberian Orchestra, all choreographed with dancing laser lights against the backdrop of the planetarium's stars.
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Celebrate the magic of the season with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's Gala Holiday Pops. This cherished tradition, now in its fourth decade, offers a delightful escape from the holiday rush. Conducted by Jeff Tyzik and featuring the talented Festival High School Chorale, the concert promises to fill the air with the joyous sounds of the season.
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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.
Rochester Christmas Markets and Shopping
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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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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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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 celebration in the heart of this historic Victorian village. Browse a delightful array of handmade crafts and unique gifts from local artisans, perfect for holiday shopping. Savor delicious festive food and warm beverages as you soak in the cheerful atmosphere. While vendor details for 2024 are still emerging, past events have featured a vibrant community gathering, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience seasonal cheer.
Rochester Christmas Light Displays
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Experience the magic of the Sweet Creations Gingerbread Display at the George Eastman Museum. This beloved holiday tradition features dozens of cleverly designed and deliciously decorated gingerbread houses filling the historic mansion. It's a visual and aromatic treat for visitors of all ages. All creations are available for bidding in an online silent auction, offering a unique chance to take home a piece of edible art.
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Kick off the holiday season in downtown Rochester with the annual Liberty Pole Lighting and Family Parade. This festive event begins with Mayor Evans, Santa, and the Prime Time Brass illuminating the Liberty Pole, followed by a cheerful parade to the ROC Holiday Village. Once at the village, enjoy free visits with Santa, complimentary ice skating (bring your own skates if possible!), browse unique artisan gifts, and savor delicious food and drinks.
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With 20 years of experience, we use AI technology to build the most comprehensive list of christmas events events.
Our goal is complete coverage—from major festivals to small community celebrations, ensuring you never miss anything happening in your area.
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