The stars and stripes are about to fly, and the City of Rochester and its surrounding areas are gearing up for a spectacular Fourth of July celebration! Whether you're looking for a classic parade, a family-friendly festival, or a celebratory race, there's something for everyone this Independence Day weekend.
Kick-off Your Fourth of July Celebrations Early!
Get a head start on the festivities with these events happening before July 4th:
Saturday, June 29th: The Town of Chili's annual Summerfest (formerly the Chil-E Fest) returns, hosted by the Chili Senior Center.
Saturday, June 29th: Celebrate Independence Day a little early at the Town of Penfield's Independence Day Celebration. The festivities include a parade starting at 10 am from Penfield High School to the Penfield Community Center. The celebration continues at Harris Whalen Park from 6 pm to 10:30 pm, ending with a fireworks display.
Feeling Patriotic and Athletic?
Start your Fourth of July with a celebratory race! On July 4th, choose from the historic Fleet Feet Firecracker Four Mile (one of the oldest races in the area!) or the Brighton July 4th 5k. There's a race for runners of all levels.
Step Back in Time at the Genesee Country Village & Museum
Experience a unique Independence Day celebration at the Genesee Country Village & Museum on July 4th. Immerse yourself in 19th-century traditions, enjoy patriotic music, and learn how our ancestors celebrated this special day.
Light Up the Night with Fireworks Displays Galore!
Rochester's night sky will be ablaze with stunning fireworks displays throughout the weekend. Here are some highlights:
City of Rochester's Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza: Witness a breathtaking display launched from the downtown bridges on July 4th at 10 pm.
Town of Henrietta: Enjoy live music and fireworks at Veterans Memorial Park on July 4th. Festivities start at 4 pm with fireworks launching at 9:45 pm.
Lincoln Hill Farm in Canandaigua: Celebrate "Light Up the Fourth at the Farm!" with live music, food, drinks, and a dazzling fireworks display on July 4th from 1 pm to 10 pm.
Town of Greece Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration: End the night with fireworks at this family-friendly event featuring food trucks, activities, and a performance by Jefferson Starship on July 4th at 6:30 pm.
More Ways to Celebrate!
Feeling festive? Join the Fourth of July parades in Irondequoit, Fairport, Canandaigua (on July 4th), or Penfield (on June 29th) for a classic Independence Day experience.
Baseball fan? Catch the Rochester Red Wings game against the Buffalo Bisons on July 4th and enjoy a special fireworks display after the game.
Looking for a late-night celebration? Head to Photo City Music Hall for a Fourth of July rave starting at 7 pm on July 4th.
Wrap Up the Weekend with a Cookout!
On July 7th, head to Godfrey's Pond for a relaxing cookout with hamburgers, hot dogs, and all the fixings.
This is just a taste of the many ways to celebrate Independence Day in Rochester and the surrounding areas. With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect way to celebrate America's birthday!
Don't forget to share your holiday adventures with us on social media!
