The 17-day Roc Holiday Village festival (December 6–29, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) kicks off on the first full weekend of December. In the heart of downtown, the charming holiday village offers a range of free holiday-themed activities and community events, including free ice skating with rentals, a holiday shopping village, cozy igloos, live music, free crafts for kids, Santa visits, fire pits, and food and drinks from indoor and outdoor bars.
Located at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at Manhattan Square, Roc Holiday Village creates a joyful space for the entire Rochester community and is the quintessential December destination. It’s an enchanting, delightful, magical must-do experience. For the most up-to-date information, including tips on parking, special events, and weather notifications, visit rocholidayvillage.com.
While opening night for the 2024 village is Friday, December 6, the official kickoff to Rochester’s holiday season is Saturday. After the Liberty Pole lighting ceremony on Saturday, December 7, enjoy a Sanda-led procession from Main Street to the village at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park.
Wandering around the village’s winter-friendly tents and igloos, it feels like a small countryside village main street. Sprinkled along the way are fire-side seating areas and tasty treats.
The ice skating rink is open for free skating, and skate rentals are available, though there is a limited supply—bring your own if you have them. Make a day of it by spending time next door at The Strong National Museum of Play. Its own parking garage makes it super convenient.
Explore More
Your 2024 Holiday Spirit Guide: Festive Events that Celebrate the Season
As the holiday season approaches, Rochester transforms into a place filled with community warmth, light, and festive spirit.
Our 3 Favorite Neighborhoods with Spectacular Christmas Light Displays: 2024 Edition
Enjoy our favorite extreme Christmas lights around Rochester! These homeowners and communities go all out to celebrate the holiday season.
Skaneateles Dickens Christmas 2024
Experience the magic of Skaneateles’ Dickens Christmas with festive performances, carriage rides, and a cast of merry-making characters.
Lamberton Conservatory: 2024 Holiday Show
The Lamberton Conservatory 2024 Holiday Show runs from Friday, Dec. 6, through Sunday, Jan. 12. Enjoy it on Friday and Sunday nights!
5 Old-Fashioned Country Stores Around Rochester
Step back in time when you visit these old-fashioned country stores filled with nostalgic candies, vintage toys, and charming knickknacks.
Shared Rochester Experiences that Make Great Gifts
Giving the gift of shared Rochester experiences offers rewards that go well beyond mere personal joy—where less is genuinely more.
🌲 20 Christmas Tree Farms Around Rochester
As December nears, it’s time to start thinking about one of the most beloved family traditions—selecting and decorating the Christmas tree.
Rochester-Area Shopping Guides
Rochester offers delightful shopping experiences, from charming neighborhood boutiques to bustling shopping destinations in nearby villages.
Tell us about your experience at Roc Holiday Village!
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
Enjoy the Journey Together!
