Rochester Lilac Festival 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Every May, Rochester does something it has been doing for 128 years: the whole city goes to Highland Park. The Lilac Festival is the anchor event of the Rochester year — the moment the city exhales after winter and gathers in one of the country's great public gardens. This year's festival runs May 8–17 with over 80 live music acts, 300+ juried arts and crafts vendors, and the full bloom of 1,200 lilac bushes across 22 varieties. Free admission, the whole ten days.

A few highlights worth planning around: the Lilac Parade kicks things off on May 9, the Lilac Local Farmers Market runs May 11–13 spotlighting regional growers and makers, and the festival closes with the Lilac Run 5K/10K on May 17. The festival also includes a Sensory Space for guests with sensory sensitivities.

Dates: May 8–17, 2026 Time: Gates open 10:30 AM daily Location: Highland Park, Rochester NY Cost: Free

No registration needed for general admission. Race registration and vendor details at roclilacfest.com.