The annual lighting of the Liberty Pole and parade to Roc Holiday Village returns to Rochester this Saturday evening at 5 pm

Rochester, New York – The holiday season in Rochester will officially kick off this Saturday with the return of the annual Lighting of the Liberty Pole and Parade to the Roc Holiday Village. The festivities will begin at 5 p.m. at the corner of E. Main Street and Franklin Street, where Mayor Evans, City Councilmembers, Santa, and the Prime Time Brass band will gather to illuminate the Liberty Pole in a sparkling start to the city’s seasonal celebrations.

Following the lighting ceremony, families and community members are invited to join a festive parade through downtown Rochester. The parade will wind its way to the Roc Holiday Village, located at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Park, 353 Court Street, offering residents an opportunity to experience holiday spirit firsthand. To ensure safety, several streets along the parade route will be closed starting at 5 p.m., including Franklin Street from Liberty Pole Way to E. Main Street, E. Main Street from Courtland Street to Gibbs Street, Gibbs Street from E. Main Street to East Avenue, East Avenue from E. Main Street to Broadway, and Broadway from East Avenue to the traffic circle. Streets will reopen as the last parade participants move along the route.

Once the parade reaches the Roc Holiday Village, attendees will find a lively array of holiday activities. Children and families can enjoy free arts and crafts, take photos with Santa, and try their hand at ice skating, with skate rentals generously sponsored by Wegmans. Guests are encouraged to bring their own skates if possible, as rental quantities are limited. The village will also showcase local artisans selling one-of-a-kind gifts, as well as food and beverages for visitors of all ages.

Read also: RIT students go into the ROC to explore the city, volunteer, and connect with the local community

This annual event is designed to bring the Rochester community together, offering a festive and family-friendly way to celebrate the season. “The Lighting of the Liberty Pole and parade are traditions that bring joy to residents and showcase the spirit of our city,” a city spokesperson said. The celebration emphasizes both holiday cheer and community engagement, providing residents with opportunities to gather, explore, and enjoy seasonal activities in a safe and welcoming environment.

For those attending, free parking is available on-street and at the Mortimer Street Garage, 25 N. Clinton Avenue, making it easier for families and visitors to participate in the evening’s festivities. Additional details about the event, including parade logistics and holiday village activities, can be found online at www.CityofRochester.gov/LibertyPoleLighting.

Read also: Lauren Ghazal emerges as a leading advocate for the health and well-being of young adult cancer survivors

With music, lights, and holiday excitement filling the streets, this year’s Liberty Pole lighting and parade promise a magical start to the season. Families, friends, and visitors can come together to celebrate, explore the Roc Holiday Village, and enjoy the community spirit that makes Rochester’s holiday traditions so special.