R-Centers across Rochester open their doors to provide safe and engaging February break activities for kids and families

Rochester, New York – When classrooms go quiet for February Break, Rochester’s neighborhood R-Centers are preparing to come alive with energy, creativity, and connection. From February 17 through February 20, children and families across the city will have access to a wide range of free activities designed to keep young people engaged, active, and supported while school is out.

Mayor Malik D. Evans is encouraging families to take advantage of the city’s recreation centers during the break, highlighting their role as safe and welcoming spaces where kids can learn, play, and build friendships. “Whenever school is out, your neighborhood R-Center is the place to be,” said Mayor Evans. “Whether gaming with friends or trying your hand at entrepreneurship, kids and families can count on exciting and supportive experiences over February Break.”

To meet increased demand during the school break, several R-Centers will operate with extended hours and offer both breakfast and lunch. Adams Street R-Center at 85 Adams St., Trenton and Pamela Jackson R-Center at 285 N. Clinton Ave., and Thomas P. Ryan R-Center at 530 Webster Ave. will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Frederick Douglass R-Center at 999 South Ave. will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. These locations are designed to give families dependable, full-day options while school is closed.

Read also: New York State Police arrest New Jersey man following investigation into serious felony sex charges involving a minor

Additional R-Centers will also be open on abbreviated schedules, providing recreation time along with snacks and lunch. Avenue D, Carter Street, Edgerton, Hope, Willie W. Lightfoot, and David F. Gantt R-Centers will each offer afternoon programming, with hours generally ranging from late morning through early evening. All R-Centers will be closed on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents’ Day.

At the heart of the February Break offerings is R-Stars, the City of Rochester’s signature afterschool and break-week program for children ages 6 to 12. Available at all R-Center locations, R-Stars combines free play, homework help, dance, and gaming into a balanced schedule that keeps kids both active and focused. While the program is free, registration is required, helping staff ensure a safe and supportive environment for every participant.

Beyond daily recreation, February Break will feature themed programs that turn time off from school into opportunities for exploration and growth. At the Avenue D R-Center, Winterfest will bring a full week of seasonal fun for youth ages 6 to 17. The program blends cozy indoor activities like baking, hot cocoa, and winter-themed movies with more active experiences, including an ice-skating field trip that lets kids embrace the colder weather.

At the Thomas P. Ryan R-Center, Discovery Week will focus on hands-on learning and personal development for youth ages 6 to 14. Through experiments such as slime-making, problem-solving challenges, and group activities, participants will explore science concepts while also building teamwork, confidence, and self-expression. The program emphasizes curiosity and collaboration, helping kids learn how things work while learning more about themselves and one another.

Older youth will have the chance to step into the world of entrepreneurship during BizKid$ Camp Week at the Loretta C. Scott Center for Human Services on St. Paul Street. Designed for teens ages 14 to 18, the week-long program introduces participants to the basics of business, leadership, and decision-making. Teens will create business ideas, learn budgeting and branding skills, and manage simulated earnings using “Biz Bucks,” all while working in teams and facing real-world-style challenges. Registration is required for this program.

Read also: Attorney General Letitia James secures more than $17 million from drug manufacturers Bausch and Lannett after multistate investigation into price inflation scheme

Gaming fans will also find plenty to enjoy during the break. Several R-Centers will host e-gaming sessions where participants can compete against friends or prepare for upcoming tournaments. Scheduled events include Super Smash Bros competitions at the Jackson R-Center and Nintendo Switch gaming at the Douglass R-Center, with sessions tailored to different age groups to ensure inclusive and age-appropriate play.

Sports and physical activity round out the February Break lineup. Youth can participate in 3-on-3 basketball at the Gantt R-Center, attend a rugby clinic at the Rochester Community Sports Complex, or enjoy open skate sessions at the MLK Ice Rink. Other offerings include My Brother’s Keeper Movies and Mentors at the Danforth Community Center, blending recreation with discussion and guidance.

Together, the February Break programs reflect the city’s broader commitment to supporting young people beyond the classroom. By combining recreation, learning, mentorship, and meals, Rochester’s R-Centers aim to give families peace of mind and children meaningful ways to spend their time off from school.

A full list of February Break activities, schedules, and registration details is available on the City of Rochester’s website. For many families, the week offers more than entertainment—it provides connection, structure, and a reminder that community spaces are always ready to step in when school is out.