Event
Tue, Oct 27 · Mon & Fri 10 am–5 pm; Tue & Thu 9 am–4 pm
Pumpkin Hunt at Ontario Play & Cafe
Kids hunt for pumpkins hidden around the play floor, and everyone who finds them all gets a goodie bag. Costumes encouraged.
Family event calendar
Rochester family events
97 upcoming events for toddlers to teens, from storytimes to Santa breakfasts. Filter by age, date and town, or add the whole calendar to your phone.
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EventPlace
Tue, Oct 27
Event
Event
Tue, Oct 27 · 7:30–9:00 pm, select nights
Haunted Hayrides of Greater Rochester
A big-production haunted hayride east of Rochester for teens who want a real scare. Peak nights sell out.
Event
Tue, Oct 27 · 10:00 am
Spooky Storytime
Not-too-scary Halloween stories and songs for little ones. Costumes welcome.
Wed, Oct 28
Event
Wed, Oct 28 · Daytime (see site)
Halloween Homeschool Day
Old-time Halloween traditions and activities around the historic village, aimed at homeschool families.
Event
Wed, Oct 28 · 7:30–9:00 pm, select nights
Haunted Hayrides of Greater Rochester
A big-production haunted hayride east of Rochester for teens who want a real scare. Peak nights sell out.
Event
Wed, Oct 28 · 6:00 pm
T(w)een Halloween Night
An evening Halloween party at the library just for tweens and teens.
Event
Wed, Oct 28 · 9:30 am
Trick-or-Treat Around the Library
A morning costume walk where little ones collect treats around the library.
Thu, Oct 29
Event
Thu, Oct 29 · Mon & Fri 10 am–5 pm; Tue & Thu 9 am–4 pm
Pumpkin Hunt at Ontario Play & Cafe
Kids hunt for pumpkins hidden around the play floor, and everyone who finds them all gets a goodie bag. Costumes encouraged.
Event
Thu, Oct 29 · 10:30 am
Bop 'Til You Drop: Halloween Edition
A costume dance party for toddlers and preschoolers.
Event
Thu, Oct 29 · 3:00 pm
Halloween Karaoke Dance Party
After-school Halloween karaoke and dancing at a city library branch.
Event
Thu, Oct 29 · 7:30–9:00 pm, select nights
Haunted Hayrides of Greater Rochester
A big-production haunted hayride east of Rochester for teens who want a real scare. Peak nights sell out.
Fri, Oct 30
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · Mon & Fri 10 am–5 pm; Tue & Thu 9 am–4 pm
Pumpkin Hunt at Ontario Play & Cafe
Kids hunt for pumpkins hidden around the play floor, and everyone who finds them all gets a goodie bag. Costumes encouraged.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · Game night (see site)
Amerks Sweets in the Suites Night
A Rochester Americans home game where kids trick-or-treat through the arena suites.
EventEvent
Fri, Oct 30 · 7:30–9:00 pm, select nights
Haunted Hayrides of Greater Rochester
A big-production haunted hayride east of Rochester for teens who want a real scare. Peak nights sell out.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · 1:00 pm
Library Trick or Treat
Afternoon trick-or-treating around the library for young kids.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · 5:00 pm
Mall Trick or Treat
Indoor trick-or-treating store to store, a dry option if the weather turns.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · Evening (see site)
Moonlight Maze
The corn maze after dark with flashlights, a favorite with tweens and teens.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · 11:30 am
Preschool Halloween Party
Games, songs and treats for preschoolers in costume.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · Daytime (see site)
Pumpkin Destruction Weekend
The farm closes its season by smashing, launching and crushing leftover pumpkins.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · Evening tours (see site)
Spirits of the Past: A Walk in the Dark
A guided after-dark theatrical walk through the historic village with spooky stories. Best for older kids and teens.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · 10:00 am–2:00 pm
Toddler Trick-or-Treat
A gentle Halloween for the littlest visitors, with trick-or-treating for treats and prizes, character visits, games, a take-home craft and a dance party.
Event
Fri, Oct 30 · Gates open about 6:30 pm
VerHulst Haunted Hayride
A full-scare haunted hayride, walk-through and corn maze. Under-14s must ride with a paying adult.
Sat, Oct 31
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Family Fun Day: Tricks & Treats
Costumed trick-or-treating through the museum plus spooky science demos, slime, circuits and visits from local groups like the LEGO users group and the Knighthawks mascot.
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Family Halloween at The Strong
Broomstick flying lessons, potion making, a noon costume parade and a Monster Mash dance party around the museum.
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · 5:00 pm
Grace Church Trunk or Treat
A neighborhood trunk-or-treat in the church parking lot on Halloween night.
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · From 8:00 am
Halloween at Mamaste
A Halloween morning at a cozy play cafe for babies and preschoolers.
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · 9:30 am–3:30 pm
Halloween at the Zoo (Fall Fest)
The last day of the zoo's Fall Fest, with creepy-crawly animal meet-and-greets, a hay maze for little ones and hands-on nature activities. Costumes welcome.
Event
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · Evening (see site)
Mischief, Murder & Mayhem Tour
A walking tour of Rochester’s darker history in its famous Victorian cemetery. Best for older kids and teens.
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · Daytime (see site)
Pumpkin Destruction Weekend
The farm closes its season by smashing, launching and crushing leftover pumpkins.
Event
Sat, Oct 31 · 11:00 am
Trick or Treat in the Village of Webster
Daytime trick-or-treating at shops along Main Street.
Sun, Nov 1
Event
Sun, Nov 1 · Daytime (see site)
Pumpkin Destruction Weekend
The farm closes its season by smashing, launching and crushing leftover pumpkins.
Fri, Nov 6
Event
Fri, Nov 6 · 7:05 pm
Amerks Youth Hockey Night
A home game against the Hartford Wolf Pack that celebrates local youth hockey players and teams.
Sat, Nov 7
Event
Sat, Nov 7 · 10 am–3 pm
Holiday Market & Preparing for Winter
Shop handmade gifts at the museum's holiday market, then wander the historic village to see how 19th-century families got ready for winter.
Event
Sat, Nov 7 · 10:30 am–12:00 pm & 1:00–2:30 pm
LEGO Building Workshop: Mini Arcade
Local LEGO club builders walk participants step by step through a miniature arcade cabinet to take home. Tickets required.
Event
Sat, Nov 7 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
National Toy Hall of Fame Celebration
A weekend celebrating this year's Toy Hall of Fame inductees, with a cardboard and Lincoln Logs construction zone, slime play, an American Girl activity and a Nutcracker preview performance.
Event
Monthly, through Nov 7
Stars with Carl
A monthly live sky show run on the planetarium's original 1968 Carl Zeiss star projector. A nice pick for space-curious kids and teens.
Sun, Nov 8
Event
Sun, Nov 8 · 10 am–3 pm
Holiday Market & Preparing for Winter
Shop handmade gifts at the museum's holiday market, then wander the historic village to see how 19th-century families got ready for winter.
Event
Sun, Nov 8 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
National Toy Hall of Fame Celebration
A weekend celebrating this year's Toy Hall of Fame inductees, with a cardboard and Lincoln Logs construction zone, slime play, an American Girl activity and a Nutcracker preview performance.
Event
Sun, Nov 8 · 10:30 am
Wild Walk: Rockin' Rocks
A guided hike of up to 3 miles looking at unusual rocks on the property and the ice-age story they tell. Best for kids 7 and up.
Wed, Nov 11
Event
Wed, Nov 11 · 11 am–3 pm
Holiday Preview at The Strong
An early taste of the season: Rochester City Ballet performs Nutcracker excerpts at 11 am and 1 pm, and Geva offers photo ops and a ticket drawing.
Event
Wed, Nov 11 · 9:00 am–4:00 pm
Zoo Day-Off Camp (Veterans Day)
A full-day animal-themed camp for ages 5–9 while school is out on Veterans Day.
Sat, Nov 14
Event
Sat, Nov 14 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
Native American Heritage Month Celebration
A day of activities at The Strong marking Native American Heritage Month.
Sun, Nov 15
Event
Sun, Nov 15 · 9:30 am–3:00 pm
Recycle Rally
A hands-on day of recycling and sustainability activities around the zoo. A separate Recycle Rally drop-off is listed for Nov 14.
Sat, Nov 21
Event
Sat, Nov 21 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
In Another Galaxy
A sci-fi weekend with costumed 501st Legion characters, drawing lessons, a scavenger hunt and a Saturday talk by the author of Mickey7.
Sun, Nov 22
Event
Sun, Nov 22 · 11:00 am–3:00 pm
In Another Galaxy
A sci-fi weekend with costumed 501st Legion characters, drawing lessons, a scavenger hunt and a Saturday talk by the author of Mickey7.
Wed, Nov 25
Event
Wed, Nov 25 · 2 pm / 7 pm
The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet & RPO
Rochester City Ballet dances the classic holiday ballet with the Rochester Philharmonic playing live, a Thanksgiving-week tradition at the Eastman Theatre.
Thu, Nov 26
Event
Thu, Nov 26 · 2 pm / 7 pm
The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet & RPO
Rochester City Ballet dances the classic holiday ballet with the Rochester Philharmonic playing live, a Thanksgiving-week tradition at the Eastman Theatre.
Fri, Nov 27
Event
Fri, Nov 27 · 7:05 pm
Amerks Wands & Wizards Night
A wizard-themed home game against Syracuse the day after Thanksgiving, paired with a food drive.
Event
Fri, Nov 27 · 2 pm / 7 pm
The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet & RPO
Rochester City Ballet dances the classic holiday ballet with the Rochester Philharmonic playing live, a Thanksgiving-week tradition at the Eastman Theatre.
Sat, Nov 28
Event
Sat, Nov 28 · 7:00 pm
Rochester Knighthawks vs. Halifax Thunderbirds
Pro box lacrosse at Blue Cross Arena, a fast, loud night out for sports-loving kids and teens.
Event
Sat, Nov 28 · 2 pm / 7 pm
The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet & RPO
Rochester City Ballet dances the classic holiday ballet with the Rochester Philharmonic playing live, a Thanksgiving-week tradition at the Eastman Theatre.
Sun, Nov 29
Event
Sun, Nov 29 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Sun, Nov 29 · 11 am–6 pm
Kwanzaa Celebration at Roc Holiday Village
A free cultural celebration in the Gingerbread House presented by the Rochester Kwanzaa Coalition.
Event
Sun, Nov 29 · 2 pm / 7 pm
The Nutcracker with Rochester City Ballet & RPO
Rochester City Ballet dances the classic holiday ballet with the Rochester Philharmonic playing live, a Thanksgiving-week tradition at the Eastman Theatre.
Mon, Nov 30
Event
Mon, Nov 30 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Tue, Dec 1
Event
Tue, Dec 1 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Tue, Dec 1 · 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm; Sun 1:00 & 6:30 pm
The Sound of Music (Broadway tour)
The classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical on tour, recommended for ages 5+ (about 2 hr 40 min). Audio-described, ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are offered.
Wed, Dec 2
Event
Wed, Dec 2 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Wed, Dec 2 · 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm; Sun 1:00 & 6:30 pm
The Sound of Music (Broadway tour)
The classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical on tour, recommended for ages 5+ (about 2 hr 40 min). Audio-described, ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are offered.
Thu, Dec 3
Event
Thu, Dec 3 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Thu, Dec 3 · 6–9 pm
Lake House Holiday Market
Local makers and seasonal treats fill the resort's Event Barn for two evenings of holiday shopping.
Event
Thu, Dec 3 · 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm; Sun 1:00 & 6:30 pm
The Sound of Music (Broadway tour)
The classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical on tour, recommended for ages 5+ (about 2 hr 40 min). Audio-described, ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are offered.
Fri, Dec 4
Event
Fri, Dec 4 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Fri, Dec 4 · 6–9 pm
Lake House Holiday Market
Local makers and seasonal treats fill the resort's Event Barn for two evenings of holiday shopping.
Event
Fri, Dec 4 · 6–9 pm
Lake House Tree Lighting
The lakeside resort lights its tree with carolers, live reindeer and visits from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Event
Fri, Dec 4 · 2 pm / 6 pm
The Nutcracker (Rochester City Ballet) in Canandaigua
Rochester City Ballet brings its Nutcracker to Canandaigua for five performances, a closer-to-home option for Ontario County families.
Event
Fri, Dec 4 · 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm; Sun 1:00 & 6:30 pm
The Sound of Music (Broadway tour)
The classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical on tour, recommended for ages 5+ (about 2 hr 40 min). Audio-described, ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are offered.
Sat, Dec 5
Event
Sat, Dec 5 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Sat, Dec 5 · 2 pm / 6 pm
The Nutcracker (Rochester City Ballet) in Canandaigua
Rochester City Ballet brings its Nutcracker to Canandaigua for five performances, a closer-to-home option for Ontario County families.
Event
Sat, Dec 5 · 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm; Sun 1:00 & 6:30 pm
The Sound of Music (Broadway tour)
The classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical on tour, recommended for ages 5+ (about 2 hr 40 min). Audio-described, ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are offered.
Event
Sat, Dec 5 · Afternoon (1–5 pm per Visit Finger Lakes)
Victor's Jingle Mingle
Victor's village holiday party has kids' activities, an artisan market, horse-drawn wagon rides, a parade and photos with Santa.
Sun, Dec 6
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 30-min seatings 10 am–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at Hotel Canandaigua
Breakfast, a hot cocoa bar and photos with Santa at the lakefront hotel.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 2:00–3:30 pm
orKIDStra: Winter Wonderlands
The Rochester Philharmonic's kid-focused concert series, with free hands-on activities before the music starts.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 2 pm / 6 pm
The Nutcracker (Rochester City Ballet) in Canandaigua
Rochester City Ballet brings its Nutcracker to Canandaigua for five performances, a closer-to-home option for Ontario County families.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 7:30 pm; Sat 2:00 pm; Sun 1:00 & 6:30 pm
The Sound of Music (Broadway tour)
The classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical on tour, recommended for ages 5+ (about 2 hr 40 min). Audio-described, ASL-interpreted and open-captioned performances are offered.
Event
Sun, Dec 6 · 11 am–6 pm
Three Kings' Day Celebration at Roc Holiday Village
A free family celebration of Three Kings' Day traditions presented by the Puerto Rican Festival.
Mon, Dec 7
Event
Mon, Dec 7 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Mon, Dec 7 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Mon, Dec 7 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Tue, Dec 8
Event
Tue, Dec 8 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Tue, Dec 8 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Tue, Dec 8 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Wed, Dec 9
Event
Wed, Dec 9 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Wed, Dec 9 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Wed, Dec 9 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Thu, Dec 10
Event
Thu, Dec 10 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Thu, Dec 10 · See days
Holidays at the Market
The Public Market's special holiday shopping days with extra vendors; the Thursday evening market on Dec 10 is a festive after-dark outing. More dates may be added.
Event
Thu, Dec 10 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Fri, Dec 11
Event
Fri, Dec 11 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Fri, Dec 11 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Sat, Dec 12
Event
Sat, Dec 12 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Sat, Dec 12 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Event
Sat, Dec 12 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Event
Sat, Dec 12 · 11 am–2 pm
Winterfest at Cobblestone Arts Center
A free indoor winter festival with live music and dance, hands-on crafts, an artisan market and a visit from Santa.
Sun, Dec 13
Event
Sun, Dec 13 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Sun, Dec 13 · Seatings 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm, 1:30 pm
Brunch with St. Nick
A holiday brunch in the museum's decorated Meeting Center with a visit from St. Nicholas.
Event
Sun, Dec 13 · 11 am–6 pm
Hanukkah Celebration at Roc Holiday Village
A free Hanukkah celebration for families hosted with the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester's PJ Library.
Event
Sun, Dec 13 · 9:30–11 am
Holiday Magic Show at Roc Holiday Village
A family magic show with breakfast refreshments, followed by holiday coloring and arcade play at the village's lodge.
Event
Sun, Dec 13 · 10:30 am–4 pm (rides every 45 min from 11 am)
Holly Trolley Rides
Ride a vintage trolley at the transportation museum during its holiday weekends; reserve ahead because time slots fill.
Event
Sun, Dec 13 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Mon, Dec 14
Event
Mon, Dec 14 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Mon, Dec 14 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Tue, Dec 15
Event
Tue, Dec 15 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Tue, Dec 15 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Wed, Dec 16
Event
Wed, Dec 16 · 7:05 pm
Amerks Sensory-Friendly Night
The season's first sensory night: quieter music, no goal horn or flashing lights, dimmer bowl lighting and a calm-down area with sensory tools.
Event
Wed, Dec 16 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Wed, Dec 16 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Thu, Dec 17
Event
Thu, Dec 17 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Thu, Dec 17 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Fri, Dec 18
Event
Fri, Dec 18 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Fri, Dec 18 · 2 pm / 7:30 pm
Jeff Tyzik's Gala Holiday Pops
The RPO's 33rd holiday pops show mixes Christmas and Hanukkah favorites, a high school chorale and audience sing-alongs.
Event
Fri, Dec 18 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Sat, Dec 19
Event
Sat, Dec 19 · 3:05 pm
Amerks Teddy Bear Toss
A Saturday matinee vs. Hamilton. Fans throw new stuffed animals onto the ice after the first Amerks goal, and the toys are donated.
Event
Sat, Dec 19 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Sat, Dec 19 · 2 pm / 7:30 pm
Jeff Tyzik's Gala Holiday Pops
The RPO's 33rd holiday pops show mixes Christmas and Hanukkah favorites, a high school chorale and audience sing-alongs.
Event
Sat, Dec 19 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Sun, Dec 20
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 10–11:30 am or 12:30–2 pm
Breakfast with Santa at The Lake House
Three Sunday breakfasts with Santa on Canandaigua Lake, with two seatings each day.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 9–10:30 am
Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo
A hot breakfast in the zoo's Trailside Café followed by cookie decorating, photos with Santa and a possible penguin cameo. Zoo admission is included so families can explore afterward.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · Seatings 9, 10, 11 am and 12 pm
Breakfast with St. Nick
A morning breakfast with St. Nicholas at Genesee Country Village; it's the same day as the Holiday Open House, so you can make a day of it.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 11 am–6 pm
Christmas Celebration at Roc Holiday Village
The village's closing-day Christmas celebration, presented by First Bible Baptist Church and free to attend.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 10 am–3 pm
Holiday Open House at Genesee Country Village
The historic homes open with crackling fires, period decorations, music and dance, so families can see how holidays were celebrated long ago.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 2 pm / 7:30 pm
Jeff Tyzik's Gala Holiday Pops
The RPO's 33rd holiday pops show mixes Christmas and Hanukkah favorites, a high school chorale and audience sing-alongs.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 1:00 pm
Shortest Day Short Hike
An easy, slow-paced walk the day before the winter solstice, explaining why it's the shortest day and how to enjoy nature in winter.
Event
Sun, Dec 20 · 9:30 am
Story Time with Santa
A ticketed morning at the Triple-O Lodge with a story read by Santa, a sing-along, photos and coloring, plus donuts, bagels and hot chocolate. Tickets go on sale Nov 2.
Sat, Dec 26
Event
Sat, Dec 26 · 2 pm
A Christmas Story at OFC Creations
Ralphie's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun comes to the stage over school break; check the theater for the full run.
Thu, Dec 31
Event
Thu, Dec 31 · 11 am–12:30 pm
Noon Year's Eve at Seneca Park Zoo
Little ones ring in the new year at a kid-friendly hour with a noon countdown and ball drop at two spots around the zoo.
Sun, Jan 3
Event
Sun, Jan 3 · 5:00 pm
Rochester Knighthawks vs. Vancouver Warriors
A Sunday-evening NLL lacrosse game that closes out winter break.
Weekly and all-season
Event
Fridays & Saturdays, 6–9 pm, through Dec 31
Glow nights
Weekend evening trampoline sessions with the lights down and glow lighting on.
Event
Select days, midday shows
Moon Joy: To the Moon with Artemis II
A family-friendly 45-minute dome show that follows the Artemis II crew around the Moon and ends with a tour of tonight's Rochester sky. Showings listed through Dec 5.
Event
Select nights; most games 7:05 pm, some weekend 3:05/5:05 pm
Rochester Americans Home Games
AHL hockey downtown. Home dates in the window: Oct 30, Nov 4 (ASL Night), 6, 13, 14, 27, Dec 5, 16, 18, 19, 21, 27 and Jan 2. Sensory kits are available at every game.
Event
Limited run: Oct 31, Nov 7, Nov 11, Nov 21, through Nov 21
Laser Stranger Things
A 57-minute laser show set to music from the Stranger Things soundtrack, a hit with tweens and teens. Contains flashing lights; late shows are for ages 5+.
Event
Mondays 9:30 am, through Dec 28
Baby Story Time
A short lap-sit program where caregivers pick up songs, rhymes and fingerplays to use at home with their babies.
Event
Select Mondays 10:30 & 11:30 am
Carol D. Simmons Storytime Club
Monday read-alouds with a food theme this month. Kids collect passport punches, and five visits earn a free book.
Event
School-year club; contact Central Library for practice times, through Dec 31
Central Library Esports Club
The Central Library runs a scholastic esports team for middle and high schoolers, with team spots open during the school year. Teen Central on the 2nd floor also has a gaming area.
Event
Most days; theme changes weekly, through Nov 29
Play Lab Drop-In Crafts
Weekly-changing hands-on projects in the Play Lab, with November themes like story-in-the-stars writing, rocket launch pads, alien collages and sci-fi puppets.
Event
Mondays 10:15 am, through Dec 28
Story Time with Mary Jo
Stories, songs, rhymes and a snack for ages 2–5, followed by playtime with library toys. Siblings welcome, no registration.
Event
Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10:00 am, through Nov 18
Simply Stories
Drop-in storytime for babies through preschoolers with books, songs and play in the Barbara Ireland Community Room. Fall series wraps Nov 17–18.
Event
Tuesdays 10:15 am, through Dec 29
Story Time Tuesday
Weekly early-literacy session of stories, songs, rhymes and play for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.
Event
First Wednesday of the month, noon–5 pm, through Dec 2
Amazon Free Afternoons at RMSC
Free museum admission on the first Wednesday afternoon of each month (Nov 4, Dec 2). Free planetarium seats can be reserved the same day, first come, first served.
Event
1st & 3rd Wednesdays 11:00 am, through Dec 16
Book & Beast
A free zoo storytime that ends with an up-close visit from one of the zoo's ambassador animals. Dates: Nov 4, Nov 18, Dec 2, Dec 16.
Event
Wednesdays & Thursdays 10:30 am, through Dec 10
Family Story Time
A half-hour of songs, picture books and play for 2- to 5-year-olds and their grown-ups. Same program both days; registration on the library calendar is recommended.
Event
Wednesdays 10:15 am, through Dec 30
Time for Tots
About 40 minutes of free play with library toys, wrapped up with a short story time. Recommended for ages 1–5.
Event
Wednesdays 6:00 pm, through Dec 16
Wildlife Action Crew: Frogs & Fungus
A six-session conservation program for teens 13–18 focused on amphibians and fungi. The series began Oct 28, so check with the zoo about joining.
Event
First Thursdays 6:30 pm, through Dec 3
PJ Story Time
An evening storytime where preschoolers can come in pajamas for songs and stories before bed. Sessions Nov 5 and Dec 3; space is limited.
Event
Nov 7 – Jan 3 · Museum open days
Sweet Creations Gingerbread Display
Dozens of gingerbread creations, plus wreath and tabletop-tree displays, fill the Eastman mansion for the holidays.
Event
Nov 13 – Dec 5 · Wed–Sun (closed Nov 19 & Thanksgiving)
Granger Homestead Festival of Trees
More than a hundred decorated trees and wreaths, some made by student groups and families, fill the historic homestead.
Event
Select Tue/Fri/Sat mornings
KinderZoo
Themed toddler classes (ages 18 months–3) with crafts, games and an animal visit. November themes are frogs and water; December covers tortoises and animal homes. Registration required.
Event
Nov 14 – Jan 3
Holiday Laser Show
The planetarium's family holiday spectacular pairs seasonal music with lasers and full-dome visuals; evening shows after 6 pm are for ages 5 and up.
Event
Third Thursdays 6:30 pm, through Dec 17
Teen Game Night: Fall Edition
Monthly hangout for ages 13–18 with party games and snacks. No registration needed; remaining dates Nov 19 and Dec 17.
Event
Monthly, Tuesdays 2:00 pm, through Dec 29
Stroller Walkabouts
An educator-led stroll around the zoo for little ones in strollers, stopping at animals that fit the month's theme.
Event
Nov 25 – Dec 27 · Multiple performances weekly
A Christmas Carol at Geva
Geva's annual staging of the Dickens story about Scrooge's change of heart; the theater recommends it for ages 10 and up.
Event
Nov 25 – Dec 12 · Wed–Sun performances
Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas
A stage version of the Jim Henson holiday tale about Emmet and his Ma, each secretly entering a talent contest to buy the other a gift.
Event
Nov 27 – Jan 3
Holiday Magic Tours
A 90-minute naturalist-led cart tour of the zoo during the holidays; carts hold just 10 guests per slot, so book early and bring a blanket and warm drink.
Event
Nov 27 – Dec 20
Roc Holiday Village
Downtown's outdoor holiday village returns for its eighth year, opening on Black Friday with free ice skating, a shopping village, food, Santa's Workshop and free kids' crafts in the Gingerbread House.
Event
Nov 27 – Dec 20 · Wed–Sun during village dates
Visit Santa at Roc Holiday Village
Meet Santa in his workshop at the downtown holiday village; each visit comes with a free 4x6 print and a sugar cookie, and a text-alert system holds your place in line.
Event
Dec 4 – Dec 19
Yuletide in the Country
Candlelit 90-minute walking tours of the historic village with holiday scenes from the past; this year marks the museum's 50th anniversary. Tickets are not sold at the door.
Your weekend plans, sorted.
A free email every other Thursday with the best things to do around Rochester, picked for your kids’ ages and your part of town.