Rochester comes alive in the winter with fun-filled events, activities and festivals that bring the community together. Instead of staying indoors, locals embrace the cold and enjoy activities that are perfect for all ages. From skating and sledding to festivals and fundraisers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
12 Top Winter Events, Activity & Festivals in Rochester
1. Social-ICE Rochester
Date: February 7-8, 2025
Location: Downtown Rochester, MN
Downtown Rochester transforms into a glowing icy paradise during Social-ICE! Admire stunning illuminated ice sculptures, sip creative cocktails at themed ice bars, and groove to live music and DJs. Families can enjoy FAM JAM activities while warming up by fire pits or snapping photos at fun-filled booths. Social-ICE is the perfect mix of urban energy and winter magic!
2. Social-ICE FAM JAM
Date: Saturday, February 8th 2025
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Peace Plaza Rochester
Cost: Free
Join us for some fun winter activities at Social-ICE FAM JAM! Bring your family, bundle up, and enjoy this free event before the last night of Social-ICE. It’s a great time for everyone, no matter your age, to celebrate the winter season in downtown Rochester.
The Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA) is following all the safety rules from local, state, and health experts to keep everyone safe during the event.
Note:
Drones are not allowed at any Social-ICE events for safety.
3. Winterfest at Mendon Ponds Park Rochester
Date: Saturday, January 25, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Mendon Ponds Park, Honeoye Falls, Southeast Rochester NY
A fun, free event for the whole family with activities like snowshoeing, sledding, and ice fishing demonstrations. New this year is the Hot Cocoa 5K race at 10:00 AM. Enjoy food vendors and warming stations.
4. The GREAT Cardboard Sled Race
Date: January 28, 2025
Location: Rochester Golf and Country Club
Supports: Minnesota Children’s Museum Rochester
Create a sled out of cardboard and race it down the hill! Prizes are awarded for the most creative designs, the fastest runs, and even team spirit.
5. Frozen Goose Run/Walk
Date: February 3, 2025
Time: 01 P.M
Location: University Center Rochester Atrium
Supports: Childhood cancer research at Mayo Clinic
Join this annual run or walk to support childhood cancer research. The event starts at 1 p.m., so grab your running shoes and help make a difference.
6. Ski by Candlelight
Date: February 6, 2025
Location: Quarry Hill Nature Center
Cost: $10 per person
Experience the magic of skiing under candlelight on a peaceful winter night. After your ski, head indoors for hot cocoa and s’mores to end the evening on a sweet note.
7. Polar Plunge
Date: February 10, 2025
Location: Foster Arend Park
Supports: Special Olympics Minnesota
Take the ultimate winter challenge by jumping into icy waters! This daring event helps raise funds for the Special Olympics, and it’s a thrill you won’t forget.
8. SnoBall XL
Date: February 10
Location: Parks across Rochester
Supports: Eagles Cancer Telethon
Play slow-pitch softball in the snow! This beloved tradition raises money for cancer research while participants enjoy a day of friendly competition.
9. Seneca Park Zoo Winter Activities
Date: Throughout January
Location: Seneca Park Zoo, Rochester, NY
Explore indoor animal exhibits, winter-themed educational programs, and talks with zookeepers. Special discount for Monroe County residents on Wednesdays.
10. Finger Lakes Winter Carnival
Date: January 19, 2025
Location: Canandaigua, NY
A winter celebration with ice carving demos, winter wine tastings, and sled dog races. Don’t miss the evening fireworks over Canandaigua Lake!
11. George Eastman Museum Exhibits
Dates: Open daily throughout January
Location: George Eastman Museum, Rochester, NY
Featured exhibit: “The Color of Dreams: Early Color Photography.” Enjoy special film screenings at the Dryden Theatre. General admission tickets apply.
12. It’s Snow Crazy
Date: February 11, 2025
Location: Quarry Hill Nature Center
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Checkout most popular Event in Rochester: Miss Holmes Returns at Rochester Repertory Theatre (January 2025 Shows)
Make your own snow candy, try snow bowling, and enjoy other snowy activities. Be sure to register in advance to join the fun.
Rochester’s winter events offer the perfect mix of outdoor fun and community spirit. Whether you’re skating, racing sleds, or plunging into icy water, there’s an adventure waiting for you.
So, grab your coat, rally your friends, and enjoy everything winter in Rochester has to offer. Let the season’s magic begin.