Rochester This Week – 5/5/26
Dachshunds, lilacs, and Mother’s Day—plan this week’s day trips around Rochester.
A season coming into focus
Spring is settling in across Rochester, and the first signs of peak season are here. Gardens are starting to take shape, the calendar is filling, and this is a good week to keep plans simple—choose one idea, get outside, and see where it leads.
Thoughtful ways to spend Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 10. Whether you are planning a brunch, a garden visit, or a full day trip, this guide offers a range of thoughtful ways to celebrate—close to home or just a short drive away.
Paved paths and boardwalks to explore
Not every outing needs to be a hike. These accessible pathways are ideal for strollers, walkers, wheelchairs, or anyone looking for a relaxed way to spend time outdoors. Expect scenic views, fresh air, and easy mileage.
Follow the season as it comes into bloom
From early blossoms to peak lilacs, this guide helps you time your visits throughout the season. If you have been waiting for the right moment to explore Rochester’s gardens and parks, this is the week to start paying attention.
The annual Sunday Flower City Days at the Rochester Public Market begin this weekend, offering a seasonal plant sale alongside the city’s broader bloom cycle.
Art of the Day Trip
A Day Well Spent
Some days do not need a plan—they just need a beginning. This essay follows the quiet rhythm of a day shaped by small choices: a familiar walk, a simple meal, a stop that was not on the schedule. It is a reminder that the best outings often unfold naturally, one moment at a time.
Featured Events
Rochester Lilac Festival (opening weekend)
Fri, May 8–Sun, May 17
Highland Park
The 128th Rochester Lilac Festival returns to Highland Park, kicking off its opening weekend with live music, food vendors, and the first vibrant blooms of the season. As the lilacs begin to peak, the festival offers a full schedule of performances—especially in the evenings—while leaving plenty of time during the day to wander the park and take it all in.
The Dachshund Parade (free)
Sat, May 9, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Washington Square Park
One of Rochester’s most beloved spring traditions, the Dachshund Parade brings dozens of costumed pups—and their people—together for a playful morning in downtown Rochester. Expect vendors, music, and plenty of personality. Arrive early for the best view.
Looking for even more ideas?
Browse the full events guide →
See you out there,
Debi