Lilac Festival – Rochester, NY

If you are looking for something to do in the spring, after long cold winter months have passed and summer isn’t quite upon us yet, there is plenty to do in upstate New York – Rochester to be exact! Home to the world’s largest Lilac Festival, there is a FREE 10 day annual event that is rivaled by none. With more than 1200 bushes that display over 500 varieties of lilacs, you don’t need to be a horticulturist to enjoy the magnificence.

But Lilacs aren’t the only excitement at the Lilac Festival. There will be events taking place daily such as the Thursday Farmer’s Market, a Senior Luncheon on Wednesday, a 10k and 5k run sponsored by Medved, and live entertainment by nationally renowned recording artists. Perhaps through all of that, the one thing that you just cannot miss is the Lilac Parade. It may not be as famous as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, but it is infinitely more beautiful. Heck, even Martha Stewart enjoyed the Lilac Festival in 2007!

What started out as ‘Lilac Sunday so many years ago has turned into a 10 day event that draws people from around the world. And, while you’re in town, don’t forget to visit the George Eastman House in Rochester (home of Kodak cameras) which has been set up as an International Museum of Photography and Film. Take a break after the snow and before the heat of summer sets in. Visit the Lilac Festival in Rochester New York and have the time of your life. By the way, there are fun and games for the kids and lots and lots of food!