May 8-17, 2026: Rochester’s Lilac Festival  is the largest free festival of its kind in North America features thousands of spectacular and fragrant lilacs and 10 days of incredible entertainment and non-stop festivities. More than a century old, the festival continues to be inspired by the magnificent lilac collection at Highland Park — 500 varieties of lilacs on more than 1,200 bushes.

 
Drawing more than 500,000 people annually, festival goers will discover the magnificent gardens and scents, musical gems, exciting exhibits and exhilarating special events. Unfortunately, the two concert stages which normally feature more than 135 performances will not be taking place during the festival this year due to Covid-19 considerations.

 
The festival also features a juried arts and crafts show exhibiting the work of 160 artists, makers, designers and craftspeople; three days of Wine & Chocolate Tasting, a two-day craft beer festival and a USA Track & Field Certified 10K and 5K.