Rochester Public Market Kicks Off 2026 Events Season with 35+ Events

The Rochester Public Market just dropped its 2026 events calendar, and it is packed. Mayor Malik D. Evans announced that more than 35 special events are scheduled across the year, turning the Market at 280 N. Union St. into one of the most active community gathering spots in Upstate New York.

If you have never been to the Rochester Public Market, now is the time. And if you are a regular, this season gives you even more reasons to show up. From food trucks to live music to flea markets, here is everything you need to know.

Food Truck Rodeos: Monthly Feasts Under the Open Sky

The Food Truck Rodeo series returns on the last Wednesday of every month from April through September. Dozens of Rochester's favorite food trucks line up together with live local music from 5 to 9 p.m. Bring your own chairs and tables and settle in for the evening.

2026 Food Truck Rodeo Dates:

• Wednesday, April 29
• Wednesday, May 27
• Wednesday, June 24
• Wednesday, July 29
• Wednesday, August 26
• Wednesday, September 30

If you love Rochester's food truck scene, check out our full guide to the best food trucks in Rochester for a preview of who you might see rolling in.

Flower City Days: A Rochester Spring Tradition

Rochester earned its "Flower City" nickname for a reason, and Flower City Days at the Market is one of the best ways to experience it. Every Sunday from May 10 through May 31, plus Memorial Day on Monday, May 25, the Market transforms into a horticultural paradise from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Expect vibrant perennials, colorful annuals, distinctive hanging baskets, potted plants, succulents, herbs, vegetables, and unique outdoor art and decorations. This is where Rochester gardeners stock up for the season.

Flower City Days pairs perfectly with a visit to Highland Park during the Lilac Festival, which runs May 8 through May 17 this year.

The Great NY State Flea at the Market

The flea market series kicked off on April 19 and runs monthly through October. Formerly called Community Garage Sales, these events bring together a diverse array of vendors with a new theme each month.

Upcoming Flea Market Dates:

• Thursday, May 14 (5 to 9 p.m.)
• Sunday, June 14 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
• Sunday, July 12
• Sunday, August 9
• Sunday, September 13
• Sunday, October 11

Whether you are hunting for vintage finds, handmade goods, or one-of-a-kind treasures, the Great NY State Flea is worth circling on your calendar.

Bands on the Bricks: Free Live Music All Summer

One of Rochester's most popular free live music series returns for six consecutive Friday nights from July 10 through August 14. Bands on the Bricks, presented by the IDE Family of Dealerships, brings national acts and beloved local bands to the Market from 6 to 10 p.m.

Food and drink vendors set up alongside the stage, making it a complete night out. If you want to explore more of Rochester's music scene, our live music venue guide covers the best spots year-round.

Halloween and Holiday Events

The Market keeps the energy going into fall and winter with two signature seasonal events:

Halloween at the Market on Sunday, October 25 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. brings trick-or-treating, activities, entertainment, arts and crafts, and family fun.

Holidays at the Market runs on Sundays, November 29 and December 6 (8 a.m. to 2 p.m.) plus Thursday, December 10 (6 to 9 p.m.). This Rochester holiday tradition features fresh-cut trees, wreaths, specialty foods, hand-crafted items, and seasonal treats from dozens of vendors.

Regular Market Days: Year-Round Shopping

Beyond the special events, the Rochester Public Market operates year-round with regular market days:

• Tuesday and Thursday: 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Saturday: 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Local farmers, food makers, and small businesses offer produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, prepared foods, and artisan products at affordable prices. For a deeper look at what to expect, read our complete Rochester Public Market visitor's guide.

Getting There

The Rochester Public Market is located at 280 N. Union St. in the NOTA neighborhood. Street parking is available around the Market, and the area is easily accessible from Downtown Rochester.

Plan Your Visit

The 2026 season is shaping up to be the best yet. With 35+ events spread across the year, there is always something happening at the Market. Whether you are a longtime Rochesterian or visiting for the first time, the Public Market is one of those places that captures what makes this city special.

For more things to do in Rochester, explore our guides to free activities, outdoor adventures, and the best restaurants in the city.