Rochester Lilac Festival 2026 — Highland Park, May 8-17

One of the largest free outdoor festivals in the Northeast happens every May in Rochester — and the 128th annual Lilac Festival is reason enough to plan a trip. Ten days at Highland Park, home to the world's largest lilac collection: 1,200 shrubs, 500 varieties, over 80 live music acts, a juried art show with 300+ vendors, the Lilac Parade on May 9, a 5K/10K, and the Lilac Table tasting experience. Half a million people come through over the ten days. Rochester is worth the drive.

Dates: May 8–17, 2026 Location: Highland Park, Rochester NY Cost: Free (individual events may vary)

Full schedule, performer lineup, and race registration at roclilacfest.com. The festival is different on a weekday than a weekend — both are worth it.