The Future of Rochesterfest

Famed author Mark Twain once said “The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated”.   That quote also applies to the future of Rochesterfest.  Recently rumors have been circulating about the demise of the annual festival, but in fact Rochesterfest will continue this year, next year and beyond according to executive director Carole Brown.

There will be one big change next year however.  With the construction of the Mayo Civic Center expansion, the Food Vendors will have to move to another location. Brown indicated that organizers are looking at different downtown options.  She said that the Olmsted County Fairgrounds is not being considered.  “We’re a downtown festival and plan to stay that way”, said Brown.

Rochesterfest began as a “Celebration of a City” in 1983 to commemorate the 125^th anniversary of Rochester.  Because community leaders didn’t want the festival to be just a one-time event, the decision was made to turn it into an annual celebration.  Rochesterfest always takes place the last full week of June.

As you enjoy a corn dog, watch the parade, attend a street dance, marvel at the drum and bugle show or take part in any of the other 70+ events, take comfort in knowing that while parts of it will be moving, it’s not going away.  Rochesterfest will be here for many years to come.