Events in Rochester, MN

St. James Coffee and Jo's Coffee Truck are hosting a welcoming writing session for anyone who enjoys writing, wants to meet fellow writers, or is ready for a fresh start. Expect quiet, focused time without distractions and a friendly community that embraces every kind of writing. The gathering is free, and there is no critique or sharing of work, just a chance to settle in, connect with others, and make steady progress. The approach reflects Shut Up & Write, a global nonprofit that fosters open, pressure free spaces where writers can build consistent habits.

Bring any craft project and spend dedicated time working on it. Crafters can enjoy half-price drinks while they create. Attend on your own or with a friend and focus on whatever you have underway.

Kids Nite at Stewartville Pizza Ranch offers a complimentary kid buffet with each regularly priced adult buffet purchase. Children 12 and under qualify, and the offer now includes ages 11 and 12 as well.

At HyperSpace Starcade, happy hour play gives your game credits 20 percent more value on participating games. It is a fit for after school outings, family gaming, and friendly face offs, with opportunities to win real prizes. The special pricing is shown directly on the game card readers that are part of the offer. No reservation is required.

At Rochester Community Education, Brenda Schultz, The Funeral Lady, leads a free educational seminar that explains funeral preplanning in a comfortable, no pressure environment. The session helps individuals and families explore their options, document their wishes, and gain peace of mind for the future. Topics include what preplanning entails, why advance planning benefits loved ones, funding considerations, common misconceptions, and practical steps for recording final wishes so planning today can reduce stress tomorrow. There is no obligation to purchase anything, and questions are welcome. For more information, contact Brenda Schultz at 507-259-7951.

St. James Coffee hosts a co-ed Catholic in Recovery meeting for anyone seeking support and healing from addiction and unhealthy attachments. A brief social time takes place before the meeting, and workbooks are available. Catholic in Recovery is a nonprofit that serves people facing challenges such as alcoholism, drug use, pornography, sex and relationship struggles, compulsive overeating and other food-related issues, gambling, codependency and its impact on families, and patterns of fear, control, and anxiety. The program emphasizes fellowship, freedom, and faith, integrating the Twelve Steps with the sacramental life and wisdom of the Catholic Church to offer a holistic path toward recovery. The group setting provides a place to connect with others on a similar journey.

Each Wednesday at Pizza Ranch, earn double loyalty points. Receive two points per dollar on qualifying purchases, whether you enjoy the buffet, dine in, order carryout or delivery, or place an online order. Transactions paid with a Pizza Ranch gift card count too. After reaching 100 points, you get a $5 reward to use on a future visit.

Enjoy casual Magic: The Gathering Commander free play with no entry fee. Games are available all day and continue until the store closes. Use the MTG Companion App to submit the store code and receive a promo pack. Help spread the word to grow the groups, and rest easy about space since there is an additional room that can accommodate more than 50 people.

Get hands-on with bike maintenance at a workshop that opens the tool library so you can work on repairs and upgrades with support from volunteer bike mechanics. Connect with other riders, exchange stories, and share practical tips in a friendly setting. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or just getting started, this session offers a welcoming way to build skills and community. The workshop takes place at Pata de Perro Community Bike Club, located around the back of the former Silver Lake Fire Station.

Orchid Jane brings a southeast Minnesota acoustic set to The Redwood Room, performing as a duo or trio. The group features husband and wife Greg and Karyn Hintermeister with bassist Mark McGlinch. The performance highlights acoustic versions of familiar songs that span decades and genres, including mashups.

Break up the workweek and get a head start on the weekend with a Wednesday night karaoke party. Sing, dance, enjoy food and drinks, and take your turn at the mic. Karaoke entertainment is provided by Mainstream Music DJ and Karaoke.

Rochester Trolley & Tour Co. presents a 3 day, 2 night trip to South Dakota’s Black Hills centered on the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. Witness a herd of more than 1,300 bison sweep across the hills from a reserved group viewing area. The package includes round trip travel aboard a deluxe motor coach, two nights in a hotel, two dinners at local South Dakota restaurants, a hot breakfast at the roundup grounds, a barbecue lunch during the event, and the support of a professional tour host. Expect wide open vistas and a scenic Black Hills experience throughout. Double occupancy pricing starts at $1,083 per person.

Thursday nights at Gamez & More center on miniature tabletop gaming, with two rooms available for play. Multiple games run at the same time, including Warhammer 40, 000, Conquest, and Blood Bowl. It suits anyone seeking a match as well as those interested in learning a new game, with plenty of activity across the tables.

A hands-on session focused on brush control and discipline for miniature painting, open to all hobby painters with extra attention for those who are brand new or just getting started. Instruction covers how to apply smooth, even coats, how to guide your brush over different surface contours, and how managing moisture in your paints and brush can help achieve consistent results. Suggested items to bring include brushes in sizes 0, 2, and 4, a wet palette or a simple pad for your paint station, a water and rinse cup, and a cloth rag or paper towels. A model to paint will be provided, and participants may bring their own miniature if they want to practice on something familiar. After the lesson there will be time for questions so attendees can get help with specific challenges.

Every Thursday night, the buffet features wings. Enjoy boneless or traditional options paired with a variety of sauces.

Byron Farmers Market takes place at the Byron Community Recreation Complex. There is no market on the day that coincides with Good Neighbor Days, when many of the market's vendors participate in the GND vendor fair.

Set in downtown Rochester’s Historic District, this hands-on class explores vintage inspired cake decorating with guidance from Alysha of Rush of Sweetness. Participants will assemble and frost a take-home cake while learning a range of piping techniques and creative ways to finish a delicious dessert.

A karaoke night for teens who love to sing or simply enjoy music. Participants can step on stage with a full sound system and perform age-appropriate songs, or stay in the crowd and sing along if the spotlight is not their thing. The evening also features plenty of games. Snacks are provided, and drinks are available for purchase.

Saturday nights feature karaoke with Mainstream Music DJ at the VFW in Rochester, MN. Food and drinks are available, making it a convenient place to spend the evening singing along.

This open meeting welcomes anyone, including children, family members, and other loved ones. Participants may receive a chip, sometimes called a pin, coin, or medallion, to recognize continuous sobriety. Milestones covered include one to eleven months, one year, and each year after that for more than eighty years. Those who want to share can speak from the podium about their journey, what has helped, and what keeps them returning. To be called up, plan to stop by the front table a few minutes before the meeting begins to add your name, and names are called in order of sobriety milestone. Chips are available at any meeting at the Pioneer, and there is a suggested donation of $2 per chip.

A relaxed Star Wars Unlimited open play session featuring casual games, with a promo pack provided to participants who take part.

The Village Global Farmers’ Market brings a lively, community-focused experience to MLK Park in Rochester, MN. Explore a changing mix of local growers, artists, and makers offering in-season produce and distinctive goods that highlight a variety of cultures, so there is always something new to discover. The setting is welcoming for families, with room for children to play and shaded areas for relaxing. The space is also accessible for visitors with mobility needs. In addition to shopping, watch for extra activities such as music and free fitness offerings connected to the market’s programming.

At Bleu Duck Kitchen, Chef Zach Welle presents a Gairah pop up dinner that blends intricate Indian spices with the cozy spirit of Midwestern fare. The menu celebrates the season and a lively exchange of culinary traditions, with layered flavors that balance heat, tang and richness. Gairah, a word for passion, desire and enthusiasm, reflects the chef’s dedication to Indian-fusion cooking and draws on his 15 years in the restaurant industry. There are two seatings available. The price is $100 per person and includes the meal along with a specialty cocktail, beer, house wine, kombucha and soft drinks. The experience begins with walleye tikka strips in a Forager beer batter, served with tikka remoulade, lemon and a raita-dressed salad. A sweet corn chaat follows, combining charred corn and chickpeas with crispy wild rice, chive cream, arugula, blackberries and papadum. A Madras-style corn and wild rice chowder features sweet corn puree with potato, onion, ginger, garlic, bacon and kale. Next comes curried porchetta with yellow curry sauce, a basmati and wild rice blend and a pickled okra salad. Dessert is a mango lassi inspired bundt cake finished with mango yogurt icing, sliced mango and a marshmallow salad. Beverages include the Honey Crisp Bootlegger with apple syrup, a choice of gin or vodka, soda and a cinnamon stick, along with house wines and Coors Banquet. Nonalcoholic options feature locally made Kowabucha kombucha and Coke products.

Hosted in the coffee shop at Forager Brewery, this monthly art social provides a welcoming space for creativity and conversation. It is free and open to the public. Attendees may bring their own non-toxic art supplies to create alongside others and meet new people in a relaxed setting.

Hosted by Rochester-based roots rock band Clay Fulton & The Lost Forty, the second annual Heading Up North music celebration comes to the Historic Chateau Theatre with performances by Humbird, Clay Fulton & The Lost Forty, Maygen & The Birdwatcher, and LaPlant Road. The event is open to all ages and is general admission, with limited seating arranged along the perimeter of the room. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 on the day of the show, plus a $3.25 processing fee and taxes.

A live performance from Sudd Brothers takes the stage at Charlies Eatery & Pub.

Rochester native Debbie Anthony, a country singer and recording artist, takes the stage at Eagles Club Rochester with a set shaped by her journey to Nashville, where she created her second album, More To Be Said. The performance includes songs from both of her albums along with a range of country selections and a few fan favorites from other styles. She will be accompanied by Dale Haefner on keyboard and Johnathan Moeller on guitar and vocals.

Marking two decades of progress, collaboration, and hope, this Brains Together gathering features a chip timed 5K run, a 2 mile walk, a silent auction, and additional activities. It is family friendly and brings people together to raise awareness and honor those affected by brain tumors while fostering community and support. Proceeds benefit brain tumor research at Mayo Clinic, helping drive advances in understanding and treatment. Early bird pricing is available.

This community walk at Soldiers Memorial Field in Rochester brings people together to confront the impact of suicide, build understanding, and share the message that help is available. Funds raised support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, fueling research, education, advocacy, and resources for those who have lost someone to suicide. Participation amplifies awareness across the community and contributes to life-saving efforts. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

The 6th Annual Oktoberfest for Suicide Prevention is a community-driven celebration focused on mental health and support for suicide prevention. What began as a small gathering has grown into a powerful effort that has raised more than half a million dollars over five years, including $164,000 last year, benefiting NAMI, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and Aidan's Light. Guests can expect live music, plenty of food and drinks, engaging games and activities, and substantial raffle prize giveaways, all dedicated to a meaningful cause. A cherished tradition invites the donation of raffle baskets to honor individuals who have faced mental health challenges or were lost to suicide. Many baskets include a favorite photo, personal memories, or items that reflect what they loved, and they may be dropped off at Haley Comfort Systems during normal business hours. Participation can include attending, contributing a basket, sponsoring, or sharing the message to help make year six especially impactful. Hosted by Haley Comfort Systems, Active PT and Sports, Purple Goat, and Chip Shots.

The annual gala at the Rochester International Event Center celebrates the support that is transforming lives and looks ahead to what comes next. The evening centers on hope, healing, and the journey toward freedom from addiction.

Experience a special evening at The All In, benefiting EA Therapeutic Health. Additional details will be announced soon.

The Thrive Conference brings an inspiring lineup to the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, MN, featuring Lisa Bevere, Christina Girma-Hanfere, and Martha Tennison. Susie Larson serves as a speaker and emcee, with Amber Gerstmann emceeing as well, alongside additional guests. Registration offers several options. First time attendees can register for $20. Adult pricing is available at early bird, regular, and walk on rates of $124, $139, and $149. Exhibitor pricing varies by booth size and location. Seniors, single moms, and military attendees can register for $79, and students can attend for $30. Special opportunities are available for students. 2026 high school graduates receive a complimentary ticket from BTG, and these tickets are not transferable to those who are not 2026 graduates. 2026 North Central University and Trinity Bible College undergraduate students can email info@mnbtg.org for a coupon code for a complimentary ticket from BTG. These are not transferable to non NCU undergrads or non Trinity undergrads. Those interested in volunteering can register for a ticket and indicate their interest, and a team member will follow up. Volunteers receive a free dinner and a T-shirt at the Thrive Volunteer Rally. Groups of 40 or more women can arrange reserved seating. A variety of add ons and meals are available. LIVE at Thrive with Susie Larson offers a BTG Podcast recording experience with host Mykelti Blum and Susie Larson for $10. A presale sweatshirt is available for $59 online or $69 on site, with pickup at the Thrive Info Booth. A dinner buffet with reserved seating is available for $29 in the second floor ballroom and includes gluten free options. A special lunch with speakers is offered for $45 at the Rochester Art Center, featuring round table seating, a gift at each place setting, and messages from Martha Tennison, Lisa Bevere, Christina Girma-Hanfere, and Susie Larson. Capacity is limited to the first 200 guests. A separate lunch buffet with reserved seating is available for $29, does not include a program, and includes gluten free options. Food trucks and concession stands will be available on site at various times. The venue is connected by skyway to restaurants in downtown Rochester, which are within walking distance.

A morning market is planned at Rochester Farmers Markets. Full details will be shared when available.

This gathering at Healthy Start invites participants to run, walk, or ride, with supporters cheering, all focused on raising funds and awareness for the global fight against human trafficking. Sign-up is available.

Returning to the Rochester Sports Complex Fieldhouse at Rochester Community Technical College, this shopping event features 150 vendors with fall and holiday goods to help you get ready for the new seasons. Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy music, door prizes, and a wide selection of unique items.

The bimonthly Blood on the Clocktower event takes place in the party room at Godfather's Pizza Rochester. The space is reserved for the group. Players of any experience level are welcome, and arriving after the start is fine.

Spooky Sprint- Rochester is a running event at Cascade Lake Park with options for a 5k, 10k, half marathon, 1 mile, and a kids dash for ages 10 and under. Race day features packet pickup, the kids dash meeting at the start line before participants are led to their starting area, the National Anthem, and then the main race. Finishers can check live results and awards at the registration tent soon after crossing the line. Every paid entry includes a designer shirt, a custom medal, chip timing with live results and awards eligibility, free race photos, and complimentary snacks at the finish. The atmosphere is family friendly and welcoming to all paces and fitness levels, whether you are chasing a personal record or just out for fun. The 5k, 10k, and half marathon entries come with a custom bib, and the untimed 1 mile also includes a custom bib along with the same shirt and medal. The kids dash is untimed and includes a mini bib, a youth sized shirt, and a medal created just for young runners. Children who wish to run the kids dash without the swag may participate at no cost. Youth pricing is available for ages 12 and under on the 5k and 10k at $17. To guarantee a shirt, register by the deadline that falls two Thursdays before race day.

Discover ideas for your big day at the Rochester Bridal Show inside Graham Park’s Floral and Crawford Halls. This showcase gathers leading wedding professionals from across southern Minnesota, with more than 40 businesses in one place to make planning easier. Admission is free for everyone. Enjoy live music, explore trend zones, watch for huge prizes, and more.

The Garden & Gasoline Car Show welcomes all makes and models, from cars and bikes to overland builds. Vendors and food options are still being finalized, with updates to come as details are confirmed. During the event, enjoy 50 percent off Beginner Skatepark Open House sessions. Free donuts will be available while supplies last, and the coffee shop will be open.

World Ballet Company presents Swan Lake with a live orchestra, unfolding a timeless story of magic, fate, and the struggle between light and darkness. A cast of 50 international dancers appears in more than 150 hand-sewn costumes and performs against meticulously crafted sets. Signature moments are featured, including the Dance of the Little Swans and the Black Swan’s 32 fouettés, all set to Tchaikovsky’s score performed live. The performance runs about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission, and is suitable for ages 5 and older. Based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company tours beloved classics to audiences nationwide, welcoming both newcomers and seasoned ballet fans. The ensemble brings together professional artists from over ten countries and has visited more than 300 cities, sharing performances with more than 500,000 people.

Mark the first-ever Duo Comp as Girls Gone Rx and Guys Gone Rx unite for a high-energy partner throwdown. Teams of two take on four workouts across three divisions, including Rx and BAM. Beyond the competition floor, each team can create a fundraising page, and those efforts contribute to the overall score. A portion of proceeds benefits Compete for a Cure, a breast cancer charity.

VERGE brings a high-energy rock show to North Star Bar in Rochester, Minnesota. Expect a lively set that keeps the crowd moving, so wear shoes you can dance in and get ready for a powerful dose of rock.

Share your event photos with #HotCiderHustle and tag @mn_runs on Instagram to connect with other participants. This public page is a space for participants to post updates and images. Event details, including schedule and location, may be updated before the event. For the most current official information, please check the event website.

Backup Sound System performs at Charlies Eatery & Pub with a set of music for patrons.

Trick or Treat at Gallery 24 offers a free, family-friendly experience with costumes encouraged, candy to collect, creative art activities, face painting, and fun centered on local art.

Now in its 13th year, this all-ages local foods festival brings regional flavors together at Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, Minnesota. Sample and shop from producers across Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, with offerings that include cheese, chocolate, craft alcohol, and more. Many purchases make thoughtful holiday gifts while supporting small, community-focused food businesses. The experience also features activities for children, cooking demonstrations, and prizes. It is co-hosted by the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation and Renewing the Countryside, and sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Compeer Financial. FEAST! Local Foods Network programs receive additional support from mission-aligned sponsors and members including the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, Naturally Minnesota, the Minnesota Grape Growers Association, the City of Cannon Falls, and others.

The 5th Annual Kaylie Meyer Memorial Fundraiser is a family-friendly event focused on uplifting the community, offering plenty of fun while raising support for people in need. Anyone who cannot attend in person can still participate online through donations and a silent auction.

An inclusive board gaming get-together welcoming everyone to sit down, connect, and play. The spirit is simple... tabletop fun that everyone can enjoy.

Play board games and enjoy tacos.

This Sunday School session focuses on lefse making. Tickets are now on sale.

Enjoy a one-day celebration at the ranch designed for adults and youth with cognitive and physical challenges, together with their families and caregivers. The day features hands-on arts and crafts, games, music, sensory-focused activities, and food to enjoy. Registration is available online, and the cost is $85 per person. For questions or assistance, email office@ironwoodsprings.com or call 507-533-4315.

Experience a family-friendly pet and plant expo showcasing vendors, educators, and suppliers. Browse exhibits featuring birds, reptiles, rodents, bugs, and other captivating animals, along with distinctive products, plants, and supplies. Exhibitors will share knowledge and answer questions throughout the event. Admission is $5 for ages 13 and older, and free for children 12 and under. Vendor opportunities are available, with guidelines and applications provided on the organizer’s website.

Element returns to their home base at Charlies Eatery & Pub with live music made for singing along and dancing. Good food and a welcoming crowd round out a party-style atmosphere.

Experience a nature-themed art show and sale at Quarry Hill Nature Center, where creativity inspired by the outdoors fills the galleries. Explore pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, glasswork, woodworking, and more. Entry is free, and ten percent of each purchase benefits the Friends of Quarry Hill to support nature education programs. Meet the makers and hear how the natural world shapes their work. Featured artists include Joe Armstrong with woodworking, Kim Butters with stained glass and quilts, Ginni Cormack with ceramics crafted by hand, Denise Dupras with wildlife and nature photography, Kay Fox with fluid acrylic pieces, jewelry, and magnets, Sarah Hill, Jessica Hobson with botanical art, Sheila Perry with watercolor, Ann Riggott with traditional realist oil paintings, and Julie Yost with fiber art. The Nature Center remains open during the show for hands-on exploration of exhibits and trails, and visitors can take a break by the indoor wood-burning fireplace.