Events in Rochester, MN

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.

Explore holiday meal ideas, discover catering options, sample products, and place an order to make holiday hosting easier.

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.

Enjoy free Pokémon play with others who love the game. Play and trade, and log in with your player ID to receive a promo pack. As the community grows, the prizes will get bigger.

Enjoy an uplifting evening at the Gala of Hope, a community-focused fundraiser supporting Non-Profit Wrench. Hosted at the Eagles Club in Rochester, Minnesota, the event includes a prepared meal with each ticket, two drink tickets, live music from Atari The Band, and opportunities to contribute through an auction and raffle. Non-Profit Wrench goes beyond vehicle repair, providing practical help that removes barriers to stability and independence for individuals and families.

Hear speakers share what their experiences were like, what happened, and what life is like for them now. Speaker nights take place on Saturdays, except for the last Saturday of the month, which is Chip Night.

This family-friendly race offers 5K, 10K, half marathon, and untimed 1-mile options, along with a fun, untimed dash for children 10 and under. Participants can run at their own pace in an encouraging, inclusive community. Registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and finisher medal for the 5K, 10K, half marathon, and 1-mile events. The kids’ dash includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a special medal, and children may take part without the swag at no cost. Registrations also include chip timing with live results and awards, free photos, and pie at the finish line. Youth pricing is available for the 5K and 10K.

Stop by for free play of Star Wars Unlimited and receive a promo pack when you play.

Explore a new, Cyberpunk-themed trading card game with formats that change from week to week, including Constructed and Sealed play. Weekly promos are given out, with opportunities to earn additional promos each month.

Get clarity on estate planning by dispelling common myths, such as believing you do not need a plan yet, thinking a will avoids probate, or assuming trusts are only for the wealthy. This discussion focuses on wills, trusts, probate, and other essentials, offering practical guidance that helps you make informed decisions about the future. Reservations are required, and seating is very limited.

Explore Syna’s full collection of jewelry, including designs featuring cabochon moonstone, blue topaz, opal, amethyst, and garnet set in 18K gold with diamond accents. Discover rings to stack, pendants to layer, and charms such as a spinning enamel globe and diamond binoculars. See the moonstone’s color in person at Lasker Jewelers in the Galleria.

At Forager Brewery in Rochester, MN, the International Crane Foundation presents a celebration of cranes, highlighting their resonant voices and graceful movements, what sets them apart, and the worldwide work underway to protect them and the places they depend on. A special presentation is followed by time to talk with foundation staff. Admission is free, there is no maximum capacity, and pre-registration is requested but not required.

Puzzle and tabletop enthusiasts can gather at the Chateau Theatre in Rochester for a relaxed evening of games and connection. Choose from jigsaw puzzles and table games available on site, or bring your own favorites. Options may include board games, cribbage, cards, puzzles, and even Legos. A puzzle swap is part of the fun... bring puzzles to trade and leave with a new-to-you challenge. This event is free and open to the public, and contributions through donations or purchases from Chateau concessions are encouraged to help keep it free for everyone.

Celebrate local voices at a free poetry reading where poets share work that gathers and gleans words, images, memories, and impressions. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Meaningful Mornings features host Brent Rempe in conversation with financial advisor Chelse Ehni. Chelse partners with clients to understand their goals, future vision, and desired legacy, drawing on her experience in business, project management, and team leadership to support their wealth management and financial well-being. She also cofounded Honor Bound Veterans, a nonprofit that brings veterans together through engaging activities and community. The gathering is designed to foster genuine connections, open conversations, and personal growth, with a guest interview and opportunities for small-group discussion. There is currently no cost to attend, and registration is encouraged.

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

Discover how to craft paper flowers in a relaxed, hands-on class. Designed for ages 10 and older, with all supplies provided. Registration and payment are due 48 hours before the class. Cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance receive a refund, with a 5 dollar processing fee. These timelines help teachers prepare thoroughly and deliver focused instruction.

Play board games and enjoy tacos.

Orchid Jane brings an acoustic performance to The Redwood Room in Rochester, MN. This Southeast Minnesota group performs as a duo or trio and features husband and wife Greg and Karyn Hintermeister with bassist Mark McGlinch. The set blends acoustic takes on well known songs from a wide range of eras and styles, along with creative mashups.

The duo Kyle Meerkins and Dylon Starr brings a lively dueling pianos set that captures the energy of a classic piano bar. Expect singalong favorites that span generations, from Elvis Presley to Britney Spears. Tickets are $30 per person and include a charcuterie appetizer plate. A cash bar will be available.

Now in its third year, this indoor holiday event is presented by Gallery 24 in Rochester, MN. The gallery offers a bright, contemporary setting with several rooms and classroom areas, steady foot traffic from nearby businesses like a diner, coffeehouse, and pub, and easy-access parking in a highly visible spot. Vendor booths are $50 for the day and sized for a 6-foot table. Participants should bring their own table and their own point-of-sale system. Set up takes place before sales begin, and tear down should wait until the event has ended.

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

Meet local kolache maker Karissa and pick up her kolaches at St. James. Preorder a dozen for $14 by calling or texting 563-203-7199, or purchase individual kolaches for $2 each at the event. Flavors include Apple, Apricot, Blueberry, Cherry, Cinnamon Roll, Lemon, Prune, Black/Red Raspberry, and Strawberry, and flavor blends such as Lemon with Blueberry are also available. Kolaches can be kept in the refrigerator or frozen so they are ready to enjoy any day of the week.

Sudd Brothers appear at Charlies Eatery & Pub for a performance. Stop by to see them.

Set at the Historic Chateau in Rochester, this Americana showcase brings songwriters together in a round-style format where artists take turns sharing songs and the stories behind them. The lineup features Brandon Sampson with Becky Schlegel, Coyote Brothers, and Aaron Kelly with Demi Clara, with John Wheeler appearing as a guest accompanist. It is a fully seated performance open to all ages. General admission is available, with a limited number of reserved upgrades. Ticket options include $30 general admission that increases to $40 on the day of the show, $40 premium reserved seating, and a $200 table for four.

At Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, MN, the Mayo Employee Craft Sale features a vendor showcase that has sold out, with more than 370 tables filled with handmade items. Explore a wide selection of homemade gifts and goodies, and check off much of your Christmas list in one convenient stop.

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.

A live performance from ATARI the Band takes the stage at The North Star Bar in Rochester, MN.

Enjoy a live performance by JT & the Gunslingers at The North Star Bar.

Teens who love to sing or simply enjoy music can step up to the mic for karaoke on a stage with a sound system. Participants can choose appropriate songs and perform, or sing along from the crowd if they would rather not be on stage. Games will be available to play. Snacks are provided, and drinks are available for purchase.

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.

Create a cheerful Snowy Snowman on a deep, dark backdrop that lets every detail stand out. Expect sparkling touches with glitter as you work through the painting with guided instruction presented in clear steps, suitable for any experience level. Preschool aged children may participate with an accompanying adult and will complete a simplified version of the snowman. Adults are welcome to paint too. An 11x14 canvas and all necessary supplies are provided. Registration is available through Community Ed.

Begin the holiday season with a festive four day motorcoach getaway to Duluth that blends iconic sights, seasonal lights, and time to explore. Highlights include a tour of Glensheen Mansion, admission to the Bentleyville Tour of Lights, and free time to browse the Duluth Winter Village, with comfortable lodging and thoughtfully chosen stops so there is no driving or planning to manage. The package features round trip luxury transportation from Stewartville and Eagan, a three night stay at Hampton Inn & Suites in Superior, Wisconsin, admission to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, dinner at Tobies on the first day, dinner at Blackwoods on the Lake on the second day, and lunch at the historic Pickwick Restaurant & Pub on the third day. The trip is fully escorted by a knowledgeable host. More activities will be added.

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.

The fifth annual Chateau Winter Market transforms the Historic Chateau Theatre into a festive indoor marketplace that celebrates artists, independent businesses, and local culture. Admission is free and open to all. Explore offerings from over 40 local vendors while enjoying food, drinks, and entertainment, and discover thoughtful holiday gifts straight from the makers. The market underscores the importance of supporting the community through local shopping and direct connections with creators, and it has grown into a seasonal tradition in downtown Rochester. A ticketed VIP Sip + Shop Preview offers early access before the crowds, with tickets priced at $20 and including one complimentary mimosa, bloody mary, or craft mocktail. Space is limited for this special preview.

Puzzle and tabletop fans can gather at the Chateau Theatre, a well known Rochester venue, for friendly play and connection. Choose from jigsaw puzzles and games provided on site or bring favorites from home. Options may include board games, cribbage, cards, and even Legos. Those interested in the puzzle swap can bring puzzles to trade and leave with something new to you. Admission is free and open to all, and buying concessions at the Chateau or making a donation helps keep it that way.

A youth wrestling tournament focused on a faster experience with added mats, smoother flow, and less downtime so athletes spend more time competing. Walk-in registration is $20 per wrestler. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $5 for K-12 students. Weigh-ins are available for PreK through 2nd grade and for 3rd through 6th grade. Concessions include Wildwood Pizza and Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches. The night highlights Byron Bears pride with an emphasis on more mats, more wrestling, and plenty of fun.

A wintry celebration is taking shape with cozy fire pits, sweet s’mores, a visit from Santa, and spirited sled dogs adding to the fun. Further details will be announced soon.

Tackle your holiday list at a large seasonal shopping event with more than 150 vendor spaces gathered in one place. Enjoy music, door prizes, and plenty more to explore. There is something for every shopper, and admission is free.

Set inside the Empire Event Center in Rochester, this makers market and expo brings together a lively community of more than 40 vendors focused on shopping, discovery, and connection. Explore crystals, handmade jewelry, candles, artwork, tarot decks, and other spiritual tools while meeting local artisans, readers, and energy workers. The experience encourages unhurried browsing in a welcoming, high-energy atmosphere that celebrates mind, body, and spirit. It also offers plenty of options for holiday gift shopping.

Support local youth programs at a gathering hosted by Byron Youth Football, featuring horse races and meat raffles. Buckets of beer and brunch will be available, along with giveaways throughout.

World Ballet Company brings The Nutcracker to Mayo Civic Center with a live orchestra, a cast of 40 dancers, more than 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and lavish hand-crafted sets for a festive experience suitable for all ages. The story follows Marie on Christmas Eve as her beloved Nutcracker awakens and guides her through a dream of swirling snow, a clash with mischievous mice, and a visit to the brilliant Kingdom of Sweets. The performance runs about 1 hour and 40 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission, and is recommended for ages 2 and up. Special pricing is available for groups of 10 or more. Based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company tours beloved classics to cities across the country with international artists and renowned professionals representing more than ten countries, appearing in over 300 cities and performing for audiences totaling more than 500,000.

The 7th annual Christmas concert at High Forest Community Church features Sister Luv with a Dickens' Christmas flair. This family ensemble spans three generations and presents a wide-ranging set list that reaches from the melodies of the 1920s through the pop sounds of the 1980s, along with classic country and gospel. Expect dazzling outfits, tight sibling harmonies, and friendly interaction with the audience, with each performance shaped by the warmth and energy of family on stage. Refreshments and fellowship will follow the concert.

Celebrating its 39th year, this Minnesota Christmas wrestling tournament presents a showcase of top Minnesota wrestling at Mayo Civic Center.

A Sunday School session focuses on tiramisu along with an introduction to coffee and tea, featuring Colorway Coffee and Mandala Tea. The event takes place at Bleu Duck Kitchen in Rochester, MN. Tickets are available.

Next Stop Comedy brings stand-up to The Workshop Food Hall & Bar with a fresh lineup at every show. Featuring top comedians, including performers with television appearances and voices heard on podcasts. Presented in Rochester, MN, each event showcases new acts for a consistently changing experience.