Events in Monroe County today

Support for breastfeeding, chestfeeding, and human milk feeding in a welcoming, peer-focused setting. There is no cost and advance registration is not needed. The group meets in person at the Pittsford Community Center, and may shift to a virtual format if needed due to weather or local community health conditions. Pregnant and nursing parents are invited, and babies, toddlers, and children are welcome. If a child needs something to do, bringing quiet toys or books is encouraged. Attendees can bring questions, share experiences, and connect with others navigating the same stage. Questions are welcome at any time, and this information can be shared with anyone interested in learning more about parenting through breastfeeding.

This monthly meeting at First Baptist Church features a hands-on workshop titled Autumn Colors led by Gail Newman, a master with the Ichiyo School. After a bring-your-own lunch, a brief meeting is scheduled, followed by an afternoon program on painting gold clam shells with guidance from Marte Reps. Participants should bring their own lunch and beverage. For questions, contact rochesterikebana@gmail.com. The program emphasizes friendship fostered through flowers.

A relaxed, in person lunchtime session focused on pre approval preparation for first time buyers. Share a casual meal while getting practical tips, asking questions, and gaining the knowledge needed to feel confident about the homebuying process. This free workshop welcomes Section 8 voucher holders, veterans, and essential workers. Participants may even leave with a pre approval or a personalized purchase plan on the spot.

Offered as a special add-on in OFC’s Broadway in Brighton Series, Bun in the Oven: Contractions with the Calamari Sisters takes the stage at the OFC Creations Theatre Center. Delphine and Carmela return to celebrate a new addition to the family, hosting a Brooklyn baby shower packed with their signature blend of singing, dancing, and Italian cooking. Expect familiar tunes woven into the festivities, including You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby, When You’re Good to Mama, High Hopes, Rainbow Connection, and Puttin’ On the Ritz. The performance runs about 2 hours and 15 minutes with an intermission. It is intended for audiences ages 13 and up, and children under 5 are not admitted to any Broadway in Brighton production. This engagement is not included in the season subscription, and current subscribers can receive a 10% discount on tickets by calling the box office.

Celebrate the spooky season at Marshall Street Bar and Grill with a hands-on pumpkin carving event. Special guest instructor Don Bush of Marshall Street will guide participants through creating their own pumpkins step by step. Each ticket includes a pumpkin, carving materials, a tea light, and a beverage valued at $6. This is not a vendor market, and tickets are available only through the designated secure link.

RocGrowth Coffee at Bar Bantam brings innovators and entrepreneurs together for conversations that spark new connections. Several pre-selected local innovators briefly introduce their ventures, share what they are working on, and may ask for specific support from the group. A Lightning Round invites applicants to seek a 3 to 4 minute presentation slot, with submissions reviewed by the RocGrowth team and selected presenters contacted by a volunteer coordinator. Complimentary coffee is available, and you can also purchase a latte or a pastry. The gathering is hosted at Bar Bantam in The Metropolitan in downtown Rochester, with metered street parking nearby.

A Toast to The Arc gathers people at the Hyatt Regency Rochester for the signature gala of The Arc of Monroe, devoted to celebrating the community, the mission, and the individuals who make this work possible. This milestone year honors 70 years of The Arc of Monroe, reflecting on efforts since 1956 to drive change for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by advancing inclusion, opportunity, and belonging, and by affirming each person’s right to shape a meaningful life. The evening recognizes the people, partnerships, and philanthropic support that have guided the organization, celebrates a 70 year legacy, and looks ahead to what can still be achieved. Attendees will offer a toast to decades of progress, impact, and potential, and to the community that continues to carry the mission forward.

This in-person draft requires everyone to be present for seating and ready to begin on time. Choose your entry option at $20 for Universes Within or $30 for Universes Beyond. Prizing awards a booster pack for each match win, along with a pack for anyone who finishes 0-3 and a pack for anyone who finishes 3-0. Registration opens before seating, and all players must be registered and in their seats when the draft starts. Late entries are not permitted.

The Korks make an appearance at the new Mulconry's West. They share their excitement about experiencing the fresh space.

At Dice Versa in Rochester, Tales of Vicious Mockery delivers a high energy, completely improvised Dungeons & Dragons comedy with a cast of comics and improvisers charging into epic quests, absurd antics, and the whims of the dice. Audience choices steer the adventure, shaping everything from daring feats to hilariously calamitous mishaps, so each performance takes a unique path. Expect playful interaction, sharp wit, and plenty of adventure-fueled laughs.

Start from Schoen Place at Collin’s pavilion in Erie Canal-Schoen Place, Pittsford, NY for a friendly coffee-themed group ride. Roll west on the canal path to Lock 32 to gather additional riders, continue toward the UR campus, then make your way downtown along the west side of the Genesee River. A coffee stop is planned at Javas on Gibbs Street. The return follows the river’s east side through the UR campus, reconnects with the Erie Canal path, and finishes back where the ride began. The route and downtown coffee destination may change slightly from week to week.

An annual fall festival at Hilton Baptist Church in Hilton, NY offers a full day focused on crafting. Participants can bring their own projects to work on, take time to browse offerings from many vendors, and enter raffles, with tickets available for purchase. Coffee, tea, and ice water will be provided. Advance registration is recommended. The fee for the day is $25, payable at the door by cash or check made out to Hilton Baptist Church. To register, share your name and telephone number with the church office by emailing hbchurch50@gmail.com or by calling 585-392-7990. Lunch is available for $5, and registrants are asked to note whether they plan to have lunch so preparations can be made.

Learn how to make a pumpkin wreath with chunky yarn in a relaxed, hands-on class. The cost is $25, and all materials are included. The project involves detailed handwork, so dexterity is important. To register and arrange payment, send a message to the page in advance.

Explore the music and movement of Guinea through West African drum and dance classes led by Guinean artist Mohamed Diaby at South Wedge Mission. Beginners are welcome, and participants can choose drumming, dancing, or both. Pricing is $15 for the drum class, $20 for the dance class, or $30 for both. If you take the drum class, you may stay to drum for the dance class for an additional $5. Payment is accepted in cash or via Venmo @Diaby. Mohamed’s background includes early training on jembe with his brother Moustapha, an invitation as a teenager to a troupe sponsored by the wife of President Sekou Toure, guidance from Mamady Keita that led him to Africa Djole, and service as lead drummer with Les Merveilles de Guinea with work across West Africa, including Sierra Leone. Kemoko Sano of Les Ballet Africains expressed interest in bringing him into the company. He later performed at New York City’s Symphony Space, directed the Guinea style troupe Africa Sogaye in Atlanta, organized the WAH WAH Drum and Dance Conference, and continues to teach across the United States, Canada, and Europe while sharing the music and culture of Guinea.

Celebrate the season at the Howard Hanna Rochester City Office during the 1st Annual Harvest Celebration. Community members, families, and children of all ages are invited to enjoy autumn treats, connect with neighbors, and create lasting fall memories.

A One Piece trading card game event at Legacy Games in Webster, NY features a $5 entry fee and prizing that includes one Participation Pack and one Winner Pack.

Celebrate Veloura Hair Salon’s grand opening alongside its first anniversary at a community-focused gathering featuring a full slate of activities. Guests can take part in hair and barber services and watch beauty and wellness demonstrations. Food and drinks highlight a Puerto Rican and Latin menu, with giveaways and event specials available throughout. This family-friendly occasion marks a year of growth and welcomes participants of all ages.

Visitors can meet adoptable cats and kittens during open hours and speak with volunteers about the adoption process. Same day adoptions are not available. All prospective adopters must complete an application, which may be submitted in person or online.

Connect with fellow Gundam model builders to trade techniques, solve build challenges, and share ideas in a participant-led discussion. The space is provided by Dan's Crafts & Things. Bring an in-progress project along with a favorite completed kit for show and tell. Kits and supplies are available to purchase, though there is no requirement to buy anything. The club meets twice each month. Children are welcome, and they must be accompanied by an adult.

The Social Adventure Knights provide a small stage where creatives from the area can share their talents with the community.

Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Vanessa Collier brings a sound rooted in classic Memphis soul, R&B, and blues. Her sixth album, Do It My Own Way, was crafted on analog gear with musicians playing together to capture a warm, old-school feel, complete with horn-forward grooves, layered vocals, and saxophone lines that add a subtle power to each track. The record ranges from the funk drive of Elbow Grease to the moody pull of Take Me Back and the rhumba sway of Just One More, while Shoulda Known Better stands out for its deep groove. Wild As a Rainstorm dives into retro soul with Hi Records legend Rev. Charles Hodges on organ and has been featured on Spotify’s Retro Soul playlist. Rosetta honors trailblazer Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the title track pushes back against industry sexism, and closing song Warrior celebrates resilience and pays tribute to her mother. Collier wrote the songs, produced the project, arranged the horns and other parts, and performs on acoustic and electric guitars, alto and tenor saxophones, flute, and lead and background vocals. The album also features Laura Chavez, Scott Sutherland, Byron Cage, and Rev. Charles Hodges. A Berklee College of Music graduate who first toured with blues icon Joe Louis Walker before stepping out on her own, she is a twelve-time Blues Music Award nominee and a four-time winner, including honors such as Contemporary Blues Female Artist of the Year, Horn Player of the Year, and B.B. King Entertainer of the Year. She has appeared at the Chicago Blues Festival, opened for Blues Traveler, draws inspiration from artists like Mavis Staples, Sharon Jones, James Brown, and Aretha Franklin, and previously saw Heart On The Line spend nine weeks in the top 15 of the Billboard Blues Albums chart.

Presented by Rochester Entertainment Events, North Carolina rock band He Is Legend headlines a bill with In Angels and Excide. This is a 16+ event. Advance tickets are $25 and increase to $30 on the day of the show. The group formed in Wilmington, North Carolina and built its catalog from a self-released demo and the EP 91025 to full-length releases including I Am Hollywood, Suck Out the Poison, It Hates You, Heavy Fruit, and Few, with White Bat later announced.

Barry’s Old School Irish hosts a milestone celebration for Danny’s 40th, honoring 15 years of good times at the Pub, from friendships and live music to favorite bites and drinks. The night features Celtic Cross together with other musical guests connected with Danny over the past 15 years. A special single-page menu highlights his go-to appetizers, dinners, and drinks from the Pub. A complimentary birthday toast is planned, birthday cake will be served, and attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite green in his honor.

Candy celebrates the release of their new album with a live set featuring songs from the record. Vinyl and CD copies will be available, along with fresh Candy merchandise to take home. Televisionaries will also perform as part of the bill. Admission is $10 at the door.

Roc Artists Open Market fills Innovation Square in downtown Rochester with artisans, small businesses, vintage finds, food offerings, live music, activities, and more. Visitors can experience a varied lineup of local music, stage performances, and lively dance showcases that spotlight creativity in many forms and celebrate the city’s arts community. Whether you are an avid art fan or simply looking for a fun outing, this market offers plenty to discover.

Artisan Works hosts the first Love Your Body Day, an art expo and panel discussion centered on self love, body positivity, and empowerment. Organizers are inviting artists to exhibit and sell work that engages these themes, whether bold, healing, challenging, thought provoking, or celebratory. Rochester National Organization for Women (ROC NOW) is shaping a community centered program that plans to include an expert panel, about 27 artists, an exhibition of Chelsea Merritt’s 2025 NOW Foundation Poster Contest winning design, and promotion of the 2026 contest. Additional elements are slated to feature a yoga session with Rebecca Phelps, a sound bath with Amy Mantrow, a performance by Stage Presence Dance Collective led by Kaitlynn, and a live henna demonstration by Komal Khanna of Hey_Henna. Artists are also encouraged to submit original designs to the NOW Foundation Love Your Body Poster Contest for an opportunity at national recognition. This event is trans and nonbinary friendly.

A Halloween-themed kids club at Actual Natural Kids features hands-on crafts, sweet treats, and lighthearted mysteries in a festive setting. Participants can personalize a trick-or-treat bag with paint and stencils, decorate pumpkins without carving using markers, stickers, and glitter glue, and create colorful peel-and-stick window clings to brighten up autumn windows. A caramel apple nacho bar serves crisp apple slices with warm caramel, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and other crunchy toppings. Brave guests can try the Mystery Box Room, reaching into hidden containers to feel spooky textures like pretend monster eyes, wiggly worms, or a witch’s tongue in a playful sensory challenge. The fun continues with Halloween-themed games, friendly competition, prizes, and plenty of laughs. Admission is $25 for one person or $30 for a family. Costumes are encouraged. To register or ask questions, text Liz at 585-721-4369.

Set out aboard the Colonial Belle for a narrated Erie Canal lock cruise featuring live music by AJ & Jennifer Marie DiNoto. Depart from Fairport for an eight mile trip to Lock E32 in Pittsford, pass through the lock while rising and descending about 25 feet as the captain explains each step, then enjoy instrumental tunes and vocals on the eight mile return to Fairport. Along the way, the captain shares canal history, sights along the route, stories from the waterway, details about the Colonial Belle and its family tour boat operation on the Erie Canal since 1989, and answers questions. The experience includes lock passage and a three hour narrated cruise with live music. Bagged snacks and a wide selection of non alcoholic and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase from the fully licensed bar, with cash and credit accepted on board. Outside food and drinks, including bottled water, are not permitted due to state and local regulations and insurance policies. Children ages 3 and under ride free with a reservation so they can be counted under US Coast Guard rules. Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure, and guests should check in at the dock before boarding. Public cruises sail when minimum passenger requirements are met. Performer lineups may change if unforeseen conflicts arise. A comparable act will be substituted when possible, or the price difference between a narrated cruise with live music and a regular narrated cruise will be refunded in the case of a last minute cancellation.

A relaxed gathering for Magic: The Gathering Commander players. Tables usually number two to three and are organized by preferred power level, often with one competitive game and one or two more casual options. Expect friendly, interactive play, the occasional slime counter joke, and a sociable atmosphere for meeting other players. Drinks are available, including beer, seltzer, wine, and non-alcoholic choices.

Kick off the week with a relaxed Monday morning coffee meetup from FFREIA. Come as you are and feel free to stay as long as you wish.

Wake up to a changing, high-energy workout led by ROCovery. Each session keeps the format a surprise, with possibilities that include powerlifting, kettlebells, boxing, runs with PT breaks, and stair or hill repeats at Maplewood Park. The goal is a strong kickstart to the day. Leadership alternates between Joe P and Jon W, and guest instructors may step in unexpectedly, including longtime community members. Participants under 18 may attend with a parent or guardian. Classes are free and open to anyone who has maintained at least 48 hours of continuous sobriety. First-time attendees are asked to complete the membership questionnaire.

Yoga of 12-Step Recovery, also known as Y12SR, returns to ROCovery with a supportive blend of meeting and movement. The session begins with a 12-Step meeting featuring readings and time to share, followed by a yoga practice and flow that nurtures connection of mind, body, and spirit in the recovery journey. This offering is for individuals 18 and older and is free for anyone with at least 48 hours of continuous sobriety. First-time participants are asked to complete a membership questionnaire before attending.

A monthly spiritual development group facilitated by Sage Walker is now forming. Meetings take place on the third Tuesday of each month. The fee is $30 per person for each session. Advance registration is required by contacting Sage at 585-317-4374.

This open mic for musicians at Linwood offers a relaxed, welcoming setting. Early arrivals can take advantage of the $15.95 steak dinner special. Bob Cleveland provides the house drum kit and can sit in when needed, so drummers are welcome. A bass amp is on site, and a lead and a bass guitarist are available if needed.

KIZZ INTEL brings a creative urban kiz experience with a playful intelligence-agency theme, a welcoming atmosphere, and a focus on community. This month’s Level 1 spotlight centers on Followers Saida. Classes follow a clear progression, with weeks one through three dedicated to learning and drills, then a review in week four. The same idea extends across months, revisiting the previous three months in the fourth to solidify what has been covered. Each Tuesday features an Intro to Kiz session followed by Level 1. Instruction is led by Eugene “Tin Man” Cleveland and Brianna “Breezy” Cooper, with liaison support from Jesse “Suave Salsero” Larkin. The look is bold and memorable, using black, white, and yellow with the yellow KIZZ letters and white INTEL text on a black background. Sessions are donation based and can be supported via cash, SquareApp QR code, Venmo, or CashApp. The gathering takes place at Village Gate Center on the second floor. Organizers emphasize inclusivity, support, and fun, and they value participation that helps the local dance community grow.

Rochester’s first night market returns for its second year, opening the summer season with an open air evening of local creativity and flavor. More than 75 vendors will span roughly 4,000 square feet with handmade art, vintage clothing and furniture, curated antiques, books and jewelry, plus treats like ice cream, coffee and lemonade. Food trucks and live music set the scene for a relaxed sunset atmosphere. Admission is free. Enjoy indoor seating in a covered lounge next to the stage and two outdoor areas for dining and unwinding. The event is LGBTQIA+ friendly and queer owned. The space is ground level and wheelchair accessible, with a ramped route available to second floor restrooms. For sensory needs, there is ample outdoor space to step away for a breather and a small patio for a quieter break. Parking is simple with multiple free lots and staff to help direct, accessible parking in the main lot next to the event, free street parking nearby and a bike rack on site. During market hours, Rochester Greenovation will be open across the parking lot for thrifting, and MidCentury585 and ASOT Studio will also be open with vintage furniture, clothing, accessories, decor and modern lamps. Everyone is welcome, including families, kids and dogs, and event staff and security will be on site to assist.

From pierogi and dumplings to ravioli, many food traditions celebrate stuffed doughs, and this class shines a light on the Latin American favorite, the empanada. At The Commissary in Rochester, NY, participants roll up their sleeves for a fully hands-on experience, preparing both savory and sweet versions from scratch, including mixing and shaping the dough. Enjoy your fresh-made empanadas during the session and take home all the recipes you worked on, making it simple to recreate these delicious bites in your own kitchen.