Free events in Rochester, NY

This casual Business Before Hours Networking session brings professionals together at Lawley as part of the Brighton Chamber’s First Friday series, held most months at member locations. Conversations unfold over coffee and a light breakfast while participants build working relationships and learn about a featured Chamber business. Admission is free for Chamber members, $15 for non-members, and $5 for students. A branded-item raffle is planned, and members who wish to contribute can coordinate in advance with retail chair Todd Kinder or bring an item to be included. Lawley, the host, is an independent regional insurance firm that helps protect what people and organizations have built through personal and commercial insurance, risk management, employee benefits, and consulting. Now in its third generation as a family business, it is rooted in strong family values and sound business ethics.

An annual celebration at St. Stanislaus Church in Rochester, NY highlights Polish culture with classic dishes like pierogi, golabki, sausage, and sauerkraut, plus unique desserts and cold beer. Attendees can browse authentic pottery, find games and activities for kids, and enjoy live music from Jurkowski & Friends. This family friendly event centers on Polish heritage, music, and tradition. Admission and parking are free, and security will be on site.

Contribute to the care and beauty of Mount Hope Cemetery through a hands-on volunteer session. Individuals and groups can register for one or multiple sessions. Activities take place in any weather, so dress for the conditions.

A playfully titled tabletop gaming club offers a rotating mix of tabletop role playing adventures, complex and strategic skirmish games, and other options that change from week to week. This is a family friendly event, and children are welcome with parent or guardian supervision. All offerings are free and open to anyone who has maintained at least 48 hours of continuous sobriety. First time participants should complete a membership questionnaire before attending.

Front Porch Festival features free food and music. Attendees can visit a petting zoo, enjoy performances by dance troupes and choirs, and enter prize raffles. Kids can receive ID badges with the Monroe County Sheriffs. Free haircuts and health screenings are available, including blood pressure, dental, HIV and Hep C, mammography, podiatry, and vision.

A free community celebration will mark the opening of the N Goodman Street branch in Rochester. Food will be available from Grill Kingz and Rob's Kabobs, with treats from The Ice Cream Factory of Fairport. The event features music, games, and activities suited to families. Member FDIC.

Yoga of 12-Step Recovery, also known as Y12SR, returns to ROCovery with a blend of community support and mindful movement. The gathering begins with a 12-step meeting that includes readings and time for sharing, then transitions into a guided yoga practice and flow. The focus is on bringing mind, body, and spirit together in support of recovery. This event is for adults 18 and older. There is no cost to attend, and it is open to anyone with at least 48 hours of continuous sobriety. First-time participants are asked to complete a membership questionnaire.

Part of a free monthly jazz series at Tropix Night Club, this performance features Paradigm Shift. Attendees can enjoy live jazz in a relaxed setting, with food and drinks available to purchase.

Work on open water skills with Simon and the Accountability Program crew during a coached swim that focuses on stroke efficiency, awareness in the water, and accurate sighting. The session aims to build confidence so participants feel ready for ROC. Bring swim goggles, a brightly colored swim cap, and a towel. Wetsuits and swim buoys are optional. If you are missing gear, support is available. This workout is free and open to RATs members, invited guests, and ROC Tri registrants.

Wednesday nights get a boost at the City of Rochester Public Market with ROC the Bricks, a monthly series presented by Bands on the Bricks. These Wednesday shows are in addition to the Friday night concerts. Admission and parking are free.

A fun kids night features airbrush face painting and glow airbrush tattoos. Everyone can receive a glow tattoo or two at no cost, and no sign up is required. Sponsored by Salvatore's at the Garage Door in Rochester, NY.