Everything You Need to Know About Here Comes Santa Claus!
On Friday, November 27th, one of the best-loved holiday traditions is back in downtown Rochester: Here Comes Santa Claus! This holiday family favorite is a unique experience that many Rochester families enjoy year after year. Start the afternoon at Mrs. Claus’ Workshop, then follow Santa down to the Peace Plaza for the tree lighting after he is rescued from the top of Old City Hall.
This year, Here Comes Santa Claus is the FRIDAY after Thanksgiving, November 27th, from 2:30 to 7 pm! All events are FREE!
Schedule of Festivities:
2:30 – 4:45 pm | Mrs. Claus’ Workshop at the Historic Chateau Theatre
Before Santa’s grand arrival, stop by the Historic Chateau Theatre for Mrs. Claus’ Workshop. Enjoy merry music, nutcracker dancing by Rochester Dance Company, family-friendly games and crafts, writing letters to Santa, and story time with Mrs. Claus (with ASL interpretation). Admission is free, and all are welcome.
5:00 pm | The Main Event! Santa’s Rescue from atop Old City Hall
- Help! Santa is stuck on the roof! Gather outside the Residences of Old City Hall to watch the daring rescue as Santa Claus is brought safely down from the roof.
- A very relieved Mrs. Claus will be there to greet Santa when he gets down and share some holiday cheer.
5:15 pm | Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Peace Plaza
5:30 – 7 pm | Photos with Santa | Galleria at University Square (Second Level)
Good to Know
Drones are not permitted at Rochester Downtown Alliance events, so leave them at home.
Parking
Parking is plentiful, with over 5000 public parking spaces downtown. Remember there is no fee for street parking on weekends and weeknights after 5 pm. Refer to the map below to see where to park (blue blocks) in relation to where Santa will be rescued (Santa icon) and where the tree will be lit in Peace Plaza (tree icon).
