December 2016

Not sure what to do on New Year’s Eve? Feeling like it’s only for college kids and singles? That’s no way to welcome the new year! In addition to a plethora of private parties and adults-only adventures, our city offers plenty of fun the last night of the year for Rochesterians of all ages. Check out any of these family-friendly celebrations to make new memories and start out the new year on the right foot.

First Night Rochester at Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex

First Night Rochester is an annual New Year’s Eve party focused on providing families a memorable and safe opportunity to celebrate the New Year. The third annual event takes place at Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex, a 170,000 square foot multi-use sports facility located on the Monroe Community College campus. According to Kids Out & About, it’s the “coolest family-friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration in Rochester!” Past activities have included skating on 3 ice rinks, bounce houses, music, live footage from Times Square on a monstrous screen, exciting hourly countdowns, and offerings for all ages.

First Night Rochester 2016

Saturday, December 31st, 2016
6 pm to 10 pm
Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex
2700 Brighton Henrietta Townline Road
All ages are welcome!

City of Rochester Party at the Convention Center

And now for events at the heart of the action! The FREE New Year’s Eve Party at the Riverside Convention Center brings together Rochesterians of all ages to enjoy the celebration. Thrown by the City of Rochester, this special event is sure to delight the little ones with a kid-friendly dance party, giant bounce houses, an obstacle course, airbrush tattoos, photo booths, caricature artists, a magician, clowns, crafts with Rec on the Move staff, and more! They might even run into a popular princess, a melt-resistant snowman, or Rochester’s favorite superhero! Though admission is free, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.

2016 City of Rochester New Year’s Eve Party

Saturday, December 31st, 2016
7 pm to 10 pm
Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center
123 E. Main St.
All ages welcome!
Admission is free!

Wait! There’s more!

Ready to head outside? Check out free ice skating at the ice rink in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Park. Kids can skate during Family Skate from 5 to 7, then the rink is reserved for those ages 16 and up from 7:30 to 9:30. There will also be free music by Beal’s Rock & Roll Review.

Want to have a blast? Don’t miss the downtown Fireworks Display beginning at 10 pm. Get the best views of the Grand Finale from the Main Street Bridge!

Park for Free!
Parking is free from 6 pm to 11 pm, December 31st, at the following garages:

• South Ave. Garage, 39 Stone St.
• Washington Square Garage, 111 Woodbury Blvd.
• Sister Cities Garage, 28 N. Fitzhugh St.
• Court St. Garage, 194 Court St.
• Mortimer St. Garage, 25 N. Clinton Ave