The Rochester Elevator is Coming Down

The rumors of the Rochester Elevator, back in 2015, are coming true. Established in 1880 by Charles and Albert Griggs, two brothers, the Elevator was the oldest business in Rochester. It closed April 1, 2023 for good. In 2016, it was suggested that the property would be renovated into condominiums. The Rochester Elevator, as it looked in April 2015 - photo by Michael Dwyer Many social media posts and rally calls to save the building have been around for years, but the recking ball and … [Read more...]

Downtown Rochester Hosts 13th Annual Deck Art Competition

This year, over 400 artists from all over metro Detroit, as well as almost 40 Downtown Rochester businesses are participating in Deck Art 2023. In its thirteenth installment, Deck Art is a skateboard art competition and exhibition. Artists submit one-of-a-kind artwork using skateboard decks as a canvas. These decks will be on display in Downtown Rochester businesses beginning May 11 and will be celebrated with a two-day event on May 11 & 12. “Deck Art continues to grow and evolve year … [Read more...]

Makers’ Market invites Artists, Crafters, and Collectors to Downtown Rochester

Registration is open for Downtown Rochester’s newest event - Downtown Rochester Makers’ Market. The market is scheduled for Saturday, June 24, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and is located on W. Fourth Street in downtown Rochester. The market will consist of unique artisan vendors, crafters, vintage collectors and, makers selling their handcrafted goods, wares, and other specialty items during the event. “We are really excited to host the first annual Makers’ Market,” said Jenna O’Dell, … [Read more...]

The Rochester Symphony Orchestra Presents its 2023 Season Finale – ‘A NEW HORIZON’

Join the Rochester Symphony Orchestra (RSO) on Friday, May 12, 2023, at 8:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 620 Romeo Road, Rochester, Michigan for a tribute to five extraordinary American performers conducted by music director and conductor Maestro Zeljko Milicevic. In addition, there will also be a performance by Shaun Lee, winner of the 2023 Young Artist Competition. The evening's entertainment will highlight... Aaron Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man, an American … [Read more...]

Symphony of Style Fashion Show, Luncheon, and Boutique

Join the Rochester Symphony Guild (RSG) on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at The Palazzo Grande for the Fashion Event of the Season. The day starts at 10:30 a.m. with shopping 22 unique Boutique Vendors showcasing the latest trends in jewelry and accessories, home décor, and a remarkable assortment of the latest fashions. Enjoy a gourmet lunch at 12:30 p.m. followed by Peppertree of Rochester’s spectacular Fashion Show sharing this spring’s hottest styles. To make reservations, call 248-933-8845. … [Read more...]

The Rochester Symphony Orchestra’s Annual Spring Concert performs Classical Gems

Surround yourself in classical music this Spring as the Rochester Symphony Orchestra (RSO) presents Classical Gems, performed by the RSO’s Chamber Orchestra, and conducted by Music Director, Maestro Zeljko Milicevic. The concert will be presented on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church – 620 Romeo Road, Rochester, MI. The RSO’s Chamber Orchestra delivers a world-class and unique classical music experience. The program features selections from German, … [Read more...]

Fire & Ice Festival is Back in Downtown Rochester

“The Fire & Ice Festival is a fun-filled opportunity to get out of the house, even in the depths of winter, to enjoy some fresh air and regain a sense of community,” Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said. “The event attracts thousands of people from across the region to get a taste of how joyful and active winter can really be.” Ice Carvings at Fire & Ice Festival in Downtown Rochester - Photo by Michael Dwyer This year’s ice sculpting theme is myths and legends. Glistening … [Read more...]

Strolling for Cookies in Downtown Rochester

The Downtown Rochester Cookie Stroll takes place on Saturday, December 3, from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Cookie Stroll participants can collect 14 delicious cookies at 14 different cookie stations throughout town. Pre-sale for the official Cookie Stroll tin begins on Friday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m. Cookie tins will only be available for purchase online. A cookie tin is $35 each (limit two per order) and tins must be picked up at the Rochester Downtown Development Authority … [Read more...]

Downtown Rochester Festival of Trees

The Downtown Rochester Festival of Trees runs November 18–20 at the Rochester Community House. The event features trees, wreaths, centerpieces, tablescapes, and more – all designed and donated by the Metro Detroit Community.  Bring a camera – Santa is taking time out of his busy schedule to visit with children on both Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon – 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. All proceeds benefit The Big, Bright Light Show and local area non-profit organizations. The … [Read more...]

Downtown Rochester Holiday Expo brings Holiday Shopping to the Royal Park Hotel

Shop local and begin the holiday season at the Downtown Rochester Holiday Expo on Monday, November 14, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Royal Park Hotel. Over 60 businesses will be showcasing their products and services, just in time for the holidays. Attendees are encouraged to shop, discover holiday ideas and inspirations, and explore all that the businesses have to offer. Admission to the Downtown Rochester Holiday Expo is FREE and includes light refreshments and door prize drawings throughout … [Read more...]