Set in gardens designed by the coveted Frederick Law Olmstead.

The largest free festival of it’s kind. Parking & Shuttles are available.

With special extended hours on parade and race day.

At the Rochester Lilac Festival, the safety and security of our guests, vendors, and team members are paramount. We pride ourselves on bringing together the community in unity and celebration to enjoy the flowers, food and music. To further support a safe and fun environment for all, Monroe County, the City of Rochester and Lilac Festival Inc have collaborated to implement the following rules through the hours of the Festival (10:30 am – 8:30 pm) each day.

• No pets allowed. Please leave your pet at home. Pets will be turned away.
• Bicycles, skateboards and in-line skates are not allowed.
• Patrons can bring a small chair, umbrellas, or blankets.
• With the exception of one sealed bottle of water, visitors may not bring food or beverages into the festival grounds.
• Bandanas are not allowed. 
• Parental escort program:
  • Individuals 17 and under must be escorted by a parent or guardian at least 21 years of age (identification is required). 
  • • • Show valid identification that includes a photograph and date of birth (driver’s license, non-driver ID card, college ID, Passport, or Visa). 
      • All underage persons must remain with a parent or guardian while on festival grounds. 
      • All persons entering festival grounds should be prepared to:
        • Non-parental guardians with ID may only escort up to two (2) under-age individuals.
        • Have bag(s) checked by security personnel at points of entry. Weapons, outside food and beverage (except one unopened water bottle), and gang-related attire are prohibited. 

Thank you for your help in ensuring the festival is a comfortable and enjoyable place for all visitors. Reasonable accommodations to these policies are at the discretion of the onsite security team.

About Security at the Rochester Lilac Festival 

Lilac Festival Inc. partners with Monroe County, the City of Rochester, and first responders to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

The festival is patrolled by law enforcement officers who monitor the fenced perimeter, and each of the five entrances is operated by two-to-three NYS-licensed security personnel. Additionally, uniformed and plain-clothed security personnel are present within the festival grounds to maintain overall safety.

Please be aware of the changes to traffic patterns due to the Highland Park Traffic Control Plan. Follow the directions below to get to the festival effectively.

Monday – Friday
$7 from 10am – 2:30pm
$10 after 2:30pm

Saturday – Sunday
$10 during all hours

Only cash accepted

Lot 1: Main Lot (best for main festival site)
Diagonally across the street from 1111 Elmwood Ave. Elmwood Avenue is south of the Lilac Festival site. Enter from direction of Elmwood Ave./Goodman St.

Lot 2: Goodman Street Lot (best for Pansy Bed & lilacs)
Located at 1065 Elmwood Avenue-along Goodman St. Enter from Elmwood Avenue or Goodman St.
Click here for google map

Lot 3: Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship Lot 150 Sawgrass Dr. Weekends Only!
QUICK SHUTTLE to Festival Site
Click here for google map

Handicapped parking will be located at 1440 South Ave. You must have your handicapped tag in order to be let in.