COOKIE STROLL
2023-12-02 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Detroit)
Purchase your official Downtown Rochester Cookie Tin and take a stroll with participating businesses downtown to collect your delightful cookies.
Enjoy 12 cookies and a Cookie Stroll Cookie Tin for $35
Place your cookie tin order online starting November 10th at 10 am.
ONLY 150 TINS AVAILABLE!
You must purchase a tin and have and official Cookie Stroll punch card to participate in the Cookie Stroll.
Purchased cookie tins will be available for pick-up at the DDA’s Downtown Collaboration Studio (431 Main) during the DDA’s business hours. The DDA is open Monday – Friday 10 am – 5 pm.
All proceeds benefit The Big, Bright Light Show

CAROLING IN THE CITY
2023-12-10 17:00 - 20:00
Grab your family and friends and head downtown for more holiday cheer than you can shake a candy cane at!
Choirs, caroling, Ugly Sweater Contest, The Big, Bright Light Show and so much more!
You won’t want to miss the grand finale – a community sing around a giant Christmas tree in the middle of Main Street! (Picture the Whos Down in Whoville, with A LOT more Christmas lights!
Caroling in the City Line-Up
Stay tuned for more information!

PANCAKES & PJS
2023-12-14 17:00 - 20:00
Don your holiday pjs and join us for a holiday themed pancake dinner!
Attendees will enjoy a pancake feast cooked and provided by our beloved Rochester Fire Fighters, kids craft and holiday themed photo spot. Proceeds benefit The Big, Bright Light Show.
Date: Thursday, December 14
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 PM (reservations required)
Location: Rochester Fire Department 277 E. Second St.
Price: $15 per ticket. Reservations are required, see button below to purchase your timed ticket. Each reservation block has limited seating

Drink Local - Rochester MI, Event (Enjoy Holiday Themed Beverages from Local Restaurants!)
2023-12-18 00:00 - 2023-12-31 00:00
Enjoy 18 featured beverages from participating downtown restaurants through the month of December!
Make sure to vote for your favorite
Restaurants Participating:
BAUS Barber
Bologna Via Cucina
Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters
The Hemmingway Room
Hibachi House
Kruse & Muer on Main
Kruse’s PCYC
Main Street Billiards
Park 600
Rochester Mills Beer Co.
O’Connor’s Public House
Rochester Corner Bar
Too Ra Loo
Rochester Chop Houe
The Spice and Tea Exchange
423 Main Bar & Grill
The Meeting House
Click here for the voting form!

Coffee Talk at the Rochester Community House! (Only for Current Chamber Members)
2024-01-12 07:30 - 10:00 | Rochester Community House, 816 Ludlow Avenue, Rochester, 48307
You’re invited to network with local business professionals at our January Coffee Talk! Bring your 2-minute “elevator speech” and a stack of business cards, then get ready for speed networking over coffee!
Looking for some exposure for your business??
Bring a door prize with your business card attached to raffle to a lucky attendee and your business will be announced for more exposure at the event. Not sure what to donate? We suggest a $10 gift card from a local business of a fellow chamber member (for example restaurant or store of your choice).

Gilmore Girls Inspired Dinner at Tonia's Victorian Rose Tea Room in Rochester, MI!
2024-01-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Tonia’s Victorian Rose Tea Room, 120 W 3rd St, Rochester, MI, 48307, United States
“Where you lead, I will follow.”
Join us for a holiday dinner celebrating our favorite Gilmore Family! This dinner and trivia will focus on the episode, “The Bracebridge Dinner,” where Lorelai invites most of the citizens of Stars Hollow to an elaborate feast complete with horse-drawn carriage ride!
In true Gilmore Girls Fashion, the menu will include Sookie Worthy Entrees and Rory Approved Desserts. This event is $85.00 per person and is the perfect Christmas Gift for your Gilmore Girl fan! Dinner is from 6-8 pm, followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride through our beautiful Downtown Rochester to see the Big Bright Light Show, immediately afterward. Sign up now, by hitting the tickets link. If this one sells out, another one will open for Saturday, 1/13.
Remember… Life’s Short, so Talk Fast!

Frost Festival: Downtown Rochester, Michigan
2024-01-19 00:00 - 2024-01-20 00:00
Join us on January 19th & 20th for a winter celebration that will transform Downtown Rochester into a frosty wonderland! Frost Fest promises a weekend filled with icy delights, from stunning under the sea themed ice sculptures to a carving competition, topped off with a shopping and dining Bingo game that will have you exploring the heart of our city!
🌊 Enjoy Under the Sea themed ice sculptures. Dive into the world beneath the waves as our talented ice sculptors bring the ocean to life with under-the-sea-themed creations!
🔥 Marshmallow roasting with the Lions’ Club (E. 3rd Street) Friday, 5:00 – 9:00 pm and Saturday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
🦑 Live Carving Friday, January 19 (E. 3rd Street) at 5:30 pm. Sponsored by Modetz Funeral Home.
❄️Ice carving competition on Saturday, January 20 (W. 4th Street) time – TBD.
🛍️ Downtown Rochester BINGO! – Enjoy a shopping and dining experience for your chance to win a $500 Downtown Rochester Shopping Spree! (official BINGO card coming soon).
🎉 Family-Friendly Fun: Frost Fest is a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. Bring the kids for a day of winter wonder and make lasting memories as you explore the charming streets of Downtown Rochester.

2024 Frozen Paw 5k
2024-01-21 09:00
In conjunction with the Rochester Downtown Development Authority’s Snowglow, Leader Dogs for the Blind is proud to present the 2nd Annual Frozen Paw 5K! Participants will enjoy a course filled with wintry scenery through downtown Rochester, Rochester Municipal Park and Paint Creek Trail.
More Information:
Sunday, January 21, 2024
Start time: 9 a.m.
Race starts and finishes near Rochester Mills Beer Company
Register to race here: https://leaderdogs.enmotive.com/…/2024-frozen-paw-5k
More information on our website here: https://www.leaderdog.org/frozen-paw-5k/
The 5K Run/Walk includes a race shirt, race medal, and a coupon for a free, age-appropriate beverage from Rochester Mills Beer Company.
Race is capped at 1,000 in-person participants (we sold out last year)!
Packet Pick-Up:
– Friday, January 19 – 3:00 to 6:00 PM at Leader Dogs for the Blind Canine Center
– Saturday, January 20 – 12:00 to 4:00 PM at Leader Dogs for the Blind Canine Center
– Sunday, January 21 – 7:30 – 9:00 AM at Rochester Mills Beer Company
Thank you to our sponsors Genysis Credit Union and Rochester Mills Beer Co.!
Personal dogs are welcome. We ask that you keep them on a leash at all times and be sure to clean up after them. Participants with dogs must start at the back of group at the beginning of the race.

Winter Carnival in Rochester, Michigan (Corn Hole, Ice Skating, Snowball Fight, and MORE!)
2024-01-27 12:00 - 16:00 | Bear Creek Nature Park
Winter Carnival
Join us at Bear Creek Nature Park for a fun filled winter day from 12pm- 4pm on Saturday, January 27!!!
All parking will be at Rochester Christian Church located at 4435 Rochester Rd., Rochester, MI 48306 and FREE shuttle services will run from 11:45am-4:30pm.
Activities include:
Ice Carving Demonstration from Finesse Ice
Penguin Bowling
Hockey Goal Shoot
Corn Hole
Floor Darts
Snowball Fight
Archery Target Shoot
Snow Snake Luge – a traditional Anishnaabe Game
Snowshoeing
Broom Ball
Ice Skating
Magic Show with Magic Joe
“Rocky the Dinosaur in Oz” puppet show
Snack Bar Food Truck
Snow or no snow, bundle up and join in on a day of outdoor winter fun!

Downtown Rochester, MI now Accepting Deck Art Registration Form
2024-02-01 00:00
What: Unleash the artist in you! Join us for downtown Rochester’s 14th annual skateboard art exhibition and competition! Participants are given a blank skateboard deck to use as their canvas; any medium is acceptable for 2 and 3-dimensional pieces.
Who: Elementary School, Middle School, High School, College and Adult.
When: May 9 & 10, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Deck Cost: $25.00 (plus tax) Registration and deck pick up at South Street Skateshop, 410 Main Street (while supplies last).
Artist registration takes place February 1 – April 5 (while supplies last) at South Street Skateshop (410 Main).
Submit completed artwork April 8 – April 19 to the Rochester DDA’s Downtown Collaboration Studio (431 S. Main Street).

Foodie February in Downtown Rochester, MI! Win a Dining Package!
2024-02-01 00:00 - 2024-02-29 00:00
DINE-IN OR CARRY-OUT AT ONE OR MORE PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES DURING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY AND ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $500 , A $250 OR A $100 DINING PACKAGE!
Stay tuned for a link to more information

Coffee Talk at Rochester Community House
2024-02-09 07:30 - 10:00
Bring your 2-minute “elevator speech” and a stack of business cards, then get ready for speed networking over coffee!
At Rochester Community House: 816 Ludlow Ave, Rochester, MI

Galentine's Boutique Crawl in Downtown Rochester, MI
2024-02-10 10:00 - 14:00
“💝Calling all Ladies!💝
Join us for a Galentine’s Boutique Crawl on Saturday, February 10th from 10 AM-2PM! It’s going to be a day filled with celebrating friendship & love with some amazing Rochester boutiques!💕
Sip and shop our new arrivals, store favorites, specials, deals and more! Please see each boutique for more in store details.
Grab some girls & head Downtown Rochester for a fun day out! 🛍🌸🥂”
Stores include: 4th Street Boutique, Hello Fancy Boutique, Talulah Belle, Baus, Sole Sisters, The Peppertree, and Be Scene Boutique!

Rochester, MI Fire Department - Pancake Breakfast
2024-02-11 08:00 - 11:00
Join us February 11th for a Pancake Breakfast!
Pancakes, Sausage, Beverage
Sunday, Feb 11, 8-11 AM
Rochester Fire Station: 277 E. Second St
Adults – $8
Children under 12 – $4

Super Bowl LVIII: San Francisco 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs
2024-02-11 18:30
Super Bowl LVIII: San Francisco 49ers vs Kansas City Chiefs at 6:30 PM

Detroit Polar Plunge at Bayview Yacht Club
2024-03-01 00:00
Click here to donate to the cause!

S'mores and Stars at Bloomer Park in Rochester, MI!
2024-03-07 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for an exciting evening looking at the stars!
Providing the sky cooperates, enjoy a scenic view of the night sky through telescopes with the Oakland Astronomy Club. If it’s a cloudy night, enjoy a guided night hike, owl calling, and more accompanied by marshmallows roasting over a crackling campfire.
Suitable for all ages. Children under 12 must purchase a ticket and be accompanied by a paid adult.
Price: $10
Click here for more info!

Founders Day Celebration 2024 at Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm!
2024-03-10 14:00 - 16:00
The Rochester Historical Commission will celebrate Founder’s Day that commemorates the arrival of James Graham with his sons on March 17th, 1817 to the area we know as Rochester, Michigan. They were settlers who established Rochester as the first European settlement in Oakland County. The celebration will include light refreshments.
Leader Dogs for the Blind will deliver a presentation reviewing the organization’s history and lasting impact on the greater Rochester area. Leader Dogs will also be attending the event for all participants to greet and enjoy!
This event is held at 1005 Van Hoosen Road, Rochester Hills, MI, 48306, in the renovated Calf Barn and Dairy Barn.
Click here to register!

Visit the Easter Bunny!
2024-03-17 12:00 - 18:00, 2024-03-23 12:00 - 18:00, 2024-03-24 12:00 - 18:00, 2024-03-29 12:00 - 18:00, 2024-03-30 12:00 - 18:00
Experience the magic of spring at the Village of Rochester Hills, where the Easter Bunny awaits to spread joy and create unforgettable memories for the whole family! Bring your loved ones and your camera for a delightful encounter with the Easter Bunny amidst the charming open-air setting. After capturing those precious moments, explore the diverse range of shops offering the latest in fashion, home decor, and unique gifts. Indulge in a shopping spree while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. And when it’s time to refuel, savor the delicious offerings at our fantastic array of restaurants, ensuring a perfect day of shopping, dining, and Easter festivities at the Village of Rochester Hills!

St Patrick’s Day at the Village of Rochester Hills, MI
2024-03-17 12:00 - 18:00
The Village of Rochester Hills (104 S Adams Rd, Rochester, MI 48309)
Enjoy an afternoon of festivities, green beer from Bravo, a DJ and more. This is a FREE event to attend.

Gardening and Landscaping with Deer in Rochester Hills, MI!
2024-03-27 18:00 - 19:30
Join the City’s Parks and Natural Resources Department and Bordine’s to learn about gardening with deer!
The Rochester Hills’ Deer Management Advisory Committee (DMAC) and the City’s Parks and Natural Resources Department will be hosting a seminar with Bordine’s that will share strategies and techniques as to what to plant and how to manage your garden or landscaping that will minimize impacts by Deer.
Every year, deer browsing around your home can wreak havoc on your garden and landscaping. There is a real need for our residents to get the latest information on landscaping in areas with a high deer population. This is an opportunity to ask questions and learn what steps they can take to be successful in their gardening endeavors. It is important to take a multi-facet approach when trying to keep Deer from eating the plants in your garden. This includes planting species that are deer resistant and using repellents and barriers that help keep deer out. Please join us to learn about Deer behavior from our City’s’ Naturalist, and what resistant plants/repellents are available from Bordine’s Nursery.
This seminar is free for residents, but pre-registration is required. Meet in the City Hall Auditorium.
Click here to register!

2024 MLB Opening Day!
2024-03-28 00:00

Bunnyville at the Detroit Zoo - Royal Oak, MI
2024-03-29 10:00 - 15:00
Spring into fun at Bunnyville, presented by Meijer! At this annual, family-friendly “egg-stravanza,” you can ring in the season with fun activities sure to put a hop in your step.
Bunnyville features a 24 “carrot” Golden egg hunt, whisker painting, live entertainment, a Zoo Tales Story Trail, photos with the Easter Bunny and so much more!
This event is free for members and with Zoo admission – visit our website to plan learn more: https://bit.ly/3uMB1bN

Last Day of Deck Art Registration!
2024-04-05 00:00
What: Unleash the artist in you! Join us for downtown Rochester’s 14th annual skateboard art exhibition and competition! Participants are given a blank skateboard deck to use as their canvas; any medium is acceptable for 2 and 3-dimensional pieces.
Where: Completed artwork will be placed on display throughout as many as 50 businesses in downtown Rochester. Onlookers can enjoy and admire these uniquely designed pieces of artwork
while strolling in and out of businesses.
When: May 9 & 10, 5:00 – 9:00 pm.
Artist registration takes place February 1 – April 5 (while supplies last) at South Street Skateshop (410 Main).

Friends Spring Big Book Sale - Farmington Hills, MI
2024-04-05 10:00 - 2024-04-07 17:00
The Farmington Friends of the Library will be having their semi-annual book sale April 5-7 in the Browsing Room at the FCL Farmington Hills location (32737 W. 12 Mile Rd.). All proceeds go to support the Library.
Find more information about the Friends here: https://farmlib.org/about-us/friends-of-the-library/
Sale Details:
Friday, April 5, 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Friends Members only
Saturday, April 6, 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Teachers get half off on regularly-priced items, please show ID
Sunday, April 7, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
$5 bag sale, paper bags available or bring your own

4th Annual Royal Oak Bourbon Fest! - Royal Oak Farmers Market
2024-04-06 17:00
The 4th annual Royal Oak Bourbon Fest is an indoor bourbon festival hosted at Royal Oak Farmers Market (316 E Eleven Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067). The event runs in two sessions. First session is from 5:00pm to 7:30pm and second session is from 8:30pm to 11:00pm.
This festival will feature 200+ whiskeys and bourbons, store picks, classic cocktails and high-end bottle section. Most of the list is bourbon but there will be a few non-bourbon options such as beer, wine & non-alcoholic options. In addition to the great beverage selection, we will have food trucks, live music, vendors and more!
Website: https://royaloakbourbonfest.com/
This is a rain or shine event, event is 21+ (with valid picture ID), all sales are final, and tickets are not refundable.
