Rochester is gearing up for its annual Fourth of July celebration at Soldiers Field Park, bringing together the community for an evening filled with live music, creative pet showcases, and spectacular fireworks. The event, established in 2021 and known as “4th Fest,” offers residents and visitors a chance to celebrate Independence Day with entertainment that runs from early evening until the night sky lights up with pyrotechnics.
This family-friendly gathering has quickly become a cherished summer tradition for the Rochester community, offering a perfect opportunity for neighbors to connect while enjoying high-quality performances in one of the city’s most beloved parks.
Rochester’s 4th Fest 2025: A Free Community Celebration
The celebration, produced by Rochester Public Music, emphasizes community spirit and togetherness as core values of the Independence Day holiday. With its well-planned lineup of local and regional artists, the event highlights Rochester’s thriving arts scene while creating a relaxed atmosphere where attendees can spread out blankets, set up lawn chairs, and enjoy the summer evening.
The combination of live music, creative community participation through the virtual pet parade, and the grand finale of fireworks makes 4th Fest an engaging celebration that appeals to residents of all ages and interests.
Event Lineup: Music, Pets & Poetry
The festivities kick off at 6:00 PM with a performance by the Rochester Community Band, setting a patriotic tone with their repertoire of traditional and contemporary American music.
At 7:00 PM, the increasingly popular Virtual Pet Parade will be displayed on the main stage’s video wall, featuring creative submissions from local pet owners who have dressed up, posed, or recorded their furry, feathered, and scaled companions in patriotic-themed scenarios. This heartwarming segment always draws laughs and cheers as community members spot their own or their friends’ pets on the big screen.
As the evening progresses, attendees will be treated to a special appearance by Jean Prokott, Rochester’s Poet Laureate, who will present a video reading of an original poem commissioned specifically for the celebration at 8:25 PM. The main musical attraction begins at 8:30 PM with Free Fallin: The Tom Petty Concert Experience, bringing familiar hits and energetic performances to the Soldiers Field stage.
The night culminates with a spectacular fireworks display at 10:00 PM, lighting up the Rochester sky in a dazzling array of colors and patterns that can be viewed from throughout the park. The timing allows families with younger children to enjoy much of the entertainment before deciding whether to stay for the later fireworks.
One of the most appealing aspects of Rochester’s 4th Fest is that it’s completely free to attend, making it accessible to everyone in the community. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to create their own comfortable viewing area on the park grounds.
While outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome, several food vendors will also be on-site offering a variety of dining options for purchase. The city has arranged for ample portable restroom facilities throughout the venue, ensuring convenience for the large crowds expected to attend.
Parking & Accessibility
Parking information is especially important for those planning to attend. The city recommends utilizing downtown parking ramps and lots, as the immediate area around Soldiers Field Park will have limited parking availability and some road closures to accommodate pedestrian safety.
Those with accessibility needs can find designated parking areas closer to the event space. The celebration is sponsored by the City of Rochester Mayor’s Office, which funds the fireworks display, while Fette Productions provides technical support, including the impressive video wall that enhances the concert and parade viewing experience.
Additional support comes from Rochester Parks & Recreation, the Rochester Fire Department, and the Rochester Police Department, all working together to ensure a safe and enjoyable community celebration.
