The Rochester Lilac Festival is set to return from May 9-18, 2025, at Highland Park. The festival’s lineup includes national touring artists and regional favorites, offering a mix of genres such as Austin soul, New Orleans jazz, Nigerian Afrobeat, and Nashville country.
The KeyBank Center Stage will host various headliners throughout the festival. On May 9, Sir Woman will bring R&B, soul, and indie pop sounds from Austin, Texas. Katie Pruitt will perform on May 10 with her soulful singer-songwriter style from Nashville. Chayce Beckham takes the stage on May 11 with his raw country sound.
On May 12, Cruel Summer will deliver a tribute to Taylor Swift with a high-energy performance. Rochester’s Latin Music Experience will be featured on May 13 with groups like AFriKan2 and Orchestra Antonetti. The Skycoasters with Shine will entertain on May 14 with rock and funk music.
Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 will bring Afrobeat rhythms on May 15 from Lagos, Nigeria. The Aces from Provo, Utah, are scheduled for May 16 with alternative pop tunes. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band will present their New Orleans jazz style on May 17. Beach Weather concludes the festival on May 18 with pop rock sounds from Phoenix.
Festival Executive Producer Jenny LoMaglio stated: “Each year, we strive to curate a lineup that offers something for everyone.” County Executive Adam Bello remarked: “This year’s diverse lineup of musicians is sure to excite festival-goers.”
Mayor Malik D. Evans emphasized the event’s significance: “The Rochester Lilac Festival is one of our greatest community assets.” Don Jeffries of Visit Rochester highlighted its impact: “Events of this caliber attract visitors from near and far.”
The annual event expects over 500,000 attendees and features more than just music; it includes arts vendors and a farmers’ market. For further details about this year’s festival activities or vendor opportunities, visit www.roclilacfest.com.
