First Saturday of the Month (Jan 3, Feb 7, March 7, April 4)

The Quarry Hill Bird Walk takes place the first Saturday of the month (Jan 3, Feb 7, March 7, April 4) from 9 to 10:15am at Quarry Hill Nature Center.  Meet by the Nature Center entrance and bring your binoculars if you have them.  Dress for the weather.  Walks usually last 60 to 90 minutes.  It’s free and open to the public…no registration required.

Second Saturday of the Month (Jan 10 at 5p, Feb 14 at 9a, March 14 at 5p)

The Winter Trail Run at Oxbow Park takes place the second Saturday of the month (Jan 10 at 5pm, Feb 14 at 9am, March 14 at 5pm).  Meet at the first bridge at Oxbow Park in Byron.  All abilities welcome.  Plan for approximately 5 miles of running or walking.  These are winter trail runs, so remember your footwear with lots of grip, wool socks and dress in layers. 

Monday January 12 from 4:30-7pm at Rochester Elks Club (7th St NW – Northgate Center)

There’s an Open House for Service Clubs in Rochester to recruit new members. It takes place on Monday, January 12^th from 4:30 to 7pm at the Rochester Elks Club on 7^th St NW (Northgate Center). Chili will be served for those who attend. Service Clubs of Rochester will have information for attendees to see what they do to make a difference in Rochester. Clubs include: Sertoma, Kiwanis, Rotary, Does, Lions and Elks.

Monday January 19th at Mayo Civic Center

The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr ‘We Have a Dream Celebration’ is Monday January 19^th from 8:30-10:30am at the Mayo Civic Center with breakfast served at 9am.  The morning portion of the program is hosted by the NAACP Rochester branch in partnership with the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce.  Afterwards is the Freedom Rally and March and finally the Community & People’s Program at the Rochester Civic Theatre. 

Jan 22 thru 25 at Historic Chateau Theatre

Castle Con 2026, Rochester’s own weekend-long tabletop board gaming extravaganza, takes place Thursday January 22^nd thru Sunday January 25^th at the Historic Chateau Theatre and Kahler Grand Hotel. Enthusiasts of all levels can take part. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or new to the gaming world, you’ll find engaging sessions, tournaments and a chance to connect with fellow gamers.

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Friday March 6 from 4 to 7pm at 125 Live

Don’t miss the 125 LIVE Pottery Studio’s Exhibition on Friday, March 6^th from 4 to 7pm. Experience an exciting evening where art, creativity, and community come together. This year’s theme, “An Artist Mind,” offers invites viewers to explore the intricate journey from concept to creation, with each pottery piece acting as a direct, three-dimensional representation of the artist’s innermost vision and creative spirit.  Tickets: $10 Pre-order / $15 At the Door at 125 Live.

On-going

Over the past year, Non-Profit Wrench has helped over 300 local families stay safe, mobile and independent. When a car won’t start or snow traps someone at home, it’s not just an inconvenience, it’s a crisis for families already on the edge. Their work is 100% funded by donations and local business partnerships. As the year comes to a close, please consider a one-time or monthly gift.

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The Mayo Clinic Blood Center is in need of life saving blood product. If you are healthy and well you can help. Schedule your appointment today they are open Mon-Friday 6:00am to 4:30pm call 284-4475. Donate blood. Save lives.

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The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester is an out-of-school program that empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring community members. Their membership is open to youth from K to Grade 12.

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