Quarry Hill Bird Walk
First Saturday of the Month (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.
Winter Trail Run at Oxbow
Second Saturday of the Month (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.
Valentine’s Candlelight Hike
Friday February 13th from 6 to 8:30pm
Enjoy the Valentine’s Candlelight Hike at Quarry Hill on Friday, February 13th from 6 to 8:30pm. Follow the glow of candlelight through the woods as you walk through the Valentine themed trivia trail. Then, warm up by the fire inside the Nature Center. Enjoy an adult beverage from the gourmet hot cocoa bar, a sweet chocolate treat and a nighttime view of Quarry Hill’s animal ambassadors. Hike times: 6, 6:30pm, 7, 7:30pm and 8pm. Must be 21 or older.
Rochester Polar Plunge
Saturday Feb 14th at noon at Foster Arend Park
The Rochester Polar Plunge takes place on Saturday, February 14th starting at noon at Foster Arend Park. Pre-registration is Friday the 13th from 4 to 7pm and day-of registration starts at 10am at the Plunge site. The Polar Plunge is the biggest fundraiser for Special Olympics Minnesota. All funds raised by Plungers help Special Olympics Minnesota provide year-round training and services to thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state.
Honors Choirs of SE MN presents VOICES
Sunday Feb 22nd from 5 to 6:15pm at Bethel Lutheran Church
Honors Choirs of SE MN presents VOICES, a choral performance by 280 singers in grades 1-12 from Rochester and the surrounding communities. It takes place on Sunday, February 22nd at Bethel Lutheran Church on 3rd Ave SE in Rochester. Honors Choirs is an auditioned choir for young voices, and the organization is in its 34 season.
125 Live Pottery Studio Exhibition
Friday March 6 from 4 to 7pm at 125 Live
Don’t miss the 125 LIVE Pottery Studio’s Exhibition on Friday, March 6th 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.
Imagination Fest
Saturday March 21 from 9am-1pm at United Way of SE MN – 903 West Center St, Rochester
Kids and their families are invited to Imagination Fest on Saturday, March 21st from 9am to 1pm at United Way of Southeast Minnesota on West Center Street in Rochester. This free event is a celebration of books, stories and the joy of reading. Attendees can enjoy: Imagination Stations with book-themed activities, free books for every child, Silent Auctions & Raffles for parents to give back and win prizes for the whole family. Proceeds will benefit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, operated locally by United Way of Southeast Minnesota. Each year the program delivers 42,000 free books to over 4,300 children in Olmsted County.
Denim, Diamonds & Dice 2026
Saturday March 21 from 6 to 10pm at Floral Hall at Graham Park in Rochester
Don’t miss Denim, Diamonds & Dice 2026 on Saturday March 21st from 6 to 10pm at Floral Hall at Graham Park, presented by Family Service Rochester. At this event you can dress up or come in your favorite denim. Just come ready for a great time to support our local Meals on Wheels. Enjoy fun gambling games and local chefs will introduce you to amazing foods. Plus there will be live and silent auctions.
Non-Profit Wrench
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.
Mayo Clinic Blood Center
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.
The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester
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.
The Landing MN
Volunteer Opportunities
The Landing MN strives to create opportunities for our community to become involved and serve those facing homelessness. They are excited to welcome volunteers to serve alongside our team and give back to those in need.
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