Concerts & Events

Our Programs

Audience seated on lawn chairs watching a live band perform on an outdoor stage at a park concert

FORWARD Park Concerts

Free summer concerts in Rochester parks featuring local and regional artists, creative activities, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.

Fourth of July in Rochester

City-supported Fourth of July fireworks, community activities, and event-day information.

a crowd of people gathered at an outdoor stage just before sunset

Passport Sessions

Free outdoor concerts during Thursdays Downtown, celebrating culture and connection through sound.

large crowd seen from behind a band of three people, view from stage

Riverside Music Series

Live Music. Big Names. No Tickets. Free Sunday evening concerts in Mayo Park with food trucks, lawn seating, and artists you’ll want to hear live.

Students seated in a school gym watching musicians perform drums during an in-school music residency

Sound School

Live artist residencies that bring rhythm, movement, and unforgettable performance experiences into Rochester schools.

Upcoming Events

Nov 21
Sound School: Public Concert 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Jun 02
FORWARD: June 2 5:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Jun 09
FORWARD: June 9 5:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Jun 16
FORWARD: June 16 5:30 PM - 7:45 PM
Jul 11
Riverside Music Series: July 11 7:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Get Involved

Looking to perform, vend food or drinks, volunteer or support our programs? This is where you’ll find seasonal opportunities for musicians, vendors and community partners. Everyone is welcome to apply.

Be a Vendor

We welcome food and beverage vendors to help create a fun, festive atmosphere at Rochester Public Music events.

Vendor applications for the 2027 summer season will open in spring 2027. Opportunities will be posted here when applications are available.

FORWARD: Managed by Rochester Public Music
Riverside Music Series: Managed by Mayo Civic Center

To learn more or ask a question, email us at publicmusic@rochestermn.gov.

Community Booths & Partner Participation (FORWARD)

Interested in being part of FORWARD as a community partner or activity booth?

We reserve space for partners who meet one or more of the following:

Offer non-commercial, mission-aligned activities that are free, fun, and inclusive
Support the event through sponsorship, staffing, or logistics
Provide hands-on engagement that adds value for attendees (e.g., art stations or games)

We do not host passive info tables, campaign materials, or commercial promotions. FORWARD is a music-first event, and space is limited.

Think your activity is a good fit? Email us to start a conversation: publicmusic@rochestermn.gov

Perform

Each year, we invite local and regional bands to apply for opening slots in our summer concert series.

Applications for 2027 summer performance opportunities will open later this year. One application covers opening opportunities with both FORWARD and Riverside.

In the meantime, learn more about the series:

Other Ways to Get Involved

You don’t have to be onstage or behind a booth to be part of Rochester Public Music. Whether you're a neighbor, a local business, or part of a community group, there are many ways to get involved.

Volunteer: Help greet guests, support logistics, or assist with special activities
Sponsor a Program: Provide financial or in-kind support to keep concerts free and accessible
Collaborate: Have an idea that fits our mission? Email us to start a conversation

To make a contribution, visit our Supporters & Partners page.