The largest festival of its kind in North America began 121 years ago and continues to be inspired by the magnificent lilac collection at Highland Park — 500 varieties of lilacs on more than 1,200 bushes.

Visitors will see not only nature’s bounty in abundance, but also enjoy entertainment including national headline concerts, exhibitors, food vendors, children’s activities, Art & Craft Show, the Lilac Run 10K/5K, and the televised Lilac Parade. The 2019 Rochester Lilac Parade at 10:30 a.m.. Saturday May 11, presents dozens of marching bands, decorated floats, clowns, dancers and costumed characters. Other special events include a Wine Tasting Expo, Craft Beer Expo, and a Bloody Mary Expo.

The festival is produced by the Springut Group Inc. and is a joint venture of Monroe County Parks, City of Rochester, and VisitRochester convention and visitors bureau. And although Mother Nature has the final say the lilacs are expected to be in full bloom for the festival!

The Rochester Lilac Festival is an experience for all of your senses — See the magnificent array of colors, people, and arts & crafts; Smell the aromatic lilacs; Hear entertaining musical acts; Taste the variety of foods and treats; and Touch a lilac branch as you sniff a fresh bud or walk hand-in-hand along the spectacular park paths.