The City of Rochester, in collaboration with the School Department, is preparing the grounds of Spaulding High School and the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center for the upcoming Lilac Family Fun Festival on Saturday, July 12, 2025.
According to Recreation & Arena Director Lauren Krans, carnival rides are expected to be delivered on the evening of Thursday, July 10, and the setup will begin on Friday.
“This setup takes place in the front of the Community Center, so I anticipate there will be an interruption to normal parking/traffic patterns,” said Krans. “We apologize for any inconvenience, and we appreciate your understanding while we prepare for this event.”
In addition to offering carnival rides for young children, the Lilac Family Fun Festival also features games, food trucks, local vendors, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment. Best of all, the evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.
Participating vendors and performers include entertainment by Sages Entertainment, Studio 109 Dance Performance, North River Music, and Coyote Smoke. Food trucks will include Kona Ice, Flat Iron Catering Co., Brothers Concessions, and Sausage Express.
Community organizations and local businesses taking part include the ABA Services of America, American Legion Juniors, Annie E. Woodman Institute, Inc., Cocheco River Local Advisory Committee, Community Action Partnership of Strafford County, Crown Point Bows LLC, Cub Scout Pack 184, Easterseals, Guyer Travel Network, Hannaford, HAVEN, Hibbert Enterprises, Hillios Novelties, J Cricket Bakeshop, JVS Enterprises LLC, Our Creative Imagining, Rochester Conservation Commission, Rochester Democrats, Rochester Fire Department, Rochester Main Street, Rochester Opera House, Rochester River Walk, Rochester School District, S.C.A.R.E., Shaved Ice LLC, The Family Busyness, and United Home Experts.
Parking is limited, so consider parking downtown and walking if you’re able. Click here for downtown parking options. Thanks to Profile Bank and Lilac Club Casino for offering additional free parking for the event.
Please note: No outside fireworks or sparklers will be allowed. Service animals only. To accommodate the fireworks show, Chestnut Hill Road (from Hillsdale Road to the start of the Potter’s House Café Plaza) will be closed from 8:45 PM to 9:45 PM. Please plan alternate routes accordingly.
The Lilac Family Fun Festival and Fireworks will take place at Spaulding High School and the James W. Foley Memorial Community Center, 150 Wakefield Street. To learn more about the event, visit www.rochesternh.gov/fun.