The Rochester Recreation Department is pleased to announce the return of the Lilac Family Fun Festival on Saturday, July 8th from 4-9 pm, with a scheduled rain date of Sunday, July 9th.

The Lilac Family Fun Festival is a free, family-friendly event featuring kiddie carnival rides, live entertainment, several vendors and food trucks, games and activities, and the best fireworks show in New Hampshire.

The festival, which originally ran from 1993 to 2008, was always a popular event for Rochester residents. It featured similar activities geared toward children and families, at little to no cost to attendees.

According to Mayor Paul Callaghan, the 2022 event was well attended, worth the wait, and “exceeded all expectations”.

“In years past, the Lilac Family Fun Festival was always a great event for children and families,” said Callaghan. “It was great to see so many families enjoying the beautiful weather, live entertainment, activities and games, free carnival rides, and fireworks. We look forward to growing and expanding the event.”

In December 2022, Director of Recreation Lauren Krans appealed to City Council to increase funding in order to grow and expand. With positive public feedback, which included in-person testimony and multiple letters of support, City Council unanimously voted to fully fund the event in 2023.

“Our team is excited to provide another fun event this year,” said Krans. “We recognize that creating positive community traditions is an invaluable investment for the City’s current and future members. We are honored to have this responsibility.”

Event organizers are actively seeking vendors and volunteers for the night of the event. A vendor application is available online. For volunteer opportunities and general inquiries, contact Nicole Lee at (603) 332-4120.

Visit www.RochesterNH.gov/fun for more event information, an up-to-date list of vendors and activities, and to download a vendor application.