This Month in Rochester: November Events

Stay in the loop with This Month in Rochester, your guide to events and activities in downtown Rochester, Minnesota!

Rochester hosts a variety of fall festivals, live music, markets, and seasonal events throughout November. This month brings with it the start of holiday events, such as the Christmas tours at Historic Mayowood. Whether you're a local or visiting for the weekend, here's your event calendar for Rochester, MN in November 2025.

Explore Local Events

Each month, we curate a list of unique events and activities. Whether you're visiting Rochester for a short stay or making it your home, this blog will help you explore, connect, and enjoy the city. Broadway Plaza is in the heart of Rochester, and many of these events are around downtown – just steps away from our building.

 

FEAST!

Cost: $12 at the door
Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Mayo Civic Center

If you want to sample some of the best food in Rochester, FEAST! is the event for you. The trade show takes place just steps away from Broadway Plaza, conveniently connected by the skyway to Mayo Civic Center.

The event will include close to 100 local food and beverage booths, with free samples at many. If you would like to sample alcohol, there is VIP admission for $35 at the door.

Get tickets and more information on the FEAST! website.

Historic Mayowood Christmas Tours

Cost: $30 for adults and $15 for children (not recommended for children under 3)
Tours will take place Wednesday – Sunday, check the Mayowood website for more details about times and to purchase tickets.
Location: 3720 Mayowood Road SW

Take a step back in time and experience the holidays like Dr. Charlie and Edith Mayo did at Historic Mayowood. The incredible mansion located on the southwest side of Rochester, lets visitors get an inside look at the life of one of the Mayo brothers.

The highly anticipated Historic Mayowood Christmas Tours provide the experience of "A Traditional Christmas at Historic Mayowood.” In addition to the spectacular holiday decorations, guests can enjoy a taste of Christmas at Mayowood with “Emma’s Cookies,” a recipe that was passed down through generations of the Mayo family.

Find the tour schedule and get your tickets on the History Center of Olmsted County website.

Downtown Art Walk

Cost: FREE
Thursday, Nov. 6
Location: Downtown Rochester

Embark on a self-guided art walk through downtown Rochester. This seasonal event brings artists and musicians to downtown shops, restaurants, event venues and galleries around downtown.

Get printed maps at the Historic Chateau Theatre or Threshold Arts, or view the digital map on the Downtown Rochester MN website here.

Textile Market

Cost: FREE
Saturday, Nov. 8, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Floral Hall, 112 Arena Dr SE

Although the outdoor Rochester Farmers Market is closed for the season, you can get into the fall spirit with the Textile Market. Each fall, the Annual Textile Market brings people through an immersive experience through the world of fiber. Attendees will be able to see how fiber arts are brought to life.

Learn more about the activities and artisans featured at the market on the Rochester Farmers Market website.

 

Water Circus

Cost: $15 - $65
Dates: Nov. 14 – 17
Location: Apache Mall

Cirque Italia is bringing its water circus show to Rochester at the Apachie Mall.

Under the big tent, watch performers execute stunts on a stage that holds 35,000 gallons of water.

Buy tickets for the show and learn more on the Cirque Italia website.

 

Holiday Bazaar

Cost: FREE
Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location: Graham Park Building 31, 1403 3rd Ave SE

Thanksgiving will be just days away, so get into the holiday spirit early with the Holiday Bazaar from the Friends of the Farmers Market. The event celebrates local artists, crafters and makers.

For more information, visit the Rochester Farmers Market website.

 

Here Comes Santa Claus

Cost: FREE
Friday, Nov. 28, 2:30 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Location: Chateau Theatre, Residences of Old City Hall, Peace Plaza, & Galleria at University Square

This beloved Rochester tradition will take place in Peace Plaza and Historic Downtown Rochester on Friday. There is a full afternoon of activities, including visiting Mrs. Claus’ Workshop at the Historic Chateau Theatre, the rescue of Santa Claus from Old City Hall, and the tree lighting in Peace Plaza.

Learn more about the event on the Downtown Rochester website.