Your Ultimate Guide to Rochester’s 2025 4th of July Fireworks & Festivities!

One of the most magical days in America is the 4th of July.  According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, there are over 16,000 cities and town that will host a fireworks show this year.  And if you live in Southeast Minnesota, one of the best is happening in Rochester, Minnesota.

Everything You Need to Know About 4th of July Festivities and Fireworks in Rochester, Minnesota in 2025

Find your lawnchairs, sunscreen, and bug spray!  The schedule of events has been announced for Rochester, Minnesota's 4th Fest.

The last few years, Rochester residents have had a chance to take over parts of the Soldier's Field to grab a seat with a lawn chair and/or blanket to watch the amazing display of fireworks in the sky.  This year, some additional fun has been added as well, including a few new activities that are new to 4th Fest.  See the whole list of what is planned at 4th Fest below.

See the 2025 Guide to 4th of July Firework Shows Across SE Minnesota

Schedule of Events for 4th Fest in Rochester, Minnesota

5:00 pm

• enjoy local food and craft beverages or bring a cooler and have your own picnic

6:00 pm

• Rochester Community Band will be bringing patriotic and traditional favorites

7:00 pm

• Virtual pet parade - watch the jumbo screen to see some of Rochester's animal companions.  If you'd like to have your pet featured, send a photo of your pet by Wednesday, July 2nd to publicmusic@rochestermn.gov with "Virtual Pet Parade" in the subject line.  Make sure you include your pet's name in the e-mail.

8:25 pm

• Rochester's Poet Laureate, Jean Prokott, will be reading a poem that she wrote

8:30 pm

• Free Fallin: The Tom Petty Concert Experience - enjoy a high-energy tribute show that will feature decades of classic rock hits

10:00 pm

• Fireworks!  These normally last about 30 minutes.  If for some reason these are cancelled due to weather, it may possibly get rescheduled to Saturday, July 5th.  Watch the Y-105FM app for those updates.

What's Not Allowed at 4th Fest in Rochester, Minnesota

According to the City of Rochester website, grills and pets (other than service animals) are not allowed.

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Where to Park and Other Traffic Updates for 4th Fest in Rochester, Minnesota

Several parking ramps are available in Rochester that can be used by the public for the 4th Fest event, including 3rd Street Parking Ramp.

Accessible parking will be available at the Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial Parking Lot on 7th Street SW.

See other traffic updates, including road closures and news about Pedestrian Routes that will have some changes for the event, at the City of Rochester website.