International Plaza Kicks Off 2025 Season with Opening Day, Cinco de Mayo Celebration Sunday, May 4

The City of Rochester International Plaza, a vibrant community marketplace at 828 N. Clinton Avenue, will kick-off its 2025 season with a festive Opening Day and Cinco de Mayo celebration featuring music, food, performances, and community pride from 12 to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 4.

Hosted by local personality Lisandra Mendez-Velez, the day will feature live entertainment from Alma de Mexico, showcasing rich traditions and talent within the community. This event launches the year’s themed Market Days, held from 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays May 4 through Oct. 12.

“The food, music and culture that are center stage at the International Plaza are an integral part of Rochester’s vibrant community,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “I encourage all Rochesterians and families to come out and enjoy all that the Plaza has to offer – on Opening Day and throughout the season.”

Highlights from this year’s signature-themed Sundays and special seasonal events include:

• Mother’s Day, May 11;

• Latinx Pride Day, June 1;

• Father’s Day, June 15;

• ROC Con Poder, July 12;

• Festival Del Barrio, July 20;

• International Salsa Day, Aug. 24;

• Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff, Sept. 14;

• Latin American Festival, Sept. 28;

• Day of the Dead / Día de Los Muertos, Nov. 2;

• Colombian-Style Christmas, Dec. 7

For a full line-up, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/internationalplaza.

International Plaza is a partnership between the City of Rochester and the Ibero American Development Corporation. It is a cornerstone of Rochester’s Northeast neighborhoods, offering a welcoming space where families and visitors can enjoy music, food, culture, and more. With special programming and culinary delights, the Plaza highlights the contributions of immigrants and Latinos to Rochester’s cultural and economic vibrancy. Community organizations will often be on hand at the Plaza as well, to share information on valuable services and resources.

The International Plaza maintains a small parking lot; carpooling, walking, cycling and public transit use are encouraged.

For interested merchants, the International Plaza offers an affordable location for vendors. Tent vendor spaces remain available with rates starting at just $20 per event. For vending information applications or questions go http://www.cityofrochester.gov/internationalplaza, call Erika J. Perez at 585-428-7282, or email pmarket@cityofrochester.gov.

For news and updates, follow the International Plaza on Facebook and Instagram (@internationalplazaroc).