Archive | Community events RSS feed for this section

Santa’s coming to the Joe Obbie Farmers’ Market this Saturday!

24 Jul

It may feel more like sunburn season than sleigh bell season, but that’s not stopping the Joe Obbie Farmers’ Market from celebrating Christmas in July this weekend. And despite the sizzling summer temps, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special off-season appearance.

The jolly duo will be arriving by fire truck at the market at 10 a.m. this Saturday, July 26. They’ll visit with children until noon, and most certainly will be wandering through the market to check out the great local fruits, veggies, sauces, crafts, flowers and more. (Mrs. Claus might even take some treats back to the North Pole for the reindeer.) There’ll be candy canes for the kids and free Christmas in July pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. So bring the whole family — and don’t forget to bring your wish lists.

The Joe Obbie Farmers’ Market is located at Webster Towne Center Plaza on Holt Rd. (in front of Old Navy). It’s open every Saturday through October from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.

If you’d like to be reminded of other special events scheduled at the market, stay on top of the latest news at the Joe Obbie Farmer’s Market website and Facebook page.

And don’t forget that the very popular Evening in the Park Market has returned to Charles Sexton Park (formerly known as North Ponds). Every Wednesday evening through Aug. 28, the market will be set up at the park from 5 to 8 p.m. In addition to the vendors, these events will also have live music and food trucks, so remember to pack your folding chairs!

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/24/2025)

Tags: , ,

Miracle Field’s Heroes Helping Heroes Day returns this weekend

24 Jul

Sometimes really cool events just sneak under my radar. Yesterday, though, I had the great pleasure of chatting for a few minutes with Ron Kampff of Rochester Challenger Miracle Field, who reminded me about what’s happening over there this weekend.

And this is such a cool event that I definitely did not want to miss promoting it.

It’s called Heroes Helping Heroes Day, an annual event that combines baseball, Miracle Field athletes and first responders in a fun and inspirational morning of sports and friendship.

This year’s Heroes Day takes place at Miracle Field, 100 Ridge Rd., Webster, this Saturday July 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local first responders spend the morning at Miracle Field, playing with and against some of our amazing Challenger athletes. In addition to the entertaining baseball games, and the chance to meet some local first responders and get a close-up look at some of their equipment, there’ll be food, the Seneca Park ZooMobile, a dunk tank, obstacle course and lots more.

This is a great morning of safe family fun. There’s no charge, and there’s plenty of parking. To find out more, visit www.rochestermiraclefield.org.

About Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester  

Challenger Miracle Field of Greater Rochester provides people with developmental, physical or intellectual disabilities a barrier free, safe, accessible place to experience the health benefits and joy of play through baseball, other team sports, and adaptive recreational equipment.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/24/2025)

Tags: , ,

Stars of tomorrow are on stage this week

23 Jul

If you’ve ever been in the audience of a Webster Thomas or Schroeder high school musical, then you’ve no doubt been dazzled by the talent: powerful vocals, confident stage presence, and choreography that looks Broadway-ready. But that kind of polish doesn’t just happen. Behind every standout performance is a long journey that often began years earlier, in community productions, acting classes, and summer theater camps like Webster Theater for Youth, where young performers learn the ropes long before they ever set foot on a high school stage.

This week you have the chance to see some of those stars of tomorrow in action when the Webster Theater for Youth presents Disney’s Frozen, Jr. in three shows, Wednesday Thursday and Friday night at 7 p.m.

Frozen JR. is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life. It’s an uplifting story of susterly love and acceptance, packed with magic, adventure and humor. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film, with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, plus new songs written for the Broadway production.

Almost 100 cast, chorus and stage crew members, all third through eighth graders — led by five high school-aged students directors — have been working hard for almost three weeks to bring this delightful production to the stage.

Performances will be held at Webster Thomas High School, 800 Five Mile Line Rd., on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday July 23 to 26. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children, and are available online here.

About the Webster Theater for Youth

Established in 2022, Webster Theater For Youth is a nonprofit organization created with one goal in mind: provide an immersive summer theater experience for students of the Webster and surrounding communities, run by certified educators focused on creating an enjoyable, memorable, and impactful theatrical production.

Its directors strive to create a space that accepts all young performers and provides a safe haven for them to grow, socialize, and improve their artistic craft. Productions are held to the highest standards to give students and audiences the best experience possible.

For more information, visit their website here or Facebook page here.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/22/2025)

Tags: , ,

You’re invited to a party!

21 Jul

Today, a reminder about a party being held this coming Wednesday, to which you are invited.

The Women’s Club of Webster is hosting the celebration in honor of the organization’s 60th anniversary, and the entire community is welcome to attend — men and women both!

The event will take place on Wednesday, July 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. It will be a casual, come-and-go-as-you-like gathering filled with fun and community spirit. There’s no admission charge, and everyone is welcome to stop by, stay as long as they want.

Guests will enjoy snacks, beverages and music, along with the opportunity to meet club members and connect with many of the local non-profit organizations the Women’s Club supports through its charitable mission. It’s a great chance to learn more about the club’s six decades of community service, and perhaps discover how you might want to get involved.

So stop in and say hi! I’ll be there at the welcome table or wandering around the room chatting with everyone.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/21/2025)

Tags: , ,

Webster community mailbag

16 Jul

Today’s mailbag is going to be a long one, so buckle up, my friends.

These first few events are coming up fast — like Thursday and Friday — so I want to let them know about them up front.

Listen to music, smell the flowers

The next free Music at the Arb concert at the Webster Arboretum is scheduled for Thursday July 17, featuring the acoustic duo  Chelsey Berry and Mark Cellura, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

These concerts are held at the gazebo, and audience members are encouraged to spread out on blankets or in lawn chairs to enjoy some delightful music, surrounded by the beauty of the arboretum. The concerts are free and open to the public, and no registration is necessary. Snacks will be available with proceeds benefiting the Arboretum.

Sip and shop

Also happening Thursday evening, a special event brought to you by Lala of Webster and Jojo Bistro, which they’re calling “Fine Tastings,” to benefit the Al Sigl Center.

From 5 to 7 p.m., sip while you shop, and shop while you sip, while enjoying light fare from Jojo Bistro and music by iSteel Music.

Lala of Webster is located at 38 East Main St. in the Village of Webster.

Music at another gazebo

The Village of Webster’s Friday Night Concert series begins this Friday July 18. The first concert features the Earthtones, who play 70’s/80’s music including favorites from Fleetwood Mac, Billy Joel, Grateful Dead, Talking Heads, Tom Petty and others.

Upcoming concerts include:

Concerts are held at the Village’s Gazebo Park, located at 28 North Avenue. All concerts start at 7 p.m.. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a night of free music under the stars.

More information about these concerts and all the other exciting Village of Webster events coming up this summer and fall (including the Jazz Festival, Beer Walk and Bourbon Bash, Trick-or-Treat Trail and more) can be found at websterbid.com.

More from the Arboretum

The next informational program hosted by the Webster Arboretum is called “Honoring Life — One Frog at a Time,” scheduled for Saturday July 19 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Join Margot Fass, M.D., the “Frog Lady,” and discover the life of our friend the frog. And before you come, check out Margot’s whimsical book, Froggy Family’s First Frolic. The presentation will be held outside on the far side of the pond at the Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. There’s no charge, but registration is requested.

And even MORE music

The United Church of Christ‘s next Caring Community Concert is scheduled for Wednesday July 23, featuring Allegro, Western New York’s premier party band. It will benefit the Webster Health and Education Network.

The concerts all begin at 6:30 p.m., and food concessions begin at 6. People are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets and a picnic if they wish. The concerts are held on the United Church of Christ’s front lawn, at 570 Klem Rd., so bring a blanket and chairs. (In case of rain it’s moved indoors.)

The remainder of this summer’s schedule includes:

For more information about the concerts, click here.

Summer family fun from the Rec Center

This summer more than ever we need this: the Webster Recreation Center’s annual Summer Splash, scheduled for Saturday July 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the First Responders Spray Park on Chiyoda Dr.

Rich the Magic Man will be there with foam bubble fun, and free slushies will be provided courtesy Gleason Orthodontics (while supplies last). The event is free and open to all, and no registration is needed.

Old books at great prices

The Friends of the Webster Public Library will host a Vintage and Collectible Book Sale on Saturday July 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the library’s Community Room. The sale features fourteen tables of books, many with titles available for the first time. Most books are under $20. Proceeds from the sale support Webster Public Library.

In other news from the library, this month’s Community Exchange is jewelry. Bring in some items you don’t wear anymore, and swap them out for something new! And July’s Donation Station is accepting hygiene products for underprivileged and disabled seniors.

This month’s drop-in crafts tables will feature camping. Two sessions will be held, Friday and Saturday July 25 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No registration is needed, and all ages are welcome.

And this looks like fun: this month’s Family Fun Night is a scavenger hunt, scheduled for Monday July 31 from 6 to 7 p.m. Start in the storytime room, where you’ll get your instructions, then follow the clues on a scavenger hunt through the library. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.

These events are just a few of the great things happening at the library in July. To keep on top of all of them every month, click here to subscribe to the Webster Public Library newsletter. (Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the sign-up link.)

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/16/2025)

Tags: , , , , , , , ,

Photos from the Kiddie Parade

13 Jul

Right off the bat today, I’d like to give a huge shout-out to my new friend and great photographer, Dianna McIntyre.

I met Dianna by chance on Thursday night before the Fireman’s Parade. They were with the Miracle Field contingent, and I’d paused to grab a few pictures of the group’s parade preparations. We bonded over our fancy cameras, and on a whim, I asked if they’d be interested in taking some photos for me at Saturday’s Kiddie Parade, since I couldn’t be there. Dianna enthusiastically agreed, and you see the results today.

I think the firefighters hit on a winning formula for this year’s Kiddie Parade. Due to concerns for the kids’ safety (I’m sure), last year they had the parade totally within the confines of the carnival grounds … which really wasn’t great. The paraders basically just circled the grounds two or three times.

Saturday, though, the line-up was back at Spry Middle School and the parade marched down Sanford St. to the carnival field and then around the grounds. That route allowed options for community members who wanted to watch.

There seems to be some problem with my previous blog link taking you to more photos on Facebook, so if you’d like to see more, please go directly to my Facebook page. And if you’d like to see a lot more of Dianna’s work, check out their Instagram page at photographybyjax_97.

Here are a few bonus photos Dianna took at the fireworks Saturday night:

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

Tags: , , ,

Photos and thoughts from the Fireman’s Parade

11 Jul

So. Many. Firetrucks.

That was the overwhelming impression I got from Thursday night’s Fireman’s Parade. In most respects, the parade was pretty much like all the others in previous years (although we had better weather than some years), but last night, there seemed to be even more firetrucks and emergency vehicles than ever, all blowing whooping their sirens. I had to look up several of the towns they came from to see where exactly they were, and still couldn’t figure out them all (Cheswold? Isn’t that in Delaware?)

As I said, the almost two-hour long parade was pretty typical as our Fireman’s Parades go, with representation from a lot of community agencies and local businesses along with the first responders. But I did see a few things I haven’t seen before.

Like how Wilbert’s prepared for the onslaught of kids with empty candy bags by filling not one but TWO wheelbarrows with suckers. I was able to get a picture for the first time EVER of the Shriners” mini-cars in their pre-parade repose before being driven around in frantic circles. And when was the last time you saw one of those little cars break down during the parade? Pulling its rip-cord repeatedly didn’t work, and it ultimately had to be towed back to the parade start.

And did you see that Kittelberger float with all the fresh flowers? What an amazing job they did, reminiscent of floats in the Rose Parade.

My friend Dave Bay from the Chorus of the Genesee — a first-time Fireman’s Parade viewer — had a few other interesting insights. He noticed, for example that the “OCD boys from Webster Northeast” had sorted their vehicles in number order; that the Penfield and Fairport fire departments have their own bands; and that vintage white fire truck looked like it had just come off the showroom floor, despite being perhaps 80 years old.

As always, as I ran (sometimes literally) up and down Main Street snapping photos, I saw a lot of friends and acquaintances and reconnected with a lot of the local business owners I’ve come to know. That’s one of my favorite things about this parade; it brings out the whole community so that for one evening, we are all one neighborhood.

I also met Dianna, a very nice young lady who was walking with the Miracle Field contingent, who has kindly agreed to take pictures for me at Saturday’s Kiddie Parade, since I won’t be able to be there. So watch for that blog!

There were a couple of big gaps in between some of the marching groups, but in general the parade seemed to come off without a hitch. So well done, firefighters, and thank you for another great spectacle. See you again next year.

Click here to see a Facebook gallery of more than 250 photos.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/11/2025)

Tags: , , ,

Women’s Club of Webster to celebrate 60th anniversary with community party

9 Jul

The Women’s Club of Webster is hosting a special celebration in honor of the organization’s 60th anniversary, and the entire community is invited to join the festivities.

The event will take place on Wednesday, July 23 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Webster Arboretum, 1700 Schlegel Rd. It will be a casual, come-and-go-as-you-like gathering filled with fun and community spirit. There’s no admission charge, and everyone is welcome to stop by, stay as long as they want, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.

Guests will enjoy snacks, beverages and music, along with the opportunity to meet club members and connect with many of the local non-profit organizations the Women’s Club supports through its charitable mission. It’s a great chance to learn more about the club’s six decades of community service, and perhaps discover how you might want to get involved.

“This is a celebration not just of our organization’s history, but of the entire Webster community that has supported us over the years,” said Women’s Club president Diana Holzwasser. “We hope people of all ages will stop in, enjoy some refreshments, and help us mark this milestone.”

About the Women’s Club of Webster:
Founded in 1965, the Women’s Club of Webster is an energetic, involved and fun-loving group of women of all ages and from many different backgrounds, dedicated to supporting civic and educational organizations within the Webster community and surrounding areas.

Stop by the party to learn more, and remember, you do NOT have to be a Webster resident to join the club!

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/9/2025)

Tags: , ,

Fireman’s Carnival details and updates

8 Jul

Even in the six days since my first blog about this week’s Fireman’s Carnival, there’ve been some exciting updates.

For starters, I recently heard that the Celtic rock band 1916 will be performing on Thursday night in the beer tent, right after the parade. These guys are top-notch performers and will get the crowd rocking to really kick off the carnival.

As for the parade, there’ve been some last-minute additions to the line-up, so it promises to be one of the biggest and best ones yet. We’re talking more than 100 units, including 27 first responder agencies, including fire departments from all over the Rochester area. Look also for marchers and floats from dozens of community agencies, local businesses, local government representatives and so much more.

And of course there will be much tossing of candy, sometimes at great velocity.

The parade will line up east of town at Phillips Rd., and will kick off at 6:30 p.m., traveling down Main Street to Fireman’s Field at the west edge of the village.

You can visit the Carnival Facebook page for the latest updates as they happen, but here are the highlights:

Wednesday July 9:

  • Unfortunately, there will NOT be a craft beer night this year. But Schutt’s Apple Mill will be there with their hard cider. The carnival will be open 6 to 11 p.m.

Thursday July 10:

  • Carnival is open 6 to 11 p.m., and the parade begins at 6:30 p.m. (you do NOT want to miss the parade)
  • 1916 plays in the beer tent after the parade.

Friday July 11:

  • Carnival is open 6 p.m. to midnight, with live music by ZBTB.

Saturday July 12:

  • the Kiddie Parade begins at noon at Spry Middle School. Registration takes place just beforehand.
  • Carnival is open noon to midnight
  • Knight Patrol plays in the Beer Tent
  • The Zoomobile will be on hand and Rich the Magic Man will be wandering the grounds
  • Fireworks at midnight

And of course, games, rides, raffles and food every night.

Admission to everything is free, and to save money on rides, you can buy advance sale wristbands at these locations:

Aside from the chance for a few pop-up thunderstorms, the weather looks spectacular, so come on down and make some memories.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/8/2025)

Tags: , , ,

Fireman’s Carnival is coming up fast!

2 Jul

We’re starting to see the signs popping up all over town advertising the 2025 Fireman’s Carnival, taking place this year from Wednesday July 9 through Saturday July 12.

This is an exciting time of year in the Village of Webster, because without a doubt, the Fireman’s Carnival and parade are among the most anticipated events of the Webster summer season. Now 88 years old, the Carnival has been making memories every year for several generations of kids and adults.

This year’s carnival will be no different, with the return of the always-popular beer tent, game booths, rides and live entertainment, great food, raffles and much more. You can check out all the details about what will be happening — and when — at the Carnival Facebook page but here are some of the highlights:

Wednesday July 9:

  • Unfortunately, because the organizers are having trouble finding enough breweries to participate, there will NOT be a craft beer night this year. But Schutt’s Apple Mill will be there with their hard cider. The carnival will be open 6 to 11 p.m.

Thursday July 10:

  • Carnival is open 6 to 11 p.m., and the parade begins at 6:30 p.m. (you do NOT want to miss the parade)

Friday July 11:

  • Carnival is open 6 p.m. to midnight, with live music by ZBTB.

Saturday July 12:

  • the Kiddie Parade returns to Spry Middle School. (Last year they tried it on the carnival grounds. It did not go well.) The parade begins at noon with registration just beforehand.
  • Carnival is open noon to midnight
  • Knight Patrol plays in the Beer Tent
  • The Zoomobile will be on hand and Rich the Magic Man will be wandering the grounds
  • Fireworks at midnight

And of course, games, rides, raffles and food every night.

Admission to everything is free, and to save money on rides, you can buy advance sale wristbands at these locations:

You’ll also want to follow the Carnival Facebook page. for more details and regular updates.

* * *

email me  at missyblog@gmail.com. “Like” this blog on Facebook and follow me on Instagram and Threads (@missyblog)

You can also get email notifications every time I post a new blog by using the “Subscribe” link on the right side of this page (or all the way at the bottom of the page if you’re on your phone).

(posted 7/2/2025)

Tags: , , ,

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →