A Complete Guide to Rochester, MN's 4th of July Festival

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The City of Rochester has released details of its official 2024 4th Fest Independence Day celebration.

Organized by the Rochester Public Music Department, the annual 4th Fest event is free and open to the public with live music and local food and drink vendors.

The popular virtual pet parade is back this year and a special video presentation by Jean Prokott, the city’s Poet Laureate, will kick off the live entertainment. The night will be capped off with a spectacular fireworks display.

Mayor Kim Norton shared her excitement about the event:

Few holidays bring Americans together like Independence Day, and that's why Rochester Public Music is excited to host 4th Fest at Soldiers Field Park. It's a day full of fun with live music, activities for the whole family, and a spectacular fireworks show. Come celebrate with us!”

Scroll down for details about each event, the list of food vendors, and parking information.

2024 Rochester, MN 4th of July Fest Schedule of Events

The 4th Fest in Rochester is on Thursday, July 4, 2024, with a full evening of entertainment, food, fun, and fireworks at Soldiers Field Memorial Park in Rochester.

6 p.m. - Rochester Community Band

Rochester Community Band (City of Rochester)

Conductor Tony Bondt and the Rochester Community Band will treat your ears to patriotic and traditional concert band music starting at 6:00 pm.

The Rochester Community Band is open to everyone without needing to audition. Their mission is to offer lifelong musical enjoyment and expression through quality, challenging experiences for members while educating and entertaining families in Southeastern Minnesota.

7 p.m. - Virtual Pet Parade

The virtual pet parade was a big hit last year and is on again this year. To have your animal companion included in this pet-friendly 4th of July parade, please email their photo to publicmusic@rochestermn.gov by Wednesday, June 26, and include “Virtual Pet Parade” in the subject line. If you’d like your pet’s name displayed, please include your pet’s name in the body of the email or directly on the photo. You can submit a photo of your pet in patriotic gear, a fun costume, or just being their adorable selves!

8:25 p.m. - Jean Prokott, Rochester Poet Laureate

Jean Prokott, Rochester Poet Laureate

Jean Prokott will have a short poetic video presentation before the concert starts. Prokott is a local high school English teacher encouraging her students to write and participate in the poetry community. She is an award-winning writer and an engaging poetry reader with sharp wit and humor. Mayor Norton selected Prokott as Poet Laureate for Rochester in April 2023.

8:30 p.m. - Free Fallin The Tom Petty Concert Experience

Free Fallin The Tom Petty Concert Experience

Free Fallin has been performing Tom Petty's music internationally for almost 17 years, evolving into a complete and spectacular live music production that recreates the thrill of attending an actual Tom Petty concert. Their show, featuring all of Tom's hits, includes instruments and clothes that re-create the authentic experience of attending one of the Heartbreaker's shows.