Good morning, Rochester.

The Easter Bunny will visit Apache Mall from Friday, Mar.

20 to Saturday, Apr. 4, offering photo sessions for families and pets with scheduled times and walk-ups — pet photos are available from March 23 to March 31.

Parking in downtown Rochester can be challenging, but Rochester Downtown Alliance assures there are over 4,000 public parking spots across 6 ramps + 8 service lots, with additional affordable options nearby.

Fagan noted that digital displays now show real-time space availability during large events.

Midwest Candy Co. opened in the Apache Mall food court in Rochester at the end of February.

The new candy shop offers a wide variety of sweets & is quickly becoming a favorite stop for local shoppers.

County Commissioner Laurel Podulke-Smith has been chosen to join the National Association of Counties’ Arts and Culture Innovation Council to explore arts trends that boost local economic growth — she will also serve on a task force to help build a new performing arts center in Rochester.

Over 50 Minnesota school districts have adopted a policy that uses taxpayer funds to provide financial incentives and additional support for teachers of color and American Indian educators, including Rochester Public Schools — a local district — to boost teacher retention and student learning.

County crews are making progress on the exhibition center at the fairgrounds as construction moves vertically.

Steel work for the arena portion is complete this week + construction will continue into summer with tech and furniture moving in by spring 2027 before it hosts year-round events.

Rideshare companies in Minnesota must update policies and train drivers after a settlement resolved a discrimination case involving a disabled rider with her service dog; Lyft will improve its app and accountability measures (with a $63,000 monetary settlement) to better serve riders.

On Wednesday, a bipartisan group of state lawmakers announced two bills to fight Parkinson’s by banning paraquat in agriculture and setting aside $25 million for research at local institutions such as Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota.

Lawmakers say the measures could boost local efforts to improve public health.

2026 Midwest Motorsports Expo

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — $10 for adults, kids 10 & under free — Explore a one-day show featuring over 60 high-performance dealers and manufacturers from around the country.

The Seasons Ice Dance Performance

6:45-8:15 p.m. — Rochester Recreation Center — Ticket options available — Experience the artistry and athleticism of world-class skaters in a dazzling ice dance performance.

Highland Romance: A Kid's Concert Experience

3-9:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket required for entry — A vibrant concert journey through art and classical storytelling for children.

World Ballet Company: Cinderella

7-9 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Cost details not provided — Experience a magical Broadway-style ballet adaptation of Cinderella featuring a cast of 40 international dancers.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert

7-9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the enchanting jazz sounds of The Glenn Miller Orchestra live with classic hits.