Good morning, Rochester.

Lake Zumbro Park’s boat ramp and new parking lot reopen today after crews complete repaving and striping; visitors are asked not to arrive before 5 p.m. The ramp is part of a multi-phase plan that will add restrooms and a picnic shelter later this summer (with a kayak launch dock).

Memorial Day weekend travel is expected to be heavy as 3.7 million residents head north; AAA warns of peaks on Thursday (12 PM to 9 PM), Friday (11 AM to 8 PM) and Monday (12 PM to 5 PM).

Gas averages $4.49 in Rochester, up from last year.

The 2026 Summer Events Guide highlights fun festivals and recurring gatherings in Rochester and SE Minnesota.

With Memorial Day kicking off the season, community events like Thursdays Downtown offer a chance to enjoy the short summer (details vary by event).

Mantorville's Larger Than Life art exhibit opens Saturday, June 27 at Riverside Park from 10 AM to 2 PM — featuring over 50 enlarged pieces by 37 artists — with live music, food trucks and vendors available.

The outdoor display runs daily until early September and is free to visit.

The board approved funding Thursday, May 21 for the University of Minnesota Rochester expansion at Discovery Square to boost workforce development in health-tech and life sciences — it also commended Dr. Clark C.

Otley for over a decade of service.

Rochester Public Library now offers free 24/7 online help through AskMN & connects residents with trained librarians statewide.

The service was added after an audit found the library’s chat did not meet new accessibility guidelines so visitors can use the chatbox on the library website anytime.

The Minnesota Supreme Court will hear a dispute over the estate of a prominent Rochester businessman after his daughter claims her brother misused trust funds and activated a no-contest clause that could affect beneficiary rights.

MIT’s new LymeAlert kit (which tests ticks in 15 minutes) is set to ship in August as tick season peaks across Minnesota, giving locals a faster way to get results and consult a doctor if needed.

A long-distance bike ride promoting organ donation stopped in Rochester on May 21 to boost local awareness; organizers said the ride shared personal donor stories and urged community registration.

SOULED OUT Wrestling Event

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Tickets on sale now — Witness the unveiling of the powerful team ‘Souled Out’ in an unforgettable wrestling showdown.

Breakthrough Basketball Ball Handling and Scoring Camp

Ball Handling and Scoring Skills — June 9-11 — Rochester Community and Technical College — Registration needed — Improve your dribbling, shooting, and overall game skills at this high-intensity camp.

AACA Annual Meeting 2026

Various times — Rochester, MN — Registration required — Explore the latest in higher education research and career opportunities.

Sal Vulcano's Everything’s Fine Tour

5-7 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center, Rochester, MN — Tickets available — Enjoy brand-new stand-up from the comedic genius of Impractical Jokers.