Good morning, Rochester.

Local businesses are urged to swap Tootsie Rolls for 32 better treats for the Rochesterfest parade (Saturday, June 28) as a local guide finds that parade-goers prefer these alternatives along the route.

Red Cow and other 2nd Street businesses are struggling as ongoing construction disrupts customer access — local owners note a decline in sales and urge community support while seeking relief.

Business steps to ease the strain are under review by the nearby stakeholders.

Kwik Trip is teaming up with Minnesota Clean Cities Coalition for an open house on Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. in Stewartville to showcase its fast EV chargers while a morning food drive supports a local food bank.

Rochester residents have several top parking spots to see the 4th Fest fireworks on July 4 at Soldiers Field Memorial Park, with festivities beginning at 5:00 p.m. and featuring live music and food trucks.

Passport Sessions free summer concert series returns downtown as Los Rebeldes performs Thursday at 7 p.m. at Peace Plaza Stage — located at 1st Avenue SW and 1st Street SW — with Brass Queens on July 9 and La Manga on July 30 offering a range of cultural sounds for all ages.

Rochester earned its highest municipal credit ratings from Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s today, confirming a strong economy and low financial costs.

The high ratings will help the city secure lower borrowing rates for future capital projects.

Quarry Park is recognized as one of America’s best swim spots with Quarry 11 offering a sandy beach and Quarry 2 featuring high jumps.

The park near St. Cloud is about 2.5 hours away from here (ideal for a summer day trip).

A guide outlines 23 free summer ideas for locals, including hiking, picnics, and stargazing - simple ways to enjoy the warm season without spending money - and encourages residents to explore local parks and trails.

Castle Con Preview: Game Day

9 a.m. – 9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Free entry — Dive into a full day of board games, puzzles, and community fun with opportunities to learn and compete.

Heatwave Half Marathon - Rochester

Summer — Rochester, Minnesota — Registration required — Experience an exciting road race amidst the scenic beauty of Rochester.

Brewery Bingo Night

8-10 p.m. — Kinney Creek Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy a fun game of Brewery Bingo at a local hotspot in Rochester, MN.

Summer Sundays Pizza with Amateur

4-6 p.m. — Squash Blossom Farm — Pizza reservation required — Enjoy delicious wood-fired sourdough pizza paired with live music from Amateur.

42nd Annual Golf Tournament

10:30 a.m. — Rochester Golf & Country Club — Participation fee required — Enjoy a day of golf, a tropical theme, and support families in need.

Feast & Flamenco on the Farm

6-9 p.m. — Squash Blossom Farm — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy a captivating evening filled with sizzling Spanish cuisine and vibrant flamenco performances.

Hannah Harper Benefit for Oronoco Fire Department

2-6:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket costs vary — Enjoy a night of inspiring music while supporting local firefighters and first responders.