Good morning, Rochester.

For over 20 years, Second Street Joe has brightened mornings near Saint Marys Hospital by waving flags, and locals have now organized a GoFundMe to help him cover his essential needs as the holidays approach.

The Landing MN received a $75K donation from Mayo Clinic to support its services for people experiencing homelessness as winter sets in, offering hot meals, clothing, and hygiene care in Rochester (a seven-year community staple).

Families gathered at the Rochester International Event Center on Sunday for a Winter Wonderland Celebration hosted by Childhood Cancer Community.

The event featured dinner, crafts, a photoshoot, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus — 350 attendees enjoyed 550 donated gifts.

Rochester community members gathered at 125 Live on Sunday for a rally hosted by the Muslim Coalition of ISAIAH to stand with the Somali community amid rising immigration enforcement concerns.

Local leaders such as Mayor Kim Norton spoke in support & urged elected officials to protect community rights.

Minnesota native Bob Dylan will perform his Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour at the Mayo Civic Center on Tuesday, Mar.

24, 2026. Tickets will go on sale Friday, Dec. 12 at 10 a.m.

Cori Kennedy (former Voice contestant) performed the National Anthem at the Vikings game on Sunday; her appearance, announced on social media, showcased local talent for fans in Rochester.

Gas prices in Minnesota have dropped by 5.5 cents over the week to an average of $2.82 per gallon, easing holiday travel costs for drivers.

Some stations already offer gas under $2 — prices are expected to stay low into the new year.

From December 19 to December 21, deer hunters may join the DNR’s chronic wasting disease management hunt in designated Southeast permit areas — voluntary testing and strict carcass rules apply.

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo may get $2.04 million—pending legislative approval—to replace two 1974 pedestrian bridges that will meet ADA standards and boost environmental sustainability.

Construction is slated to start in 2027 at the park site.

Oxbow Park will receive $2M to replace two outdated pedestrian bridges that connect access to over 350 acres, plus the new structures will comply with ADA standards and support emergency access; construction will begin in summer 2027 pending legislative approval in 2026.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources advises local anglers to wait for ice to reach 4 inches and recommends snowmobile users wait until 5 to 7 inches, while drivers should check DNR charts (ice may be weaker if it shows a honeycomb pattern or is insulated by snow).

Mozart After Hours

5:30-9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Free entry — Experience a delightful evening of chamber music featuring masterpieces and a world premiere in a charming setting.

The Nutcracker by World Ballet Company

3:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical holiday adventure in a heartwarming ballet filled with enchanting moments and delightful characters.

Travis Anderson Trio - Christmas Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy classic holiday tunes with a modern jazz twist from the acclaimed Travis Anderson Trio.

Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas

7:30-9 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Tickets available — Experience the timeless music of John Denver performed live this holiday season.

Wee Wednesday - My Wee Christmas Tree

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Sargent's on 2nd — $15 class fee — Decorate a “wee” Christmas tree while enjoying a festive reading and treats.

WFPB Holiday Potluck

6-8 p.m. — 1800 High Pointe Ln NW, Rochester, MN — Cost info not listed — Celebrate the holidays with delicious whole food plant-based dishes and community connections.

World Juniors Hockey Pre-Tournament Series

7-10 p.m. — Rochester Recreation Center — Cost info not provided — Witness young hockey talents battle it out in exhibition games featuring Denmark, Switzerland, and Sweden.

New Year's Eve Celebration

5:30-7:30 p.m. & 8:00-10:00 p.m. — Bleu Duck Kitchen & Oyster Bar — $125 per person — Celebrate the arrival of 2026 with an elegant four-course dining experience.