It’s Christmas Eve, Rochester!
We’ve made it to the midweek mark, and the city is alive with that specific "almost done" energy. Whether you're wrapping presents, wrapping up work, or just looking for a good meal, we've got the intel to get you through the holiday break.
Aviation Upgrade: Spirit is out, but Southwest is bringing the heat (literally, to Florida).
Fiber Win: Greenlight Networks takes the crown again.
Holiday Dining: Where to eat when the fridge is empty on Christmas Eve.
THE BIG SCOOP
Spirit Checks Out, Southwest Checks In
In a major shift for ROC travelers, Spirit Airlines is departing the market on January 7, but the news isn't all gloom. Southwest Airlines is aggressively filling the gap, upgrading its service to daily nonstop flights to Orlando (MCO) starting in January. This move signals a "maturity" for our airport—trading budget volatility for consistent, high-capacity jet service that better suits our region's needs.
Greenlight Networks Takes Top Honors
The people have spoken (again). Greenlight Networks has been voted Rochester’s #1 Internet Provider in the 2025 Community’s Choice Awards. Beyond the trophy, the real story is their massive fiber expansion on the Westside (Greece, Chili, Gates), boosting home values and finally giving residents a high-speed alternative to legacy cable.
Retail & Dining: The Shift to "Balance"
Rochester's holiday rush is looking a bit more civilized this year. Eastview Mall is ditching the "doorbuster" frenzy for a sensible 10:00 AM opening on December 26, giving retail workers (and shoppers) a break. Meanwhile, for those skipping the kitchen tonight, Redd Wood is one of the few high-end spots keeping the fires burning, serving their full menu from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM this Christmas Eve.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
WEDNESDAY (12/24)
Pittsford | Powers Farm Market | Visit the animals and the nativity scene in this beloved annual tradition—open all day for a peaceful holiday moment. | 9:00 AM
THURSDAY (12/25)
Downtown | Christmas Dinner at The Street Craft Kitchen | If you aren't cooking, the Hyatt Regency is. Enjoy a festive meal right in the heart of the city without lifting a finger. | Various Times
Various Roc Neighborhoods | Holiday Light Tour | Just because businesses are closed doesn't mean the city is dark. Take a self-guided tour of the best displays, from the Liberty Pole to the neighborhood lights in the South Wedge. | After Dark
East End | The Little Theatre | A beloved local tradition continues—catch a film and escape the house on Christmas evening. | Various Times
FRIDAY (12/26)
Eastman District | Sweet Creations at George Eastman Museum | Walk off the holiday cookies by looking at... more cookies (the gingerbread display is stunning). | 10:00 AM
SATURDAY (12/27)
St. Paul Quarter | I Love R&B at Water Street | Shake off the post-holiday slump with a high-energy R&B night at the historic hall. | 9:00 PM
HOME OF THE WEEK
The "Lighthouse" Victorian on Lake Ontario
$995,000 | 5 Beds, 6 Baths | 4,997 Sq. Ft | Why settle for a normal house when you can own the historic Braddock Point Lighthouse? This waterfront Victorian estate features a carriage house, 148 feet of beach frontage, and yes—access to your own private lighthouse tower with panoramic views. Check out the listing here
LIVE MUSIC LOW DOWN
Friday
Downtown | The Falling Spikes @ Abilene Bar & Lounge | 8:30 PM
Saturday
St. Paul Quarter | I Love R&B Party @ Water Street Music Hall | 9:00 PM
WEATHER
Wednesday
39° 🌡️ 27° | ☁️ Cloudy, mild | 10% Precip | 💨 W 9 mph (8 knots)
Thursday
38° 🌡️ 22° | 🌨️ Overcast, light snow late | 40% Precip | 💨 NW 17 mph (15 knots)
THANK YOU!
Have a great Christmas, Rochester! Hang in there, the weekend is coming (and so is the snow)!
Did you see a new business opening? Reply and let us know!