Memorial Day 2025: Store hours and closures explained in Rochester, NY
Discover how Rochester honors Memorial Day with most stores open for your convenience and a heartfelt annual parade, plan ahead for special hours and street closures to join the community in a meaningful tribute to those who served.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, 2025, many city offices in Rochester, including City Hall, Neighborhood Service Centers, R-Centers, Rochester Animal Services, and the Traffic Violations Agency, will be closed. The Honorable Loretta C. Scott Center for Human Services administrative office will also be closed, but the City’s 311 Call Center will remain open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly for any city services they may need.
Refuse and recycling collection will not take place on Memorial Day itself, causing all pickups to be delayed by one day for the rest of the week. This temporary change may affect residents’ waste disposal routines, so it’s important to adjust schedules to avoid missed collections. Being aware of these changes helps reduce inconvenience during the holiday week.
Rochester Libraries closed, RGRTA runs Holiday transit on Memorial Day
All Rochester public libraries, including the Central Library and its branches, will be closed on Memorial Day. Cultural institutions and museums may also close or operate on limited schedules, so visitors should verify hours in advance if planning a visit during the holiday. These closures allow staff and community members to observe the holiday respectfully.
Public transportation services operated by the Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) will run on a holiday schedule, meaning fewer buses and potential route changes. Travelers are advised to check RGRTA’s website or contact customer service before traveling to ensure they have the latest schedule information and can plan trips without delays.
Rochester Stores open with limited hours on Memorial Day; Annual parade scheduled with street closures
Most retail and grocery stores in Rochester will remain open on Memorial Day, although some may reduce their hours. Major chains like Wegmans, Tops, and Walmart are expected to operate but checking specific store hours ahead of time is recommended. Local businesses may vary their schedules, so confirming before heading out will help avoid surprises.
Rochester residents prepare for Memorial Day 2025 as stores adjust hours and the city honors veterans with a traditional parade. Photo: WROC TV
Finally, Rochester will host its annual Memorial Day Parade starting at 10:30 a.m. at East & Alexander, moving west along Main Street and ending at Main & Fitzhugh. Streets along the route will close at 10 a.m. and reopen by about 1 p.m. The community is encouraged to attend and honor those who have served, making the day a meaningful remembrance of sacrifice and patriotism.
