Sidewalk Sales, Dancin’ in the Street, Explorers Club return

ROCHESTER — Back for a 68th year, Rochester’s Sidewalk Sales are a shopper’s delight, offering bargains galore and much more from downtown merchants.

Beginning July 13, many downtown merchants will set up goods on tables and racks under tents along the sidewalk for this year’s event, which runs 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 13-14, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 15 along Main Street and various side streets in downtown Rochester.

“It’s a fun summer activity to do,” said Jenna O’Dell, the events coordinator for downtown Rochester. “Whether you’re young or old, all ages can enjoy shopping downtown. Some of our businesses have really nice items for sale, and you can find a nice bargain, so it’s always nice to see what’s out there and do a little shopping.”

During the event, presenting sponsor Chief Financial Credit Union will be out in front of City Tavern, 423 Main St., doing a fun activity. Downtown Rochester’s Sidewalk Sale weekend is a Chief favorite, according to Ashley Chambers, Chief Financial Credit Union director of business development.

“Our team loves to meet the community and share our passion for being a part of the Rochester area. Be sure to stop by and see us. We have a fun superhero experience and prizes planned,” she said in a statement.

Kids can enjoy a daily craft noon-3 p.m. in front of See Eyewear, 417 Main St., during the three-day event.

“Kids can create a little garden art for their garden at home,” O’Dell explained.

Kids can also register for the 10th annual Rochester Explorers Club and obtain a free kit at the Downtown Collaboration Studio, 431 S. Main St., all three days of the sidewalk sales. The kit will include the Official Adventure Guide, which invites kids of all ages to get outdoors and explore everything the community has to offer through an array of adventures. Explorers Club participants are asked to complete each activity and to bring proof to the sponsoring Explorer Station — a downtown merchant — to receive a special activity badge unique to that activity. Explorers will have until Aug. 5 to complete their activities — which are geared for children ages 5-12.

“There are a lot of different activities for kids to do this summer,” O’Dell said.

On Friday night, Dancin’ in the Street will return to West Fourth Street, between Main and Walnut streets, 6-10 p.m. The whole family is invited to enjoy live music featuring the band Your Generation in Concert, as well as a TasteFest.

“This band is unique — they don’t take breaks — so we are excited to keep the party going all night long,” O’Dell said. “And we have a TasteFest, as always, with some local eateries, and the Rochester Corner Bar will be serving beer and wine on the west side of the street, closest to the stage.”

For more information, including a complete schedule of events, visit www.DowntownRochesterMI.com or call (248) 656-0060.