It’s hard to believe we’re halfway through summertime in Rochester- it feels like there’s still so much left to do! From countless festivals, craft shows and outdoor activities to simply enjoying cold treats with friends, here are 7 must do items from my 2017 summer bucket list:

1. Roc City Pride

There are a number of festivals and celebrations around Rochester in the summer months. One of these festivals, Roc City Pride, takes place around the second week in July, and runs for about a week. The festival celebrates diversity, and the history of the LGBTQIA community, and features a number of events. The festival kicks off with a party at Tilt Nightclub for those who are 18+ and ends with a parade down Park Ave on the Saturday after. This festival is personally one of my favorites, and I never miss my chance to join in the fun by marching in the pride parade. This year the parade took place on July 15th, but don’t worry if you missed out, there’s always next year!

2. Park Ave Summer Arts Festival

Park Ave Art Festival is another fantastic festival here in Rochester, except this one takes place just before we begin our fall semester. This fest features artwork and sculptures from artists around the United States and Canada. Most artwork is for sale and will definitely help to make your dorm room more personal and homey. In addition to the artwork, the festival also has live music and food vendors on site, which is always a plus. This is one event that should not be missed! This year the festival takes place August 5 – 6.

 3. Dinner on the Canal

One of Pittsford’s most iconic features is the Erie Canal, which runs through the heart of the town. Because of its location, there are a number of activities on and around the canal to help you have fun during the summer months. One of my favorite things to do on the canal is to have a nice meal overlooking the water. There are a number of restaurants in the main village where this is possible. My all time favorite spot is Simply Crepes which features a variety of French inspired dishes. If that’s not your thing, you can never go wrong with Aladdin’s; a Mediterranean restaurant featuring patio seating overlooking the canal.

 4. Bike Ride/Run on the Canal

Another cool aspect of the Village of Pittsford (and the Erie Canal) is the trail that runs parallel to it through the town. If you’re looking for some fun physical activity this summer, this trail is a must-do. The canal trail features a number of benches and picnic tables where you can rest and just enjoy the view, or eat a quick snack. If you prefer biking to running, you can rent a bike for free here on campus from Bikes @ Naz.

5. Swim in the Nazareth Pool

The summer heat can be tough to beat sometimes, however, Naz has a fun way where you and friends can escape the heat for some time. Located in the basement of the Shults Community Center is the campus pool. As long as you are a Naz student, it is free to use all year long! There are specified “free swim” times posted right outside the pool area for those interested in swimming.

6. Eat Ice Cream from Pittsford Dairy

One of my all time favorite things to do in Pittsford is to walk from campus to the Pittsford Dairy for ice cream. The Dairy makes everything they sell fresh, including breads, pastries, fruit spreads, and jams. However, the best thing at the Dairy is the homemade ice cream! Not only does it taste absolutely incredible, but it’s made on site…including the milk itself. Yes, there are even cows! Pittsford Dairy is definitely a summertime must.

7. Order Books for Class

You read that right, the last thing on my bucket list this summer is to order my books for next semester. As boring as it is, it’s also a must do. The Nazareth Bookstore makes it easy and painless to find the books needed for classes in the upcoming semester!