#131 What's New With BOIR This Week

Don't miss these 3 new Black-owned businesses, popular categories, + Rochester's can't miss events 🔥

Hey Friend,

Happy Thursday!

Hope you’ve had a great week so far! I’m headed to the Lilac festival this afternoon then to the Irondequoit Farmers Market this evening. Honestly I’m going to the Farmers market because Cousin Maine Lobster will be there and I love them lol. Have you hit up the Lilac festival yet? Hit reply and let me know!

Enough about me…Let's get this party started!

This newsletter is brought you by

You’re 28 days away from firmer, glowier skin.

Aramore’s MIT & Harvard co-founders developed a special complex to help boost back skin’s NAD+, the molecule that controls how we age. Best part: you’ll see results in just one skin cycle, or 28 days.

Start your skin transformation with 20% off. Use code NEWSLETTER20.

→ Want your business in this spot? Upgrade your listing or purchase a newsletter promo package!

🆕 Just Added to the Directory

New Black Owned businesses are being added/updated weekly! Check out the ones below!

  1. Inkurable Smiles Photography – Learn More

  2. The Detail Dude – Mobile Auto Spa – Learn More

  3. Edore Event Rental & Decor – Learn More

Popular Categories this week on the Directory

These categories were all the rage this week!

📅 Don't Miss These Events

Looking for something to do or to get out of the house? This list is meant to help you do just that! Check out what’s happening below and click below to see everything that is coming up!

This Weekend

🌸 Lilac Festival – Highland Park
When: May 8-17, 10:30 AM - 8:30 PM daily
Where: Highland Park, 180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, NY
What: Experience Rochester's most beloved spring tradition with stunning lilac blooms, live entertainment, and festival fun that brings the whole community together! This iconic celebration offers daily experiences that showcase the beauty of Highland Park.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/lilac-festival-highland-park/

🥕 Farmers' Market – Irondequoit
When: Thursday, May 14, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: Quinlan Market Building, 25 Kings Highway North, Irondequoit, NY
What: Discover fresh local produce and artisan goods at this vibrant weekly summer market! Connect with local farmers and vendors while supporting the community every Thursday evening through October.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/farmers-market-irondequoit/2026-05-14/

🛍️ The Great New York State Flea at the Public Market
When: Thursday, May 14, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: The City of Rochester Public Market, 280 N Union St, Rochester, NY
What: Hunt for incredible bargains on furniture, clothing, collectibles, jewelry, and unique trinkets all in one amazing location! Dozens of garage sales offer treasures for every budget and taste.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/community-garage-sales-and-superfleas-city-of-rochester-public-market/2026-05-14/

🍷 Everything's Coming Up Rosé: Wine Tasting Night – ARTISANworks
When: Saturday, May 16, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: ARTISANworks, 565 Blossom Rd, Rochester, NY
What: Savor the elegant flavors of rosé wines from France, Spain, and California in this sophisticated tasting experience! Learn about these light, refreshing wines that took the world by storm.
Cost: $30
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/everythings-coming-up-rose-wine-tasting-night-artisanworks/

🌻 Flower City Days – City of Rochester Public Market
When: Sunday, May 17, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where: The City of Rochester Public Market, 280 N Union St, Rochester, NY
What: Transform your garden dreams into reality at this legendary horticultural paradise! Whether you're a novice or experienced gardener, find everything you need for gorgeous ornamental and veggie gardens.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/flower-city-days-city-of-rochester-public-market/2026-05-17/

🎨 ROC Artists Open Market
When: Sunday, May 17, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: Innovation Square, 100-140 S Clinton Ave, Rochester
What: Support local artists and entrepreneurs at this vibrant weekly market featuring artisans, delicious foods, live music, and exciting activities! Discover unique creations in the heart of downtown Rochester.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/roc-artists-open-market/2026-05-17/

Next Weekend

🛼 Adult Skate Night @ Willie W Lightfoot R-Center
When: Wednesday, May 20, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: Willie W. Lightfoot R-Center, 271 Flint St, Rochester, NY
What: Roll into fun with fellow adults while enjoying great music and conversations! Bring your skates for an energetic evening that's perfect for staying active and making new connections.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/adult-skate-night-willie-w-lightfoot-r-center/2026-05-20/

📚 Wood Flower Book Vase Class – ARTISANworks
When: Thursday, May 21, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: ARTISANworks, 565 Blossom Rd, Rochester, NY
What: Transform a hardcover book into a stunning geek chic vase in this unique and creative hands-on workshop! Create your own beautiful wood flower arrangement that combines literary charm with artistic flair.
Cost: $60
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/wood-flower-book-vase-class-artisanworks/

🔮 Mystic Market at ARTISANworks
When: Friday, May 22, 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where: ARTISANworks, 565 Blossom Rd, Rochester, NY
What: Step into an enchanting evening at the Bourbon Street Event Space and explore a curated collection of mystical treasures! This magical market offers unique finds for those drawn to the mystical arts.
Cost: $5
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/mystic-market-at-artisanworks/

🎵 Paddle & Pour Art & Music Festival
When: Saturday, May 23, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: Port of Pittsford, North Main St, Pittsford
What: Kick off festival season with this amazing celebration featuring beer and wine from upstate breweries, live music all day long, and incredible regional artwork! This founding 2015 festival delivers non-stop entertainment.
Cost: Free
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/paddle-pour-art-music-festival/

🎭 The Soul Vibe Live
When: Saturday, May 23, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Where: The Lab: Creative Resource Center, 125 State St, 1st Fl, Rochester, NY
What: Celebrate an electrifying night of poetry and music featuring Rochester's finest talent! This special Solar Return Show promises an unforgettable evening of soulful performances and artistic expression.
Cost: $10
Link: More details → https://blackownedinrochester.com/event/the-soul-vibe-live/

💡 This Week's Quick 3:

Recommended Newsletter

6 Eyelash Tips for Mature Lashes

If mascara clumps, smudges, or makes you rub your eyes, it’s not you (or your age)… it’s the formula.

This guide explains what mature lashes need: a separating wand, water-resistant (not waterproof) wear, hypoallergenic comfort, and easier removal.

Learn quick fixes and smarter swaps in this full guide.

Monroe This WeekendYour curated guide to Monroe's best cultural experiences—because your weekend deserves better than endless scrolling.

Latest Blog Post

Poll

What did you think about this week's newsletter?

Choose an option. You can leave additional feedback afterwards!

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

Black Owned in Rochester
Founded by Brittany WV
Army Combat Veteran building generational wealth & promoting Black owned businesses at the same time!

📧 Got a tip? [email protected]
🌐 Browse the directory: blackownedinrochester.com