Each March, Women’s History Month spotlights the achievements and impact of women throughout U.S. history and across society.
The observance grew out of Women’s History Week, first authorized by Congress in 1981. After continued advocacy, lawmakers expanded it to a full month in 1987, establishing March as a nationwide celebration of women’s contributions.
If you want to join in on the celebration of women and their contributions, here’s a list of events happening throughout the month.
International Women’s Day 2026, Unapologetically Her: Coffee & Convos
Hosted by ROC Women’s Business Center, the event will take place on March 8 at Equal Grounds Community Café. The event will feature a panel discussion guided by Monique Chatman as panelists share their personal stories and lessons learned regarding success building.
The event starts at 3 p.m. and is a free event to the public. To register, visit Eventbrite.
Location: 750 South Ave., Rochester
Celebrate Women’s History Month ft. Lauren & the Good Souls
Hosted at Lovin’ Cup on March 21 at 7 p.m. the show will cover a variety of music by influential female musicians, including Etta James, Aretha Franklin and Fleetwood Mac to name a few. The event will also feature several different women run businesses for attendees to shop from.
Although the show starts at 7 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m. and runs until 10 p.m. Tickets are $15 during the presale and $20 at the door.
Location: 300 Park Point Drive, Suite 101, Rochester
Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future
This two-day celebration at the Rochester Museum and Science Center will feature several activities regarding women’s impact in U.S. history, including investigating suffrage post cards, creating zines and more. The museum is also featuring The Changemakers exhibition which includes information about Rochester women who play a role in history.
The celebration will be on March 21 and 22 during the museum’s hours of operation. Admission prices vary — for more information, visit https://rmsc.org/museum-science-center/hours-admission/.
Location: 675 East Ave., Rochester
Women’s History Month Equity & Upward Mobility Symposium
Partners in Community Development and its sponsors are hosting a symposium on March 25 to discuss critical moments in history and challenges which impacts often felt by women in marginalized communities. The event will feature a panel discussion, keynote speaker — Latricia Davis, food, networking and more.
The symposium will begin at 10 a.m. at Batavia Downs Gaming. Ticket prices start at $55.20 and are available on Eventbrite.
Location: 8315 Park Rd., Batavia
— As a Rochester native, Justice Marbury entered the world of journalism to create work where voices like hers were heard—the voices of minority communities. Marbury covers small businesses, neighborhood concerns, and the interesting people who live in Rochester neighborhoods. As the 19th Ward reporter, she has helped implement community outreach ideas by asking what people in various communities want to read about themselves in addition to regular news. Contact her on Instagram @justice_marbury and by email at jmarbury@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: How to celebrate Women’s History Month around Rochester
Reporting by Justice Marbury, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
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