The poster for the 121st Annual Rochester Lilac Festival has been revealed.
This year’s poster was commissioned by local artist Alison Coté, who is an award-winning vintage style graphic designer specializing in poster art.
“I took inspiration from the flat graphic shapes of early 1900’s poster design for the Lilac Festival. The usual harsh lines of the style are softened by the sweet Mother & Child imagery and sunny, spring-like color palette,” Cote said in a statement.
The poster reveal signals the final countdown to the popular event, held at Highland Park each year in May. This year’s event will run from May 10 through May 19.
“Highland Park’s lilac collection has fared well through the winter,” said Mark Quinn, superintendent of horticulture for Monroe County Parks. “The shrubs are in excellent condition and with the warming spring temperatures the lilacs are on progress toward blooming. We are looking forward to the lilacs providing a fantastic show of color and fragrance in May.”
Highland Park features more than 150 acres of gardens with a variety of flowers, trees and plants, like sweet magnolias, azaleas and pansies. The lilacs consume some 22 acres at the park.
This year’s Lilac Festival will feature more than 80 musical acts, including Julian Marley and the BB King Blues Band featuring Michael Lee, and festival producers expect more than 500,000 visitors.
“We are very pleased to serve as presenting sponsor for the Rochester Lilac Festival for the third consecutive year,” said Five Star Bank President and CEO Marty Birmingham. “This is a premier event, showcasing the beauty, history and vibrancy of our city. By supporting the Lilac Festival, an event that is free to attend and accessible to all, we are investing in our community by enriching the lives of its residents.”
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