08-05-2025
‘Safety is our #1 concern': New security measures enforced ahead of festival season
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — As many folks plan their annual outings to one of the many festivals happenings in our region, event organizers are encouraging patrons to keep in mind new security protocols in place.
Executive Producer of the Rochester Lilac Festival Jenny Lomaglio shared one way in which the event will look a little different this year.
'You'll definitely notice some changes, including our new bag policy, which mirror other events in Rochester,' Lomaglio said.
Organizers of the Spencerport Fireman's Carnival are implementing a similar change along with a few other new rules and policies:
The Spencerport Volunteer Firemen's Association will be implementing the following:
● The perimeter of the carnival grounds will be fenced. There will be two entrances into the
property with contracted security personnel conducting bag checks.
● Under no circumstances will ANY BACKPACKS, DUFFEL BAGS, OR DRAWSTRING
BAGS be allowed. Bags that are accepted include: fanny pack/belt bags, clear bags, small
purses (under 6' x 8'), diaper bags, and medical bags. Signage will be posted in the parking
lot, and at each entry. Please be prepared to leave your backpack in your vehicle during your
visit.
● Individuals under 18 years of age must be escorted by a parent or guardian at least 21 years
of age. Parents or guardians should be prepared to show valid identification that includes a
photograph and date of birth (driver's license, non-driver ID card, Passport, or Visa).
Non-parental guardians with ID may escort up to two (2) under-age individuals. Security will
have discretion on admittance.
● No pets allowed. Please leave your pet at home. Pets will be turned away. Service animals will
be admitted.
● Weapons, including but not limited to firearms, blades, knives, sharp objects of any kind, and
pepper spray will not be permitted.
Aaron Baker, President of the Spencerport Volunteer Firemen's Association
President of the Spencerport Volunteer Firemen's Association Aaron Baker explained what led to their department revising their event rules.
'It wasn't until the last few years that we really started seeing an uptick in youth that were coming here with no desire to get on rides or eat food or anything,' Baker said. 'They were just here to cause trouble.'
One of the incidents Baker is referring to happened last year in both Spencerport and East Rochester, where more than 200 people broke out into fights. In East Rochester, a 17-year-old was refused entry at their annual carnival for possessing a loaded firearm.
Baker says the new protocols they've implemented will be familiar to many who have attended a concert or sporting event in the past.
'If you go to Highmark stadium or Blue Cross Arena, you're expected to go through a series of security protocols including bag checks, metal detectors and whatnot,' Baker said. So people are already used to that type of thing.'
And, of course, Baker explained while he and many other event organizers in the Rochester area want folks to have fun, safety is their number one priority.
'I think people really enjoy going to the carnival, but we want to make sure that they're safe,' Baker said.
The complete list of rules and regulations for this year's Lilac Festival can be found here.
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