WDKX Celebrates 28 Years of the Clarissa Street Reunion

Rochester came together this weekend to celebrate 28 years of the annual Clarissa Street Reunion, and the WDKX Jam Squad was right in the middle of it, set up at Atkinson and Clarissa Street for a day full of music, food, and community pride.

Clarissa Street sits in the southwest quadrant of Rochester, in what was once known as the old Third Ward. The reunion celebrates the neighborhood’s rich history from the 1940s through the 1960s, a period defined by thriving Black-owned businesses and a strong sense of community. Organizers say the event continues to bring together people from all walks of life, honoring that legacy and keeping it alive for new generations. In the 1970s, the construction of I-490 uprooted much of the neighborhood, but the spirit of Clarissa Street has never faded, and this year’s reunion was proof of that.

The day was packed with live music, local vendors, food, and exhibits highlighting the street’s history and its lasting impact on the city. The Jam Squad kept the crowd moving with music and giveaways throughout the afternoon, and it was clear from the turnout just how much this event means to Rochester.

A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by our tent to say hello, dance, and celebrate with us. Moments like these are exactly why WDKX loves being part of the Clarissa Street Reunion year after year. Here’s to 28 years of history and community, and many more to come.