Author: Pete Mason

  • Celebrate Pride Month Across New York State

    PRIDE is back, and New York State has dozens of celebrations, parades and events across the state. Celebrating PRIDE in also 2022 means live music and in person events, with a huge slate of events in all parts of the state. Kick off your summer with PRIDE month gatherings from Albany to Buffalo, Watertown to Long Island and NYC and all points in between.

    Pride Month New York

    Albany

    June 12, 12-5pm – The signature Capital Region Pride event – the Capital Pride Parade & Festival – is one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Northeast. The parade kicks off on State Street at noon, with Pride Fest held in Washington Park with live music, theatrical performances, and Albany’s Annual Drag Revue.

    June 11, 12-5pm – In Our Own Voices will hold their 16th Annual Say It Loud! Black & Latino Gay Pride Celebration, an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of LGBTQ+ persons of color in the Capital Region. The main celebration will be held in Washington Park in Albany with performances from London Jae Precise, Aja, Jewel the Gem, and more.

    Schenectady

    June 4 – 2:30-6pm – Schenectady Pride will host their 10th annual festival at Gateway Plaza where the Rainbow Pride Arches are next to SUNY Schenectady. The Pride Festival features live entertainment, DJ RVMBA, Schdy Musical Theater & Drag Show, with food, drink and merchandise vendors along with local non-profits and more.

    Binghamton

    June 4 – Noon – Pride 2022 in Binghamton begins with a ceremonial flag raising by Mayor Jared Kraham.

    June 4 – 4:30pm – join the Pride Protest Party at Peacemakers Stage, organized by Black queer and trans organizers from Binghamton. This year features local speakers, musicians, food/drinks, kid’s activities and the main event of the night, a Drag Show hosted by Vivi Nox.

    June 11 – 12-6 PM. Pride-Palooza is held in Otsiningo Park. Bring blankets and chairs while listening to live entertainment with a drag show and The Binghamton Pride Idol Contest.

    Hudson Valley

    June 2, 7:30 pm – Rainbow flag-raising ceremony at Hudson City Hall (520 Warren St., Hudson)

    June 3 – 6-9PM – Hastings-on-Hudson Friday Night Pride Parade will be held on Warburton Avenue.

    June 4 – 2pm – Parade (from 7th St. Park to the end of Warren at Front Street, Hudson)

    June 4 – 12 noon – Duchess County Pride Center Youth Pride Picnic, Bowdoin Park (85 Sheafe Rd, Wappingers Falls)

    June 5, 12 – 5 pmHudson Valley Pride Coalition Pride March (New Paltz Middle School, 196 Main St, New Paltz) and Festival (Hasbrouck Park, Mohonk and Tricor Avenues, New Paltz).

    June 5 – 4 pmOut Loud Hudson Valley Pride Tea Dance, Featuring local DJ Bill Coleman, The Hudson House & Distillery (1835 Rte 9W, West Park)

    June 5 – 11:30 AM-5 PM – Westchester Pride is back with host for the day, Olivia Lux, a former contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race. The day-long celebration happens in downtown White Plains, kicking off with a flag raising in Renaissance Plaza. There is a pet parade and there will be a Family Zone with special games and treats and Broadway Sings for Pride returns with Broadway stars and local performers belting out showtunes. Speakers throughout the day will discuss challenges the LGBTQIA+ community continues to face. 

    June 11 – 12 – 5 pm – PKGO Pride Parade and Festival in Poughkeepsie, Dutchess County Pride Center, PKGO Pride Parade and Festival, Parade: At Market and Main Streets in front of the Bardavon Theater, Poughkeepsie, Festival: Waryas Park (Main St, Poughkeepsie)

    June 11 – 7:30 pm – 1 amPeekskill Pride, Dramatic Hall (900 Main St, Peekskill)

    June 12 – 12-5 PM – Celebrate Rockland Pride with a day of music, dancing, and fun for the whole family. Downtown Nyack will close its streets to traffic to allow for strolling, shopping, and dining, with live performances by Frankie D and The Boys and special guests, plus the crowning of Mx. Rockland County Pride.

    June 12 – 1 PM – Celebrate the third annual PUTNAM PRIDE in Brewster Village. The event begins at 1 Main Street with a march to Wells Park, 98 Oak Street, with speakers, vendors, and music to follow, with Angel Elektra and Shay D’Pines! Park at the Metro North train station as there is limited accessible parking at Wells Park.  Bring a blanket/chairs, but no pets.

    June 18 – 12 – 4 pmNewburgh Pride in the Park, Downing Park (123 Carpenter Ave, Newburgh)

    June 18 – Beacon Pride Festival event details

    Saratoga Springs

    June 112 PM– Saratoga Flag Raising, Saratoga Springs City Hall

    June 1112PM – Flag Day Parade – Join Saratoga Pride to march in the annual parade down Broadway in Saratoga Springs.

    June 24 – 8:30 PM – late night – PRIDE Party at Putnam Place

    June 262-5 PM – Saratoga Pride Festival, High Rock Park, Live Music, Family Activities, Community Groups and More.

    June 26 – 5-7 PM – Pride After-Party – Solevo Kitchen + Social, 55 Phila St, Saratoga Springs.

    Syracuse

    June 9 – 6:35pm – The Syracuse Mets show their Pride at the annual Pride Night at NBT Bank Stadium in Syracuse. The first 500 fans to arrive at the game (against Scranton) will receive a Syracuse Mets Pride Jersey and the first 1,000 get a Pride flag. A portion of the proceeds of tickets purchased from this link will go to CNY Pride. Fans can take their seventh-inning stretch at the 315 Bullpen Bar, where DJ Joe Driscoll will be spinning tunes. 

    Watertown

    June 17-19 – Celebrate Pride in the Thousand Islands all weekend long and beyond! Watertown Pride (New York) is three-days of celebrations around the historic downtown core of the small (20,000 residents) city along the Black River. It starts on Friday’s at the kickoff party at the historic Paddock Arcade, with The Paddock Club supplying food and drink specials. Then check out drag show performances at Savory Downtown.  Saturday hundreds turn out for the annual Pride flag raising at City Hall, then head up to historic Olmstead-designed Thompson Park overlooking the city to be part of “Out in the Park,” a family-friendly event with live music and the popular 5K Color Run.  Saturday night ends with a traveling Drag show and a majestic fireworks display at Duffy Fairgrounds.  Sunday winds the weekend down with the annual Tea Dance at Garland City Beer Works, a local LGBTQIA+-owned brewery. 

    June 18 – 9 AM-3PM – River Pride features celebrations taking place all along the St. Lawrence River in communities like Cape Vincent, Clayton, and Alexandria Bay.

    Rochester

    July 16 – parade 1 PM, free, festival 2-8 PM, general admission: $5. VIP: $50 – After a two-year absence, the Rochester Pride Parade is back, thanks to the ROC Pride Collective, to mark the 50-year anniversary of Rochester’s first organized Pride events. The parade begins at 1 PM on Park Avenue and ends at Cobb Hill Park, where the celebration of Pride and community continues with Pride Fest with food trucks, wine and beer for sale, vendor tables, games and activities, and a designated play area for kids. There will be live music all day long, with surprise performances.

    Catskills

    June 18 – 1-6 PM– The hamlet of Callicoon comes together for Catskills Pride 2022. Entertainment will take place at several venues and local businesses will offer special food, drinks, and activities. Party like it’s prom night at The Callicoon Marketplace, whose merchants are coming together to provide 1970s dresses and tuxedos, and photo booths to capture you in those stylish threads. Callicoon Theater will feature LGBTQIA+ films and programming all day long. There’ll also be an event to honor the 20th anniversary of the Day to be Gay Foundation, a non-profit founded locally to support LGBTQIA+ youth. 

    The entire hamlet will be visually transformed by a professional event designer who is curating it with a Pride aesthetic. The focal point of events is Celebration Station, connecting Upper Main to Lower Main Street activities. This is where attendees can regroup and grab some shade, water, and snacks. The Catskills Pride afterparty will take place at the Delaware Youth Center from 8-11:30 PM. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. All ages are welcome. 

    Finger Lakes

    June 4 – 11 AM-4 PM – Pride festivities begin in Centerway Square in Corning with Drag Queen Story Hour at 11 AM. At noon, radio personality Ally Payne will host activities, live trivia, and giveawayswith a DJ taking over to spin tunes until 4 PM. The Pride Car Parade begins in Elmira at noon and the caravan of cars and trucks, adorned in Pride-themed regalia, make their way down Market Street around 12:45 PM. Corning businesses are celebrating Pride, with shops, restaurants, and cafes on Market Street holding sales and special events like karaoke. The Corning Museum of Glass and The Rockwell Museum offer free admission (June 4-12) to everyone who attends the Car Parade. 

    Ithaca

    June 26 – Pride Week Kick Off at Buffalo Street Books ** – Check out special book lists for all ages at the bookstore and join us in kicking off the celebration of our LGBTQIA+ Community!

    June 27 – Planned Parenthood PreP Meet and Greet on the Commons for HIV Testing Day

    June 28 – 5-6pm Ithaca LGBTQ Local History Walking Tour. Led by Luca Maurer and Ithaca College LGBTQ Center staff, learn about local landmarks and history of the LGBTQ community here in Ithaca

    June 287-9pm Cinemapolis Stonewall Anniversary Documentary Screening – Pay It No Mind: The Life and Times of Marsha P Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, Trans Movement Founder

    June 30Summer Concert Series at Bernie Milton Pavilion – Performer TBA

    June 30Thursgay at the Range – 21+ Event, Proof of Vaccination required. 

    July 1 –  Opening Ceremonies at the Bernie Milton Pavilion

    July 1 – 6-8 pm Drag Show with hosts – Noah Phence and Samantha Vega, Performers – Will B Cumming, Ginger Vicious, Vivi Knox, Saylix Morrison

    July 1 – 8 pm – 11 pm Dance Party at Community School of Music and Arts featuring DJ – The Dutchess

    July 2 – 11 am-1 pm – Youth Drag/Fashion Show, partnered with Tompkins County Public Library LGBTQIA+ Youth Programming attendees, coordinated by Regina DeMauro/TCPL Youth Programming.

    July 2 1-5 pm – Music/Performances/Circus on the Bernie Milton Pavilion 

    July 2 – 6-8 pm – Drag Show*with host: Kyla Minx, Performers: Nigel Lestat, Femme de Violette, more TBD

    July 2 – 8 pm-11 pm: Dance Party at Community School of Music and Arts featuring DJ Rogue

    July 32pm-6pm Family Picnic in Dewitt Park performances by the Ithaca Gay Men’s Chorus, AFAB4, and Jonah Hirst.

    Buffalo

    June 1 – Flag-raising ceremonies will be held at Artpark (9 AM), Niagara Falls State Park (10:30 AM), Niagara Falls City Hall (12 PM), and Lockport City Hall (2 PM).

    June 1 – Niagara Falls will be lit up with Pride colors this evening.

    June 5 – 11 AM-7PM – The week of celebration culminates with the Pride Parade. Bring your friends, family and chosen family to watch the floats march down Elmwood Avenue in celebration of our history and all who make up our vibrant LGBTQ+ community here in Western New York. 

    June 5 – 1-7 pm – Immediately following the Pride Parade, head to Canalside for a vibrant celebration of Western New York’s LGBTQ+ community, featuring entertainment, family-friendly activities, food and beverages, live performances as well as nonprofit and retail vendors. Tickets are available for purchased at buffaloprideweek.com

    Delaware Valley Region

    The Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA) will kick off Pride Weekend over June 24 and 25 at the Tusten Theatre in Narrowsburg, NY, about 20 minutes west of Bethel.

    June 24 – 7:30pm – The rock-confessional musical, ¡Oso Fabuloso & The Bear Backs!, which tells the story of a queer Latine Bear named Oso Fabuloso (C. Julian Jiménez), who has recently been dumped by a two-timing Daddy bear. Oso seeks the help of his therapist Dr. Calvo (P.K. Variance), who convinces him to sing the blues away. Oso goes on tour with his therapist and his two best friends, Gummy (Vasilios Leon) and Grizz (Joseph Distl), hoping it will cure him of his romantic woes.

    June 25 – 7:30pm – A heartfelt and hilarious one-woman show by Maureen Muldoon travels the journey of coming out as transgender from the point of view of the mother of a transgender child. The goal of Trans-Parent Love is to promote conversations that help people talk about the questions, concerns, and commonalities we have with each other. A discussion is held after the show where a panel of parents can share their stories. Tickets for both shows are available here.

    New York City

    June 4 – 12-7 PM – Open Streets + Brooklyn Pop-Up. The Fifth Avenue BID in Park Slope holds Brooklyn Pop-Up from Union Street to Sterling Place, bringing in over 50 vendors with everything from cards and ceramic art to roti and African baskets. DJ Disco Czech will be setting the vibe; find him on 5th between St Johns and Sterling Place.

    June 5, 7, 8, 10 Rufus Wainwright will hold a “Rufus Does Judy” residency on four nights in the first half of June at City Winery.

    June 5 – Queens Pride with the Queens Public Library, Queens

    June 10 – 6pm, June 12 – 5pm ChamberQUEER Pride Festival Part of The Future Is… Festival
    ChamberQUEER is a multifaceted organization with the mission of highlighting historically underrepresented queer figures in western classical music and providing an intersectionally inclusive space within western classical music for artists and audience. ChamberQUEER 2022 opens their two-show engagement at National Sawdust on June 10. The concert weaves musical worlds together through reflective improvisations that converse with multifaceted experiences of queerness across the centuries. Confirmed performers for June 10 include violinist Mazz Swift and baritone vocalist Lucas Bouk alongside the core ChamberQUEER ensemble of Jules Biber, Danielle Buonaiuto, Brian Mummert and Andrew Yee.

    The June 12 performance highlights Gay Guerrilla by iconoclastic queer composer Julius Eastman, in a new arrangement for string septet by Jessie Montgomery, and featuring the arranger on violin. The program traces lines to queer modernism of the earlier 20th century, including Benjamin Britten’s Les Illuminations, to the poetry of the visionary Arthur Rimbaud. Confirmed performers for June 12 include Montgomery and soprano vocalist Melissa Wimbish alongside the core ChamberQUEER ensemble of Biber, Buonaiuto, Mummert and Yee. $25 in Advance, $29 Day of Show

    June 11 – 11 AM-5 PM Celebrate Brooklyn Pride with a week of exciting events, including Comedy Night at Branded Saloon and Pride Night with the Brooklyn Cyclones at Maimonides Park. Brooklyn Pride Day is Saturday, June 11 with a street festival and entertainment stage, and the twilight Brooklyn Pride Parade starting at 7:30 PM. Bring the kids out on Sunday for Brooklyn Pride’s first-ever Youth Pride.

    June 11 – 2-8 PM Yonkers Pride Celebration will be held on Main Street in Downtown Yonkers. The Yonkers Pride Festival is an outdoor event showcasing celebrity entertainment, food, merchandise, activities, and numerous community organizations and will be held rain or shine.

    June 14 – 6-9pm – Bronx native and celebrated stylist, Jérôme LaMaar will be hosting a Sip & Slime Pride Celebration at Sloomoo Institute in SoHo. The event will have live music from DJ Flash and performances from the hip hop duo, The Dragon Sisters. Tickets start at $95 with 10% of all ticket proceeds benefiting Stonewall Community Foundation.

    June 17 – 7pmBryant Park Picnic Performances presented by Bank of America continues on June 17 with New York City Opera’s annual celebration Pride in the Park. City Opera will also be joined by the LaGuardia High School Choir, directed by Jeanne Cascio. Michael Capasso, General Director of New York City Opera, says, “‘The People’s Opera’ is thrilled to return to our summer home at Bryant Park, where we can continue our mission of free performances for New York audiences.” First-Come, First-Served Entry (All Bryant Park Picnic Performances Are FREE)

    Elsewhere in Brooklyn has a series of events planned for Pride Month:

    June 25 – 5pm – Dyke March (a protest march, not a parade). The March is a demonstration of the First Amendment right to protest and takes place without permits or sponsors. Thousands of Dykes take the streets each year in celebration of our beautiful and diverse Dyke lives, to highlight the presence of Dykes within our community, and in protest of the discrimination, harassment, and violence we face in schools, on the job, and in our communities.

    June 25 – 12-6 PM – Celebrate Pride in the historic neighborhood of Harlem in New York City. Festival-goers will be entertained all day long with live performances, celebrity hosts, and DJs to get everyone up and dancing. This is an event for the whole family. Food and retail vendors will be on hand and there’ll be face painting and a Drag Queen Story Hour. While it’s a day of celebration, Harlem Pride will also be providing practical resources for the community; attendees will find referrals for health, legal, and financial services. Medical testing and health screenings will also be available.

    June 25-26 – The premiere LGBTQIA+ music festival experience of Pride Weekend is Pride Island. For the first time ever, celebrate at the new location on Governors Island. Kim Petras headlines NYC Pride’s Pride Island while Lil’ Kim headlines Saturday Pride Island lineup, joining Shenseea, Netta, Raye, and Papi Juice.

    June 26 – PrideFest at 11 AM, Parade at 12 PM The NYC Pride March is back for its 53rd year and it’ll be hosted by a slew of celebrity Grand Marshals including Saturday Night Live’s Punkie Johnson. The parade kicks off at noon at 25th Street and 5th Avenue. NYC PrideFest, the LGBTQ street fair, is back at 4th Avenue between 13th and 9th Streets in Manhattan for musical performances, entertainers, food, activities, and Pride gear from unique vendors.

    July 8 – New York City-based Japanese producer and musician rei brown has released his second single, “Thinking Bout You,” featuring fellow rising Japan-born musician, Joji, where they yearn to be closer to their loved ones. Along with the single, rei brown announces the release of forthcoming full-length album, Xeno, due out July 8, with a sold-out North American tour with keshi underway.


    August – Composer, actor and vocalist Boychik, the musical moniker of Ben Levi Ross, recently released their layered, piano-driven single, “Bombed Out Building,” following the debut single “Dust After Rest,” a track that frees Boychik of any gender constraints, and is filled with hope, gratitude and profound authenticity. A full album is expected in August.

    Check out even more NYC Pride events below taking place in the days leading up to and following the Pride March and PrideFest. Events range from a circuit party to a symposium to a Broadway Sings concert honoring Taylor Swift.

    Manhattan

    Brooklyn

    Long Island

    June 4 – 12pm – The first ever East Hampton Village –and the Hamptons’– first Pride Parade!

    June 12 – 12-6 PMLong Island Pride is back and happening in the Village of Farmingdale for the first time, with 1000s of revelers expected to fill Main Street where the festivities will take place. The day-long celebration will include concerts and a festival with vendors, dancing, live performances, and plenty of food and drinks. The 32nd annual Pride Parade is back in full swing and fully in person for the first time since 2019.

  • Thursdays on the Village Green Continues a Century-Old Tradition in Hamilton

    This July in the Madison County Village of Hamilton, the Village Green will offer an all ages free summer concert series each night at 7pm. Each night there will also be kids activities, starting at 5:30pm

    Live music on the Village Green is a tradition that dates back to 1902 and is one of the Hamilton community’s most beloved summer activities.

    Village Green Hamilton

    This series is presented by Arts at the Palace and the New York State Council on the Arts in addition to a variety of other sponsors and community supporters.

    The 2022 season kicks off on July 14th with family-friendly events and terrific musical performances each night. Folks are encouraged to picnic on the Village Green or enjoy the music from the patio of the Colgate Inn. The evening’s concert and activities are free for all to enjoy, with blankets, chairs and dancing encouraged.

    Village Green Hamilton
    Processed with VSCO with f2 preset

    July 14 – Robert Rogers Puppet Show: Finnie’s Ocean Treasure, followed by music from Alea.

    July 21 – The REV Theatre Co presenting The Fisherman and His Wife, followed by music from the Jesse Taylor Band with support from Zach Dupont.

    July 28 – Didgeridoo Down Under is the early show for the kids, while music this evening will feature Pearly Baker’s Best: A Grateful Dead Experience.

    August 4 – don’t miss a magic show by Nate the Great, followed by a reunion concert from local favorite Rabbit in the Rye.

    Mosher Farms will sell popcorn at all events and a variety of food vendors will be on-site throughout the series including Brake From The Grind, Gilligan’s Ice Cream, Oh Crepe, Oscar Concession Gourmet Crab Cake & Steak, Ray Brothers Barbeque, Stathis Greek Food, Squeezers Lemonade, and TacoCat Gourmet Tacos. Follow @thursdaysonthevillagegreen on Facebook and Instagram for more details and to see which trucks will be present each week.

    Thursdays on the Village Green is run by a dedicated team of volunteers who are proud to continue this 120+ year community tradition. Interested in helping out or learning more – send an email to thursdaysonthevillagegreen@gmail.com

  • Freedom Park in Scotia to host 30 Free Concerts This Summer

    The lineup for the Freedom Park 2022 Summer Concert Series in Scotia has been announced, with the series beginning on June 18 and running through August 28.

    scotia freedom park

    We are so excited for another great summer at the park. Each year as we put together our lineup, I am amazed at the talent we have in our area. Our foundation focuses on local musicians, as well as local businesses, and we are truly proud of that effort.

    Cathy Gatta, Freedom Park Foundation Board President and Entertainment Director

    Concerts are set for every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer, with shows taking place rain or shine. Most shows start at 7 p.m. at the amphitheater located on Schonowee Avenue across from Collins Park.

    As we do each year, we have a great season of rock, country, jazz, classical and more. But we couldn’t do it without our fabulous local businesses who support us each year, Jumpin’ Jack’s who is our Season Sponsor once again, and our media sponsors. Plus our 100% volunteer Board of Directors who donate their time and talents to make Freedom Park such a wonderful experience.

    Cathy Gatta, Freedom Park Foundation Board President and Entertainment Director

    Freedom Park Scotia will open it’s 2022 Summer Concert Series with a High School Rock Showcase on Saturday, June 18th with a variety of rock bands from Scotia-Glenville High School, and headliner Screaming Orphans on Wednesday, June 22nd. The River, a classic rock band, will perform on Friday, July 1st before Jumpin’ Jack’s annual fireworks display.

    Attendees are encouraged to bring low chairs or a blanket to use at the outdoor amphitheater. A dance floor is located just below the stage for those looking to get down. Parking is available in Collins Park on with ADA complaint parking on the corner of Schonowee Avenue and Kiwanis Way. Concert-goers are asked to not park in the Jumpin’ Jack’s parking lot.

    Freedom Park Scotia Summer 2022 Concerts

    June 18: High School Rock Showcase, featuring a variety of rock bands from Scotia-Glenville High School. The show starts at 6:30 p.m.
    June 22: Screaming Orphans, a Celtic rock/pop band.
    June 25: The Rhythm Pilots, a dance party band.
    June 26: Music Company Orchestra, a classical music orchestra.
    June 29: WailOn, a tribute to Waylon Jennings and classic country.
    July 1: Up the River, a classic rock/jam band. The concert starts at 8 p.m. after the waterski show at 7 p.m. Fireworks at dark.
    July 2: Seeing Double, a college rock band.
    July 6
    : Get Up Jack, featuring Capital District Youth Pipe Band.
    July 9: Alan Payette & Wolfgang, a rock band.
    July 10: Sten & Maria Z Ensemble, a world music ensemble.
    July 13: Joey Thomas Big Band
    July 16: Mia Scirocco Trio, a pop/jazz standards trio.
    July 17: Watch Reggie Run, a children’s music band.
    July 20: Skeeter Creek, a country band.
    July 23: Jim Gaudet & the Railroad Boys, a bluegrass band.
    July 24: Dyer Switch Band, a bluegrass band.
    July 27: The Refrigerators, a party rock band.
    July 30: Nisky Dixie Cats, a Dixieland band.
    July 31: SUNY Schenectady Jazz Faculty Combo
    August 3: New York Players, a party rock band.
    August 6: The Brass Machine, a funk brass band.
    August 7: Quintocracy, a classical band.
    August 10: Grand Central Station, a party rock band.
    August 13: Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra
    August 14: Roben Kosek Jazz & Blues
    August 17: Lustre Kings, a rockabilly band.
    August 20: Big Fez & the Surfmatics
    August 21: The Legendary Characters, a 60s and 70s band.
    August 24: SIRSY, an alternative rock band.
    August 27: Shokazoba, a funk band.
    August 28: Heard, a world music band.

  • Tupper Arts Hosts Free Music on Monday and Wednesday Nights all Summer in Tupper Lake

    Each summer in the Adirondacks there is an abundance of music series in the towns and villages that dot the Adirondack Park. One of those towns, Tupper Lake, features two free music series on Monday and Wednesday evenings throughout the summer, if you are able to escape to this remote outpost in the Adirondacks.

    tupper lake summer

    Tupper Lake is located in Franklin County, located within the Adirondack Park. Tupper Lake makes up the Tri-Lakes region along with nearby Saranac Lake and Lake Placid. The village was first settled during the town’s lumber production period in 1844, making the village the top lumber producer in New York State.

    Since 1976, Tupper Lake has been celebrating its artists and artisans that make up the small community. Before Tupper Arts, there was the Tupper Lake Arts Council, then named Tupper Lake Presents. Throughout the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, the Arts Council continued strong, most notably starting the annual tradition that is the Tupper Lake Arts Show, now entering its 49th year.

    tupper lake summer

    In 2018, current Tupper Arts Vice President Louise McNally headed the planning to re-establish the Arts Council as the community entity it is today. Along with 11 board members, the Arts Council was saved and renamed as Tupper Arts and incorporated as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization to allow for the collection of donations to start strengthening the arts involvement in Tupper Lake. Tupper Arts has grown and set up a tradition of year-round programming to involve the community and provide easy access to the arts, through gallery shows, classes for all ages, live performances, and community events.

    The Tupper Lake Municipal Park is located on Demars Boulevard off Route 3. This park is the center of the Tupper Lake community. The park is home to the best sunset views, a waterfront walkway, picnic table area, two covered fishing overlooks, public boat slips, playground, sports fields, skateboard park, and much more.

    tupper lake summer

    All summer hows at Tupper Lake Municipal Park are FREE, with shows starting at various times, and ending by 8:45pm (9pm on the 4th of July only).

    Tupper Lake Monday Summer Sunset Series Lineup

    July 4 – Night School & Spring Street

    Night School is a five piece dance-rock band from Tupper Lake, performing some of the most popular dance hits from yesteryear and today, everything from The Beatles to Talking Heads, from Rick James to The B-52’s. Spring Street is a unique mix of old and new rock, blues and strong vocal harmonies make Spring Street a must-see when visiting the Tri-Lakes area.

    Hours: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Night School, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Spring Street

    July 11 – Ursa and the Major Key

    Ursa and the Major Key is an indie/psychedelic rock band from Plattsburgh, NY. Their first album, Daytime/Nighttime, is out now on Cricket Records. Originating from the scenic Adirondack region of New York State, the foursome infuse influences from classic artists including The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Pink Floyd, and The Band, as well as modern artists like Whitney, Beach Fossils, and Levitation Room.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    Ursa 1.JPG

    July 18 – Geo Beat

    Geo Beat Quartet celebrates musical traditions ranging from Jazz and Bossa Nova to World Beat with a few pop standards and original compositions. Crispin Catricala leads the group on guitar, Dave Casner plays Vibes, Michael Hurt is on Bass and Percussion Master Brian Melick rounds out the ensemble with a variety of instruments to bring infectious grooves and harmonious melodies to the stage.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    tupper lake summer

    July 25 – Darkside Skinny Dippers

    Darkside Skinny Dippers, often known more affectionately as the world’s greatest hashtag #DSKINNYD, evolved into a ferocious rock band that defined the course of music history in the late 70’s into the mid 80’s. Recommended by 0 out of 10 doctors, the band all but guarantees a baby boom that would rival the mid 40’s-mid 60’s. In short, #DSKINNYD is best described as diverse rock and roll with attitude! There’s a little something for everyone.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. 

    tupper lake summer

    August 1 – Shakespeare in the Park: Midsummer Night’s Dream

    The Adirondack Lakes Summer Theatre Festival returns with an abridged A Midsummer Night’s Dream A family-friendly production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream will feature all the beloved characters of the play, including the Royals, the Rustics, the Lovers, and, of course, the Fairies. This abridged version, directed by Karen Lordi-Kirkham, will run between an hour and fifteen minutes and an hour and a half and takes place outdoors.

    Featuring: Mason Barber as Nick Bottom; Jadzia Briggs, Angeliq Hammie, Kirsten Denis, and Dante Giacovelli as the Lovers; George Cordes, Fred Balzac, Dave Myers, and Monica Bills as the Rustics; Mike Corey as Egeus/Philostrate; and Karen, Ted, Christabelle, and Felonica Kirkham as the Royals and Fairies.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    tupper lake summer

    August 8 – Martin and Kelly

    The incredibly talented duo of Jilly Martin and Ryan Brooks Kelly have become the next must-see act from New England to Nashville. Over the years, they’ve been featured as support acts for many traditional, and mainstream country artists. Standouts in today’s crossover country music scene, Jilly & Ryan’s songs bridge the boundary between traditional and new country.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 15 – The Big Takeover

    Fronted by the charismatic Jamaican-born singer and songwriter Nee Nee Rushie, the seven-piece New York band The Big Takeover plays original music that is rooted in and reverent toward the genres and rhythms of Jamaican pop: reggae, rocksteady, ska. They are devotees of Desmond Dekker and the way the old school did it. At the same time, The Big Takeover crosses lines and blends traditions like global pop fusionists. Their deceptively complex arrangements and big hooks connect with the spirit of Motown and the uptown sophistication of the 21st century retro soul and R&B revival scene.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 22 – The Bob Stump Band

    Bob Stump and his band feature a collection of Americana sounds, including a mix of Bluegrass, blues, country, rock and jazz. Hudson Valley-based, Bob enjoys making his way around the North Country, sharing stories through his music.​

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    bob Stump Bluegrass Picture .jpg

    Tupper Lake Wednesday Summer Sunset Series

    July 6 – On 3

    ​On 3 is the partnering of Jim Boucher, Eric Pasternak, and Josh Pratt. Their music consists of 70’s and 80’s, up to some modern covers, highlighting harmonies, guitars, mandolin, ukulele, and percussion.​

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    July 13 – The Altered Tones

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    July 20 – Larry Lee Ebere

    Popular Chazy-born country singer Larry Lee Ebere got his musical start singing with his family at a young age. He has since been traveling and singing for 25 years, and notably placed 16th in the Nashville Talent Competition, and was also featured in Country Living.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    July 27 – Claire & Mickey

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Army Band

    Location: Tupper Lake Sunset Stage, Flanders Park, Tupper Lake

    August 3 – Crackin’ Foxy

    Crackin’ Foxy is a ukulele-driven ensemble featuring close vocal harmony and tight instrumental arrangements. The Saranac Lake—based quintet is inspired by Traditional New Orleans Jazz but plays with a fresh and joyful energy all its own. Influences include the Boswell Sisters, Anette Hanshaw, and Django Reinhardt as well as Vaudeville and Hawaiian music of the early 20th century.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 10 – TBA

    August 17 – The Rustic Riders

    The Rustic Riders “songs are bouncy and danceable and carry a loving message. A little bit of percussion and a variety of instruments keep things fresh, and they’re really good at getting the crowd laughing and singing-along.”  Sarah Craig, Caffe Lena Executive Director

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Army Band

    August 24 – Blessid Dirt

    Tereson Dupuy and Eric Pasternak make up this beautiful, Adirondack grown acoustic duo called Blessid Dirt. Both singer-songwriters, their original music is ripe with life experiences most can relate to. Classified as heavy-folk, they have been influenced by greats such as John Prine and Led Zepplin alike.  Eric, a native New Yorker, dazzles listeners with some wicked dirty strings and brilliant lyrical balance. While Tereson, a transplant from New Orleans, adds a bit of soulful Southern charm making this duo something to be experienced.

    Hours: 7:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

    August 29 – TBA

  • Oswego Announces Summer Concert Series at Veteran’s Stage, Brietbeck Park and Water Street Square

    Oswego Mayor Billy Barlow has released the schedule for three free music series in The Port City of Central New York this summer. Free Public Music series will be held on Wednesdays at Brietbeck Park, Thursdays at Veteran’s Stage on the Oswego River, and Fridays at Water Street Square.

    Oswego
    Via Friends of Oswego

    The Oswego Summer Concert Series has grown each and every year, drawing larger and larger crowds and new musical acts. We have an exciting lineup of bands this year, with local fan favorites and several new groups to the Oswego area.  We have exciting things happening in downtown Oswego and I hope the Summer Concert Series will draw both residents and visitors alike, to enjoy quality live music, experience downtown, our Farmer’s Market and see our beautiful waterfront.

    Mayor Billy Barlow

    Wednesdays

    The Sunset Concert Series at Brietbeck Park will feature Concert Bands and Jazz Bands. Music begins at 7 or 7:30pm, and is sponsored by the City of Oswego and the Oswego County Musicians Collaborative.

    Oswego

    Thursdays

    Free concerts are held on Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in Veteran’s Park on the Oswego River. Concertgoers are allowed to bring chairs and coolers to Veteran’s Park. The open container ordinance is lifted for the event.

    2022 Oswego Summer Concert Series Schedule

    June 30th – Off the Reservation 

    July 7th – The Swooners 

    July 14th – The Sky Coasters 

    July 21st – Tink Bennet & Tailor Made

    July 28th – No Concert – Harborfest

    August 4th – The DeSantis Band

    August 11th – Long Time Coming 

    August 18th – Billy Joel Guys – Tribute to Billy Joel 

    August 25th – Menage A Soul 

    Oswego

    Fridays

    Mayor Barlow also has announced the “Concerts @ the Square” schedule and lineup for Summer 2022. The concert series will be held at the Water Street Square downtown pocket park located between Water Street and West First Street in Oswego.

    Before the pandemic interrupted the “Concerts @ the Square” concert series, the new pocket park was serving as a great venue for live music and other outdoor programming opportunities since we built and opened in 2019. Now, we hope to restart and grow the series, bringing more people downtown to experience our improvements and support small businesses. The concerts at Water Street Square provide a great opportunity to hear some live music from local musicians and enjoy all downtown Oswego has to offer.

    Mayor Billy Barlow

    Beginning in July, live music will be held in the park on Friday evenings from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. All concerts are free and open to the public. The concert area falls within the newly created “social district” in the city so alcohol purchased from nearby establishments will be permitted.

    Oswego

    Water Street Square “Concerts @ the Square” 2022 Schedule

    Friday, July 1st – Mike Shiel

    Friday, July 8th – 1 Night Stand

    Friday, July 15th – Double V’s

    Friday, July 22nd – Domicolo-Barlow Band

    Friday, August 12th – 3 of a Kind

        Friday, August 19th – Justin Blackwell Band

    Friday, August 26th – Rob Auler

    Limited seating is available and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs. No coolers are permitted. The Water Street Square pocket park was built in 2019 as part of the city’s downtown revitalization plan and has been host to several concerts, wedding ceremonies and other events since opening.

    For additional information, please contact the City of Oswego Economic Development Office at (315) 343-3795.

  • Ellen Pieroni & the Encyclopedia of Soul to Debut at Jack Rabbit in Buffalo on May 27

    Buffalo musician Ellen Pieroni has a new original project that will makes its debut at Jack Rabbit on Friday, May 27th. 

    Ellen Pieroni & the Encyclopedia of Soul – or EoS – presents a refreshing brand of smooth-infused soul jazz. While the group is inspired by artists such as Grover Washington, Stuff, Freddie Hubbard, and the Crusaders, EoS places an emphasis on new, original music. 

    Ellen Pieroni

    EoS was founded by Pieroni (saxophone, compositions), James Benders (bass), and Adam Bronstein (guitar) earlier this year over a mutual love of the band Stuff. 

    I was a bandleader in my first band, Ellen Pieroni Quartet. For almost a decade, I bounced around town as a side woman in a multitude of projects. In many ways, EoS is a culmination of all of these experiences I’ve had playing various genres locally – trad jazz, bluegrass, afrobeat, jam, r&b. It took me that long to realize I wanted to be a bandleader again. I think the Encyclopedia of Soul is the band I’ve wanted to have all along.

    Ellen Pieroni 

    In April, EoS played a session at The Beat Barn – a studio and creative space in Orchard Park owned by Buffalo-based drummer Joe Goretti. The founding trio was joined by Steve Davis (keys) and local legend Darryl Washington (drums). The band recorded a few tracks and a video that will be dropping soon. 

    EoS has since been playing with a new configuration, which include Tyler James (keys) and Isaiah Gethers (drums), with a live rehearsal at The Gypsy Parlor on Grant Street in May and another on May 24.

    Ellen Pieroni

    The Encyclopedia of Soul is a massive passion project for Ellen Pieroni, formerly of Folkfaces, Intrepid Travelers, Buffalo Afrobeat Orchestra, Blue Stone Groove, and more. 

    Ellen Pieroni

    Catch Ellen Pieroni & the Encyclopedia of Soul’s debut show at Jack Rabbit on Friday, May 27th at 10pm. Tickets are $5 at the door.

  • Yard Amphitheater to features Keller and the Keels, SunSquabi, Mihali and many more

    In an area of New York where the Mohawk Valley meets Central New York, you’ll find Bouckville, best known for Ray Brothers Barbeque and The Yard Amphitheater. The pairing of some of the best BBQ in New York State with a stellar summer lineup of shows makes the small town of Bouckville a must stop for locals and travelers across the Empire State this summer.

    yard amphitheater

    When establishing Ray Brothers Barbeque with his brother Tucker in 2014, Colin Ray embarked on another dream of his: to build an outdoor music venue. The Yard Amphitheater started with a simple stage of plywood screwed to pallets set in the backyard, and over the years has transformed into the robust community gathering space it is today.

    yard amphitheater

    The Yard Amphitheater holds up to 1,500 attendees and has featured acts including Keller Williams, Zach Deputy, Turkuaz, Ryan Montbleau, Montgomery Gentry, JJ Grey & Mofro, Hayley Jane and the Primates, The North Mississippi Allstars, Danielle Ponder and the Tomorrow People, Martin Sexton, Cassidy Lynn, and many more.

    yard amphitheater

    Attending a show at The Yard is like being in your own backyard for a concert, only this backyard has a fully stocked outdoor bar, delicious BBQ, and nationally touring acts.

    When you’re headed to Bouckville this summer, be sure to grab a chair or blanket, a bite to eat at the restaurant, a cold beer, and get ready to dance. This year’s lineup will have you on your feet in no time.

    yard amphitheater

    Yard Amphitheater 2022 Lineup

    May 30th: Annual Backyard BBQ featuring Annie in the Water, The Reflexions, and Feed the Fire

    June 4th: Keller & The Keels with The Old Main

    June 25th: Dogs In A Pile with Adam Brooks

    July 2nd: Cassidy Lynn with Jason Wicks

    July 16th: Root Shock with Chris Eves and the New Normal

    July 23rd: Blue Star Radiation

    August 6th: Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry with Blaine Holcomb

    August 12th: Mihali of Twiddle with Mike Powell

    August 13th: Ryan Montbleau with Giovanina Bucci

    August 20th: SunSquabi with Vaporeyes

    September 4th: Annual Hop Harvest Smoke Out featuring Mo Lowda & The Humble with additional acts TBA.

    Stay up-to-date on Facebook and Instagram. Purchase tickets here.

  • SNL Bids Farewell to Four Cast Members in Season 47 Finale

    Saturday Night Live closed the books on Season 47 on May 21, with host and native New Yorker Natasha Lyonne with musical guest Japanese Breakfast. The season finale of SNL also brought out a handful of cast departures, including Kate McKinnon, Aidy Bryant, Kyle Mooney and Pete Davidson.

    snl season finale

    The cold open featured Kate McKinnon as recurring character Colleen Rafferty, recounting an alien abduction alongside Cecily Strong and Lyonne to Pentagon officials. McKinnon took this sketch as her swan song, bidding farewell as she boarded a spaceship, saying “Thanks for letting me stay awhile.”

    During Lyonne’s monologue, she mentioned her New York born and bred roots – raised in Great Neck, grew up on the Upper East Side – and mentioning how she has been working with SNL cast and alums for years, including Amy Poehler on Russian Doll. She was joined on stage briefly by SNL alums and friends Fred Armisen and Maya Rudolph who did their impressions of Lyonne, who herself has a Rodney Dangerfield style of delivery.

    For Japanese Breakfast’s first song, Michelle Zauner went with the rhythmic single “Be Sweet” off her 2021 album Jubilee, as neon bulbs hung down from the ceiling.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKvj4vs7ftc

    Weekend Update featured a pair of farewells, with Aidy Bryant saying goodbye next to her frequent sketch and song partner, Bowen Yang, and Pete Davidson, who reflected on his career at SNL and thanked Lorne for giving him a chance. Unfortunately left out of the sendoff mix was Kyle Mooney, who created numerous digital shorts and memorable characters over his 9-year SNL career.

    Davidson was also featured in the cut for time sketch “Forgot About Lorne,” a parody of Dr. Dre’s “Forgot about Dre” with Eminem cutting the pre-recorded sketch short to tell Pete to stop these parodies and not do them again.

    “Paprika” was the second song from Japanese Breakfast, with Zauner wearing a multi-layered white dress while she struck a gong encircles with flowers. as yellow lightbulbs hung down from the ceiling.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3mHfQgQY1M

    Zauner also appeared in the final sketch of the night, joining McKinnon and Bryant for a singalong of Joni Mitchell’s “The Circle Game” in “Women’s Commercial”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnOGSFV7154

    The season finale of SNL was a night of send offs and put a bow on an average season of the NBC franchise. Look back on all our coverage of Saturday Night Live this season here and share your favorite musical guest and sketches in the comments below.

  • Beacon Sloop Club Strawberry Festival Returns on June 12th

    An annual Hudson Valley tradition, the Beacon Sloop Club’s legendary Strawberry Festival will take place on Sunday, June 12th at Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park in Beacon. The all ages event, held rain or shine, lasts from 12-5pm and is found on the Riverside of the Metro North Beacon Station.

    Beacon Strawberry Festival

    At the BSC Strawberry Festival, you’ll find the best shortcake you have ever imagined, made with local strawberries and homemade biscuits topped with real whipped cream, all while surrounded by the glorious Hudson River. There are more treats available, including strawberry smoothies, freshly made chocolate covered strawberries and other great foods to enjoy. Local vendors will also be on hand selling food and crafts.

    There will also be free sailing on the Sloop Woody Guthrie. Located right in Beacon Harbor, attendees can sign up at the Beacon Sloop Club booth for a free afternoon sail as you experience the beauty, power and grandeur of the Hudson River. 

    Beacon Strawberry Festival

    Two solar powered music stages are featured during the BSC Strawberry Festival, with a main stage and one dedicated for young folks and children to enjoy. There are also many other free activities great for children, as well as displays of local Hudson River history and the environment for all to enjoy. 

    As hosts of Strawberry Festival, The Beacon Sloop Club is an all-volunteer non-profit organization. The BSC Strawberry Festival raises money for the public sailing program on the Woody Guthrie and other environmental education programs. As such, there is never a charge for sailing aboard “The Woody.” The BSC meets the first Friday of each month at the clubhouse in Beacon, right on the river near the Metro-North train station, for a potluck dinner, business meeting and music. Everyone is always welcome.

    Musicians performing throughout the Strawberry Festival include Arm of The Sea Theater, Judith Tulloch Band, Lost Ryders of the Waywayanda, Beacon Songsmiths, Eric Person, Lydia Adams Davis, Roger The Jester, Spook Handy, Jonathan Kruk, Bindlestick Bill and The Last Minute Soulmates.

    Admission to the Strawberry Festival is free. For more information, visit beaconsloopclub.org

    See below for pictures from past BSC Strawberry Festivals below, courtesy of Beacon Sloop Club.

  • Hearing Aide: Glass Pony “Nowhere Daydream”

    Albany’s Glass Pony continue a hot streak that has seen the group persevere through a pandemic to build an audience and unique sound, and return from the studio with a strong sophomore album, Nowhere Daydream.

    Glass Pony Nowhere Daydream

    Comprised of Chanda Dewey (drums), Eddie Hotaling (guitar, lead vocals), Jeff Picarazzi (bass), and Greg Pittz (lead guitar), Glass Pony has used the last two years wisely, honing their craft in practice and performance, preparing for the return of live music and hitting the ground running. Expanding their touring area to Central New York and the North Country puts Glass Pony on an upward trajectory, fueled by Nowhere Daydream.

    The album begins with the Hotaling composition “North Bound,” giving an early Ominous Seapods feel to the album, which dips quickly into a track that has quickly become a fan favorite, “Something Good.” The first notes to the album’s first single have a “Let’s Dance” intro vibe, a soaring guitar hook throughout from Pittz and serves as an upbeat post-pandemic anthem for an uplifting 7+ minute ride, .

    “House on a Hill” has a happy, upbeat jamgrass vibe, with lyrics by Keith Drinkwine. “Mortimer” brings in a “Wife Soup” feel in the intro before entering a swing-revival section – this fiery instrumental segues neatly into the brief and ambient “GN-z11.” The guitar groove of “St. Atocaster” from Pittz fits snugly into a pocket created by Picarazzi and Dewey, a track that captures the Glass Pony sound that has developed these past three years.

    Nowhere Daydream was recorded at Jellystone Park in Pound Ridge, NY; Blue Sky Studios, Delmar, NY; and Glass Pony Stables, Albany, NY. The album was mixed and engineered by Eddie Hotaling and mastered by Raelynn Janicke at Infrasonic Mastering, Nashville, TN. Matt Richards (Annie in the Water) is featured on keys on all tracks, with Will Hayes playing cello on “Lunar Flare.” Visit Glass Pony on Bandcamp.

    Key Tracks: Something Good, Mortimer, St. Atocaster

    Glass Pony will hold an album release show on May 21, 2022 at Parish Public House (388 Broadway, Albany. Tickets are $15, with 3 sets and doors at 7. Tickets are available via Glassponyband.com or guthriebellproductions.com

    Glass Pony Nowhere Daydream
    poster by Zak Radick