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  • Pride Month 2023: Celebrate Across New York State

    Pride Month is back, and New York State has dozens of celebrations, events, and parades across the state. With many live music events and more, NYS Music has you covered in finding the perfect Pride event to attend. Kick off your summer with events across the state, from Albany to Buffalo, NYC and Long Island, and more.

    Albany

    June 1, 4-8 p.m.- Pride Kick-Off Block Party and BBQ in Parking Lot #2, 76 Central Ave.

    June 8, 5-8 p.m.- Capital Pride Alive at Five featuring Hawthorne Heights and Bad Luck. Free at Jennings Landing.

    June 11, 12-5 p.m.- The signature Capital Region Pride event, the Capital Pride Parade & Festival, is one of the largest Pride celebrations in the Northeast. The Capital Pride Parade kicks off at 11:45 a.m. starting down State St. onto Lark Street and then Madison Ave. The Capital Pride Festival includes a full day of entertainment on three stages, food, drink, and advocacy with over 300 exhibitors.

    June 10, 12-5:30 p.m.- In Our Own Voices will hold its 17th Annual Say It Loud! Black, Indigenous, & People of Color (BIPOC) Pride celebration. It is a fun, family-friendly way to recognize the contributions, struggles, and resilience of LGBTQIA+ BIPOC families and individuals in the Capital Region. The main celebration will be held in Washington Park in Albany with performances from Grammy-nominated singer Angie Stone, NYC-based twin sisters Nicole and Natalie Albino, also known as Nina Sky, Jewel The Gem, Taína Asili, and more.

    Say It Loud! will also be hosting other Pride events, like a Pride Kickoff Block party in the Waterworks Parking Lot in Albany on June 1 from 5-8 p.m. Other events include a drag show with Widow Von’Du, seen on the twelfth season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, on June 10 starting at 10 p.m. at the Waterworks Pub, and The Renaissance Ball on June 30 at the Albany Capital Center, a night dedicated to Beyonce’s Renaissance album, including networking and HIV/HCV testing.

    June 10, 9 p.m.-4 a.m.- Geek and Gaymer Sci-Fi Pride at ROCKS on 77 Central Ave, $10 cover.

    Troy

    June 2, 10-11 a.m.- Pride Flag Raising.

    June 3, 5-9 p.m.- Queer Game Night at Cafe Euphoria.

    June 4, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.- Pride Drag Brunch, $20, at Bard & Baker 501 Broadway.

    June 18, 1-3 p.m.- Euphoria Drag Brunch by House of Extreme at Cafe Euphoria.

    June 23, 5:30-10 p.m.- Troy Pride Night Out and Block Party in Downtown Troy. Includes vendors, food, music by National DJ Phoenix, and live entertainment provided by everyone’s favorite local Queens from Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and the CCIAC circus.

    Schenectady

    June 1, 4-8 p.m.- Community Sober BBQ at the Central Park Pavillion, free for everyone.

    June 1, 7-10 p.m.- Capital Pride Singers host Hope: Voices of Pride at the Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church, a night of music, hope, and joy celebrating the LGBTQIA+ music makers and how their art still inspires the world today. Reserve a spot here.

    June 2, 7-11 p.m.- Alternative Prom held at the Schenectady YMCA, open to all LGBTQ+ youth and allies, ages 13-18. The theme is Four Seasons, with prizes awarded to the best of each season. Also featured are great food, dance with DJ Sean McLaughlin, and more. A $10 cover charge can be paid at the door.

    June 3, 1-4 p.m.- Schenectady Pride will host its 11th annual festival at Gateway Plaza where the Rainbow Pride Arches are next to SUNY Schenectady. This free event features 40+ vendors, community tables, a complete entertainment program (including a fabulous drag show at 3 p.m.), family-friendly activities, princess appearances, and so much more!

    Saratoga Springs

    June 1, 12 p.m.– Saratoga Flag Raising, Saratoga Springs City Hall.

    June 2, 6:30-8:30 p.m.- LGBTQ+ Teen Night for middle and high school students where they can come hang out with friends and meet new people in a safe space. Happens on the first Friday of each month at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga.

    June 3, 1-5 p.m.- PRIDEFEST at Whitman Brewing Company to support Saratoga Pride. Features three local bands, dogs, food, and alcohol from local breweries. Tickets are on sale here.

    Binghamton

    June 3, 12-2 p.m.- Pride 2023 in Binghamton begins with the annual Pride flag raising. Join the mayor, community leaders, and featured speakers as they kick off Pride Month.

    June 10, 12-6 p.m.- Pridepalooza in the Park is held in Otsiningo Park. Activities include live entertainment, drag shows, and vendors.

    June 10, 9:30 p.m.- Join your family and friends in Downtown Binghamton down on the Chenango River on the Martin Luther King Promenade to see the most amazing Pride Fireworks show.

    June 25- Bring your friends and family for Pride Day at the Ross Park Zoo—discounted admission if celebrating.

    Otsego County

    June 2, 7-10 p.m.- Kicking off Cooperstown Pride Weekend is a special Fire Pit Friday celebrating Pride Month at Brewery Ommegang. The all-ages event will feature drinks, food, and a bonfire. The evening will also include a special welcome address by Cooperstown’s Mayor, Ellen Tillapaugh, a live DJ set by DJ TRUMASTR, and a spectacular fireworks display. Local businesses will be onsite selling special Cooperstown Pride Weekend merchandise, with some of the proceeds benefiting Cooperstown Central School’s Identity Alliance organization.

    June 3, 2-7 p.m.- Pridefest 2023 in Oneonta begins. This year’s theme is “Block Party,” taking Pride to Main Street, with performances and vendors.

    June 4, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.- At the Wakeman Coffee Co. in Sidney there will be two drag brunches, one at 10 a.m. and one at 1 p.m. To purchase tickets, visit here.

    June 4, 12-3 p.m.- Barnyard Swing in Milford presents Family Pride Day with family-friendly activities such as face painting, spin art, fossil safari, miniature golf, music by DJ Raphael, a special appearance by Rapunzel, and much more.

    June 8, 7 p.m.- The Oneonta Outlaws host Baseball Pride Night at the Damaschke Field. Wear rainbow and pride colors to show your pride, and meet allies LGBTQ members.

    June 25, 6-8 p.m.- Interskate 88 in Oneonta hosts a Pride skate and dance party, with free admission, and a $1 skate rental fee.

    June 30, 7-11 p.m.- The second annual Pride Prom will take place in the atrium of Foothills Performing Arts Center on Market Street in Oneonta. The theme is Wonderland, featuring dancing, face painting, specialty cocktails, prizes, fashion, and drag performances from Lilly Bola, Jahyra Joelle, and Natalie Taylor. Tickets go on sale on June 1 here.

    Hudson Valley

    June 2, 5-10 p.m.- Out Loud Hudson Valley is teaming up with Angry Orchard to bring a Pride month Kick-Off Party unlike any other. The event will feature two DJs at the famed Cider House in Walden, NY. DJ Prephab will spin the upstairs tap room, while DJ Jimmy Prada will be on the lower level and back lawn area. A Sunset Cabaret performance by Key West’s live-singing diva Epiphany Get Paid is one not to miss.

    June 3, 1-4 p.m.- The Stanford Pride Committee announced the second annual LGBTQ+ Pride event at BANGALLWORKS. This year’s celebration promises to be bigger and better than the last, with exciting new activities for attendees of all ages.

    June 3, 2-4 p.m.- The 14th annual Out Hudson Pride Festival returns. The theme is “On The Road” again, celebrating love and freedom.

    June 3, 6 p.m.- Poughkeepsie Pride Kickoff Party featuring drag shows performances by Lola Deville, Janine Extreme, Swisha Sweets, and Tabitha Phoenix. Purchase tickets here.

    June 3, 7 p.m.- Vowel Moments is comprised of Pretty Lamé (tenor Joshua Sanders) and David Sytkowski (piano), creating a night full of genre-blending tunes. They are performing at Hudson Hall in Hudson, tickets are on sale here.

    June 4, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.- Visit the Foreland Waterfront Lawn for the Foreland Pride Lawn Party, featuring food, drinks, games, performances, and more.

    June 4, 12-5 p.m.- Hudson 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 4, 12-4 p.m.- First Annual Pride Picnic at Opus 40 in Saugerties features performances by Key of Q, The LGBTQ & Allied A Cappella Singers of the Hudson Valley, Queer History Drag Bingo with Sis Jenner, Queer Storytime with Jacinta Bunnell “A More Graceful Shaboom,” Drag StoryTime with Epiphany Penn, and more.

    June 4, 12-5 p.m.- Westchester Pride returns with Sutton Lee Seymour, NYC’s Live Singing Sasshole and Comedy Queen whose cabaret shows have toured across the United States as well as holding a residency at The Palm Cabaret in Puerto Vallarta. Her act has won her a Glam Award for Breakthrough Artist and earned her a MAC Award Nomination for Best Drag Cabaret. The special guest performer is Connecticut’s Grand Diva, Robin Fierce, who wowed audiences on Ru Paul’s Drag Race Season 15 with her sass and charm. 

    June 10, 2-4 p.m.- We Are Better Together 2023 Pride Social at 3279 Franklin Ave, Millbrook.

    June 11, 11-5 p.m.- 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 2023.

    June 11, 11:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.- Warwick Pride Celebration starts at the Warwick Valley Community Center with free brunch, art, music, henna, support tables, fun, and community. The Pride Parade led by Funkrust Brass Band, steps off from WVCC at 1:30 p.m., to Main Street and arrives at Stanley Deming Park for The Pride Show, 2:30-4.30p.m., hosted by drag darling, Ms. Eve Starr and a sparkling line up of guest performers. It is free and family-friendly.

    June 15, 7 p.m.- International Drag Icon Sherry Vine returns with a brand new show, stuffed full of her signature hilarious, naughty parodies, hysterical videos, gorgeous costumes, and more! She will sing new parodies of Cher, Lady Gaga, Broadway, Gloria Estefan, Barry White, Eartha Kitt, and even The Ramones at Revel 32 in Poughkeepsie.

    June 24, 1-6 p.m.- Peekskill Pride’s Family Pride In The Park 2023 celebrates its third annual installment of the free event. It features live music from The Little Mermen, the ultimate Disney Tribute Band, along with Christina Picciano & All My Friends, as well as Drag Queen Story Time, Drag Performances, Pet Photo Contest, craft activities, vendors, games, and more!

    June 24, 1 p.m.- Celebrate the fourth 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/chair, but no pets.

    Catskills

    June 3, 6 p.m.- Catskill Pride: Main Street Mixer, a free event featuring music, mocktails/beer/wine, munchies, and socialization.

    June 17, 3-6 p.m.- 2023 Pride BBQ at 39 Forestburgh Rd in Forestburgh.

    Syracuse

    June 10, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.- The CNY Pride Festival and Parade begin at 11 a.m. in Syracuse with the parade. Line up along Solar Street and West Kirkpatrick Street to watch the parade. It departs from Solar Street near Destiny USA and proceeds 0.7 miles to the festival grounds at the Inner Harbor. The festival goes from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. with vendors, sponsors, and food trucks. Acts TBA for The CNY Pride Main Stage, happening from 12-5 p.m.

    Aug. 25- Pride Day is back at the NYS Fairgrounds in Syracuse. As part of the ceremony, Jimmy Monto, who represents the City of Syracuse’s fifth district as Common Councilor – and is the first openly LGBTQ+ person to serve in an elected position in the City of Syracuse – was announced as Grand Marshall in the Pride Day Parade, which will step off from the Exposition Center a 6:00 p.m. “New York State is known for leading the way when it comes to pursuing equality, accessibility, and inclusivity for all New Yorkers, and at The Great New York State Fair, we try to complement these accomplishments,” said Sean Hennessey, Interim Fair Director. The day includes a drag and comedy show, as well as musical performances by:

    1 p.m. at Chevy Court Stage: Mary Lambert.

    2 p.m. at Suburban Park Stage: Rebecca Black.

    6 p.m. at Chevy Court Stage: Doechii.

    8 p.m. at Suburban Park Stage: Gayle.

    Watertown

    June 16-18– Watertown Pride 2023 features a lot of different and exciting events. Pride kicks off Friday, June 16 at the historic Paddock Arcade, with The Paddock Club supplying food and drink specials, followed by drag show performances. Early on Saturday at 9 a.m., there is a flag raising at City Hall, then at noon head to Thompson Park for a 5k Color Run and Festival. That evening, the entertainment comes to you when a traveling drag show travels from bar to bar, gracing each one with a 20-minute performance. Saturday’s events conclude with Pride Night Fireworks at Duffy Fairgrounds. On Sunday, wrap up Watertown Pride weekend with a Tea Dance at Garland City Beer Works, a local LGBTQIA+-owned brewery. 

    June 22-25- River Pride features celebrations taking place all along the St. Lawrence River in communities like Cape Vincent, Clayton, and Alexandria Bay.

    Rochester

    June 4, 2 p.m.- Free movie screening PRIDE at the Little Theatre. It is a movie based on the true story of Queer activists and Welsh miners under the Margaret Thatcher government in the 1970s.

    June 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.- Pop-Up Pride Day at the Seneca Park Zoo.

    June 10. 2-4 p.m.- Pittsford Pride begins at 2 outside 35 Lincoln Ave with a 0.4-mile walk to 22 N Main St. in Carpenter Park with music, free, food, and more.

    June 18, 1-4 p.m.- Pride Festivities at Central Rock Gym, free for members, discounted day passes for non-members.

    June 26, 5:30 p.m.- Henreitta Pride takes place at the Henreitta Town Hall Lawn.

    July 1, 1-5 p.m.- Pride Day at the Beach: ROC Pride Kickoff at the Ontario Beach Park.

    July 6, 7:05 p.m.- The Rochester Red Wings host Pride Night at the Innovation Field.

    July 6, 8 p.m.- The Drag Queens of Comedy featuring Darienne Lake, Aggy Dune, and Mrs. Kasha Davis perform at Comedy @ The Carlson. The show is for 21+.

    July 10, 5-7 p.m.- Flag Raising at Martin Luther King Jr. Lodge, Manhattan Square Park.

    July 12, 7-9 p.m.- Poems of Pride happens at the Lilac Library. Features readings by some of Rochester’s great LGBTQ+ poets, celebrating the beauty of Rochester Pride.

    July 15, 1-8 p.m.- Rochester Pride Festival returns. The parade begins at 1 p.m. 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.

    Finger Lakes

    June 9, 8-11 p.m.- The Corning Museum of Glass hosts the stunning Mrs. Kasha Davis, performing her one-woman show, There’s Always Time for a Cocktail! Following the performance is the unforgettable drag and dance party Slaying with Fire. Hosted by the fabulous Noah Phence and with the beats provided by DJ RVMBA, the night will feature special guests Cherry Blasé, Scope Kaleido, Dusty Boxx, and Femme de Violette, all bringing their own unique style and talent to the stage. Tickets are on sale now.

    June 9- Teens are encouraged to join the Fairy Drag-Parent workshop, where they can learn the ins and outs of what being a drag queen is like, makeup, costumes, and snacks are provided. Register here.

    June 10, 12-4 p.m.- The SoFLx Pride Festival will take place at Centerway Square in Corning. The event is a celebration of Pride history and will feature local artists and talent. The festival will have LGBTQIA+ vendors, entertainers, artists, and interactive elements for kids, both inside and outside of gaffer businesses on Market Street.

    Ithaca

    June 8, 9 p.m.-Close-Thursgay at The Range Drag Bingo with Pole Posse. There will be prizes, poles, and perfectly crafted drinks from The Range! Bingo games will have pole and drag performances between games, each round will have a prize as well.

    June 9, 6-9 p.m.- Pride Parade and Dance Party. Pedestrian march from Press Bay Alley to the Bernie Milton Pavilion, with opening remarks followed by a Dance Party. This event and route are mobility device accessible.

    June 9, 4-5:30 p.m.- Tompkins County Public Library Young Adult Book Club. The event is in the Schwarz Jacobson Room, discussing the YA graphic novel Mooncakes by Suzanne Walker and Wendy Xu. Pick up a free copy of the book at either the Teen Center Reference Desk at TCPL or Buffalo Street Books.

    June 10, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.- Tompkins County Public Library hosts a Pride Family Story Time, with fun stories and a dance party with DJ Woodrow.

    June 10, 12-6 p.m.- Pride Block Party in Press Bay and 100 Block of West State Street.

    Thursdays in June- Awesomely Queer Movie Night at Tompkins County Public Library.

    June 11, 9 p.m.-Close- Saturgay at The Range Pride Week kick-off Drag Show with host Tilia Cordara.

    June 11, 12 p.m.-3 a.m.- Celebrate Ithaca Pride 2023 with an all-Spanish drag show and brunch at Zócalo Mexican Bar and Grill with the best drag performers in town. Tickets are on sale now.

    June 13, 7-9 p.m.- Pride Week Comedy show with renowned comedians Madelein Smith and Kendra Dawsey. Tickets are on sale now.

    June 15, 9 p.m.-Close- Thursgay at The Range Taste the Rainbow hosted by Tilia Cordata and Noah Phence. Special Guest Jayden Jameson plus a cast of your favorite local performers.

    June 16, 4 p.m.- Close- Join Femme de Violette for a Sapphic happy hour from 4-8 p.m. with music and pop-up drag performances, then stick around for the all-night party! With multiple stages, shows, and hosts it’s going to be a send-off to remember!

    Buffalo

    June 4, 11 a.m.- The annual Buffalo Pride Parade steps off at 11 a.m. on Elmwood Ave, with hundreds of organizations participating.

    June 4, 1-7 p.m.- Following the parade is the Buffalo Pride Festival at Canalside, featuring entertainment, family activities, food and beverages, live performances, and nonprofit and retail vendors. Performers include musical guests Kalifa, Bosco, and Lady Camden from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 14, and an appearance by Amrit and Nicholas from Bravo’s Family Karma.

    New York City

    June 4, 12-6 p.m.- The New Queens Pride Parade and Multicultural Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary. It is the second oldest and second largest pride parade in New York City. Founded in 1993, it is held annually on the first Sunday in June, in the neighborhood of Jackson Heights on 37th Avenue. 

    June 10, 8 p.m., June 10, 8 p.m., June 11, 3 p.m.- ChamberQUEER Pride Festival We Refract

    ChamberQUEER highlights historically underrepresented queer figures in Western classical music and provides an intersectionally inclusive space within Western classical music for artists and audiences. These three concerts look to answer several questions, including how navigating life outside of heteronormativity impacts one’s relationships and how does it shape understanding of one’s own identity?

    Pieces written by a dream team of composers, improvisers, and performers including Jules Biber, Aviva Jaye, Alexis C. Lamb, Brian Mummert, Rajna Swaminathan, Darian Donovan Thomas, and Yoshi Weinberg are linked in concert by improvisations to create a continuous and unified concert-length world premiere. Tickets and more information are available here.

    June 8, 7-11 p.m.- Yonkers Pride Mini Ball features many different categories audience members can dress in, as well as iconic judges and beats provided by DJ Ultraviolet. It is a safe space for all, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, racism, ageism, ableism, body shaming, or any form of discrimination is not allowed.

    Jun 9, 4:30 p.m. – Jun 10, 5:30 p.m.- Please join Mayor Mike Spano and Members of the Yonkers LGBTQ Advisory Board for a Flag Raising Ceremony at Yonkers City Hall Unity Fountain.

    June 10, 2-8 p.m.- Yonkers Pride Festival returns for the sixth annual celebration on Main Street in Downtown Yonkers. It is an outdoor event showcasing celebrity entertainment, food, merchandise, activities, and numerous community organizations.

    June 10, 11 a.m.- 10 p.m.- Celebrate Brooklyn Pride with a festival on Park Slope’s 5th Avenue, entertainers on the Mainstage, and the only Twilight parade in NYC.

    June 24, 3 p.m.-4 a.m.- Elsewhere, a venue in Brooklyn, hosts a Pride concert event featuring Whorechata, DJ Gay Panic, Amorphous, BAYNK, Rochelle Jordan, and more. Tickets are on sale here.

    June 24, 5 p.m.- Dyke March, a protest not a march, steps off from Bryant Park. The March is a demonstration of the First Amendment right to protest and takes place without permits or sponsors. Thousands 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 23-24- Times Square Alliance hosts the second annual Pride In Times Square celebration, full of free events centered around NYC Pride Weekend. It features top-stage and screen celebrities, Broadway/Off-Broadway productions, local Times Square business promotions, Pride Piano sessions, live DJ sets, a Trans and ENBY Pride celebration, a Drag Pride celebration, the return of last year’s Big Broadway Disco, and more.

    June 24, 12-6 p.m.- Celebrate Pride in the historic neighborhood of Harlem in NYC with two entertainment stages, including the Main Stage Show, where we bring you the best talent New York City and the world have to offer, and our DJ Stage, where you can enjoy dance music throughout the day. Also included throughout the day are face painting and Drag Queen Story Hour for the children. While it’s a day of celebration, Harlem Pride will also be providing 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, 2 p.m.- The premiere LGBTQIA+ music festival experience of Pride Weekend is Pride Island. This year it takes place at Brooklyn Army Terminal and seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Christina Aguilera headlines.

    June 26 – PrideFest at 11 a.m., Parade at 12 p.m.- The New York City Pride March returns with Grand Marshals Billy Porter, Yasmin Benoit, AC Dumlao, Hope Giselle, and Randolfe “Randy” Wicker. The March will begin at noon from 25th Street and 5th Avenue. NYC PrideFest, the LGBTQ street fair, takes place at Greenwich Village for musical performances, entertainers, food, activities, and Pride gear from unique vendors.

    Queens Rising is hosting a multitude of events around Queens from June 1 through July 2 to celebrate and promote everything arts and culture in the World’s Borough.

    June 2, 6-9 p.m.- Sunnyside Pride begins at Lowery Plaza (Queens Blvd and 40th Street) for a rally, march, performances and vendor market.

    June 3, 5-11:45p.m.- Queens Rising will be presenting an evening of entertainment, dancing, and fun at the Queens Night Market for free.

    Take a look at other events happening around the city on the days leading up to and following the Pride March and PrideFest.

    June 7, 7 p.m.- The Seaport Museum’s LGBTQ+ Pride Month hosts a special screening of the music-forward film Walk With Me.

    June 17- The Rally.

    June 18, 11:30 a.m.- NYC Pride: The Brunch at The Altman Building.

    June 20, 6 p.m.- Garden Party at Pier 76.

    June 21, 7:05 p.m.- Yankees Pride Night.

    June 22, 7 p.m.- Join Raw Honey as they kick off “Queerpalooza,” their NYC Pride week of events celebrating QTBIPOC at the Ace Hotel.

    June 22, 10 p.m.- Liberaunchy takes over both floors of 3 Dollar Bill.

    June 23, 10 p.m.- Seduction at Silo Brooklyn.

    June 23, 10 p.m.- Europe’s biggest party comes to NYC for one night only, as Matinee & Circuit Festival join forces with Masterbeat for an XXL edition of Pervert.

    June 24, 12 p.m.- Youth Pride.

    June 24, 2-6 p.m.- TEAZE! A Queer party experience at Club Lambda Brooklyn.

    June 25, 2 p.m.- Bliss Days is NYC Pride’s annual celebration of LGBTQIA+ womxn and features rotating DJs, dancers, pop-up performances, and special guest appearances.

    Long Island

    June 3, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.- Hamptons Pride Parade 2023 returns for the second annual edition. Lineup begins at 11 a.m. on Main Street by Pondview Lane and Guild Hall. At 12 p.m. registered participants will march east on Main Street and continue via Newton Lane, Railroad Avenue, and Lumber Lane to Herrick Park, where there will be music and celebration with D.J. Karin Ward till 3 p.m.

    June 11, 12-5 p.m.- The 2023 Long Island Pride celebration will be returning to Huntington Village. Join thousands at the annual parade, concert, and festival celebrating, dancing, eating, and drinking.

  • Johnny Depp Injures Ankle, Hollywood Vampires Postpone Bethel Woods Date

    Johnny Depp has suffered a “painful ankle injury,” the Hollywood Vampires have announced, just a day before they were set to begin their summer tour. Dates set for this week are rescheduled for July, including the Bethel Woods date now moved to July 30.

    Hollywood Vampires
    Hollywood Vampires, photo by Ella DeGea.

    The Hollywood Vampires is comprised of Johnny Depp, Alice Cooper, and Aerosmith member Joe Perry, as well as Tommy Henriksen. The band originally formed in 2012 and announced in 2022, just days after Depp won his defamation lawsuit against ew-wide Amber Heard, that they would be reuniting for a 2023 tour.

    In June 2022, a jury found that Heard had defamed Depp on all three counts and awarded him $10 million in compensatory damages and $5 million in punitive damages. Since then, Depp has remained largely sidelined from Hollywood productions due to the abuse allegations against him. He was forced to exit his role in the Harry Potter spinoff series Fantastic Beasts in 2020 but continues to do well, playing shows with Jeff Beck and signing a $20 million-plus deal with fashion brand Dior.

    Jeff Beck and Johnny Depp.

    In a statement shared by the band, they said: “Johnny has sustained a painful injury to his ankle following his recent appearances and has been advised by his doctor not to travel.” They went on to say that “he is devastated by this turn of events but looks forward to resting up so all four Vampires can bring their absolute best to the tour in Europe.”

    All tickets will be honored for the new dates, which include July 28 at the Wang Theatre Boch Center in Boston, July 29 at the SNHU Arena in Manchester, NH, and July 30 at the Bethel Woods Center For The Arts in Bethel. For more information about the Hollywood Vampires and to purchase tickets to their upcoming tour, visit here.

  • In Focus: Beartooth Co-headline with Trivium at Buffalo Riverworks

    On Tuesday, May 9th, Beartooth and Trivium brought their co-headlining tour Buffalo Riverworks, with support from Malevolence and Archetypes Collide.

    Malevolence

    If you’ve never been to Riverworks, its located right on the edge of the Buffalo River and its host to more than just shows but also provides entertainment and fun for the younger crowd, with rides like the Kids Train, Fun Slide, Happy Viking, Jumping Jack and we even have a kids ropes course, with mini a zip-line. Inside, you’ll find the stage but also, arcade games and a skating rink off to the side. 

    Trivium

    First to kick off the night was Archetypes Collide, who had a lot of energy to share throughout their set. Followed by them was Malevolence, a english heavy metal band from South Yorkshire and formed in 2010. Up after them, was the infamous Trivium, who’s been around since the 90’s and have 10 full length albums, not to mention the many awards they’ve received from, Grammys, Kerrang!, Metal Hammer, and more.

    Trivium is known for having some interesting sets for their shows and time was no exception, as two dragon statues were revealed as the stage was getting ready, also guitar cabs were decorated to fit the theme. Once they began their set, it was all high energy from there, with Matt Heafy leaving his microphone to get closer to the crowd while shredding his guitar. 

    To follow up their great performance, is Beartooth, who not too long ago, brought another to The Main Street Armory. As to be expected, they put on a killer show, opening up with Devastation from their latest album Below, also playing their newest single Sunshine!. The tour still has many dates left, so don’t miss out!

    Architecture

    Malevolence

    Trivium

    Beartooth

  • Declan McKenna Kicks Off “The Big Return” Tour at Empire Live

    On Sunday, May 28th Declan McKenna stopped at Empire Live in Albany for the second show of his 50+ date The Big Return tour. Eager fans lined up hours in advance at the intimate 1000-capacity venue to scream along to songs like “Brazil” and “Rapture” as McKenna scaled along the stage with his Mick-Jagger-like dance moves. The audience, consisting mostly of teenage girls and fathers, was seen jumping, dancing, twirling, and overall living in the moment during his set. 

    declan McKenna
    Declan McKenna photographed by Sarah Hyun

    24-year-old McKenna was born in London and has been making music ever since he was a teenager. His most popular song “Brazil” was released when he was only fifteen, and has since gained massive popularity through its widespread use on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. He has four more New York dates scheduled in May and July, which can be found here.

    Declan McKenna photographed by Sarah Hyun

    The Oracle Sisters opened the night with a chill and vibey set. The French trio, blending elements of surf rock, jazz, and indie pop similar to groups like The Walters and Summer Salt successfully raised the energy in the eager crowd. Audience members were seen bobbing their heads along to the beat as the three band members—Lewis Lazar, Christopher Willat, and Julia Johansen—jammed out. Their timeless sound matched their vintage style, allowing for a truly ear- and eye-catching performance. After they ended their set, the audience applauded enthusiastically, clearly satisfied by McKenna’s chosen openers. 

    The Oracle Sisters photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Audience members sang along to songs in the pre-show playlist like “Toxic” before McKenna entered the stage. A flashing light from the right of the stage got the attention of everyone, triggering a roaring scream of excitement as he came on to sing his first song, “You Better Believe!!!” Wearing a black and yellow coat with bell-bottomed pants, McKenna brought an almost-tangible energy to the venue. This high-energy could be felt through his powerful vocals, his intricate movements, and the body-rumbling basslines of each and every song. The retro synths in many of the tracks on his most recent album Zeros, coupled with his scream-like vocals set the vibe of the show. 

    Declan McKenna is truly a rockstar, with passion being the only word to describe his performance and persona. Swinging his guitar on the stage, jumping off into the photo pit, and putting his all into every song was something he did not fail to do throughout the entirety of the concert. His facial expressions carried a power in them that could not be emulated by anyone else. Throughout the set, he constantly hit his looping and distortion pedals to craft the instrumentals of the songs in real time, whilst simultaneously singing along. He had to take a break after each song to wipe the sweat from his face and even removed his jacket early into the show because of how much he was moving. 

    Before singing “Rapture,” McKenna yelled, “Are you ready for some rock ‘n roll?,” and encouraged the crowd to clap along. Declan has a very strong British accent when he sings, and during his performance of hit-song “Brazil” the audience emulated his British dialect while singing along to lyrics like “I heard he lives down a river somewhere // With six cars and a grizzly bear.” McKenna explores a variety of themes in his music, from the topic of anti-war, corruption in sports and politics (as in “Brazil”), and struggles with mental health. The lyrics behind each of his songs made his performances even more meaningful. 

    Declan McKenna photographed by Sarah Hyun

    Declan McKenna ended his show with a two-song encore. Performing an incredible rendition of George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass” as well as his own song, “British Bombs,” McKenna ended the night on a powerful note. Fans screamed in awe as he soloed on his knees during the George Harrison cover, turning a generally easy-paced song into something of his own. Fans exited the venue elated, talking amongst one another about his incredible performance. McKenna’s next four New York shows are scheduled to be at Westcott Theater, Town Ballroom, Brooklyn Steel, and Webster Hall. 

    Setlist: You Better Believe!!!, Paracetamol, Why Do You Feel So Down, Listen to Your Friends, (Untitled Song), My House, Rapture, Beautiful Faces, Be an Astronaut, Make Me Your Queen, Humongous, The Kids Don’t Wanna Come Home; Eventually, Darling; The Key to Life on Earth, Brazil, Isombard

    Encore: All Things Must Pass (George Harrison cover), British Bombs

  • Jackson Browne to Perform Five Shows Between Beacon Theatre and Tanglewood Music Center

    Singer-songwriter Jackson Browne will perform four shows at the Beacon Theatre in New York City and one at the Tanglewood Music Center in Lenox, MA this August. Beacon Theatre dates will be the 22nd, 23rd, 25th, and 26th and the Tanglewood date is scheduled for the 31st.

    A 2004 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Browne’s stop at Tanglewood is his seventh appearance there since 1973.

    Long before Browne’s induction into the Hall of Fame, his career would start in 1972 after the release of his self-titled debut album. Since that mark, Browne’s 14 studio projects, four live performance collections, and two compilations make up an immensely decorated tenure in the music industry for the musician.

    If attending his upcoming August shows, prepare to hear some of his greatest hits such as “For A Dancer,” “The Pretender,” and more during his performance.

    In 2002, Browne was the recipient of the John Steinbeck Award, given to artists whose works display environmental and social values that the author found crucial in linking together. Browne is well-known for his advocacy towards the environment and its connection to arts and human rights.

    Alongside the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he would join the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2007.

    Beacon Theatre & Tanglewood Music Center Tickets

    Beacon Theatre: Singer-songwriter Jackson Browne will perform four shows on August 22, August 23, August 25, and August 26, 2023.

    General tickets go on sale beginning on Friday, May 26 at 10 AM.  Additional Presale, Fan, and VIP ticket information is available at LiveNation.com.

    Tanglewood Music Center: Browne will be performing at the Koussevitzky Music Shed with his full band on August 31, 2023!

    Tickets to Browne’s show will go on sale on Thursday, June 1 at 10 a.m. with additional information and tickets available at tanglewood.org.

  • Hearing Aide: The Dare “The Sex EP”

    The Dare, a solo project by singer-songwriter Harrison Patrick Smith, released its first Extended Play (EP), The Sex EP on May 19. The EP features four songs, with a generally vulgar and sexual theme. Many of the pieces incorporate elements of electronic, rock, and punk.

    The Dare Sex EP
    The Dare’s singer, songwriter, and producer Harrison Patrick Smith. Credit: Ben Taylor

    Emerging from New York City, The Dare released the EP with Republic Records. The four songs increase in length as the EP goes, ranging from about two minutes to about four minutes. Following the release of The Sex EP, Smith will make his headline debuts, with four of the shows already sold out.

    I just wanted to write something funny and true about my relationship to sex. It’s also the most time honored and classic theme of rock and roll, so I had to do it. The other, less horny songs are coming later.

    The Dare

    The first song, “Girls,” is an upbeat opening, introducing several elements that are continued throughout the EP. A chorus makes its appearance, sometimes echoing, a signature style in the EP. The electric instrumentals give it an almost dubstep feel, though that varies from piece to piece.

    “Sex,” which follows “Girls” is heavier on the echoing chorus, and is notable in the change in Smith’s vocals. While in the previous piece Smith was more upbeat, in “Sex” he has more of a murmur. A loud buzzing sound is introduced with a bit less than a minute remaining. This helps carry “Sex” into the next song, “Good Time,” which uses a similar sound.

    In “Good Time,” the chorus is not as prominent, opposite of the change to come in “Bloodwork.” The vocals switch between the more upbeat tone of “Girls” and the murmur of “Sex,” setting this one up as a conclusion to that section of the EP.

    “Bloodwork” is the final song, and it is very different from the previous three. It has a long opening, about a minute in length, that slowly builds tension in a way that feels straight out of a horror movie. The main vocals take a backseat, only featuring an echoing chorus that says either “blood” or “work.”

    The Sex EP is available on various music streaming services, including Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music.

    Four of The Dare’s debut shows in New York City and Los Angeles have sold out, with the next shows at the following locations:

    Aug. 4-6 – FWB Fest – Idyllwild, CA

    Sept. 30 – Portola – San Francisco, CA

  • Syracuse Opera Reveals 2023-2024 Season at First-Ever Opera and Beer Event

    Syracuse Opera has revealed its 2023-2024 schedule, whose theme will highlight intimate portraits of hopes and dreams, at the first-ever opera and beer event in the organization’s history held at Harvey’s Garden.

    syracuseopera
    Photos courtesy of Syracuse Opera Facebook and Bunn Hill Photo (Randy Cummings)

    Established in 1974, Syracuse Opera is the only year-round professional opera company, opening many doors for the Central New York music community.

    Circling back to the theme of hopes and dreams, this decision on the upcoming season expects to generate momentum following Syracuse Opera’s 2022-2023 season, which recently ended with an acclaimed production of The Marriage of Figaro.

    “It makes opera more accessible. It’s a fun way to invite people into our world, kick off the summer, and celebrate the future of opera in Syracuse.”

    – John Rozzoni

    The full 2023-2024 schedule spans from October 2023 – May 2024.

    2023-2024 Syracuse Opera Schedule

    The season opens with I Am a Dreamer Who No Longer Dreams on October 20 at the Redhouse Arts Center in Syracuse, a showing that will focus on the compassion versus the dark side of our society.

    Following this, December 15’s All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 will move all in attendance with a true story of an extraordinary night during World War I, sharing the instance when Allied and German soldiers set down their weapons and created peace with one another.

    2024’s shows will kick off on Valentine’s Day weekend when a love story hits the Syracuse Opera stage in The Fantasticks, the longest-running musical of all time.

    Concluding the season on April 28, 2024, the prequel to The Marriage of Figaro, called The Barber of Seville hits Crouse-Hinds Theater in an unforgettable ending to the opera’s season.

    In addition to these four productions, Syracuse Opera will also host two other exciting musical events. On September 24, 2023, they will host Celebrating 75: An Andrew Lloyd Webber Revue, a night hosted by well-known composer Andrew Llyod Weber.

    As previously mentioned, the opera and beer event will be held at Harvey’s Garden in May 2024, offering a relaxing approach to opera by giving the audience the chance to connect with performers. 

    John Rozzoni, General Director of Syracuse Opera, believes that the Opera and Beer event will be the perfect opportunity for the organization and community to interact face-to-face.

    Tickets for Syracuse Opera’s 2023-2024 campaign will go on sale soon. Single-show ticket options are not available for purchase until July 2023, but you may buy subscription packages through the form on Syracuse Opera’s website. The subscription package covers the entire season.

    Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more updates!

  • In Focus: Andrew McMahon Delivers Colorful, Sold-Out Performance at Town Ballroom in Buffalo

    Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness wrapped up a two-week east coast tour with a sold out performance at Town Ballroom in Buffalo on Wednesday, May 24.  The tour, which also featured stops in Syracuse and Albany, was in support of the band’s latest release Tilt at the Wind No More

    Few in the music industry today tout the resume that Andrew McMahon has.  His original rise to fame came as the lead singer of the early 2000’s emo rock band Something Corporate.  In 2004 McMahon formed Jack’s Mannequin, and later in 2014 would begin Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, a project that continues today.  All along the way, McMahon has crafted stellar piano-rock tracks and has amassed a large and devoted following of fans who flock to his live concerts.  His current band features Bob Anderson (guitar), Zac Clark (keyboards), Jay McMillian (drums) and Mikey Wagner (bass guitar).  

    Early arriving fans on Wednesday night were treated to an opening performance by Griffin William Sherry.  Known for his work with independent-folk rock band The Ghost of Paul Revere, Sherry delighted the audience with a set of acoustic folk tracks.  At times, Sherry’s strong vocals channeled singer/song writers such as Nathaniel Rateliff and Chris Stapleton.

    andrew mcmahon buffalo

    Up next were The Unlikely Candidates, from Fort Worth, Texas.  To describe their set as high energy would be an understatement.  From the cryptic opening guitar rift of “Sunshine” to the final notes of set closer “Novocaine”, singer Kyle Morris took captive hold of the audience.  Morris strutted the stage, leapt in the air,  twirled his microphone, at times throwing it high in the air before catching it.  Morris would lean in close over the audience, locking eyes with those in the front row, never missing a lyrical beat.  A mid-set cover of the A-ha classic “Take on Me” had the showroom bursting with energy. The band was sure to gain many new fans following their set.

    andrew mcmahon buffalo

    Finally, it was time for Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness.  The standing room only club was packed elbow to elbow with little room to maneuver, with the crowd in eager anticipation of the band’s arrival.  Once the houselights dimmed, a lone spotlight shone into the crowd.  The light illuminated McMahon, who was standing in the back of the club, and began performing the slow moving, reflective “Nobody Tells You When You’re Young”.  McMahon made his way slowly to the stage, providing brief and intimate performances for those whose path he encountered.  Once arriving to the stage, McMahon was joined by his bandmates who immediately launched into “The Mixed Tape,” a familiar fan favorite from McMahon’s Jack’s Mannequin days.  

    andrew mcmahon buffalo

    While the music was at the forefront, the spectacle of an Andrew McMahon performance was not missing on this night.  McMahon donned a colorful, light up cape during “Stars”.  He crowd surfed while riding an inflatable llama, making it all the way to the top tier of the club.  During “Synesthesia”, McMahon brought a multi-colored parachute into the crowd, singing the song’s chorus from underneath.  In all, McMahon and his band would roll through a 23 song set, spanning over twenty years worth of music.  It was a memorable evening for those in attendance, one that would be sure to have fans clamoring for a return performance in the near future.

  • Inclusion Festival Announced for July 14-16 in Kempton, PA

    Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend the Inclusion Festival – a sensory friendly, accessible music and wellness event for all ages and abilities. The festival’s 2018 debut marked the nation’s first festival designed to accommodate disabled people. The festival returns this year at the Kempton Community Center from July 14-16 in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley region. The festival will feature virtual components to increase accessibility for those unable to attend the live event.

    Activities

    Presented by the non-profit Accessible Festivals and supported by Rex Foundation and Mimi Fishman Foundation, the Inclusion Festival offers a uniquely immersive, fully inclusive experience. The festival offers music, workshops, camping, art, relaxation areas, a resource fair, a parade, flow arts, and more. The events are presented in an environment entirely designed to be accessible for all, including sensory-friendly music, sensory-friendly supportive relaxation spaces, and more.

    Additionally, in an effort to increase accessibility, the virtual component of the festival will include an accessible livestream with captions, virtual workshops, virtual sensory zones, home activities, and more.

    Music

    The festival largely emphasizes the role of music in connecting people. Music is a universal language with the ability to connect people from differing backgrounds and experiences. Inclusion Festival strives to feature diverse and disabled regional artists, showcasing a wide variety of genres and styles.

    This year’s lineup will include Flux Capacitor, a trio of brothers from Pennsylvania who meld rock and electronica. Additionally, Gooch & The Motion will deliver a unique blend of country, blues, and rock & roll. Miss Cantaloupe will perform Fleetwood Mac’s Rumors album. Performances from Liz Bills & The Change, Lee Ross, Darlingtyn, and a special Inclusion Family Jam will bring celebrate inclusion through music.

    More Information

    All festival donations directly support Accessible Festivals, a non-profit committed to empowering communities through accessible music and recreation. Accessible Festivals fosters connection and understanding through music, creating an inclusive platform for all abilities and identities to connect. Inspiring the creation of safe, inclusive, and equitable communities

    To purchase tickets, donate, get involved, or learn more about accessibility at the event, visit their website.

  • Post Malone Returns to the States for ‘If Ya’ll Weren’t Here I’d Be Crying’ Tour

    Diamond-selling, pop superstar Post Malone will return to the United States with another leg of the “If Y’all Weren’t Here, I’d Be Crying” Tour. This announcement follows his highly successful trek across the U.S. and Canada last year and another stop in Europe for his long-awaited “Twelve Carat Tour.” However, the 10-time Grammy nominee returns to America to give fans his signature exhilarating performance, along with music from his upcoming album as well as fan-favorites in a completely reimagined show.  

    Produced by Live Nation, the 24-date run kicks off in Noblesville, IN, on July 8, and includes a stop at Darien Lake Amphitheater in Darien Center, NY, on Monday, July 17, 2023.

    “I love y’all so very much and I’m so excited to get out and do some more shows for y’all. Help me put a baby through college and come on out. Some cool new production, new songs, and a very very handsome man up on stage. Sending love to you and yours.” Says Post Malone.

    Along with the tour announcement, Post has revealed the released date for his long-awaited fifth full-length album. Titled, Austin, the project will arrive on July 28, with Post releasing the single “Mourning,” in anticipation.

    Tickets for the tour can be found on the Live Nation’s website, although the tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, access to the World Pong League VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP gift items and more. For more information, visit vipnation.com.