Syracuse Rochester Adirondack Thousand Islands Finger Lakes Region Happy Trails Summer Stage Directory

By Michael K. Thomas

With the rising temperatures of summer come the rising costs of fuel. So instead of taking long road trips, stick around town and pump your hard-earned gas money into visiting some of the festivals and events happening right here in Syracuse.

Speaking of fuel, the local classic car scene has kicked into high gear in recent years with an ever-growing list of weekly and monthly events for gear-heads and the casual admirer alike. For hot-rod owners, the long winter months spent staring at their beauty under a car cover seem like an eternity, so once summer hits, they revel in hitting the road.

Every Thursday, 5 to 8 p.m., classic car owners take their cruisers down to the Regional Market, 2100 Park St., for the WSEN-FM (92.1) Cruise-In. Hundreds of cars drive in week in and week out through Sept. 27 to chat it up with fellow car owners and unwind after a long day on the job. Even though there are no waitresses on roller skates bringing trays of hamburgers, fries and shakes to the rock’n’roll riders, a variety of good food is sold by multiple vendors so you can eat while you check out the rides. Since the oldies station sponsors the event, a live deejay will spin tunes from the golden era of rock.

The biggest car event—as well as one of the biggest events to hit the city annually —is the Syracuse Street Rod Nationals, which takes place July 20-22 at the New York State Fairgrounds. More than 60,000 people will pass through the gates to check out more than 6,000 cars. Expect to see just about every make and model that rolled off the assembly line since Henry Ford got it all started, in their original form, as well as American Graffiti-style hot rods that have been customized with wild colors, ideas and parts. There are also numerous food and merchandise vendors, live music from local and national acts and surprise celebrity guests to keep everyone entertained all three days.

If your significant other’s obsession with cars has driven you absolutely mad and made you wish you could see these cars destroyed so you could spend more time together, check this out. A Demolition Derby will be held for the first time at the Nationals on Saturday, July 21, under the lights at the Grandstand. Walking among the endless maze of convertible tops, supercharged engines, rumble seats and shining chrome will bring back memories for those who were there and let the younger generation see first hand how things used to be. Visit www.rightcoastcars.com or call 668-9073 for more information.

Ever wondered if that thing really has a Hemi? Or have just plain wondered what a Hemi is? Find out at the All-Mopar (Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth) show July 29 at Longbranch Park, Long Branch Road, Liverpool. The Hemi was the fastest and most powerful engine to have ever powered a street car during its production years of 1966 to 1971, when it could be special-ordered for any Mopar automobile, such as the Plymouth Road Runner, which featured the likeness of the tongue-wagging, desert-dwelling Warner Bros. cartoon character on its decals. The Hemi is rarely seen these days except at shows like this, so don’t miss your opportunity. Call 453-6712 or visit www.cnymopar.com for details.

There is usually a themed car show every Sunday at various locations around the area. For a complete listing, visit www.cnycca.org.

Even classic car nuts will want to turn off their old AM car radios and abandon the glorious monophonic sound in favor of some good live music every now and then. They will have no trouble finding the stage as Syracuse summers offer a variety of outdoor festivals and weekly music events.

The 25th annual Syracuse M&T Jazz Fest returns to the campus of Onondaga Community College from June 29 through July 1 for three days of be-boppin’ from local and national jazz acts on multiple stages. Headliners this year are as impressive as ever. On Friday, June 29, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones will perform their Grammy Award-winning fusion of bluegrass and folk dubbed “newgrass.” Fleck is considered the premier banjo player in the world and is credited with reinventing the image and sound of the banjo during his remarkable recording career.

On Saturday, June 30, take Time Out to listen to the legendary Dave Brubeck Quartet, which returns to the festival for the third time. Closing out the festival on Sunday, July 1, will be the Queen of Soul herself, Aretha Franklin. Long regarded the best female vocalist in the history of music, Franklin will no doubt make sure the Syracuse jazz scene gets its due “R-E-S-P-E-C-T.” Numerous local high school bands are performing as well as workshops and artists interactions. Visit www.syracusejazzfest.com or call 437-5627.

With the blues come the brews, as the Syracuse Micro-Brews & Blues Week begins Friday, July 20, with the Empire State Brewing and Music Festival in Clinton Square. More of a taste-test than a drunk-fest, the festival, which runs from 5 to 10 p.m., showcases the finest ales, lagers and stouts from some of the best micro-breweries in the country, all while some nitty-gritty live blues provides the soundtrack. Tickets cost $15 for music lovers (no beer); $30 in advance; $35 at the gate. For more information, call 256-7608 or visit www.empirebrewfest.com.

The next day, the event morphs into the free New York State Blues Festival, with music beginning at 2 p.m., and ending up at 9:30 p.m. with Tommy Castro, who has worked with iconic bluesmen John Lee Hooker and Albert King. Music gets under way at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 22, with headliner Buddy Guy taking the stage at 9:30 p.m.  Guy first gained acclaim in Chicago in the mid-1960s and soon after earned an international reputation as the quickest and wildest guitar player to have ever hit the scene, giving the likes of Jimi Hendrix a case of ax-envy. To find out more about this festival, call 473-0826 or visit www.nysblues fest.com.

For a city its size, Syracuse has a fine zoo, operated by Onondaga County Parks. The Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is always busy during the summer hosting myriad events. As the animals at the zoo are not hired entertainers who only work during business hours, then head out for happy hour afterward, many people have wondered what exactly the animals do after the gates close on a typical day. Wonder no more. Every Tuesday in July from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., the zoo opens up for Sunset Safari. After testing the waters with this event last year, the zoo has added a host of activities to make it an enjoyable night for people of all ages. As the sun is going down, you can walk among reptiles and mammals and hear the sounds of the wild blend with the sounds of live music, as some of the finest local bands take to the stage each night of the safari. Zookeepers are also on hand to answer any questions and give demonstrations on how the animals are cared for after-hours. Call 435-8511
or visit www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org for details.

Keeping in the spirit of nature, the second annual Bassmaster Memorial Tournament, which will be held from July 26-28, will also take a vast leap forward compared to last year’s inaugural event. This year, in a tournament televised by ESPN, the best anglers from around the country will come to Syracuse to cast a line into Oneida Lake and attempt to win one of the Bass Anglers Sportsmen Society’s three major titles, the fishing equivalent to the Super Bowl. Even if you aren’t one of the best anglers in the world, there will be several competitions open to all qualified people at Oneida Lake, Oneida Shores and Onondaga Lake. Weigh-ins to determine the winners will be held at the OnCenter, 800 S. State St. Call 470-1826 or visit www.bassmaster.com for tournament registration and information.

What’s old is new again as the Syracuse Chiefs have returned. Actually, they never left; they were just known as the Skychiefs from 1997 through 2006, much to the dismay of longtime fans. The brass at the organization mentioned at the press conference announcing the name change that they noticed folks still sporting Chiefs gear to Skychiefs games and saw that many season ticket holders still made their checks out to the Syracuse Chiefs. So they decided it was time to bring back the name that had been associated with this city since the team’s inception in 1937. The Chiefs are the AAA minor-league affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays and are one step away from the majors, so expect to see some guys busting their butts hoping to get called up to the bigs. For schedules, tickets and everything else Chiefs, visit www.syracusechiefs.com or call 474-7833.

While Syracuse can be accused of lacking a lot of things, it never gets the old wag of the finger for ignoring its diversity. Juneteenth, held June 15 and 16 in Hanover Square, is the area’s biggest celebration of black culture which also commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. The highlight of the event is the Freedom Parade, which takes place Saturday, June 16, on South Salina Street downtown. There will also be plenty of soul food, music and other activities to keep you entertained and informed. Call 474-6823 for more information.

The day after Juneteenth ends, Clinton Square gears up for another ethnic celebration as the Jewish Music and Cultural Fest returns for its eighth year on June 17. A variety of Jewish bands and theater troupes will take the stage to display the culture’s artistic side, while kosher treats such as strudels and kugels will showcase its culinary side. For more information, call 682-8489 or visit www.syracusejewishfestival.com.

If you’re looking for that unique craft or painting to adorn your home, check out the Syracuse Arts and Crafts Festival taking place July 6-8 at Columbus Circle. Many national artists come to town and transform the area into one of the largest free art festivals in the Northeast. This top-rated festival is a wonderful place to spend the day with the whole family where your senses will be stimulated with art and fine handmade crafts, great food, music and entertainment for all ages. Handcrafted jewelry, vases, clothing and statues will be sold alongside landscapes and avant-garde style paintings created by some of the country’s most celebrated brushstroke masters. For details, call 422-8284.  The New Times’ annual Street Painting Festival takes place Saturday, July 7. For details, call 422-7011, Ext. 141.

And winding down a Syracuse summer is the New York State Fair, Aug. 23 through Sept. 3. Come one, come all as there’s something for everyone within the Fairgrounds’ 375 acres. You will be one of close to a million people hip-shaking through the turnstiles to the sights and sounds of amusement park rides, sideshows, food stands and carnival barkers who want to guess your weight or age and convince you it’s your lucky day to win that Pabst Blue Ribbon mirror you’ve always wanted.

If it’s one of those 90-degree days or pouring rain outside, scurry into the nearest tent or building: If you find yourself in the Center of Progress Building, you will feel as if you are wandering through the programs on your TV at 3 a.m. An army of vendors sells those late-night infomercial products you can never seem to find in stores. There are too many buildings to list one-by-one, but there are always the usual suspects fairgoers seem to frequent, including the Carriage Museum, the International Pavilion, the Horticulture Building and the Dairy Building, famous for the udder-ly refreshing cups of white and chocolate moo juice served straight from the farm, and the amazingly detailed giant butter sculpture.

The biggest news so far about the fair is that visitors will be required to wear a shirt and footwear (duh!), and while fairgoers are encouraged to bring coolers with food and drink, that drink cannot contain alcohol. All liquids must be in plastic or cans; no glass bottles. In addition, there will be no sales of tobacco products on the fairgrounds and no tobacco advertising. Fair brass has yet to decide on designating smoking areas, although you can’t light up inside the buildings or under tents.

Every night, you can catch a national music act performing live at the Grandstand. Some of the highlights this year include: Linkin Park on Aug. 28; Brad Paisley on Sept. 1; and the American Idol tour on Sept. 2. Free concerts at Chevrolet Court have yet to be announced. Ticket prices are $10 at the gate, or $6 in advance; kids 12 and under are always free. The fair schedule has not been entirely announced yet, so call 487-7711 or visit www.nysfair.org for updates and all other information.

By Jennifer Loviglio

When I go away, I don’t head to the beach; I head to cities where the action is. To get the best feel for Rochester, don’t just visit the big-name attractions. Sure, the George Eastman House, 900 East Ave. ((585) 271-3360; www.eastmanhouse.org), is a five-star must, and the Strong Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square Drive ((585) 263-2700; www.strongmuseum.org), is one of the country’s best children’s museums. To really get to know us, ferret out the offbeat, interesting neighborhoods and then walk, drive and eat your way through town.

It’s no accident that Rochester’s neighborhoods just keep getting better. It is, in fact, all part of the plan. We may not be able to keep a ferry afloat, but we’re astonishingly good at charrettes. For the uninitiated, charrettes occur when residents enlists the help of an urban planning group to make their neighborhood pedestrian-friendly. When people perambulate more, restaurants and shops sprout like weeds and the sidewalks bustle with dog-walkers, bike-riders and window-shoppers.

The good folks in the Neighborhood of the Arts worked with planners to create ArtWalk. They slowed down a crazy-fast street, made the sidewalks wider and turned benches, lampposts and the sidewalks themselves into works of art. Enjoy ArtWalk by starting off at Starry Nites, 696 University Ave. ((585) 271-2630), where you can grab a cuppa Joe, or next door at Edibles, 704 University Ave. ((585) 271-4910), for Ukrainian food with a contemporary flair. From there walk two blocks west to Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave. ((585) 473-7720), or two blocks east along a row of antique shops and art galleries to Craft Co. No. 6, 785 University Ave. ((585) 473-3413), Rochester’s art jewelry institution.

Thanks to its fun and funky folks, South Wedge has really blossomed. As new coffee shops and restaurants, such as John’s Tex-Mex Eatery, 489 South Ave. ((585) 232-0863), continue to open, so do cool clothing stores like Thread, 654 South Ave., and even a high-concept, low-price, home-decor store called Nook, 658 South Ave.

Park anywhere near the intersection of South and Gregory and walk up one side of South Street and down the other. The new South Wedge Green Grocer, 683 South Ave. (www.swgreengrocer.com), brings neighbors together with fresh, organic food in the heart of the Wedge. And Wild Wools, 732 South Ave. ((585) 271-0960), no longer a newcomer, is a focal point of another kind, offering lush and beautiful wool for seasoned knitters and wannabes alike.

Some established venues are mixing it up in new ways. Little Venice Pizzeria, 742 South Ave. ((585) 473-6710), and the coffeeshop Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. ((585) 242-7840), have relocated next to each other, and customers can enjoy their goods in either setting. Solera Wine Bar, 647 South Ave. ((585) 232-3070), offers an exciting list of wines, but if coffee, good vibes and live music are more your thing, stop by Boulder Coffee Co., 100 Alexander St. ((585) 454-7140). Catch some live music and congratulate them for having recently survived a car that crashed through a wall last year.

South Clinton Avenue is another great example of a little neighborhood that could. Residents and businesses here banded together to save the beloved, quirky Cinema Theater, 957 S. Clinton Ave. ((585) 271-1785), a place where all movies are double features and a friendly cat roams. The area, which lures more interesting restaurants every year, now features my current favorite Japanese restaurant, the tiny Shiki, 1054 S. Clinton Ave. ((585) 271-2090). Across the way is the new, fragrant Ariana Kabob House, 1009 S. Clinton Ave. ((585) 244-3202). Up the road a piece, at Flavors of Asia, 831 S. Clinton Ave. ((585) 256-2310), the ingredients are fresh and the aroma will make you feel faint with hunger.

One neighborhood took a hit this year, but the High Falls Entertainment District will be back. Several venues have closed in the past year due to underage drinking violations and some financial finagling. You can still great view of the spectacular High Falls—why drive all that way to Niagara?—and enjoy some of Rochester’s finest dining at the Triphammer Grill, 60 Brown’s Race ((585) 262-2700). Or grab a burger and a cold one on the deck overlooking the falls at Jimmy Mac’s, 104 Platt St. ((585) 232-5230).

For nightlife, follow the river upstream a block or two to the St. Paul District. This area manages to attract the hottest, most hopping nightclubs and bars outside of the East Avenue corridor. Newcomer Venu Resto-Lounge, 151 St. Paul St. ((585) 232-5650), lures the urban crowd with, among other things, a heralded jazz series. Tapas 177, 177 St. Paul St. ((585) 262-2090), which anchors the area with great food and salsa dancing, has a way of making even an old married couple feel like they’re having an affair. Across the street stop in and shout out to Scott at Full Moon Vista Bike, 180 St. Paul St. ((585) 546-4030), which has, in three short years, put Rochester on the international racing map with the annual Twilight Criterium, a wicked fast bike race through downtown at night. With a prize of $20,000, it’ll make you wish you’d spent more time in spinning class.

The East End has always been a great destination for food and drink, but now it’s a real live neighborhood, chock-full of residences in both converted old buildings and brand-spanking new ones. Neighbors and visitors alike frequent mainstays such as the art films at the Little Theatre, 240 East Ave. ((585) 232-3906, www.little-theatre.com), Greenwood Books, 123 East Ave. ((585) 325-2050), and the giant auto showroom-turned-hangout, Spot Coffee, 200 East Ave. ((585) 613-4600). If you’re looking for Milestones, it has a new owner and a new name: High Fidelity, 170 East Ave. ((585) 325-6490), still a good place to see live music. A block west you’ll find the former Milestones owner running Temple Bar & Grill, 109 East Ave. ((585) 232-6000).

I am officially too old to spend my whole night dodging limos as I reel from one cool A-Street club to another, but you, of course, are not. Alexander Street, as we oldsters call it, still features Mex Restaurant, 295 Alexander St. ((585) 262-3060), and Monty’s Korner, 355 East Ave. ((585) 263-7650). Around the corner the mechanical bull at Daisy Dukes, 336 East Ave. ((585) 325-4441) is still going strong, but Karma is now The Chocolate Bar, 355 East Ave. ((585) 262-2030), where cocktails and fondue are a heaven-sent combination.

Not even a partial list of vibrant neighborhoods such as this one can ignore Monroe Avenue. Walk the mile or two from one end to the other and take in the breathless diversity of smells, sights and tastes. From the French-Vietnamese Le Lemon Grass, 942 Monroe Ave. ((585) 271-8360), to the eyesore that is Show World, 585 Monroe Ave. ((585) 473-0160), and beyond, Monroe Avenue offers color (that is, at various tattoo and piercing shops), excitement (Show World sells porn), beauty (Mercury Posters, 1 Sumner Park ((585) 271-3110)), and brains (Brown Bag Books, 678 Monroe Ave. ((585) 271-3494), not to mention ethnic restaurants and sports bars, to hipsters and suburbanites alike.

Sports teams can turn a town into a neighborhood by uniting everyone behind a single goal: Go Rochester! This year Red Wings minor-league baseball brings us all together to celebrate its 50th anniversary. The Rochester Rhinos did us proud last season both at home (PAETEC Park, 460 Oak St. ((585) 454-3000), and away, nearly beating out Vancouver for the United Soccer League Division I championship. Take it from me, neighbor, we’ll win it this year.     

ROCHESTER CALENDAR OF EVENTS 

Through Sept. 2. Rochester-Finger Lakes Exhibition. Rochester’s oldest and most prestigious juried exhibit. Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave. (585) 473-7720, www.mag.rochester.edu.

Through Sept. 3. Ansel Adams: Celebration of Genius. Stunning landscapes, intimate portraits from the man who needs no introduction. George Eastman House, 900 East Ave. (585) 271-3360, www.eastman house.org.

Sundays, June and July. Sunday Fundays. Discover the science of motion studying everything from ants to Zodiacs with a series of activities free with admission. Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave., Rochester. (585) 271-4320, www.rmsc.org.

June 8-16. Rochester International Jazz Festival. This now wildly popular event will feature 200 concerts at 18 venues. Dave Brubeck, Wynton Marsalis with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, and Madeleine Peyroux will be joined by more than 600 musicians. Eastman Theatre, 60 Gibbs St. and clubs throughout Rochester. www.rochesterjazz.com.

July 14-15. Corn Hill Arts Festival. Sculpture, painting, pottery and more from 500 of the country’s finest artists and crafters. Join musicians, acrobats and vendors for a weekend of fun near the river. Corn Hill District. (585) 262-3142, www.cornhill.org.

July 14-15. Gay Pride Parade and Picnic. Kicks off with an absolutely fabulous parade down Park Avenue, followed by a community cultural fair. Don’t forget the picnic on Sunday at Genesee Valley Park. (585) 244-8640, www.streetsofpride.com.

July 22. ARTWalk’s Muse-a-Thon. A great way to enjoy this vibrant neighborhood. Nearly 20 musical groups perform simultaneously amid an outdoor gallery of visual artists with kids’ activities and bake-sale goodies as part of the fun in a one-mile loop through the ArtWalk and Neighborhood of the Arts.

Aug. 4-5. Park Avenue Summer Art Festival. Artists, musicians and art exhibitors celebrate summer and creativity in one of Rochester’s oldest festivals. Park Avenue neighborhood. www.park-avenue.org.

Aug. 11-13. Festival Puertorriqueno. Three-day free event open to all. This year’s theme, “Dreaming of Puerto Rico,” will feature live salsa, comida criolla, celebrity guests and a pageant. Civic Center Plaza, Exchange Boulevard. (585) 234-7660, www.prfestival.com.

Sept. 16. ArtWalk Alive! At “Rochester’s outdoor art museum,” in the ArtWalk neighborhood, see dance, hear music, eat lots and enjoy the dedication of the area’s newest sculptures: three artist-designed bus shelters. (585) 234-6670, www.rochesterartwalk.org. 

By J.T. Hall

Somewhere in the vast wilderness of the Adirondacks (named for a prehistoric native population known as the Adiroondak, or “Bark Eaters”) there is something for everyone. At more than 9,000 square miles of mountains, rivers and forest, the Adirondack Park, created by the state of New York in 1882, is larger than Vermont and has more shoreline than Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Large enough to encompass Glacier, Yellowstone and the Great Smokey Mountain parks as well as the Grand Canyon, the Adirondacks has 2,000 miles of hiking trails, 3,000 lakes and ponds, 2,500 miles of navigable rivers and streams, and 46 peaks over 4,000 feet.

But it’s not wilderness alone that provides the compelling attraction to the Adirondacks’ 9 million visitors. Many other attractions, including luxury hotels and restaurants, amusement parks, museums, athletic venues and entertainment, provide diverse opportunities for a broad range of tastes, most of which is within a two- to four-hour drive of Central New York.

Central to understanding the Adirondack experience, both human and otherwise, is the Adirondack Museum ((518) 352-7311; www.adkmuseum.org), Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake. A 32-acre campus overlooking the sparkling lake, this incomparable regional museum, regarded as the finest of its kind in the country if not the world, chronicles the geologic and natural history of the region as well as every aspect of the human experience in the mountains. The museum’s 20 outbuildings house displays on wilderness living, mining, logging, recreation, transportation and antique boats (including the evolution of the unique Adirondack guide boat), inviting adults and children alike to spend the day. New this year is Adirondack Rustic, an exhibit of traditional and contemporary rustic furniture. In addition, a full schedule of special events, many of them interactive, provides entertainment and learning opportunities for the whole family. Special events for 2007 include the Adirondack Boat Expo in July and American Mountain Men in August.

Up the road, the Wild Center ((518) 359-7800; www.wildcenter.org), 45 Museum Drive, Tupper Lake, will be enjoying its second year of operation. Rivaling the Adirondack Museum in its concept and execution if not its scope, the Wild Center focuses on the natural history of the mountains, a “combination of a zoo, aquarium, science and nature center,” according to its founder, former Department of Environmental Conservation regional planner Betsy Lowe.

An exceptional facility for family education, the 31-acre site on the Raquette River includes a 2½-acre pond abutting the main hall, a combination of state-of-the-art museum technology and rustic architecture. Dedicated to educating visitors on the forces of nature that define the wilderness area, the museum, which opened July 4, 2006, includes living and interactive exhibits on local flora and fauna, and geologic history, including a “living river” and a glacier. There is also a high-tech, multi-use theater for a variety of educational presentations. The Wild Center will host a series of special events, including Wildfest 2007, which will introduce the new exhibit, Wings Over the Adirondacks.

Two smaller educational facilities serve the similar purpose of educating the public to the realities of the Adirondack wilderness. The Visitor Interpretive Centers at Newcomb and Paul Smiths offer a variety of interactive activities designed to get visitors involved in the wilderness experience through participation in workshops and exhibits as well as hiking, canoeing and backcountry touring. Special events include the popular Adirondack Wildlife Festival in August, which features children’s activities, wildlife demos and exhibits, live music, food, sportsman’s demonstrations and vendors. The center at Paul Smiths ((518) 327-3000) is located on Route 30 in Paul Smiths. The Newcomb center ((518) 582-2000) can be found on Route 28 in Newcomb. For details, visit www.adkvic.org.

Wilderness backpacking and canoeing are popular Adirondack activities with many options. Hikers especially like the High Peaks region near Lake Placid, where many of the Adirondacks’ highest summits are located. Special rules apply in the region, due to the heavy traffic and the fragile nature of the Alpine microenvironment (no camping above 4,000 feet, for example). The Adirondack Mountain Club, a non-profit conservation organization, can provide comprehensive information on responsible recreation opportunities in the area (trail maps, books, gear) through their on-line catalog (www.adk.org). The book section is comprehensive, with guidebooks for virtually all of the trail and canoe route options. The club also operates backwoods lodges at Heart Lake and John’s Brook, both in the High Peaks wilderness. Information is available at (518) 523-3441 or on the Web site.

If vehicle camping is your thing, the DEC operates some of the finest campsites in the country in the Adirondacks. Check www.dec.state.ny.us for information on locations, fees and reservations, as well as information on backcountry options.

Enjoying the Adirondack experience doesn’t necessarily mean roughing it. Both Lake George and the much closer Old Forge have amusement parks for more-urban thrill seekers. Great Escape and Splashwaterkingdom ((518) 792-3500; www.thegreateascape.com) in Lake George offers big-league roller coasters as well as an 80-year-old wooden model and a water park, while Enchanted Forest Water Safari (369-6145; www.watersafari.com) in Old Forge, a smaller park, has its own respectable set of water slides.

For sports fans, check out the Olympic Center, 2634 Main St., Lake Placid ((518) 523-1655; www.orda.org), with much to see and do even in the off-season (check out the perpetual pile of snow). Inside the center, the Olympic Museum highlights the Lake Placid Winter Games experiences of 1932 and 1980, and a ride to the top of the Olympic jumping towers provides a perspective you won’t soon forget. You can also watch freestyle aerial training in progress (they land in a swimming pool) at a nearby facility.

The Ironman USA Triathlon, a qualifier for Ironman Hawaii, is also held at Lake Placid on July 22 (www.ironmanusa.com). It’s nothing short of inspiring to watch these dedicated athletes start in the water of Mirror Lake at 7 a.m., cycle twice through town and finish their marathon until the course closes at midnight.

Further south the proximity of Old Forge, about a two-hour drive from Syracuse, makes it a popular destination, winter and summer. One memorable way to get there is via the Adirondack Scenic Railroad (369-6290; www.adirondackrr.com) from Utica. Once the property of William Seward Webb, the railroad now offers scenic tours from Utica and Thendara north to Carter Station and from Lake Placid to Saranac Lake at the northern end. While the plan is to eventually restore the entire line, the current trips are of the “up and back” variety with a variety of thematic options.

The trip from Utica to Thendara, just this side of Old Forge, takes two hours with a 4½-hour layover, while the Lake Placid/Saranac ride lasts 45 minutes. Many special events are scheduled throughout the season, including wine tastings, live theater presentations by the Pendragon Theater, canoe and bike transport options, and others.

The Old Forge area also offers many paddling options, including the Moose River and the beginning of the Fulton Chain of Lakes. It is also the entry point for the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, a 740-mile sequence of lakes, ponds, rivers and portages/carries (62 of them totaling 55 miles) that traverse the Adirondacks, Quebec, Vermont and New Hampshire before terminating in northern Maine. Information is available at www.northernforestcanoetrail.org.

American history also resonates along the eastern edge of the Adirondacks. Fort Ticonderoga ((518) 585-2821; www.fort-
ticonderoga.org), on the southern tip of Lake Champlain, and Fort William Henry ((518) 668-5471; www.fwhmuseum.com), at the foot of Lake George, both figured prominently in the French and Indian War, while Ticonderoga and the Saratoga Battlefield both played significant roles in the American Revolution. Ticonderoga annually hosts the Grand Encampment of the French and Indian War, a major re-enactment, on June 30 and July 1, while Saratoga ((518) 664-9821; www.nps.gov/sara/) offers re-enacted encampments and History Day Camp, full of hands-on activities, as well as guided tours of the battlefield where the colonials under Benedict Arnold turned back British General Burgoyne. The Web site also offers a virtual battlefield tour.

No trip to the woods would be complete without some fine dining. Favorites in the Old Forge-Inlet area include the Seventh Lake House, Route 28, Inlet (357-6028); the travel publication Frommer’s called it “the best food in the southern Adirondacks.” Big Moose Inn, on Big Moose Road in Eagle Bay ((888) 9-BIG MOOSE), is another backwoods bistro worth trying. And Frankie’s Taste of Italy, Route 28, Old Forge (369-2400), offers delicious Italian fare. You can smell the garlic from the parking lot.

June 16. 10th Annual Father’s Day Car Show. Antique, classic, street rod cars on display. Parade, food, vendors, swap meet, prizes. Recreation Center, Route 28, Old Forge. 369-6983; www.oldforgeny.com

June 24. Northeast Dulcimer Symposium Concert. A full week of dulcimer workshops to follow. Other events scheduled. Adirondacks Lakes Center for the Arts, Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake. (518) 352-7715; www.adk-arts.org.

June 29-July 1. I Love Barbecue Festival. Food demos, kids rides, music, barbecue competition. Lake Placid. (518) 523-2445; www.ilbbqf.com.

June 30-July 1. Grand Encampment of the French and Indian War. Re-enacted 18th-century battle. Food, other activities. Fort Ticonderoga. (518) 585-2821; www.fort-ticonderoga.org.

July 4. Wildfest. Day of special events including opening of new exhibit Wings Over the Adirondacks. Also Lake Placid Sinfonietta concert Aug. 2. Wild Center, Route 30, Tupper Lake. (518) 359-7800; www.wildcenter.org.

July 14-15. Adirondack Boat Expo. Special collection of antique boats on display. Adirondack Museum, Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake. (518) 352-7311; www.adkmuseum.org.

Aug. 12. Adirondack Wildlife Festival. Wildlife and sportsmen’s demonstrations, children’s activities, photo workshop, music, vendors, food. Paul Smiths Visitor Interpretation Center, Route 30, Paul Smiths. (518) 327-3000; www.adkvic.org.

Aug. 9-12. 18th Annual Fox Family Bluegrass Festival. Music, children’s activities, food, music workshops,
camping. McCauley Mountain, Old Forge. 369-6869; www.foxfamilybluegrass.com.

Aug. 17-18. American Mountain Men. Re-enactors play mountain men. Food, demonstrations, hands-on activities, displays. Adirondack Museum. Route 30, Blue Mountain Lake. (518) 352-7311; www.adkmuseum.org.

Aug. 19-24. Rustic Arts Week. Stay at the restored Great Camp Sagamore and make your own rustic pieces. Workshops on furniture, woodcarving, blacksmithing and more. Great Camp Sagamore, Route 28, Raquette Lake. 354-5311; www.sagamore.org.

Sept. 7-9. 25th Adirondack Canoe Classic. Ninety-mile canoe race that goes from Old Forge to Saranac Lake.
(518) 891-2744; www.macscanoe.com.

By Charlotte Greenizen

Canada and the United States have a good relationship, especially when it comes to sharing the beauty of the Thousand Islands and all it has to offer in terms of events and venues designed to attract visitors and residents alike. Local governments are intent on keeping it that way, so the border crossing at both ends of the Thousand Islands Bridge is still amicable and accommodating. Delays are rare but can be lengthy. Whether coming or going, be prepared to show two forms of identification for everyone in the vehicle.

Good live theater on both sides of the St. Lawrence River is becoming a strong draw for visitors. The renovated Clayton Opera House, 405 Riverside Drive, has a rich history, having hosted Broadway stars May Irwin, James Hackett, William Danforth, Lillian Russell and Lester Vail.

The venue presents a summer Cornerstone Series that will include Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Diane Schuur, with performances Friday, July 27, 5 and 7 p.m.; a chamber music quartet, the Zuckerman Chamber Players, Monday, July 30, 7:30 p.m.; long-running New York City comedy revue troupe Chicago City Limits, Saturday, Aug. 4, 5 and 8 p.m.; Las Vegas’ Rat Pack performing as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr., Saturday, Aug. 18, 3:30 and 7:30 p.m; and Latin/African dance music with Ricardo Lemvo and Makina Loca, Saturday, Aug. 25, 5 and 7:30 p.m. Beginning July 15 and each Sunday until to Sept. 23, local talent will be presented at 4 p.m. For tickets, call 686-2200 or visit www.claytonoperahouse.com.

On the other side of the St. Lawrence, Gananoque’s Thousand Islands Playhouse hosts professional productions in its two theaters. Running at the Firehall Theatre, 185 South St., will be The Red Priest (Eight Ways to Say Goodbye) by Mieko Ouchi (through June 30), Marie Jones’ Stones in His Pockets (July 5 to Aug. 11) and Helen’s Necklace by Carole Frechette (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22). Firehall shows take place Tuesdays through Sundays, 8 p.m.; Thursday and Saturday matinees, 2:30 p.m. At the Springer Theatre, 690 Charles St. S., will be Neil Simon’s The Sunshine Boys (June 13 to July 14), the musical Anne and Gilbert (July 18 to Sept. 1) and The Number 14 (Sept. 6 to 29). Springer productions occur Tuesdays through Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matinees, 2:30 p.m. Ticket prices, in Canadian: $32, adults; $30, seniors; $15, students and children.

The Springer Theatre also hosts a Monday Night Series at 8 p.m., beginning June 18 with swamp blues and country music with the Shaggy Dogs; original folk-world-blues performer Harry Manx, July 9; rock band East Village Opera Company, July 30; jazz sensation Sophie Milman, Aug. 20, and swing era jazz singers, Swing Rosie, Sept. 17. Contact the box office at (613) 382-7020 or www.1000islandsplayhouse.com.

Alexandria Bay has the well-earned reputation as a party town. So if you have a little rock’n’roll rebel in you, plan on attending the Motorcycle Rally and Rock’n’Roll Music Fest. A kickoff block party with Rhythm Method will begin on Friday, June 22, 7 p.m., in downtown Alex Bay. On Saturday, June 23, vendors sell in the pavilion all weekend while the Vertical Outlaws perform motorcycle stunts from noon until 5 p.m. at the Alexandria Bay Fire Hall. A custom bike show kicks off at 1 p.m., with the dirtiest bike contest at 2 p.m. and a tattoo contest at 3 p.m., all at easily accessible downtown establishments. Registration and nominal fees are required for participants, but there is no charge for bystanders. Live music at various downtown venues on Saturday will include rock from John Michael, R-19 and Moving Chairs, and blues from Jambones. On Sunday, June 23, the 1980s rock tribute band Loose Enz will perform. A 10 a.m. motorcycle poker run is scheduled at a time and route to be announced.

Also in Alex Bay, the infamous Bill Johnston Pirate Days, a 10-day re-enactment of the outlaw pirate’s exploits in the Thousand Islands, is scheduled for Aug. 10-19. Other events include the Alexandria Bay Poker Run, a collection of the hottest and fastest and most exotic power boats in North America, June 22-24; the 29th annual Vintage Boat Show, July 8 and 9; Victorian Tea and House Tour at Casa Blanca on Cherry Island, July 27; and the fantastic end-of-season celebration Blues in the Bay, a three-day music festival, Aug. 31-Sept. 2. For more details on these events, along with accommodation and restaurant information, contact the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce at (800) 541-2110 or www.alexbay.org.

About a 20-minute ride over the Thousand Islands Bridge brings visitors to Gananoque, Ontario, where the Festival of the Islands runs Friday, Aug. 10, through Sunday, Aug. 19. The 10-day celebration on the St. Lawrence River waterfront has some of the best Canadian entertainment, including Blue Rodeo, the Jeff Healey Band, Corb Lund and the Hurtin’ Albertans, Doc Walker, Pauly and the Goodfellas, and the Beach Bums. The Gananoque skydivers open each night of the festival by landing in front of the waterfront stage. Family-oriented daytime activities include theatrical presentations, clowns, belly-flop contests and a mini-soapbox derby. Call (613) 382-1562 or visit www.festivaloftheislands.com.

On Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 8 and 9, Cornwall Island, Ontario, will host the Akwesasne International Powwow with authentic arts and crafts, native traditional drumming, singing and dancing. A traditional powwow features competitive smoke, fancy, traditional, grass and jingle dance competitions. A Grand Entry on the gates is planned for Saturday at 10 a.m. with closing ceremonies Sunday afternoon. Call (613) 575-2467 or visit www.akwesasne.ca/
powwow.

A Military Tattoo in Kingston, Ontario, is quite a spectacle and will be celebrated Friday, July 27, through Sunday, July 29, at Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada. In 1867, bugle calls indicated to soldiers in the towns and taverns that they should return to their barracks. The most important activity was the “setting of the watch.” While the watch was being posted through the town, accompanied by fifers and drummers, the soldiers returned to their billets. The procedure became known as “beating tattoo.” Each evening Fort Henry presents a full military tattoo with world-class military bands. Other events include a movie night Friday, Aug. 24, 8 p.m., where moviegoers can view Night at the Museum on a 24-foot inflatable screen, and the Kingston Symphony Association performing the “1812 Overture” on Friday, July 20, and Saturday, July 21, 8 p.m. For more information, call (613) 542-7388, or www.forthenry.com.

In addition to being the ideal spot for American history buffs, with the Sackets Harbor Historic Battlefield Site, and museums and festivals dedicated to the War of 1812, the village of Sackets Harbor hosts one of the hottest one-day jazz events in the North Country. The eighth annual Sackets Harbor Jazz Festival, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 11, will feature jazz vocalist Mark Murphy, trumpeter Dave Ballou, the Russ Kassoff Trio and vocalist Catherine Dupuis. Also performing are Paul Buell’s Swingtime, the Speakeasy Jazz Babies, the Frank Sacci Big Band, and 10th Mountain Division Stage Band. Most events take place at the Sentinel Bandstand on the waterfront. For more information, call organizer John Cleveland at 646-1708 or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it For information on other Sackets events, visit www.sacketsharborny.com.

In an odd juxtaposition, the New York State Food and Wine Festival in Clayton will coincide with a visit of the Vietnam Memorial Moving Wall at Clayton Recreation Park arena and grounds, 615 E. Line Road. The food and wine fest, Friday, June 22, through Sunday, June 24, will host more than 60 exhibitors offering candy and cheeses, nuts, sauces, herbs and spices, maple syrup and other maple products, apple cider and a large selection of New York state wines, many of them made in the Thousand Islands. Completing the good food and wine triad is live music performed by North Country musicians. Call the Clayton Chamber of Commerce at (800) 252-9806 or visit www.1000islands-clayton.com.

During the same time frame, June 20-25, the Vietnam Memorial Moving Wall will be set up along the walking paths of Recreation Park Arena in Clayton. The wall is a smaller-scale replica of the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington, D.C. Visitors can read the names of all whose lives were lost during the Vietnam War. The nearly 60,000 names will be read aloud by volunteers 24 hours a day. For more information on this exhibit, call co-chairmen Russ Marceau at 686-5266 or Bill Monteith, 686-5292 or visit www.1000islandsmovingwall.com.

Clayton’s Handweaving Museum and Arts Center, 314 John St., is up and moving with an expanded gift shop, innovative and traditional arts classes, antique, quilt and art and craft shows. The center hosts its Art and Architecture Tour on Thursday, June 28. Participants will take a boat tour on the Bonnie Belle to the Wellesley Island property of Mary Hannah and Randy Arnot in Westminster Park. The main house overlooks the St. Lawrence River channel, Boldt Castle and Fairyland Island. Also on the tour are an octagonal guesthouse, workshop and garden house with kiln and darkroom, and a second guesthouse.


But the most fascinating facet of this tour is the architecturally imaginative little chapel nestled in the woods on the property. It is situated away from the main houses, yet accessible, and the owners say that they have often found a lone cyclist or dog walker sitting in the absolute stillness of the structure.

The owners have one of the largest collections of paintings by artist Edythe Small Lunt, who will be on hand to discuss her work. The property is also home to many sculptures by the late Carmen D’Avino. Artist Greg Lago will be on hand to discuss D’Avino’s work. Also scheduled for the season is the Along the River’s Edge art exhibit in the Catherine C. Johnson Gallery; the 43rd annual Antiques Show and Sale, Aug. 10-12 at Clayton Recreation Park Arena, and the 25th annual Arts and Crafts Show and Sale, Aug. 25 and 26 at Clayton Recreation Park Arena. For more information on these events, or to register for classes, call 686-4123, or visit www.hmac.org. 

Visitors are able to tour one of the most unique and spectacular vessels in the world during this season at Clayton’s Antique Boat Museum, 750 Mary St. Built at the turn of the century, La Duchesse is a 110-foot houseboat featuring an original stained-glass skylight, gold leaf stenciling, bronze and marble fireplaces and mahogany cabin accessories. A yacht house has recently been built to accommodate the boat and its dedication will coincide with the museum’s Posh Picnic scheduled for July 7. Other events this season include the 10th annual Festival of Oar, Paddle and Sail, Saturday, July 14, and the 43rd annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, Aug. 3-5, when more than 100 antique boats are exhibited dockside. The one-of-a-kind museum is situated on about four acres in downtown Clayton, and is a well-established cultural institution in the Thousand Islands.

Summer in the Thousand Islands wouldn’t be complete without Cape Vincent’s famous French Festival, Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15. Now in its 39th year, this is a family favorite and features craft exhibitors, children’s programs with clowns and puppets, food booths, and art and craft shows and sales. The climax of the festival is Saturday’s grand parade at 2 p.m. with more than 50 marching units including the Sons of Scotland Pipes and Drums, and the Spirit of 69 Marching Band. The spirit of France is alive and well with festivalgoers enjoying traditional French music and dress. Cape Vincent, situated where Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River meet, is rich in history having played a part in the Revolutionary War.

There is always something to do in and around the Thousand Islands on any given day beginning in late spring and continuing through the late fall. Show up and the good times will find you!    

THOUSAND ISLANDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June 8-10. Brockville Celtic Festival. Celebrate culture and heritage with traditional and contemporary Celtic music and dance. Brockville Memorial Civic Centre. Brockville, Ontario. (613) 341-8884.

June 22-23. Annual Busker Festival. Street jugglers, acrobats, magicians. Free admission. Downtown Brockville, Ontario. (613) 345-3269.

July 1. Rockin’ the Rideau. Celebrate the 175th anniversary of the Rideau Canal with Canadian rock’n’roll, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fort Henry, Kingston, Ontario. (613) 542-7388.

July 6-15. Thousand Islands Fine Arts Association Art Show and Sale. Variety of media and styles. Demonstrations. Rockport Recreation Hall, Thousand Islands Parkway, Rockport, Ontario. (613) 389-6155.

July 11-15. Jefferson County Fair. Midway, grandstand entertainment, contests, food, agricultural displays. Coffeen Street, Watertown. 782-8612.

July 12-15. Kingston Buskers Rendezvous. Street performers walk on ropes, juggle, eat fire and perform magic and acrobatics. Downtown Kingston, Ontario. (888) 855-4555.
July 20-23. Can Am Festival. Parades, music, craft show, ball games. Throughout Sackets Harbor. 646-3850.

July 20-29. Seaway Festival. Canoe races, fishing derby, paintball, golf, darts and pool challenges, dances, music, food, fireworks, parades, midway amusement rides, battle of the bands. Throughout Ogdensburg. 393-3620.

Aug. 3-5. From the Mountain and River. Designer crafters and fine artists showcase. Sculpture, pottery, jewelry, home decor. Alexandria Bay Arena, Alexandria Bay. 628-5868.

Aug. 3-4. Glengarry Highland Games. Annual gathering of clans featuring North American Pipe Band Championships. Piping and drumming, highland dancing, caber toss, traditional Scottish events. Maxville, Ontario. (613) 527-2216.

Aug. 18-19. Thousand Islands Rotary Gun and Sportsman’s Show. Antique and modern firearms, military memorabilia, hunting and outdoor gear for show and sale. Clayton Recreation Park Arena, East Line Road, Clayton. 783-6917.

Sites in and around Canandaigua offer more than wines along a lakeside

By Lorraine Smorol

You’ve planned your cross-country second honeymoon drive for months, and the kids are signed up for camp or they’re going to spend some time with their grandparents. The problem is that the escalating price of gas has put a big damper on your vacation plans, and something closer to home is in order.

What about somewhere in the Finger Lakes? Wine trails have always been popular, and since it will be just the two of you, you needn’t worry about what to do with the kids when you stop for wine tastings. While the wineries and beautiful scenery are certainly the main attractions, there are many other things to do.

Let’s start with Canandaigua, about an hour’s drive away and between Rochester and Syracuse. The main street’s historic Victorian architecture leads the way to great downtown shopping and many venues other than wineries along Canandaigua Lake. The lake itself is the fourth-largest of the Finger Lakes, 15.5 miles long with a maximum depth of 276 feet. The Iroquois called Canandaigua “The Chosen Place,” and once you spend some time along its lovely shoreline you’ll understand why.

Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, 151 Charlotte St., is a must on your tour of Canandaigua and environs. Plan on spending a whole day here touring the spectacular gardens and mansion. There is even a winery, the aptly named Finger Lakes Wine Center at Sonnenberg, on the premises.

The park has been carved out of a 52-acre section of the original Frederick Ferris Thompson and Mary Clark Thompson estate, which they owned from 1863 until 1923 when the widowed Mary died. Their nephew, and heir, sold the property to the federal government and while it had many uses over the years, it is now run by a small, full-time staff but could not exist without its volunteers, estimated at about 400, who handle everything from conducting tours of the mansion and gardens, selling tickets and manning the wine center and guest shop.

The Queen Anne-style structure has 40 rooms among three floors, adorned with balconies, arches, landings, niches, bays, leaded glass, and beamed and cove ceilings. Doors lead to verandas and balconies from every room and many windows provide cross-breezes. During the Thompson era, the third floor was used for visiting children and their nannies.

Meander through the nine gardens and greenhouse complex to view a stunning array of floral displays. The Old-Fashioned Garden is similar to Virginia gardens at Williamsburg and Mount Vernon, with mostly perennials planted around annuals so something is always in bloom. Adjacent is a castle-like building that is part of an aviary housing 250 different species of birds, including white peacocks. 

The Japanese Garden, modeled after an old teahouse in Kyoto, boasts a large Buddha plus carefully placed stones representing the essence of nature. The small Sub Rosa Garden is all green and white, with lawn boxwood and evergreens surrounding fountain statuary of Zeus, Diana and Apollo. There are more than 4,000 rose bushes in the Rose Garden, all in red, white and pink, Mrs. Thompson’s color scheme. The Italian Garden incorporates 15,000 annuals which may be viewed from the mansion’s library or balcony off the upstairs exhibit room.

The Blue and White Garden uses these two colors only. Everything in the Pansy Garden, including the birdbath, reflects the pansy shape, Mrs. Thompson’s favorite flower, and is designed as a meditation garden. Many of the flowers in the aptly named Moonlight Garden bloom in late afternoon or evening.

The greenhouse complex contains a nectarine house, a peach house, a vegetable house, plus displays for cacti, succulents and exotic house plants.

Motor tours to view the gardens are conducted throughout the day, and tours of the mansion are also available. A real treat is the 2 p.m. afternoon tea, served on the veranda every Thursday in August. The fee is $20, and includes admission to the entire complex; reservations are required.

For more information, call (585) 394-4922 or visit www.sonnenberg.org. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $5 for students and free for ages 12 and under.

Also in Canandaigua, the New York State Wine and Culinary Center opened June 17, 2006, at 9800 S. Main St. The center presents an overview of agriculture, wine and culinary excellence throughout the state. Inside the attractive building visitors will find interactive displays, a culinary demonstration theater, a hands-on training kitchen, tasting room, wine and tapas bar, outdoor garden and other educational fun.

An exhibit hall, which resembles a traditional winery with paneling made from recycled redwood wine barrels, offers video and photo interactive displays about the rich history and characteristics of New York’s wine, food and culinary trades. Wine isn’t the only beverage featured. On Tuesday, June 26, a class called “Hot Food, Cold Beer” will teach grilling techniques using marinades and rubs. All products are from New York state. Class is held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Price is $70 per person.

The entire summer schedule has not been posted yet, but look for couples cooking nights, culinary kids classes, wine taste tests and wine education courses. Check the Web site for details.

New York state wines may be sampled in the wine tasting room, and even purchased, if desired. A gift shop sells cookbooks, chefs’ attire, jams, mustards and the like. The food and wine bar on the second floor is meant for small bites and you may also have your snack on the connecting outdoor deck that looks out onto the lake. Walk through the gardens where native cherry, apricot and apple trees have been planted, along with a vegetable garden and fragrant herb garden.

Motor tours to view the gardens are conducted often throughout the day, and tours of the mansion are also available. There is a small gift shop in the mansion on the second floor. For hours and information, call (585) 394-7070, or visit www.nywcc.com.

Overlooking the west shore of Seneca Lake in Penn Yan, Weaver-View Farms, 1190 Earls Hill Road, offers a tranquil moment in a busy world where the horse-drawn buggy is the form of transportation. Watch farm animals grazing peacefully for a pleasant experience on this 1,254-acre Mennonite farm. An Amish country store in the 13-room farmhouse is filled with delightful treasures of hand-stitched Amish and Mennonite quilts, wrought iron, tinware, candles, hand-painted Amish furniture plus jams, jellies and cheeses. All products are made by Amish and Mennonite families in the eastern United States. The store is open Mondays through Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. For information, call 781-2571.

For something informative and interesting about the area, the Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 Victor-Bloomfield Road, Victor, is the location of a major 17th-century Seneca Indian town and palisaded granary. Near this site 300 years ago, the French led an army from Canada against the Seneca to annihilate them, so as to eliminate them as competitors in the international fur trade. The Seneca refer to Ganondagan as the “Town of Peace.” There are three trails marked by illustrated signs where visitors can learn about the significance of plant life to the Seneca, about Iroquois customs and beliefs, and about the features of Fort Hill (the granary). A traditional Iroquois longhouse has a museum, educational services, audio-visual program, demonstrations and a gift shop.

Ganondagan State Historic Site is open mid-May through October, Tuesdays through Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Trails are open year-round, 8 a.m. to sunset, weather permitting. For details, call (585) 924 5848.

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider the 15th annual Garlic Festival, to be held Saturday, Aug. 4, and Sunday, Aug. 5, at Fox Run Vineyards, 670 Route 14, Penn Yan. Renowned chefs from the Finger Lakes region will be on board for cooking demonstrations on both days (times to be announced). Take in lectures in growing the many varieties of garlic, plus braiding and otherwise handling garlic, even if you don’t grow the bulbs yourself.

Fox Run executive chef Frank Caravita and staff are putting together garlic delights available for purchase, as well as suggestions for wine and food pairings. Popular bands and even choral folk groups will perform music from around the globe as you visit the various vendors selling garlic, vegetables, coffee, maple syrup products, jewelry. There is even a display from the Corning Museum of Glass.

This is a good time to have a taste of Fox Run Vineyards wines, especially if you want to be inside an air-conditioned space for awhile. The café will also be open. For more information, call (800) 636-9786 or visit www.foxrunvineyards.com/garlicfestival.html.

The Sauerkraut Festival in Phelps, just north of Thruway Exit 43 in Manchester, is a fun detour on your way home. Celebrating its 41st year, the Aug. 2-5 festival was recently featured on the Food Network, and one of its programs cited sauerkraut as part of a 2007 trend toward straightforward, home-style menus.

Consider taking in the Sauerkraut Festival Parade of bands and cabbage-related costumed figures, whatever that means. Have your picture taken with the winner of the cabbage head decorating contest.

And, of course, there’s the food. Most of the sauerkraut is piled onto hot dogs, kielbasa, pulled pork and the Polish treat, golabki, or stuffed cabbage. Non-sauerkraut victuals like burgers, barbecue chicken, ice cream and snowcones are also sold. Midway rides, bands and rural entertainment like cloggers are also on the list, as well as arts and crafts booths and a 20K road race. The cutting of the sauerkraut cake is a favorite event because everyone gets a piece, free. And it tastes pretty good, too. For more information, call 548-5481 or visit www.phelpssau erkrautfestival.com. 

June 10. Strawberry Festival. Artisan booths, musical entertainment, raffles, children’s activities and strawberry treats. Stella Maris Retreat Center, 130 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles. 685-6836.

June 15-16. Waterfront Festival. Expanded entertainment schedule. Cardboard boat regatta. Seneca Harbor Park, Watkins Glen. (607) 535-4300.

June 16-24. Rose Week. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the impressive garden. Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park, 151 Charlotte St., Canandaigua. (585) 394-4922.  

June 30-Aug. 25. Made in NY 2007. This annual juried exhibit features Empire State artists. Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center, 205 Genesee St., Auburn. 255-1553.

July 13-21. Hill Cumorah Pageant. Experience the re-enactment of Joseph Smith receiving the book of Mormon from on high. Two miles north of Thruway Exit 43, Palmyra. 597-2757; www.hillcumorah.net.

July 20-22. Finger Lakes Wine Festival. More than 70 wineries from upstate New York will be on hand to offer tastings and sales. Watkins Glen International, 2790 County Route 16, Watkins Glen.(866) 461-7223.

July 19-21. 2007 Convention Days. Commemorate the first women’s rights convention held in Seneca Falls. 568-2703 or www.conventiondays.com.

July 21. Native American Dance and Music Festival. Celebrate the North American indigenous culture through dance, language, art, music and history. Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 Victor-Bloomfield Road, Victor. (585) 924-5848.

Aug. 5. Cayuga Lake Triathlon. Either participate or cheer on athletes who take on a swim, bike ride and run in a short or intermediate distance. Taughannock Falls State Park, Route 89, Trumansburg. (607) 844-8899.

Aug. 12. NASCAR at the Glen. Cheer as auto racing’s finest invade Watkins Glen International, 2790 County Route 16, Watkins Glen. (866) 461-7223.

Aug. 18-19. Hammondsport Festival of Crafts. Enjoy the scenery at the southern tip of Canandaigua Lake, Route 54A, Hammondsport. (607) 569-2989.

Aug. 24-26. Celtic Festival. A weekend of everything Celtic in Courthouse Park, Court Street, Cortland. (607) 753-0872; www.cortlandcelticfestival.com.

Compiled by James Perry

Napa Valley may have the most name recognition, and true champagne may come only from that region of France. But Finger Lakes wineries have been carving out their own niche since the 1860s. Today, four wine trails showcase the region’s specialty: light-bodied and -flavored Riesling. The wine trails officially began with the founding of the Cayuga Wine Trail in 1983. Signs along the main roads circling four of the Finger Lakes will point visitors to Cayuga, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, the Keuka Wine Trail and the Canandaigua Wine Trail in the right direction.

More adventurous connoisseurs can venture off the trails to the many excellent, unaffiliated wineries along the lakes, and the spectacular views that come with a trip west and south. All wineries are listed with their respective lake, regardless
of trail affiliation.

For directions, brochures or more information on the wineries, check out www.newyorkwines.org or call the New York Wine and Grape Foundation at (585) 394-3620.

Cayuga Lake

Americana Vineyards Winery. (607) 387-6801. 3767 E. Covert Road, Interlaken.

Bellwether Hard Cider. (607) 387-9464. 9070 Route 89, Trumansburg.

Buttonwood Grove Winery. (607) 869-9760. 5986 Route 89, Romulus.

Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery. (607) 869-5158. 6800 Route 89, Ovid.

Chateau Dusseau. (607) 351-3818. 5292 Erron Hill Road, Locke.

CJS Vineyard & Aurelius. 730-4619. 6900 Fosterville Road, Auburn.

Cobblestone Farm and Winery. 549-8797. 5102 Route 89, Romulus.

Eve’s Cidery. (607) 229-0230. 1408 Tumansburg Road, Ithaca.

Frontenac Point Vineyard. (607) 387-9619. 9501 Route 89, Trumansburg.

Glenhaven Farm Winery. (607) 387-9031. 6121 Sirrine Road, Trumansburg.

Goose Watch Winery. 549-2599. 5480 Route 89, Romulus.

Hosmer Winery. (607) 869-3393. 6999 Route 89, Ovid.

King Ferry Winery. 364-5100. 658 Lake Road, King Ferry.

Knapp Vineyards Winery & Restaurant. (800) 869-9271. 2770 County Road 128, Romulus.

Lakeshore Winery. 549-7075. 5132 Route 89, Romulus.

Long Point Winery. 364-6990. 1485 Lake Road, Aurora.

Lucas Vineyards. (607) 532-4825. 3862 County Road 150, Interlaken.

Montezuma Winery. 568-8190. 2981 Auburn Road, Seneca Falls.

Sheldrake Point Vineyards. (607) 532-9401. 7448 County Road 153, Ovid.

Six Mile Creek Vineyard. (607) 272-WINE. 1551 Slaterville Road, Ithaca.

Stoney Meadow Farm Winery. 497-1632. 2839 Jug St., Moravia.

Swedish Hill Winery. 549-8326. 4565 Route 414, Seneca Falls.

Thirsty Owl Wine Company. (607) 869-5805. 6799 Elm Beach Road, Ovid.

Seneca Lake

Amberg Wine Cellars. (585) 526-6742. 2200 Routes 5&20, Flint.

Anthony Road Wine Co. 536-2182. 1020 Anthony Road, Penn Yan.

Arcadian Estate Winery. (607) 535-2068. 4184 Route 14, Rock Stream.

Atwater Estate Vineyards. (607) 546-8463. 5055 Route 414, Burdett.

Belhurst Winery. 781-0201. 4069 Route 14 S., Geneva.

Billsboro Winery. 789-9571. 4760 W. Lake Road, Geneva.

Bloomer Creek Vineyard. (607) 546-5027. 5301 Route 414, Hector

Cascata Winery at the Professor’s Inn. (607) 535-8000. 3651 Route 14, Watkins Glen.

Castel Grisch Estate Winery. (607) 535-9614. 3380 County Route 28, Watkins Glen.

Catherine Valley Winery. (607) 546-5300. 4201 Route 414, Burdett.

Caywood Vineyards. (607) 582-7230. 9666 Route 414, Hector.

Chateau LaFayette Reneau. (607) 546-2062. 5081 Route 414, Hector.

Damiani Wine Cellars. (607) 546-5557. 5435 Route 414, Hector.

Earle Estates Winery & Meadery. 536-6755. 2770 Route 14, Penn Yan.

Four Chimneys Organic Winery. (607) 243-7502. 211 Hall Road, Himrod.

Fox Run Vineyards. 536-4616. 670 Route 14, Penn Yan.

Fulkerson Winery. (607) 243-7883. 5576 Route 14, Dundee.

Glenora Wine Cellars. (607) 243-5511. 5435 Route 14, Dundee.

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards. (607) 546-WINE. 5712 Route 414, Hector.

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard. (800) 371-7971. 3962 Route 14, Dundee.

Hickory Hollow Wine Cellars. (607) 243-9114. 5289 Route 14, Dundee.

Lakewood Vineyards, Inc. (607) 535-9252. 4024 Route 14, Watkins Glen.

Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars. (607) 582-6011. 9224 Route 414, Lodi.

Leidenfrost Vineyards. (607) 546-2800. 5677 Route 414, Hector.

Miles Wine Cellars. (607) 243-7742. 168 Randall Crossing Road, Himrod.

Nagy’s New Land Vineyards & Winery. 585-4432. 623 Lerch Road, Geneva.

Penguin Bay Winery and Champagne House. (607) 546-5115. 6075 Route 414, Hector.

Poplar Ridge Vineyards. (607) 582-6421. 9762 Route 414, Valois.

Prejean Winery. 536-7524. 2634 Route 14, Penn Yan.

Rasta Ranch Vineyards. (607) 546-2974. 5882 Route 414, Hector.

Red Newt Cellars. (607) 546-4100. 3675 Tichenor Road, Hector.

Rock Stream Vineyards. (607) 243-5395. 162 Fir Tree Road, Rock Stream.

Seneca Harbor Wine Center. (607) 535-4867. 2 N. Franklin St, Watkins Glen.

Seneca Shore Wine Cellars. 536-0882. 929 Davy Road, Penn Yan.

Shalestone Vineyards. (607) 582-6600. 9681 Route 414, Lodi.

Shaw Vineyard. (607) 481-0089. 3901 Route 14, Himrod.

Silver Springs Winery. (607) 351-7650. 4408 Route 414, Burdett.

Silver Thread Vineyard. (607) 582-6116. 1401 Caywood Road, Lodi.

Standing Stone Vineyards. (800) 803-7135. 9934 Route 414, Hector.

Torrey Ridge Winery. 536-1210. 2770 Route 14, Penn Yan.

Villa Bellangelo. (607) 243-8602. 150 Poplar Point, Dundee.

Ventosa Vineyards. 719-0000. 3440 Route 96A, Geneva.

Wagner Vineyards. (866) 924-6378. 9322 Route 414, Lodi.

White Springs Winery. 781-9463. 4200 Route 14, Geneva.

Keuka Lake

Barrington Cellars/Buzzard Crest Vineyards. 536-9686. 2794 Gray Road, Penn Yan.

Bully Hill Vineyards. (607) 868-3610. 8843 Greyton H. Taylor Memorial Drive, Hammondsport.

Chateau Renaissance Wine Cellars. (607) 569-3609. 7494 Fish Hatchery Road, Hammondsport.

Crooked Lake Winery. (607) 243-5582. 1296 Route 54, Hammonsport.

Dr. Konstantin Frank’s Vinifera Wine Cellars. (800) 320-0735. 9749 Middle Road, Hammondsport.

Heron Hill Winery. (800) 441-4241. 9301 County Road 76, Hammondsport. 

Hunt Country Vineyards. 595-2812. 4021 Italy Hill Road, Branchport.

Keuka Overlook Wine Cellars. (607) 292-6877. 5777 Old Bath-Gardner Road, Dundee.

Keuka Spring Vineyards. 536-3147. 280 Route 54, Penn Yan.

McGregor Vineyard Winery. (607) 292-3999. 5503 Dutch St., Dundee.

Pleasant Valley Wine Company. (607) 569-6111. 8260 Pleasant Valley Road, Hammondsport.

Ravines Wine Cellars. (607) 292-7007. 14630 Route 54, Hammondsport.

Rooster Hill Vineyards. 536-4773. 489 Route 54 S., Penn Yan.

Yates Cellars Winery. 536-6065. 3170 Route 54A, Bluff Point.

Canandaigua Lake

Arbor Hill Grapery. (585) 374-2870. 6461 Route 64, Naples.

Casa Larga Vineyards. (585) 223-4210. 2287 Turk Hill Road, Fairport.

Eagle Crest Vineyards. (585) 346-2321. 7107 Vineyard Road, Conesus.

Sonnenberg Gardens and Mansion State Historic Park. (585) 394-9016. 151 Charlotte St., Canandaigua.

Widmer’s Wine Cellars, Inc. (585) 374-6311. 1 Lake Niagara Lane, Naples.

Other Wineries

Ashley Lynn Winery. 963-3262. 4142 Route 104, Mexico.

Beak and Skiff Apple Farm Winery. 677-9138. 4472 Cherry Valley Turnpike, LaFayette.

Bear Pond Winery. (607) 643-0294. 2515 Route 28, Oneonta.

Behling’s Spookhill Farms. 583-6181. 12139 Route 11, Adams Center.

Black Bear Farm Winery. (607 ) 656-9863. 248 County Road 1, Chenango Forks.

Charlotte’s Vineyard. (607) 547-2412. 301 Hubbell Hollow Road, Cooperstown.

Cherry Knoll Farm. (607) 849-6886. 3426 Hoxie Gorge Freetown Road, Marathon.

Deer Run Winery. (585) 346-0850. 3772 W. Lake Road, Geneseo.

Eagle Crest Vineyards, Inc. (585) 346-2321. 7107 Vineyard Road, Conesus.

Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard. (607) 547-9692. 288 Goose St., Fly Creek.

Fruit Valley Orchard. 342-3793. 507 Bunker Hill Road, Oswego.

Giancarelli Brothers Winery. 626-2830. 10252 Shortcut Road, Weedsport.

Onondaga Winery. 698-0855. 8697 Brewerton Road, Cicero.

Pheasant Ridge Vineyards. 469-4364. 3456 Ransom Road, Jamesville.

Stone Age Winery. 457-6718. 1013 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Thorpe Vineyard. 594-2502. 8150 Chimney Heights Boulevard, Wolcott.

Thousand Islands Winery. 482-9306. 43298 Seaway Ave., Alexandria Bay.

Woodbury Vineyards. (716) 679-9463. 3230 S. Roberts Road, Fredonia.

Yellow Barn Winery. 782-1824. 18876 Route 66, Watertown.

Syracuse Area

Appleseed Productions. 492-9766. www.appleseedproductions.org. The company extends its 2006-2007 season with the flag-waving musical 1776 (June 22-24, 29, 30, July 1, 6, 7) at the Atonement Lutheran Church, 116 W. Glen Ave. Adults, $18; students and seniors, $15.

Armory Square Playhouse. 425-0405. The local playwrights series mounts a full production of the pregnancy comedy Lowdown Lies (June 15-17, 22-24), penned by waggish Post-Standard columnist Jeff Kramer. (Maybe the playhouse will also stage Buyout: The Musical.) Presented at the Redhouse, 201 S. West St. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Adults, $15; students and seniors, $12.

Gifford Family Theatre. 445-4523. Continuing at Le Moyne College’s Coyne Center for the Performing Arts, 1419 Salt Springs Road, is the children’s production of Miss Nelson Is Missing (June 8, 9, 14-16). Thursdays and Fridays, 7 p.m.; Saturdays, 2 and 7 p.m. Adults, $10; children, $8.

Rarely Done Productions. 546-3224. www.rarelydone.org. Debbie Does Dallas: The Musical (June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23), a free-wheeling, non-naked spoof of the 1978 porno comedy, will be performed at Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. $20.

Simply New Theatre. 435-2121. www.simplynewtheatre.com. Bill Molesky takes the lead in Jeffrey Hatcher’s drama A Picasso (June 8-10, 15-17), a two-character drama in which the artist matches wits with a Nazi interrogator (Shannon Tompkins). Presented at the Mulroy Civic Center’s BeVard Studio, 411 Montgomery St. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. $25.

Spaghetti Warehouse. 689 N. Clinton St. The Thursday night interactive-mystery satirists Acme Mystery Co. present Die Another Death (June 7, 14, 21, 28) and Harry Crocker and the Saucerer’s Stove (July 5, 12, 19, 26, Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23) at 6:45 p.m. Tickets are $25.95, including dinner theater and show, plus tax and gratuity. Call 475-1807.

Also at the venue: The Little Mermaid (June 9, 16, 23, 30) and Hansel and Gretel (July 14, 21, 28, Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29), the Saturday afternoon interactive shows presented by Magic Circle Children’s Theater at 12:30 p.m. Show tickets are $5; kids’ meals available before and after the show for $3.49. Reservations: 449-3823.

Summerstage New York, Inc. 435-2121; 682-6870. www.summerstageny.org. Jason Cicci, a transplanted Fayettevillian now living in Manhattan, is back to mount two productions at Wellwood Middle School Auditorium, 700 S. Manlius St., Fayetteville: the romantic comedy Hate Mail (Aug. 2-5), and Frank Ferrante’s one-man show An Evening with Groucho (Aug. 10-12). Thursdays through Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday matinees, 2 p.m. Evenings: adults, $30, seniors and students, $25. Matinees: adults, $25; seniors and students, $20.

Syracuse Civic Theatre. 449-2134. www.syracusecivictheatre.com. The troupe will mount another run of the Disney hit High School Musical on Saturday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m., and Sunday, Aug. 26, 2 p.m., at the Mulroy Civic Center’s Carrier Theater, 411 Montgomery St. Adults, $24; students and seniors, $20; under 12, $16.

Syracuse Shakespeare Festival. 476-1835. www.syracuseshakespearefestival.org. Artistic director Ronnie Bell’s Shakespeare in the Park again takes place at the Thornden Park amphitheater, off Ostrom Avenue and Madison and South Beech streets, a free production of the Bard’s The Merry Wives of Windsor (Aug. 9-12, 16-19). Theatergoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic ingredients. Thursdays through Saturdays, 5:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m.

Syracuse Stage. 820 E. Genesee St. 443-3275. www.syracusestage.org. The company extends its 2006-2007 schedule with a return of last summer’s smash, Menopause: The Musical (June 19-24, 26-30, July 1-3, 5-8, 10-15, 17-22, 24-29), the four-woman musical parody that has turned into a sizable cultish hit. Tuesdays through Sundays, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday matinees, 3 p.m.; with a 3 p.m. matinee June 27. Tickets, $20 to $45.

Talent Company. 479-SHOW. The musical murder mystery Lucky Stiff (June 15-17, 22-24, 29, 30, July 1, 6-8) will check into the New Times Theatre, Art and Home Center, New York State Fairgrounds, with Chris Lightcap, Thomas Quinn and Suzanne Tiffault among the cast members running amok. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Adults, $25; seniors and students, $22; under 12, $14.

Theatre ’90. 479-5495. www.theatre90.com. The troupe will perform the popular musical Grease (July 13-15, 26-29, Aug. 2-5, 9-12) at the State Fairgrounds’ New Times Theater. Thursdays through Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Adults, $23; students and seniors, $20; under 12, $14..

Wit’s End Players. 345-8001. The troupe will perform the Rupert Holmes musical Drood (July 13-15, 20-22, 27-29) at the Catherine Cummings Theater, 18 Lincklaen St., Cazenovia. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Adults, $16; students and seniors, $14; under 12, $10.

Heavy Hitters

Cortland Repertory Theater. Dwyer Park Pavilion, Little York Lake, Preble. (607) 756-2627, (607) 753-6161, (800) 427-6160. www.cortlandrep.org. The tiny pavilion theater (since renamed the Edward Jones Playhouse) in Dwyer Memorial Park, located on the Little York Lake shoreline, will present a half-dozen productions, as their summer season wraps on Labor Day weekend. Under the stewardship of producing director Kerby Thompson, CRT’s spritzy six-pack includes the musical revue Almost Heaven: Songs of John Denver (June 6-10, 12-16); the Alan Ayckbourn farce How the Other Half Loves (June 20-24, 26-30); Agatha Christie’s thriller Ten Little Indians (July 4-8, 10-14); the musical evergreen Fiddler On the Roof (July 18-22, 24-29, 31, Aug.1-4); Almost Maine (Aug. 8-12, 14-18); and The Great American Trailer Park Musical (Aug. 22-26, 28-31, Sept. 1).

Tuesdays through Saturdays, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. matinees June 8, 13, 22, 27, July 6, 11, 20, 25, Aug. 1, 10, 15, 24, 29. Evenings, $23 to $25; matinees, $18 to $20; discounts for seniors and students. There will also be 2 p.m. performances of the children’s show Treasure Island, July 24, 26, 28 and Aug. 4, with a $4 admission.

Hangar Theater. Cass Park, Ithaca. Tickets: (607) 273-4497. Theater: (607) 273-8588. www.hangartheatre.org. Artistic director Kevin Moriarty again guides the Hangar’s summer season of professional theater, which since 1975 has taken place in a renovated airplane hangar located in picturesque Cass Park, an area with picnic grounds, a marina and other recreational facilities. Hangar’s eclectic roster includes John Patrick Shanley’s Doubt (June 6-10, 12-16); Wendy Dann directing Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (June 21-24, June 26-30, July 1, 3-7); the hippie harmonies of Hair (July 12-15, 17-22, 24-28); a world premiere of the drama Bleeding Kansas (Aug. 1-5, 7-11); and All the Great Books (Abridged) (Aug. 15-19, 21-26, Aug. 28-31, Sept. 1, 2). Tuesdays through Thursdays and Sundays, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Saturday matinees, 3 p.m.; 2 p.m. matinees June 24, July 1, 4, 15, 22, 25, Aug. 13, 26, Sept. 2. Tickets, $14 to $35; under 18, $14.

Kiddstuff, the Hangar’s children’s theater series, features a slew of new daytime programs: The Ant and the Grasshopper (June 13-16); The Arkansaw Bear (June 23, July 14, Aug. 30, 31, Sept. 1); Winnie-the-Pooh (June 28-30, July 5-7), Cucumber Phil (July 19-21, 26-28), Androcles and the Lion (Aug. 8-11) and Alice in Wonderland (Aug. 23-25), running Thursdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. and noon; tickets $5. Other special Kidstuff events, also at $5, include a Kiddplay! selection (Aug. 4, 10 a.m. and noon) and a Kiddstars! showcase (Aug. 18, 10 a.m. and noon).

The Hangar’s late-night Lab Company, consisting of drama students from area schools, presents free, black-box one-acts at the Wedge portion of the theater’s entranceway before and after select main-stage performances. And Tuesday Talkbacks, following evening shows on June 12, 26, July 11, 24, Aug. 7, 21 and 28, give the audience a chance to chat with actors and staff about the productions.

Kitchen Theatre Company. 116 N. Cayuga St., Ithaca. (607) 273-4497. www.kitch entheatre.org. Wildly offbeat ventures provide the lure for this 73-seat theater located in the renovated Clinton House hotel in downtown Ithaca. This summer features a world premiere of David Wiltse’s comedy A Marriage Minuet (June 21-24, 27-30, July 1, 4-8, 11-15). Wednesdays and Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 4 p.m. Adults, $20-$30; previews and matinees, $18.

Merry-Go-Round Playhouse. Emerson Park, Route 38A, Auburn. 255-1785, (800) 457-8897. www.merry-go-round.com. Longtime producing director Edward Sayles, on board since 1981 at MGR, presents another quintet of crowd-pleasing summer-stock musicals in the park’s renovated 501-seat carousel (now renamed the Preston H. Thomas Theater) next to Owasco Lake: the blockbuster Miss Saigon (June 6-9, 11-16, 18-21); Peter Pan (June 27-30, July 2, 4-7, 9-14, 16-20); Thoroughly Modern Millie (July 25-28, 30, 31, Aug. 1-4, 6-11, 13-17); the Fats Waller review Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Aug. 22-25, 27-31, Sept. 1, 3-8); and Always, Patsy Cline (Sept. 12-15, 17-22, 24-27).

Mondays through Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m.; 2 p.m. matinees June 6, 9, 12, 13, 19, 20, 29, 30, July 2, 6, 7, 11, 14, 17, 18, 27, 28, 31, Aug. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 24, 25, 28, 29, Sept. 5, 6, 14, 15, 18, 19, 24-26. Adults, $32 to $39; seniors, $29 to $36; under 18, $25 to $32. $2 parking fee.

Unique Events

Glimmerglass Opera. Route 80, Cooperstown. (607) 547-2255. www.glimmerglass.org. A Cooperstown mainstay since 1975, the company continues its summertime arias with performances in the Alice Busch Opera Theater on Otsego Lake, one of four in the country solely devoted to opera. The repertory season thematically fields an Orpheus-inspired slate, including Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld (July 7, 9, 15, 24, 29, Aug. 2, 4, 7, 10, 13, 18, 26); Christophe Willibald Gluck’s Orphee et Eurydice (July 8, 14, 22, Aug. 3, 6, 9, 11, 25, 28); Philip Glass’ Orphee (July 21, 23, 31, Aug. 4, 12, 16, 18, 21, 24, 27); and Monteverdi’s L’Orfeo (July 28, 30, Aug. 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 25). Two concert performances of Haydn’s L’Anima del Filosofo (Aug. 5, 19; 11 a.m.) will also be presented.

Monteverdi and Haydn will be sung in Italian, Gluck and Glass in French and Offenbach in English, all with projected titles. The theater is eight miles north of Cooperstown and two miles south of the junctions of routes 20 and 80. Thursdays through Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sunday through Tuesday matinees, 2 p.m.; Saturday matinees, 1:30 p.m. Tickets run $36 to $104.

Hill Cumorah Pageant. Route 21, Palmyra. 597-5851. www.hillcumorah.com. Since 1937, thousands have made the trek to Palmyra for a dose of old-time religion, presented by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Billed this year as “Come feel the Savior’s love,” this year’s DeMille-ian spectacle promises the usual display of opulent props, costumes (more than 300 wigs!), sets, special effects that entail volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, and a cast of more than 650. Although there are 7,000 seats available, the crowds often reach as high as 14,000, with plenty of room for lawn chairs and blankets. Food is available from local Lions and Rotary clubs from 4 to 9 p.m. (lots of salt potatoes are sold), interpreters for the hearing-impaired will be on the premises, it’s handicapped-accessible and 20-minute behind-the-scenes tours take place between 2 and 7 p.m. on performance days (reservations are required for the tours). The free outdoor event (parking’s free, too) begins at dusk, running 9:15 to 10:30 p.m., July 13 and 14 and 17-21, although it’s recommended to be seated by 7 p.m. It’s about two miles north of Thruway Exit 43.

Sterling Renaissance Festival and Summer Marketplace. 15385 Farden Road, Sterling. 947-5783, (800) 879-4446. www.sterlingfestival.com. Still going strong for three decades, the festival relies on more than 600 improvisational actors, entertainers, food and craftspeople to recreate the 16th-century ambiance for this popular 35-acre, open-air resurrection of the English village of Warwicke, circa 1585. The grounds contain everything from a jousting field and dunking pond to gossiping washer-wenches, mud-soaked beggars, a village idiot and rat catcher. Artisans feature specialty stuff like Ballena Bay pewter, custom-minted coins and leather masks. Gravity-powered rides thrill the kids, and food is available. Runs weekends only, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., rain or shine: July 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, Aug. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19. Advance (through July 6), $18. Adults at the gate, $22; children ages 6-12, $8; 5 and under, free.

Other Upstate Theater

Bristol Valley Theater. 151 S. Main St., Naples. (585) 374-6318. www.bvtnaples.org. Presented in the 200-seat theater in the former Trinity Federated Church, Bristol Valley will present the Harlem musical All-Night Strut (June 14-17, 20-24); Ken Ludwig’s comedy Lend Me a Tenor (June 28-30, July 1, 4-8); the quixotic musical Man of La Mancha (July 12-15, 18-22); The Drawer Boy (July 26-29, Aug. 1-5), a comedy about the reunion of two World War II buddies; and the twisty mystery Sleuth (Aug. 9-12, 15-19). Junior theatergoers can also enjoy Mystery Mouse and the Camembert Kid (July 31, Aug. 1-4, 14-17) at 11 a.m.; tickets are $5. Thursdays through Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays and select Wednesday and Thursday matinees, 2 p.m. Adults, $25; seniors, $23; college students, $15; children, $10.

Capitol Theater. 220 W. Dominick St., Rome. 337-6453. www.romecapitol.com. This 1,700-seat art deco theater, built in 1928, will present an ambitious lineup for its Summerstage 2007, including Gilbert and Sullivan’s Iolanthe (The Peer and the Peri) (June 8, 10, 15, 16), Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens’ Seussical: The Musical (July 11-14) and Cole Porter’s Anything Goes (Aug. 15-18). Wednesdays through Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 2:30 p.m. Adults, $15; seniors, $14; students, $11.

Yesterday’s Royal. 13 Canal St., Sylvan Beach. 762-4677. The interactive-mystery spoofers Acme Mystery Co. from the Spaghetti Warehouse hop over to Sylvan Beach with a farcical foursome of dinner-theater shows presented on Tuesday evenings at 6:45 p.m.: Deadly Inheritance (June 26, July 10), Die Another Death (July 24, Aug. 7), Big Louie and the Gang That Couldn’t Think Straight (Aug. 14, 21, 28) and My Dead Lady (Sept. 12, 19). The $29.95 tab includes dinner (prime rib, chicken saltimbocca or scallops royal) and show, plus tax and gratuity.

The Great White North

Shaw Festival. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. (800) 511-SHAW. www.shawfest.com. This world-class festival promises several Shavian productions and a number of rarely performed classic crowd-pleasers.

The 869-seat Festival Theater (Picton Street) will play Shaw’s Saint Joan (through Oct. 27), the silent-movie musical Mack and Mabel (through Oct. 28) and the Feydeau farce Hotel Peccadillo (through Oct. 7). The 327-seat Court House Theater (Queen Street) hosts Brian Friel’s A Month in the Country, After Turgenev (through Oct. 6); St. John Hankin’s comedy The Cassilis Engagement (through Oct. 5); the musical Tristan (July 12-Oct. 6); and the lunchtime-matinee item The Kilkartan Comedies (June 20-Oct. 6). The 328-seat Royal George Theater (Queen Street) will showcase Somerset Maugham’s The Circle (through Oct. 28); Shaw’s The Philanderer (through Oct. 7); and Tennesee Williams’ Summer and Smoke (June 23-Oct. 27).

The shows will be performed in repertory. Tuesdays through Sundays, 2 and 8 p.m., with performances of Kilkartan at 11:30 a.m. Admission is $45 to $95 (Canadian), with discounts for seniors, families, students and groups; tickets for Kilkartan are $25.