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Everyone has a favorite song they associate with the sweet season of summer. From the Raspberries’ 1972 Top 5 seductive smash “Go All the Way,” to various one-hit wonders like 1974’s “Beach Baby” by First Class and 1981’s “Sausalito Summernight” by Diesel to last year’s “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster the People, these songs take you back to the warmest months with just a few opening chords. And why not? All you need is a peppy beat, a catchy hook and your car windows down to force you to crank up the volume. If you have a favorite summer music venue, or a favorite act you like to follow then this calendar is for you. Contact each venue for more information. For updates throughout the season, check out the Concert Calendar every Wednesday in The New Times and in its expanded form online at syracusenewtimes.com.
Major Outdoor Venues
Constellation Brands-Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center (CMAC).
(585) 394-4400; Ticketmaster, 745-3000; cmacevents.com or
ticketmaster.com. Located on the campus of Finger Lakes Community
College on Lakeshore Drive in Canandaigua, this renovated theater
provides an idyllic summer venue under the stars, with an expanded stage
and new sound and video systems. Tickets available at the CMAC box
office starting at noon on show days only.
June 12: Crosby, Stills & Nash. 8 p.m. $20-$79.50.
June 13: Yanni. 8 p.m. $42-$122.
June 26: Sarah McLachlan, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. $21-$66.
June 29: Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley, Kip Moore. 7:30 p.m. $35.50-$80.
July 1: Demi Lovato, Hot Chelle Rae. 7 p.m. $25-$75.
July 6: Furthur. 7 p.m. $30-$49.50.
July 7: Barenaked Ladies, Blues Traveler, Big Head Todd & the Little Monsters, Cracker. 7 p.m. $25-$63.
July 14: The B-52s, Squeeze. 8 p.m. $20-$75.
July 19: Comedian Jim Gaffigan. 8 p.m. $30-$50.
July 21: Meat Loaf. 8 p.m. $20-$80.
Aug 2: Snoop Dogg, Yela Wolf. 7 p.m. $25-$40.
Aug. 11: The Dukes of September Rhythm Review (Donald Fagen, Boz Scaggs, Michael McDonald). 8 p.m. $35-$75
Aug. 15: Journey, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Loverboy. 7 p.m. $30-$89.50.
Aug. 18: Eric Church, Robert Earl Keen. 7:30 p.m. $25-$45.
Aug. 24: Train, Mat Kearney, Andy Grammer. 7 p.m. $25-$55.
Aug. 29: Kelly Clarkson, The Fray, Carolina Liar. 7 p.m. $35-$75.
Sept. 2: Fresh Beat Band. 4 p.m. $29.50-$39.50.
Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.
Darien Center. (716) 599-4641; Ticketmaster, 745-3000; livenation.com.
This large amusement park between Rochester and Buffalo, off Thruway
Exit 48A, stages concerts in a lakeside amphitheater. Tickets are sold
for both concert only and in a concert/amusement park admission
combination.
June 8: Drake, J. Cole, Waka Flocka Flame, Meek Mill, 2 Chainz, French Montana. 7 p.m. $35.75-$95.75.
June 29: The Beach Boys. 8 p.m. $25.75-$128.50.
June 30: Rascal Flatts, Eli Young Band, Edens Edge. 7 p.m. $125-$300
July 3: Dave Matthews. 7 p.m. $40.50-$89.50.
July 16: Iron Maiden, Alice Cooper. 7:30 p.m. $28-$95.
July 17: Vans Warped Tour. Noon. $32-$42.
July 25: Nickelback, Bush My Darkest Days. 6:30 p.m. $35.50-$99.50.
July 29: Toby Keith, Brantly Gilbert. 7:30 p.m. $28.75-$73.75.
Aug. 1: Slipknot, Slayer, Motorhead, Anthrax. 6 p.m. $26.50-$76.50.
Aug 9: Big Time Rush, Cody Simpson. 7 p.m. $20-$65.
Aug. 11: Brad Paisley, The Band Perry, Scotty McCreery. 7:30 p.m. $29.50-$64.50
Aug. 25: Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan. 7 p.m. $125-$350.
Sept. 15: Kiss, Motley Crue. 7 p.m. $36-$157.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
Saratoga Springs. (518) 583-3045; Ticketmaster, 745-3000.
livenation.com. One of the most beautiful spots to enjoy a summer
concert, SPAC is a twin-tiered, 5,100-seat outdoor amphitheater in a
state park outside Saratoga Springs in the Adirondack foothills, about a
three-hour drive from Central New York. The sound is good on the lawn,
but don’t expect to see much of the performers.
June 8 & 9: Dave Matthews Band, Lettuce. 7 p.m. $50-$90.
June 12: Yanni. 7:30 p.m. $50-$145.
June 14: Drake, J. Cole, Waka Flocka Flame, Meek Mill, 2 Chainz, French Montana. 7 p.m. $45-$115.
June 23: The Beach Boys. 8 p.m. $25-$145
June 29: Brad Paisley, The Band Perry, Scotty McCreery. 7:30 p.m. $35-$80.
July 6, 7 & 8: Phish. 7:30 p.m. $55-$75.
July 24: Nickelback, Bush, My Darkest Days. 6:30 p.m. $30-$120.
July 28: O.A.R., Rebelution. 7 p.m. $20-$50.
July 31: Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival: Slipknot, Slayer, Motorhead, Anthrax and more. 1:30 p.m. $30-$105.
Aug. 14: Big Time Rush, Cody Simpson. 7 p.m. $20-$80.
Aug. 21: Chicago, The Doobie Brothers. 7:30 p.m. $20-$150.
Sept. 2: Jason Mraz, Christina Perri. 7:30 p.m. $30-$75.
Sept .3: Fresh Beat Band. 2:30 p.m. $52.
Around the State
Anderson Center for the Arts. Located on the campus of SUNY Binghamton, includes three theaters: Osterhout Concert Theater, Chamber Hall and Watters Theater. The center books music, theater and dance performances. www2.binghamton.edu/Anderson-center. (607) 777-6802.
June 7: Grace Kelly Quintet, Phil Woods.
8 p.m. $10-$20.
July 27: Marvin Hamlisch, Binghamton Philharmonic. 8 p.m. $25-$55.
Aug. 28: Chicago. 8 p.m. $35-$70.
Brewery Ommegang. This lovely spot south of Cooperstown welcomes a diverse range of musicians this summer; camping is available for an additional fee. 656 County Highway 33, Cooperstown; (607) 544-1800; ommegang.com.
June 15: Cake. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. $42.50-$65.
July 21: Death Cab for Cutie. 8 p.m. $39.50.
July 27: Lyle Lovett. 8 p.m. $55.
July 28: Wilco. Gates open at 4 p.m. $42.
Sept. 22: Darius Rucker. Gates open at 4 p.m. $45.
Center for the Arts.
72 S. Main St., Homer. (877) 749-2787; center4art.org. This center
fosters arts and music in Homer and surrounding areas of Central New
York.
June 9: John Jorgenson Quintet, J.D. Souther. 8 p.m. $30/adults; $25/seniors; $15/students, free/kids.
June 22 & 23: The Glengarry Bhoys. 8 p.m. $25/adults; $20/seniors; $10/students, free/kids.
July 21: Pure Prairie League. 8 p.m. $25/adults; $20/seniors; $10/students, free/kids.
Cazenovia College Catherine Cummings Theatre.
16 Lincklaen St., Cazenovia, 655-7238.
June 29: Felix Cavaliere, 8 p.m. $30. Call 655-STAR.
Clayton Opera House.
405 Riverside Drive, Clayton. 686-2200; claytonoperahouse.com. Located
in the Thousand Islands, this renovated venue hosts a number of acts
each summer. The Summer Cornerstone Series will be held at 7:30 p.m.
unless otherwise noted.
June 21: Blood Sweat & Tears. 7:30 p.m. $40, $45
June 27: Manhattan String Quartet. 7:30 p.m. $15, $25.
July 11: Arrival: The Music of ABBA. 7:30 p.m. $35, $40.
July 20: The Hot Club of San Francisco presents “Cinema Vivant.” $25, $30.
July 27: Kathryn Ingerson. 7:30 p.m. $15, $25.
Aug. 3: The Capitol Steps. 5 and 8 p.m. $40,$45.
Aug. 17: Marshall Tucker Band. 7:30 p.m. $45, $50.
Aug. 31: Nellie McKay. 7:30 p.m. $30, $35.
Disabled Persons Action Organization Summer Concert Series.
Watertown Fairgrounds Arena, Coffeen Street, Watertown. 782-0044; dpao.org.
July 6: Blake Shelton, Justin Moore. 7 p.m. $75/reserved, $49/general.
July 28: Bill Cosby, 7 p.m. $56/reserved, $40/general.
Aug. 14: Journey, Loverboy. 7 p.m. $75/reserved, $55/general.
Scriba Town Inn.
5338 Route 104 East, Oswego. 342-4235. summerconcertstage.com. Ed
Kowalczyk of Live will perform the hits of his former band, Live, with
special guests Silent Fury and Twisted Folf also joining the bill. July
20. 5 p.m. $20.
State Theatre of Ithaca.
107 W. State St., Ithaca. (607) 277-8283. stateofithaca.com. This
classic venue hosts upward of 60 events annually, including concerts,
theatrical productions, performances and more.
June 8: Lindsey Buckingham, 8:30 p.m. $29.50-$36.50.
June 19: Fiona Apple, Blake Mills. 8 p.m. $49.50-$59.50.
June 21: Hot Tuna, Steve Kimock. 8 p.m. $36.50-$42.50.
Sept. 15: Josh Ritter and the Royal City Band. 8 p.m. $24.50-$29.50.
Sept. 26: Carolina Chocolate Drops. 8 p.m. $24.50-$29.50
Summer Stage at Tag’s.
2679 Route 352, Big Flats. (800) 650-TAGS; tagstickets.com. Located just
east of Elmira, about two hours southwest of Syracuse, the venue caters
mostly to the country and classic-rock crowd.
June 17: Luke Bryan, Justin Moore, Lee Brice. 6:30 p.m. $42.50-$67.50.
June 24: Orange County Choppers Live Road Show. Gates open at 3:30 p.m. $24.50-$39.50.
July 6: Styx, REO Speedwagon, Ted Nugent. 7:30 p.m. $39.50.
July 27: Joe Cocker, Huey Lewis and the News. 8 p.m. $44.50-$85.
Stanley Theatre,
259 Genesee St., Utica. Originally built to be a movie palace, this
historic theater hosts shows presented by the Broadway Theatre League of
Utica, Munson Williams Proctor Great Artist Series, and the Utica
Symphony Orchestra. thestanley.org.724-1113.
July 7: Bruce in the USA Tribute. 8 p.m. $25-$45.
July 26: Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
7 p.m. $25-$35.
Aug. 17: Mercy Me. 7:30 p.m. $21.25-$101.25.
Turning Stone Resort & Casino.
Thruway Exit 33, Verona. (877) 833-SHOW. The Oneida Nation welcomes a
host of contemporary acts and oldies stars to its posh showroom and
events center. All shows begin at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Showroom.
June 7: Robert Cray Band. $25-$40.
June 21: Judy Collins. $15-$25.
June 27: Cinderella. $40-$55.
June 28: Stephen Lynch. $30-$45.
June 29: Brian Culbertson and David Sanborn. $20-$35.
June 30. Ripley’s Believe It or Not. $15-$25.
July 12: Comedian Sinbad. $25-$35.
July 13: 3 Inch Fury, Dashboard Nixon, Gridley Paige. $15/advance, $20/at the door.
July 19: Wynonna & the Big Noise. $64-$79.
July 20: George Jones. $70-$85.
Aug. 15: k.d. Lang & the Siss Boom Bang. $40-$50.
Aug. 16: Elvis impersonator Rick Alviti.
$15-$30.
Aug. 24: Comedians from Chelsea Lately.
$20-$35.
Event Center.
July 3: REO Speedwagon, Styx, Ted Nugent.
7 p.m. $35-$45.
Aug. 18: Barry Manilow. $52, $57, $70.
Unity Hall,
101 Vanderkemp Ave, Barneveld. Unity Hall hosts concerts, live theater,
lectures and more. Events start at 8 p.m. unityhall.com. 520-8231.
June 9: The Blind Spots. $8-$10.
July 27: Above Standards. $10-$12.
Aug. 18: Dharma Bums String Band & The Bird Seed Bandits. $8-$10.
Vernon Downs Casino and Hotel.
4229 Stuhlman Road, Vernon. 829-6800.
June 8: Badfinger. $15.
July 5: America. $10.
Aug. 29: Bruce Springsteen. $108.
Fairs and Festivals
Blues in the Bay.
Upper James Street, Alexandria Bay. 482-9531; visitalexbay.org. All concerts are free.
Aug. 30: Los Blancos. 6 p.m.
Aug. 31: Carolyn Kelly Blues Band. 6 p.m.
Sept. 1: Morris & The Hepcats, 1 p.m.;
Mark Hoffmann Blues Band, 3:30 p.m.;
Ron Spencer Band, 6 p.m.
Sept. 2: Double Barrel Blues Band, 1 p.m.;
Tom Townsley & The Backsliders, 3:30 p.m.; String of Pearls, 6 p.m.
Sept. 3: All-Star Jam, 1 p.m.
Camp Bisco.
(800) 594-TIXX; campbisco.net. The 11th annual, multi-stage camping
festival takes place July 12 to 14 in Mariaville, N.Y., about 20 minutes
from Albany. More than 100 performers are expected, including The Disco Biscuits, Big Boi, Bassnectar, Skrillex, Crystal Castles and more. $170-$389.
Chenango County Blues Festival.
Chenango County Fairgrounds, West Main Street, Norwich. (607)
334-5653; chenangobluesfest.org. The 20th annual festival takes place
Aug. 17 and 18 and includes music, food, crafts and children’s
activities. $20/advance; $25/gate; free/under 18.
Aug. 16: Samuel James. Guernsey Memorial Library, 3 Court St.
Aug. 17: Papa Grows Funk. Chenango County Fairgrounds, Tent Stage.
Aug. 18: Main Stage Artists: James Armstrong, noon; Davina & the Vagabonds, 1:40 p.m.; Duke Robillard, 3:50 p.m.; Voice of the Wetlands Allstars, 6 p.m.; JJ Grey & Mofro, 8:40 p.m.
Acoustic Stage Artists: Tom Townsley and Seth Rochford, 1 p.m.; Samuel James, 2:50 p.m.; Ann Rabson, 5 p.m., Bill “Sauce Boss” Wharton, 7:40 p.m.
Finger Lakes Chamber Music Festival.
536-7357; fingerlakes-music.org. The festival, which marks its 10th
anniversary, offers world-class chamber music that can be heard at
various venues, including: Hunt Country Vineyards, 4021 Italy Hill Road;
Branchport; Keuka College’s Norton Chapel, 141 Central Ave., Keuka
Park; Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, 8419 Route 54, Hammondsport; Penn Yan
Academy, 1 School Drive, Penn Yan; and the Yates County Courthouse lawn,
Main Street, Penn Yan. Richard Auldon Clark, artistic director, and
members of the Manhattan Chamber Orchestra perform different ensembles.
$20/adults, free/students.
June 16: The First of Our 10th. Hunt Country Vineyards; 7:30 p.m.
July 1: Voice & Strings Under America’s Wings: Americana Celebration. Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. Dinner: 6 p.m., concert: 7:30 p.m.
July 8: Sparkling Piano Quintets. Norton Chapel, 7:30 p.m.
July 11: Bach to Rock-II. Yates County Courthouse lawn, 6:30 p.m. Free.
July 21: German Classics. Hunt Country Vineyards, 7:30 p.m.
July 28: Sound the Horn. Hunt Country Vineyards, 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 4: 10th Anniversary Grand Finale. Penn Yan Academy, 7:30 p.m.
Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival. Trumansburg Fairgrounds, Route 96, Trumansburg. (607) 387-5098; grassrootsfest.org. This July 19-22 festival benefits arts, education and the fight against AIDS. This year more than 50 international and regional alternative rock, folk, country and ethnic bands will play, including Donna the Buffalo, George Jones, Rebirth Brass Band, Khaira Arby, SMOD, The Meditations and many more. Four-day tickets:$95/advance; $110/gate. Youth admission (for ages 13 to 15): entire weekend, $65; children ages 12 and under, free when accompanied by an adult. One-day tickets: Thursday and Friday, $38-$40; Saturday, $43-$45; Sunday, $28-$30. Gates open Thursday at noon; close at dusk on Sunday.
Frogfest.
Herkimer County Fairgrounds, Route 5S, Frankfort. 768-9500; bigfrog104.com. Easton Corbin, Josh Thompson will
be headlining this June 9 concert, sponsored by WFRG-FM 104.3. Frogfest
attracts 8,000 to 10,000 visitors every year. Gates open at 9 a.m.,
concert starts at 2 p.m. $18/general; free/kids 10 and under.
Great American Irish Festival.
Herkimer County Fairgrounds, Route 5S, Frankfort. info@gaif.us; gaif.us.
Immerse yourself in Irish culture from July 27-29 as different Irish
bands perform. The lineup includes Donal O’Shaugnnessy, Seven Nations, Enter the Haggis, The Blarney Rebel Band, Runa
and more. Dance and music demonstrations and workshops will also be
available. $25/weekend pass; $10-$12/one-day pass; free/children 12 and
under.
Jamesville Balloonfest.
Jamesville Beach Park.703-9620; syracuseballoonfest.com. The 33rd annual
festival, running June 8 to 10, is an outdoor summer carnival with hot
air balloons, live music, games and rides. $10/adults; free/children 12
and under.
June 8: Joe Cazamental, 6 p.m.; Rumours, 7:15 p.m.; Electric Chick Magnets, 9 p.m.
June 9: Kim Monroe & Chris Eves, 2 p.m.; Reckless Driving, 3:30 p.m.; Custom Taylor Band, 5:15 p.m.; Shania Twin, 7 p.m.; Pirates & Poets (Kenny Chesney tribute), 9 p.m.
June 10: Charley Orlando, 1 p.m.; Turnip Stampede, 3 p.m.; Hard Promises, 5 p.m.; Hotel California-Eagles Tribute, 7 p.m.
Kingston Jazz Festival.
Will be held June 21 to 23. Artists will perform at several venues,
including the Grand Theatre, 218 Princess St., Kingston, Ontario,
Canada, and at McBurney Park, on Alma Street, Kingston.
kingstonjazzfestival.ca. For ticket information, call the Grand box
office, (613) 530-2050.
June 21: Anat Cohen Quartet, 7:30 p.m. $39.
June 22: Sophie Milman, 7:30 p.m. $39.
Jerry Granelli Trio, 10 p.m. $25. June 23: Jerry Granelli, 3 p.m. $25. Tanya Tagaq, 4 p.m. Free. Joe Lovano & Dave Douglas Quintet, 7:30 p.m. $39. Maya Homburger, Barry Guy and Lucas Niggli, 10 p.m. $25.
Madrid Bluegrass River Festival.
Madrid Municipal Park, 1857 Route 345, Madrid (east of Ogdensburg).
379-9290 or madridbluegrassriverfestival.com. The 21st annual festival
will run from June 22 to 24 this year. Camp out, enjoy fireworks and
participate in 5K, 10K or half-marathon distance runs while listening to
bluegrass. $8/Friday, $18/Saturday, $12/Sunday, $32/weekend pass,
free/children 12 and under free if accompanied by an adult or guardian.
Acts include Generation Gap, Spare Change, Remington Ryde, Delaney
Brothers, Pat Ashley, Lake Effect Blue Grass, Amy Gallatin, Atkinson
Family, Bear Tracks, Madrid Gospel Group, Ole Barn Boys and more.
Limestone City Blues Festival.
Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Held in downtown Kingston Aug. 23 to 26. It
is now celebrating its 16th year. Admission bracelets are $10.
kingstonblues.com/welcome.html
Aug. 23: Roxanne Potvin, OLG
Confederation Park Stage, 7 p.m.
Aug. 24: Curtis Salgado, Steve Strongman, Princess Street Stage, 7 p.m.
Aug. 25: Ruthie Foster, David Gogo, Rhythm Haints, Springer Market Square Stage, 7 p.m.
moe.down.
Snow Ridge Ski Area, Route 26, Turin. moedown.com. The 13th annual festival will run from Aug. 10 to 12. Umphrey’s McGee, North Mississippi Allstars, SOJA, The Bright Light Social Hour, Timbre Coup, Aqueous and, of course, moe. will perform. $120/three-day pass plus camping.
M&T Syracuse Jazz Fest.
Jamesville Beach Park, Jamesville. 437-5627; syracusejazzfest.com. The
30th annual festival will be held June 22 and 23 from 3:30 to 11 p.m.
All performances will take place on the Louis H. Everding Main Stage. A
fireworks display caps the Saturday show at 11 p.m. A wine court, craft
fair and food court will also be available. Free.
June 22: Harri Stojka & The Hot Club of Vienna’s “Tribute to Gypsy Swing (Part 1)” 3:30-4:30 p.m.; Cyrille Aimee & Diego Figueiredo, 5-6 p.m.; Mingo Fishtrap, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Gregory Porter, 8-9 p.m.; Kenny G, 9:30-11 p.m.
June 23: Harri Stojka & The Hot Club of Vienna’s “Tribute to Gypsy Swing (Part 2)” 3:30-4:30 p.m.; Jaimoe’s Jasssz CK SP Band, 5-6 p.m.; Billy Very Big Band, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Donovan, 8-9:15 p.m.; Average White Band, 9:30-11 p.m.
New York Country Jam.
The Madison-Bouckville Antique Festival grounds, Route 20, Bouckville,
will be filled with something other than oldies but goodies. This new
festival takes place July 13 and 14, with Gretchen Wilson headlining July 13, while Big and Rich take over July 14. $75/advance; $85/gate. nycountryjam.com.
New York State Blues Festival.
952-1259; nysbluesfest.com. Come to Clinton Square to enjoy music from
local blues artists all weekend July 13 to 15. The festival will feature
performances by Anders Osborne, Jimmy Cavallo, Mick Hayes, MonkeyJunk, River City Junction, Double Barrel Blues Band, Soul of Syracuse and many more. Music begins at 4:30 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. $10/single-day admission, $25/weekend.
New York State Fair.
487-7711; nysfair.org. Tickets are available through the State
Fairgrounds’ box office and Ticketmaster for concerts at the 16,000-seat
Mohegan Sun Grandstand with top names in country, rock and pop
music, Aug. 23 to Sept. 3. Grandstand shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Concert
tickets include free admission to the State Fair on the day of the show.
All grandstand seats are reserved, bookings for Aug. 23, Aug. 25 to 30,
Sept 1 to 3 have yet to be announced.
Aug. 24: Keith Urban, David Nail. $45-$65.
Aug. 31: Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan. $45-$65.
The State Fair also features daily free national-act entertainment at Chevy Court, ranging from soul to country to rock. Some afternoon and evening bookings have yet to be announced.
Chevy Court
Aug. 23: Neon Trees, 8 p.m.
Aug. 24: Matt Nathanson, 8 p.m.
Aug. 27: The Buddy Rich Big Band, 2 p.m.
Aug. 29: Victoria Justice, 8 p.m.
Aug. 30: Mike Posner, 2 p.m.; Happy Together Tour (Mickey Dolenz, Flo and Eddie, Grass Roots, Buckinghams, Gary Puckett and the Union Gap, 8 p.m.
Aug. 31: The Commodores, 8 p.m.
Sept. 1: Theory of a Deadman, 8 p.m.
Sept. 3: Charlie Daniels Band, 8 p.m.
The fair has another venue for shows, the Talent Showcase Stage, featuring a mix of national cutting-edge acts and local favorites. Some concerts have yet to be scheduled.
Aug. 24: Tyler Hilton. 8 p.m.
Aug. 29: Wallpaper, AM & Shawn Lee. 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 30: Dark Hollow. 8 p.m.
Sept. 1: The Downtown Fiction. 8 p.m.
Sept. 2: We Are The In Crowd. 8 p.m.
Nikstock.
Champion Speedway, 344 E. River Drive, Owego. (818) 212-9136;
nikstock.com. What started out as a simple keg party is now a pair of
full-fledged summer festivals replete with bands, food, camping space
and more than 100 kegs. The 27th annual Nikstock will take place June 15
and 16, offering music from more than 40 bands ranging from hardcore
and heavy metal to acoustic. Acts include Tempter, Cold Ethyl, Rize, S.T. Dredd, Lowkey and more. $25/advance; $35/Friday gate; $25/Saturday gate.
Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival.
479-5299. Clinton Square, Syracuse. This celebration of local jazz and
wine will run July 27 and 28 and feature music on three stages. Wine
tastings will benefit the American Red Cross. Sunday’s offerings will
include blues music as well as jazz, rhythm and blues, reggae and
Americana. Clinton Square, Syracuse. Free.
Old Songs Festival.
Altamont Fairgrounds, Route 146, Altamont. (518) 765-2815;
oldsongs.org/festival. The 32nd annual celebration of blues, Celtic,
jazz, old-time, world and other music genres will take place on eight
stages June 22 to 24. Festivities include an artisan court, food,
workshops, dancing, storytelling and camping. Tickets range from $15 to
$105 for non-campers and $45 to $125 for campers. Performances by more
than 70 musical performers will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday and
Saturday and at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. Entertainers include John McCutcheon, Sharon Katz & the Peace Train, Brother Sun, Comas, Archie Fisher, The Andrew & Noah Band and many more.
Old Tyme Fiddlers’ Association.
North American Fiddlers Hall of Fame and Museum, 1121 Comins Road,
Osceola. 599-7009; nysotfa.com. Concerts are free and take place 2 to 5
p.m., unless otherwise noted.
June 10: Phil Banaszak.
June 17. Peter Dawson.
June 24: Oswego Valley Fiddlers.
July 1: Sheena Sullivan Britton.
July 8: Black River Valley Fiddlers.
July 15: Pat Kane.
July 22: Vince Boyea.
July 26-29: Fiddlers’ Picnic, Thursday, 7 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 a.m. $8/single day; $20/weekend.
Aug. 5: Fiddlin’ Future Chapter.
Aug. 12: Amanda Heyden.
Aug. 26: Central Chapter.
Sept. 2: Laurie Hart.
Sept. 9: Fiddlin’s Fun Chapter.
Sept. 16: George Harriger.
Sept. 23: Leon Boyea.
Sept. 30: Roger Thesier House Party, noon-5 p.m. with open-mike performers.
Oswego Harborfest.
343-6858; oswegoharborfest.com. Stages around the Port City fill with
local and national artists for this free music-oriented summer
celebration, held July 26 to 29. Acts include Changes in Latitudes, Big Shot, Kenny Loggins with Blue Sky Riders, Big Eyed Phish
and more. A fireworks display sponsored by Entergy Nuclear will take
place on Saturday. Kids can play games or enjoy amusement rides at the
Harborfest Midway, Children’s Stage and Activity Area.
Paper Mill Island Summer Concerts. 136 Spensieri Ave. Baldwinsville; papermillisland.com. This venue is home to a variety of outdoor live music events this summer. Concerts take place at the Paper Mill Island Amphitheater. All shows take place at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
June 9: The Machine. $20.
June 16: Ani DiFranco, Martin Sexton. $32.
July 20: Trampled by Turtles, Jatoba, The Blind Owl Band. $22
July 29: Alabama Shakes. 6 p.m. $22.
Aug. 3: Bela Fleck and the Marcus Roberts Trio. $25.
Aug. 4: Ryan Montbleau Band, Big Eyed Fish, Dark Hollow. 5 p.m. $10-$15.
Sept. 22: Keller Williams, Donna the Buffalo. 6 p.m. $23.
Polish Festival.
Clinton Square. 687-1076; polishscholarship.com. The annual celebration of all things Polish takes place June 8 to 10. Free.
June 8: Melody Lane, 4, 6 & 9 p.m.; John Steven Doubleshot, 5, 7 & 10 p.m.; Lechowia Dance Company, 8 p.m.; Al Piatkowski, 8:30 p.m.
June 9: Salt City Brass, noon, 3 & 5 p.m.; Ashley Cox, 1 p.m.; Lechowia Dance Company, 2, 4, 6:15, 7:45 & 9 p.m.; Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra, 7, 8:15 & 10 p.m.
June 10: The Noise Boys, noon; Lechowia Dance Company, 1 p.m.; Eddie Forman Orchestra, 2 & 4 p.m.
Rochester International Jazz Festival.
(585) 454-2060. The 11th annual festival will be held at 20 separate
venues from June 22 to 30. Most shows range from between $20 to $25 at
the door, while some are free. For venue information and to purchase
tickets, visit rochesterjazz.com. Dozens of acts will perform.
Headliners include Acoustic Alchemy, Jeff Lorber Fusion, Bat McGrath,
Fred Costello, Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers, Sultans of
String, The Uptown Groove and many more.
Skaneateles Festival.
685-7418. skanfest.org. Various locations throughout Skaneateles will
showcase music Wednesdays through Saturdays from Aug. 8 to Sept. 3, each
week with a different theme, including “Bach and Beyond,” “We Shall
Overcome,” “Tickling the Ivories” and “Just Stringing You Along.” This
festival features world-renowned performers in classical and
contemporary chamber music including Imani Winds, Jasper String Quartet, ECCO, Four Nations Ensemble and
more. Programs for children will also be held. Tickets range from $10
to $225 depending on age and seating section; visit
http://skanfest.org/tickets.cfm for pricing.
Stage of Nations.
Hanover Square. 422-7011. Native artists, dance, food and music provided by Joanne Shenandoah, Jana, The Fabulous Ripcords, Corn-Bred and Los Blancos will join with the Blue Rain Eco-Fest that is focused on environmental sustainability. July 27-28, times TBA. Free.
Tug Hill Bluegrass Festival.
376-2640; tughillbluegrass.com. Spend Father’s Day weekend June 15
to 17 enjoying bluegrass performances and camping at Maple Ridge Center,
7421 East Road, Lowville. $50/weekend pass, including free camping;
$25/Friday, $30/Saturday, free will donation/Sunday.
June 15: Acoustic Blue, 2 & 6:45 p.m.; Spinney Brothers, 2:45 & 7:30 p.m.; Smokey Greene, 3:30 p.m.; Lonesome River Band, 4:15 & 8:15 p.m.; Atkinson Family, 5 p.m.; Lost Time, 9 p.m.
June 16: Jesse Alexander, 10:30 a.m. & 4:20 p.m.; Heather Berry, 11:20 a.m. & 8:50 p.m.; Smokey Greene, 12:10 & 6:20 p.m.; Atkinson Family, 1 & 8 p.m.; Remington Ryde, 1:50 & 7:10 p.m.; Lost Time, 2:40 & 5:30 p.m.; Audie Blaylock, 3:30 & 9:40 p.m.
June 17: Lost Time, 10 a.m.; Heather Berry, 10:50 a.m., Atkinson Family, 11:50 a.m.; Gospel Sing, 12:40 p.m.
Wolcott Wine & Jazz Fest.
wolcottlionsclub.org. More than 20 upstate New York wineries will offer
tastings and sales amid a backdrop of free live jazz entertainment on
Aug. 4, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., in beautiful downtown Wolcott, with returning
jazz vocalist Nancy Kelly and more. Vendors will sell cheeses, jewelry and other crafts. $15/wine tasting, $10/designated drivers.
Central New York Area Concerts
Baldwinsville Summer Concert Series.
All shows take place on Paper Mill Island, 136 Spensieri Ave. Baldwinsville, and begin at 6:30 p.m. Free. townoflysander.org.
June 26: Baldwinsville Marching Band.
July 6: Atlas; fireworks to follow.
July 7: Emerald City; fireworks to follow.
July 10: Custom Taylor Band.
July 17: Letizia and the Z Band.
July 24: Joe Whiting Band.
July 31: Mario DeSantis Orchestra.
Aug. 7: After FX.
Borio’s.
This lakefront restaurant at 8891 McDonnells Parkway, Cicero. 699-2249,
welcomes local bands four days a week this summer with free admission.
On Sundays music runs from 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5
to 9 p.m. and Thursdays from 7 to 11 p.m.
June 6, July 1: Miss E and Paulie Duo.
June 7: Fate.
June 10, June 26, July 15, July 31, Aug. 21: Frenay and Lenin.
June 12, July 25: Lisa Lee Trio.
June 13, July 18, Aug. 15, Aug. 29: Just Joe.
June 14, July 19, Aug. 16: Stroke.
June 17, Aug. 8: Dan Elliott and Wayne Muller.
June 19, Aug. 14: Tom Barnes.
June 20, July 11: J Peg.
June 21, Aug. 30: The Billionaires.
June 24, July 8, July 22, Aug. 12, Aug. 26: Jerry Cali.
June 27, July 24: Chuck Dean Duo.
June 28, July 26: Prime Time.
July 3, Aug. 22: McCardell and Westers.
July 4: Noisy Boys.
July 5, Aug. 2: Grupo Pagan.
July 10, Aug. 7, Aug. 19: Dave Hawthorne.
July 12: CXTec Dinosaurs.
July 17: Rob and the J’s.
July 29: Ashley and Jimmy Cox, 1 to 3 p.m.; Tom Barnes, 4 to 8 p.m.).
Aug. 1: Jerry Cali Rock Duo.
Aug. 5, Aug. 28: Mark Macri.
Aug. 9: Soul Mine.
Aug. 23: The Critics.
CherneskyFest.
Market Street Park, downtown Auburn. fest@chernesky.org;
auburnmusic.org. This free open-air performance festival will feature
all types of acts, still to be announced, including musicians,
comedians, magicians, dancers and more. The event runs from noon until
10 p.m. Aug. 18.
CNY Pride Festival.
Inner Harbor Waterfront Park, 400 W. Kirkpatrick St.; cnypride.org. Performers will include Julia Weldon, DJ Bigboy and Square Pegs and the festivities will be emceed by comedian Kristen Becker. The fun will run from noon to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. June 16.
Concerts in the Park.
Lakeland Park, Cazenovia. 655-9243; cazenoviachamber.com. Free music
takes place at 6 p.m. on June 21, June 28, all Thursdays in July and
Aug. 2 and 9. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food and beverages will be
available.
Country Throwdown Tour 2012.
Now in its third year, the tour, featuring Gary Allan, Justin Moore, Josh Thompson, Corey Smith, Maggie Rose, Florida Georgia Line and
more, will be at the New York State Fairgrounds’ Chevy Court June 17.
Tickets range from $26 to $45. countrythrowdown.com. (615) 321-3211.
Coleman’s 2012 Summer Block Party.
100 S. Lowell Ave.; 476-1933. Spend Thursdays with live music on Tipperary Hill. Shows start at 6 p.m.
June 7: Mere Mortals, Virgil Cain.
June 14: Off the Reservation, Mike Bogan Band.
June 21: Noisy Boys Trio, Chief Bigway.
June 28: The Reissues, Mike Place.
July 5: New Day, Tiger & Mike.
July 12: Dark Hollow, Noisy Boys.
July 19: Mere Mortals, Tim Herron Corporation.
July 26: The Reissues, Noisy Boys.
Aug 2: Mere Mortals, The Headphones.
Aug. 9: Off the Reservation, Finn & Bristol.
Aug. 16: Tim Herron Corporation, Chief Bigway.
Aug 23: Dark Hollow, Mike Bogan Band.
Aug. 30: Soul Risin’, Virgil Cain.
Concerts in the Park.
Clay Park Central’s Ernest N. Casale Amphitheater, off Wetzel Road,
Liverpool. 652-3800; townofclay.org. Free music on Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30
p.m., unless otherwise noted. Rain dates for all concerts are the next
day. Food and drinks available for purchase.
June 12: Smokin’.
June 19: Lisa Lee Band.
June 23: Clay Community Festival, 11 a.m. Fab Five Band, 3 p.m. Letizia & the Z Band, 6:30 p.m.
June 26: Matt Chase & Thunder Canyon, 6:30 p.m. Fireworks at Great Northern Mall start at 9:30 p.m.
July 10: After FX Band.
July 17: Toby Franklin Band.
July 24: Jackson Rohm.
July 31: Prime Time Band.
Aug. 7: Timeline Band. 6 p.m.
Aug 14: Fulton Chain Gang Band. 5:45 p.m.
Cortland Summer Music Series.
Courthouse Park, Church Street, Cortland. (607) 753-0872;
cortlandny.com. These free shows are held on Thursdays at 7 p.m. Bring a
lawn chair or blanket.
July 5: Steve Daniels Jazz Quartet.
July 12: Ageless Jazz Band.
July 19: Old Timers Band.
July 26: The Delaney Brothers.
Aug. 2: Steve Southworth Band.
Aug. 9: Unreal City.
DeWitt Concert Series.
Enjoy music and food for purchase from Applebee’s at Ryder Park,
5400 Butternut Drive, DeWitt. 446-9250. Free on Thursdays from 6:30 to
8:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
July 5: Fritz’s Polka Band.
July 12: Smokin’.
July 19: Fulton Chain Gang.
July 26: Nick Mulpagano.
Earlville Opera House.
18 E. Main St., Earlville. 691-3550; earlvilleoperahouse.com. Tucked
into a rural Madison County village, this opera house continues to
attract some of the best blues and folk acts around. Concert series performances start at 8 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
Main stage:
June 8: 4 Years, 4 Seasons: The Civil War, A Musical Journey. 7:30 p.m. $11-$16.
June 16: Chris Smither. $17-$22.
June 30: Comas. $13-$18.
July 7: Sweetback Sisters. $13-$18.
July 14: Red Horse. $25-$30.
July 28: Greencards. $15-$20.
Aug. 4: Sonny Landreth. $22-$27.
Aug. 10, 11 & 12: Gilbert & Sullivan’s Patience. $10-$15.
Aug. 25: Americana Roots. $13-$18.
Sept. 22: Tannahill Weavers. $13-18.
Oct. 12: Jorma Kaukonen. $25-$30.
Free Family Series Events
July 12: Instrument Petting Zoo. Hamilton Village Green, 7 p.m. Meet the instruments before Symphony Syracuse at 8 p.m.
July 15: Lynn Trefzger. 3 p.m. Comedy ventriloquist.
July 24: Robert Post. 11 a.m. Comedian.
Aug. 2: Youth Showcase & T-Shirt Workshop, Hamilton Village Green 7 p.m.
Aug. 3: EOH Circus. 7 p.m. $3-$5.
Sept. 7: The Nields: Kids’ Show. 7 p.m.
Sept. 9: Bill Harley. Part of the Great Chocolate Train Festival, Hamilton Village Green.1:45 p.m.
Oct. 27: The Haunted Opera House. 7 p.m.
Jazz Greats at Glenora Concert Series.
Glenora Wine Cellars, Route 14, seven miles north of Watkins Glen. (800)
243-5513; glenora.com. The two-part jazz series, starting both days at 2
p.m., features contemporary jazz in a lovely Finger Lakes setting.
July 15: The Sax Pack. $28.
Aug. 19: Richard Elliott. $28.
Kosta’s Bar & Grill.
105 Grant Ave., Auburn. 253-7711. Enjoy a Party on the Patio every Thursday night. All concerts are at 7 p.m.
June 7, Aug. 16: Dave Hawthorn.
June 14, Aug. 30: Michael Crissan.
June 21, Aug. 2: Shannon Rae & Marty Lee Flynn.
June 28: Jon Lieberg.
July 5, Sept. 6: Kevin Barrigar.
July 12: Wood Stone.
July 19: Kim Fetters & Andy Rudy.
July 26: Virgil Cain.
Aug 9: Two Hour Delay.
Aug. 23: Chris Mosley & John Schulte.
Landmark Theatre.
362 S. Salina St. 475-7980; landmarktheatre.org.
June 29: Comedian Charlie Murphy. 8 p.m. $42.50-$62.50.
July 22: Johnny Mathis. 7 p.m. $37-$102.
Aug. 8: Jane’s Addiction. 8 p.m. $29.50-$49.50
Liverpool is the Place.
Johnson Park, corner of Route 57 and Vine Street in Liverpool. 457-3895;
liverpoolchamber.com. The free shows on Mondays and Wednesdays start at
7 p.m.
June 11: Liverpool Community Chorus.
June 13: Honky Tonk Hindooz.
June 18: The Fab Cats.
June 20: Dave Baker’s Tribute to Frank Sinatra.
June 25: Matt Chase & Thunder Canyon.
June 27: Mark Zane & Friends.
July 2: Liverpool Community Orchestra.
July 4: Diamond Someday.
July 9: The Fab 570.
July 11: The Julie Falatico Trio.
July 16: Stroke.
July 18: The Z-Bones.
July 23: Nova Jazz Quartet.
July 25: The Coachmen featuring Elizabeth Fern.
July 30: Fabulous Ripcords.
Aug. 1: The AdVentures.
Aug. 6: Custom Taylor Band.
Aug. 8: Salt City Brass Polka Band.
Aug. 13: Smokin’.
Aug. 15: Bear Cat Jass Band.
Aug. 20: Christopher Ames Trio.
Aug. 22: Alan Taylor & Two Feet Short.
MJ’s Chill ‘N Grill Summer Entertainment,
8201 Oswego Road, Liverpool. mjschillngrill.com; 622.1763. Concerts have yet to be slated for June 14 to 16 and June 29 and 30.
June 7: Code Red. 5 p.m.
June 8, July 7: Letizia & the Z Band. 9:30 p.m.
June 9: Fate. 9:30 p.m.
June 21: Soul Mine. 9p.m.
June 22: JD and Rollin South. 9:30 p.m.
June 23: Dave Wolever, 6 p.m. After FX, 9:30 p.m.
June 28, July 19: The Billionaires.
July 12: Over the Top. 5 p.m.
July 14: Brass Inc. 9 p.m.
July 20: South Bay. 5 p.m.
July 26: JD and Rollin South. 5p.m.
Aug. 2, Aug. 30: Letizia & the Z Band. 5 p.m.
Aug. 9: Fate. 5p.m.
Aug. 11: Over the Top. 9 p.m.
Aug. 16: The Billionaires. 5 p.m.
North Syracuse Summer Concert Series. Lonergan Park, Route 11, North Syracuse. 458-8050. Free shows on Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m.; no concert July 4. In the event of rain, call for rain date. Food available for purchase.
June 27: Papa Joe’s Band.
July 11: Letizia and the Z Band.
July 18: Thunder Canyon.
July 25: Fulton Chain Gang.
Aug. 1: Timeline.
Aug. 8: Smokin’.
Aug. 15: Custom Taylor Band.
Aug. 22: Dan Elliott and the Monterays.
Aug. 29: Mario DeSantis Orchestra.
Onondaga County War Memorial.
515 Montgomery St. 435-2121
June 21: James Taylor. 8 p.m. $59.50-$79.50.
Sept. 4: American Idol Live. 7 p.m. $28.50-$64.
Pops in the Park.
Upper Onondaga Park, Roberts Avenue. 473-4330; syracuse.ny.us. The
concert series features a variety of musical styles. Bring a lawn chair
or blanket, the kids and a picnic basket. Held on Tuesdays in July at 7
p.m.
July 10: Soft Spoken
July 17: Carolyn Kelly Blues Band
July 24: The FabCats
July 31: Stan Colella Orchestra
Salt City Sunday Music & Arts Festival. Johnson Park, corner of Route 57 and Vine Street in Liverpool. 622-1928; saltcitysunday.com. Three outstanding Central New York acts, the Mario DeSantis Orchestra, jazz group ESP and a third to be announced, will join artists of all kinds for the day. The event runs from 2 to 8 p.m. July 15.
Saranac Brewery Events.
F.X. Matt Brewing Company Tour Center Courtyard, Utica. (800) 765-6288;
saranac.com. Tickets are available online and at the door. All shows
begin at 7 p.m.; gates open at 6 p.m.
June 13: The Outlaw Road Show. $36/advance; $40/door.
July 13: Yonder Mountain String Band. $22/advance; $26/door.
Aug. 1: Slight Stoopid with the Aggrolites. $25/advance; $30/door.
Saranac Thursdays.
F.X. Matt Brewing Company Tour Center Courtyard, Utica. 624-2400;
saranac.com. Saranac beers, Saranac soft drinks and Utica Club will be
served. Admission is $5 and benefits the United Way of the Valley and
Greater Utica Area. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.
June 7: Cherry Bomb.
June 14: Gridley Paige.
June 21: Prime Time.
July 28: Ryan Montbleau.
July 5: Showtime.
July 12: Crazy Fools.
July 19: 3 Inch Fury.
July 26: Enter the Haggis.
Aug. 2: Dusty Puppies.
Aug. 9: Jimkata.
Aug. 16: Fulton Chain Gang.
Aug. 23: The Bomb.
Aug. 30: Simple Props.
Sept. 13: Utica Music Fest Kick-off.
Sharkapalooza 2012.
Thursday summer concert series will be held at Sharkey’s, 7240 Oswego Road, Liverpool, 6-9 p.m. Free. 214-4116.
June 7: Under the Gun.
June 14: The Reissues.
June 21: 3 Inch Fury.
June 28: Mike McKay Band.
July 5: Todd Hobin.
July 12: Emerald City.
July 19: Under the Gun.
July 26: Fate.
Aug. 2: Kat Tale.
Aug. 9: 3 Inch Fury.
Aug. 16: TJ Sacco.
Summer Concert Series.
487-8238; townofgeddes.com. Take in music at various locations throughout the town of Geddes on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.
June 28: Mario DeSantis Orchestra. Woods Road Gazebo, Solvay.
July 12: Soda Ash Six. St. Charles Church parking lot, Westvale.
July 19: Frtitz’s Polka Band. Lakeland Park.
July 26: Smokin’. Woods Road Gazebo, Solvay.
Aug. 2: About Time Band. Lakeland Park.
Aug. 9: Flyin’ Column. St. Charles Church parking lot, Westvale.
