Celebrate Summer: Festivals in Western and Central New York
Celebrate Summer: Festivals in Western and Central New York
As the warmth of spring and summer beckons, Western and Central New York come alive with a host of vibrant festivals and events. From colorful hot air balloons soaring over picturesque landscapes to mouth-watering culinary celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Let's explore some of the must-visit festivals in the Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse areas that will make your warmer months unforgettable.
Buffalo Area
Chalkfest Buffalo
Date: June 8-9
Location: Buffalo RiverWorks, 359 Ganson St., Buffalo, NY
Chalkfest Buffalo transforms the ground outside and inside the grain elevators into a vibrant canvas of colorful chalk art. Artists from near and far converge to create stunning murals and 3D illusions that captivate onlookers. This year’s theme is Mythical Creatures. Artists who draw on the ground will be able to zipline over their creations or see them from the top of the Ferris Wheel. This family-friendly event is a great activity for kids and families.
Taste of Buffalo
Dates: July 13-14
Location: Delaware Avenue and Niagara Square, Buffalo, NY
One of the largest two-day food festivals in the United States, Taste of Buffalo showcases the best culinary delights from Western New York. With 44 restaurants, you'll have the chance to sample an incredible variety of dishes, from local favorites to international cuisine. The festival also features live music, cooking demonstrations, and a delightful atmosphere in the heart of downtown Buffalo.
National Buffalo Wing Festival
Dates: Aug. 31 - Sep. 1
Location: Highmark Stadium, 1 Bills Dr, Orchard Park, NY
Celebrate Buffalo's most famous culinary creation at the National Buffalo Wing Festival. Held at Highmark Stadium, this event attracts wing enthusiasts from all over. Enjoy a weekend filled with wing-eating contests, cooking competitions, live music, and, of course, over 100 varieties of wings to savor.
Rochester Area
Dates: June 21–29
Location: Rochester New York’s East End (See website for various venues/stages)
The CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival, taking place from June 21–29, is a nine-day celebration that draws musicians and attendees from around the globe to Rochester. This vibrant festival showcases hours of exceptional music, with many free performances held on outdoor stages throughout Rochester’s East End.
Dates: July 13–14
Location: Corn Hill, Rochester, NY 14608
The Corn Hill Arts Festival will take place on July 13–14, in Rochester's historic Corn Hill neighborhood. This popular event spans two days and features over 350 artists and vendors, offering a variety of arts and crafts across nine tree-lined streets. Attendees can enjoy live music from multiple stages, including many free performances, as well as various family-friendly activities such as bounce houses, chalk art, and a Fairy Houses Showcase. The festival is easily accessible with Avery Mall serving as the official shuttle stop.
Date: July 20
Location: South Avenue to Highland Park, Rochester, NY
Join the Rochester Pride Parade & Festival on July 20, at its new location from South Avenue to Highland Park. Celebrate the LGBTQ+ community with a parade at 11 a.m., followed by a festival featuring food, drinks, games, live music, and performances, including headliners Ada Vox and Thea Austin. The event also includes vendor tables and activities for all ages. General admission is $5, VIP tickets are $50, and children under 12 attend for free.
Canandaigua Art & Music Festival
Dates: July 19-21
Location: 115 South Main St., Canandaigua, NY
The Canandaigua Art & Music Festival is a three-day celebration of art, music, and community. Stroll through the charming streets of downtown Canandaigua, where you'll find over 150 artists, restaurants, and unique shops. Enjoy bluegrass, blues, rock & roll, jazz, and singer-songwriter acoustic music throughout the weekend. And it wouldn’t be a festival without your favorite fair foods. This festival is a perfect blend of culture and entertainment in the heart of the Finger Lakes.
Syracuse Area
Taste of Syracuse
Dates: June 7-8
Location: Clinton Square, Downtown Syracuse, NY
Taste of Syracuse is a premier food festival that showcases the diverse culinary scene of Central New York. With many vendors, you can sample everything from gourmet dishes to classic comfort foods, all while enjoying live music and entertainment. The event is held in Clinton Square, making it a lively and delicious start to the summer.
40th Anniversary of Spiedie Fest
Dates: Aug. 2-4
Location: Otsiningo Park, Binghamton, NY
Spiedie Fest celebrates the beloved spiedie sandwich, a local culinary delight of marinated meat served on Italian bread. This milestone 40th anniversary event features hot air balloons, live music, craft vendors, and plenty of delicious spiedies to enjoy. It's a community favorite that draws visitors from across the region.
Plan your summer road trips with AAA
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Make this summer memorable and hassle-free with AAA by your side, ensuring you focus on the fun and festivities ahead. Learn about all of your AAA Membership benefits now.