Whether blues music is already your passion or you’re just looking for an outdoor event to bring the family to this summer, you won’t want to miss the New York State Blues Festival.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this June, the festival first began as the Central New York Blues Festival in 1992, featuring talented local musicians in downtown Syracuse’s Armory Square and the historic Hotel Syracuse. In 2021, the festival relocated to the state fairgrounds to bring people together while staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, said festival director Eric McElveen.

“It was great to be back after taking a break because of the pandemic,” he said. “It’ll be great to get out there again, hearing the music and seeing all the happy people dancing and socializing and enjoying themselves at a nice outdoor facility.”

As one of the largest free blues events in the Northeast, this three-day musical celebration will showcase a collection of regional and national artists from multiple genres – all with roots steeped in tradition and vision.

The festival takes place at Chevy Court at the New York State Fairgrounds, and festival attendees can enjoy the show from spacious grass lawns under the shade of the trees. Unlike downtown Syracuse, the state fairgrounds has permanent stages and dressing rooms for the bands and bathrooms available for everyone.

The festival is family-friendly and will include a special New Orleans-style parade on Saturday, during which costumes and accessories are encouraged in the march around Chevy Court. Throughout the three-day event, there will be a wide variety of food vendors and, for the adults, a craft beer garden featuring New York State brews.

If you plan to visit Syracuse from out of town, there are several local hotels offering discounts for festival-goers. Plus, AAA Members have access to hotel ratings and savings at select Syracuse-area hotels here.

Looking to travel with your RV? You’re in luck! You can reserve your spot at the state fairgrounds’ Empire RV Park, which is walking distance to and from Chevy Court so you don’t miss out on any of the excitement! Two- and three-night packages are available, with power and water hook-ups included.

For a VIP experience this summer, the ProAct Blues Club VIP packages include a fully catered dinner each night and a lunch on Saturday, beer and wine, preferred seating, and artist meet and greets during the festival. 

Even after all these years, bands, vendors, and visitors are bringing the same level of energy and excitement seen throughout the past 30 years, McElveen said. Commemorating the history of the genre, performances on Friday, June 17, will be in tribute to the Central New York blues scene.

“It’s the audience and the musicians that make it such a real, authentic part of the Syracuse culture,” McElveen said. “I’m really looking forward to listening to great music and having the chance to celebrate with everybody.”

No matter how you plan on getting to your summer destination, AAA can help. Get AAA’s RV/Motorcycle rider for just $35 and know you’re covered anywhere you go.

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