🎷 Syracuse International Jazz Fest
📍 Clinton Square | 🗓 June 26–28 | 💵 Free
The Jazz Fest is back and better than ever! This free three-day festival brings world-class jazz, funk, and soul to the heart of downtown. Catch acts like Trombone Shorty, The Spinners, and Donald Harrison as they light up Clinton Square with smooth grooves and summer energy. Pro tip: bring a lawn chair and get there early—this one gets packed.
🎭 “Edgar in the Red Room” – Immersive Cabaret Theater
📍 Local venue TBA | 🗓 June 27–28
Love mystery, atmosphere, and a bit of the macabre? Step into this immersive, cabaret-style show based on the final days of Edgar Allan Poe. Expect dark humor, period vibes, and an unforgettable night of storytelling and performance.
🎨 The Cookout: Summer Paint Party
📍 Community Folk Art Center | 🗓 Saturday, June 28 | 🕔 5:30–8:30 PM
Paint, party, and connect. This interactive event is equal parts chill and creative—with all supplies provided. Perfect for a night out with friends or a solo reset. Food and music included, of course.
🎤 Aretha Franklin Tribute: “Young, Gifted & Black”
📍 Community Folk Art Center | 🗓 Friday, June 27 | 🕕 6–8 PM
Pay tribute to the Queen of Soul with this powerful performance by Dani Mitchell, who brings Aretha’s spirit to life through iconic hits and deep cuts. This is more than a concert—it’s a celebration.
📸 Meet the Artist: Kevin Yatarola
📍 Renaissance Pub | 🗓 June 27–28 | ⏰ Evening
Known for his bold, behind-the-scenes photojournalism, Kevin Yatarola brings his work to Syracuse with a featured gallery show and Q&A. Grab a drink, browse the images, and hear the stories that go with them.
🎻 Off the Dock Chamber Festival (Skaneateles)
📍 Skaneateles | 🗓 Through Sunday, June 28
Just a quick drive from Syracuse, this festival features young classical and jazz musicians performing in one of the most scenic lakeside villages in New York. Great for a classy afternoon escape.
🐴 Family Fun Fest
📍 Rt 80 Stables | 🗓 June 27–29
If you’ve got little ones, this event is a hit. Pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, and good old-fashioned outdoor fun. A wholesome way to spend a summer day.
🧪 Steel Innovation Station at The MOST
📍 The Museum of Science & Technology | 🗓 All weekend
Explore interactive exhibits on how steel is made, recycled, and used in modern engineering. Great for families, curious minds, or anyone who just loves pushing buttons and pulling levers.
Whether you’re into live music, moody theater, or hands-on art, Syracuse is stacked with options this weekend. Make your plans, grab some friends, and get out there—this city’s got something cooking every day of the week.
