NEWSLETTER
New York State kicks off the summer season with an exhilarating blend of cultural, historic, sporting, and foodie events. Join in Pride celebrations statewide, commemorate Juneteenth at one of the nation’s largest festivals in Buffalo, get set to race for the finish line in the Adirondacks, paddle a series of Erie Canal locks, travel back to the Renaissance in the Capital-Saratoga region, and much more this eventful June!
Celebrate Pride Month (Multiple Regions)
Various Dates
In New York, LGBTQ Pride Month is a statewide celebration too big to be contained to one city or even one month. New York City is clearly the mother of all Prides, with its unparalleled Pride March, PrideFest and other events all throughout June. Each of the five boroughs celebrate in their own inimitable style, as do communities across the state, from Long Island to Buffalo. At Pride celebrations, you’ll enjoy parades, musical performances, outdoor street festivals, delicious food and more! Upcoming celebrations include Buffalo Pride, Brooklyn Pride, Long Island Pride, Capital Pride, Catskills Pride, and many more including Rochester Pride in July. Check out our calendar to find a Pride event near you! Various dates and locations.
Commemorate Juneteenth (Multiple Regions)
Various Dates
Credit: KC Kratt for Visit Buffalo Niagara
In June, communities across New York State are celebrating Juneteenth, which commemorates the abolition of slavery in the United States. The Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo (June 14-15) is one of the largest celebrations of its kind in the world. In the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, enjoy the Jamestown Juneteenth Festival at Jackson Taylor Park (June 19-22). Saratoga Springs hosts a Juneteenth Celebration on June 19 with music, poetry, interpretative dance, historic performances, and more. The Juneteenth Celebration at Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island on June 14 features a day of special programs, including demonstrations of hearth cooking, discussions of social history, and historical reenactment. Also, from June 12-19 in New York City, more than 20,000 people are expected to attend the Juneteenth New York Festival at Brooklyn’s Prospect Park for a vibrant day of rich culture filled with music, dance, poetry, skits, history, vendors, and family activities.
Music Festivals in the Finger Lakes (Finger Lakes)
Various Dates
Credit: @100thingsinrochester on Instagram
The Finger Lakes will be alive with the sound of music this June. The 2025 New York State Blues Festival, one of the largest free blues events in the Northeast, comes to Syracuse featuring Warren Haynes Band, Ruthie Foster, Southern Avenue, The Three Kings feat. D.K. Harrell, and many other great artists and acts (June 12-14). Syracuse International Jazz Fest, now in its 39th year, features a powerhouse lineup of Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, The Spinners, Gunhild Carling, Todd Rundgren, and other world-renowned artists performing in venues across Downtown Syracuse (June 25-29). The Rochester International Jazz Festival (June 20-28) presents nine days of more than 285 shows at 18 venues with more than 1,750 artists from nine countries, plus the United States. Performers at this year’s festival include Smokey Robinson, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, The Wood Brothers, Rickie Lee Jones, and Thundercat. Syracuse and Rochester; free admission for the 2025 New York State Blues Festival and Syracuse Jazz Fest; CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival features both free and ticketed events.
Rhinebeck Crafts Festival (Hudson Valley)
May 31 – June 1
For a unique shopping experience, head to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds for the Rhinebeck Crafts Festival! With over 165 makers, you’ll find handmade and uncommon treasures that can’t be found anywhere else. Discover original fashions, accessories, jewelry, home décor, furniture, photography, and fine art, and immerse yourself in functional and sculptural works crafted from ceramics, glass, metal, wood, and mixed media. And that’s not all – indulge in gourmet specialties, enjoy local distillery samples, witness craft demonstrations, and enjoy family-friendly activities. Rhinebeck; $11 general admission, $10 seniors 62+, $4 children 6-16; under 6 free admission.
Spring Races in Wilmington (Adirondacks)
June 3, 7, 8, and 21
Get ready for thrilling adventures in the heart of the Adirondacks with exhilarating races in Wilmington for all ages and abilities! With breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain, these races will push you to your limits and leave you with unforgettable memories. If you like a challenge, the Whiteface Mountain Uphill Bike Race on June 3 is the course for you, as you’ll pedal eight miles over an 8 percent grade up Whiteface Mountain's scenic Veterans' Memorial Highway. Prefer running? On June 7, race your way to the top at the Whiteface Mountain Uphill Foot Race to experience some of Adirondacks greatest views and take home bragging rights! On June 8, the Wilmington Whiteface 100K and 50K Mountain Bike Race returns, featuring a mix of rugged backcountry roads, stretches of flowing and smooth singletrack, and plenty of climbing. And, if a casual 5K and 10K fundraiser followed by some great whiskey is more your speed, head to town for the Wilmington Whiteface Whiskey Run and accompanying Whiskey Run Festival on June 21! Wilmington; please visit individual event websites for prices and registration information.
Belmont Stakes Racing Festival (Capital-Saratoga)
June 4-8
Credit: @gideonputnam on Instagram
Get ready for a breathtaking finish as the world of horse racing turns its attention to the Capital-Saratoga region, where the Saratoga Race Course will play host to the Belmont Stakes for the second time in the prestigious event’s 157-year history. The four-day festival will include 27 stakes races with purses totaling nearly $11.3 million. The main event, the Grade 1, $2 million Belmont Stakes, the final leg of thoroughbred racing’s Triple Crown, will be held June 7. There will be plenty of fun to be found at the track and in town, including Belmont Bites & Brews, and the Belmont Family Fun Festival, both taking place at the National Museum Of Racing And Hall Of Fame, and The Belmont Gala at the Canfield Casino. Saratoga Springs; prices vary.
Tribeca Film Festival (New York City)
June 4-15
Photo by Ruby Tull
Watch groundbreaking storytelling and star-studded premieres unfold right before your eyes in New York City at one of the world’s most popular film festivals! Get ready to be dazzled with an amazing lineup of documentary, narrative, and animated features. This year’s festival leans heavily into music-driven storytelling, with world premieres of films featuring Billy Joel, Miley Cyrus, Counting Crows, and Metallica, alongside exclusive performances, and conversations with artists. The event also introduces the inaugural Shorts Cinema, a dedicated screening space at Spring Studios, showcasing a record-breaking selection of 93 short films from over 30 countries, including first-time selections from Ecuador, Zimbabwe, and Curaçao. With star-studded casts in feature films and a diverse international selection, Tribeca 2025 continues its tradition of celebrating bold storytelling and cinematic innovation. Manhattan; $28 for evening and weekend screenings, $15 for weekday matinee and late-night screenings, and $40 and up for Tribeca Talks events.
Taste of Syracuse (Finger Lakes)
June 6-7
Credit: @syracusehalalgyro on Instagram
Kick off summer in Syracuse at this iconic festival, featuring more than 75 restaurants and vendors offering $2 samples, along with three stages of live entertainment headlined this year by Steven Page. Work up an appetite Saturday at Paige’s Butterfly Run, with proceeds benefiting the Dr. William J. Waters Center for Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital. Syracuse; free admission; $2 food samples. $43.95 registration fee for all Paige’s Butterfly Run events except the Caterpillar Crawl, a 40 ft. fun run/walk for kids ages 0-5 years, which is free.
2025 Fairport Canal Days (Finger Lakes)
June 6-8
CREDIT: @SPRUNGPHOTOGRAPHY ON INSTAGRAM
Fairport Canal Days celebrates creativity and camaraderie, and invites everyone to immerse themselves in art, music, and community against the scenic backdrop of the historic Erie Canal in the picturesque Village of Fairport. The festivities kick off with a mouthwatering Chicken BBQ on June 6 followed by a music-filled weekend with over 60 artists performing across five stages. With over 200 artisans, 50 food vendors, and a fun kid zone for the little ones, there’s something for everyone! Fairport; free admission.
1000 Islands Family Free Day (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
June 7
For a great day of fun, exploration, and community, head out to Clayton and the Antique Boat Museum for their annual Family Free Day, now in its 26th year! Experience a ride on a speedboat ($5 per person), cheer on the creative, hand-built boats in the Cardboard Boat Regatta, witness the amazing Great International Steamboat Flotilla, tour the museum’s galleries and preview new exhibits, enjoy lunch from local food trucks, and groove to live music. There are also crafts and games for kids, chances to learn about exciting educational opportunities at the museum, and much more! Clayton; free admission.
2025 Wet Paint Festival (Long Island)
June 7-8
Calling all art lovers: The 2025 Wet Paint Festival is set to bring Long Island’s landscapes to life! Now in its 21st year, this beloved plein air painting event invites artists to capture the area's historic and natural beauty in real time. Spectators can watch painters at work on the grounds of the Merritt Hawkins House and Nassakeag Elementary School, where scenic trails and greenspaces provide the perfect backdrop. The festival also features guided tours, live music, food, and children's activities, making it a perfect celebration for all ages. After the event, the freshly painted masterpieces will be showcased in an exhibition at The Reboli Center for Art and History from July 8-13. Whether you're an artist or an admirer, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss! Setauket; $50 registration to paint, free admission for spectators.
Lake Placid Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K (Adirondacks)
June 8
Taking place in the breathtaking Adirondacks, the Lake Placid Marathon & Half Marathon is more than just a race – it's an experience! Runners of all levels will be gathering in the historic Olympic Village to take on scenic courses that weave through mountain vistas, tranquil lakes, and charming streets. Whether you're tackling the full marathon, half marathon, or the 10K, there's a challenge for everyone. But the excitement isn’t just for seasoned athletes – the Children’s Run on June 7 ensures that even the youngest runners get to feel the thrill of crossing the finish line. With well-stocked aid stations, enthusiastic spectators, and a vibrant post-race celebration, this event is the perfect blend of endurance and community spirit, whether you're running, cheering, or simply soaking in the energy! Lake Placid; registration prices vary; free to spectate.
Rose Day (Hudson Valley)
June 8
Bask in a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and elegance during Rose Day at Lyndhurst Mansion. In the Rose Garden, a harpist will be playing music (noon-2PM) and a horticulturist will be on hand to answer all your gardening questions. Plein air painters will be scattered throughout the landscape, and the Rose Cottage will be open for a rare peek into the children’s playhouse built in the early 20th century. Ice cream and bakery treats will be available, and you’ll have the opportunity to buy a locally grown flower bouquet! Tarrytown; $10 per person, plus service fee.
Museum Mile Festival (New York City)
June 10
CREDIT: @ARTMUSENY ON INSTAGRAM
Get ready for a mile-long celebration of art and culture at the 47th edition of New York City’s Museum Mile Festival! Billed as New York’s biggest block party, the festival features free admission to some of the world's finest art collections during extended evening hours. The stretch of Fifth Avenue known as Museum Mile is home to eight participating institutions—The Africa Center, El Museo del Barrio, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, the Jewish Museum, Neue Galerie, and the Museum of the City of New York. Don’t worry about bringing the kids – many of the participating museums have art related activities for them, and you’ll be entertained by bands and street performers up and down the mile-long stretch. The festival kicks off at 6 pm, rain or shine! New York City, Fifth Avenue from 82nd Street to 105th Street; free admission.
Great NY State Food & Wine Festival (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
June 13-15
Bring your appetite to the Thousand Islands for a three-day celebration of all things New York food and drink. Featuring quality “Made in New York” products, this fun family-friendly festival boasts more than 70 exhibitors, including dozens of wineries from Long Island to Buffalo and the Finger Lakes, along with live music daily. Also enjoy candy, cheese, meat, nuts, dips and sauces, herbs and spices, maple products, cookies, fudge, desserts, soda, coffee, jerky, popcorn, wine flour, distilled spirits and, of course, New York State wines! Clayton; $20 adults 21+, $5 ages 13-20, 12 and under free.
National BBQ Festival (Long Island)
June 13-15
Get ready for a sizzling summer weekend as this legendary event makes a fiery comeback, bringing together the nation’s top BBQ teams to battle for a $100,000 prize in Nassau County. Indulge in unlimited BBQ samples, meet award-winning pitmasters, enjoy live music, sip on local brews, and explore a family-friendly Kids Zone. The festival also features BBQ-inspired games, cooking demos, and exclusive wine pairings. Whether you're a BBQ fanatic or just looking for the ultimate summer event, this festival promises bold flavors, great entertainment, and unforgettable experiences! East Meadow; $50 adults, $22.50 children 3-12, children 2 and under free. Two-day passes and VIP packages available.
Adirondack Paddling Symposium (Adirondacks)
June 13-16
Paddle your way to adventure at this immersive event offering expert-led instruction in kayaking, pack boats, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing. Whether you're looking to refine your technique or gain confidence on the water, the symposium provides a judgment-free, skill-building environment that helps paddlers maximize their enjoyment. With sessions held on local lakes and rivers, plus evening programs, yoga sessions, and social gatherings, it's the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow paddling enthusiasts. Don't miss this chance to explore the stunning Adirondack waterways while leveling up your paddling skills! This event is part of Celebrate Paddling ADK, a month-long paddling festival with an exciting slate of events and activities for paddlers of all ages and skill levels. Saranac Lake; $320 registration, $395 registration and tour on Monday, June 16.
Father’s Day Flop Contest (Long Island)
June 14
The Father's Day Flop contest is returning to Splish Splash Water Park! Adults 21 years and older can participate in this fun in the sun event. Prizes will be awarded to the top three contestants who most impress the panel of three judges with their most frightful flops, with the first-place contestant receiving one Bronze Season Pass! Participants must pre-register to participate in the event; the registration cost is included with your admission to the park for the day. Calverton; rain date June 15.
Concert in the Catskills (Catskills)
June 14
Credit: @victographics on Instagram
Country music fans rejoice! Get ready for an exciting live concert event on the water headlined by chart-topping country artist Rodney Atkins, with rising country star Kylie Morgan. It’s all taking place at Historic Catskill Point, which features one-of-a-kind views of the Catskill Mountains and two scenic waterways, Catskill Creek and the Hudson River. Catskill; prices start at $43.40.
RevCon 2025 (Hudson Valley)
June 14
History buffs, mark your calendars! The past is set to come to life in the Hudson Valley with an immersive event that’s part of the multi-year commemoration of America’s semi-quincentennial. Taking place in Hyde Park at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum and featuring reenactors from the Brigade of the American Revolution, the event allows you to witness demonstrations of military camp life, tactics, and weapon usage, while engaging with experts who will answer all your burning history questions. Whether you're a scholar, a casual history fan, or just looking for a unique way to spend the day, RevCon 2025 promises an unforgettable journey into the revolutionary era. Poughkeepsie; free admission.
LARAC June Arts Festival (Adirondacks)
June 14-15
Credit: @larac_arts on Instagram
Visitors from far and wide will be coming to Glens Falls City Park for the annual Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council (LARAC) Arts Festival. With over 100 artists offering a variety of handmade items such as jewelry, fine art, textiles, and home and garden decor, it’s the perfect opportunity to find a birthday, anniversary, wedding, or graduation gift for the special people in your life. Local and specialty foods will also be available on-site, along with live music, children’s activities, and arts demonstrations. Glens Falls; free admission.
68th Annual Allentown Art Festival (Greater Niagara)
June 14-15
Join in a celebration of art in Buffalo’s hip and historic Allentown neighborhood. A fixture on the Queen City’s cultural calendar for 68 years, the Allentown Art Festival welcomes visitors to peruse the crafts of more than 400 juried artisans. Enjoy the warm weather as you roam through rows of unique goods and gifts, watching buskers perform music, magic, clowning, dancing, singing, juggling, and miming. Swing by the concession stands for foods like crispy fries and tacos, and if you’re curious, see which talented artist won this year’s poster design contest. Buffalo; Free admission.
Path Through History Weekend (Multiple Regions)
June 14-15
New York State’s amazing history spans centuries and hundreds of beautiful miles, offering a wealth of memorable travel experiences. Discover the state’s fascinating past during Path Through History Weekend, when hundreds of museums, historic sites, parks, and community groups across the state will be holding in-person and virtual tours, events, reenactments, and community celebrations. Experience life in the past at living history museums, explore forts and military landmarks, and visit the homes of presidents, great writers and artists, and activists who fought for women’s suffrage and the abolition of slavery, learning how events of the past reverberate today. Among the highlights are a galactic scavenger hunt on Long Island, a celebration of the rich heritage of small watercraft on the St. Lawrence River, and a living history air show in the Hudson Valley! Various locations and entry fees.
New York Capital District Renaissance Festival (Capital-Saratoga)
June 14-15 and 21-22
It’s “joust” about time to get ready for two weekends of kings, queens, minstrels, and knights as Indian Ladder Farms in Altamont is transformed into a Renaissance village. Cheer on your favorite knight at a joust, catch a sword fight, join a princess tea party, and enter costume contests. Add the Knights to Remember Training School feature to your child's ticket and let them train as knights! With 60+ vendors on hand, you’ll meet all your medieval needs from toys and pottery to leather and blacksmith goods, jewelry, clothing, and more. There will also be food trucks (giant turkey leg, anyone?), activities for children all day, plus a 21+ pub crawl (additional fees apply). Altamont; single-day admission is $20 for adults and $5 for children 12 years old and younger, $10 Princess Tea Party, $10 Knights to Remember Training School, $45 pub crawl (21+), children 2 and younger are free.
Black Restaurant Week (New York City)
June 15-29
Credit: @nycfoodinsta on Instagram
Discover Black-owned restaurants as you celebrate the flavors of African American, African, and Caribbean cuisine during Black Restaurant Week. Dig in at Harlem institutions like Red Rooster and Sylvia's, try Haitian favorites and everything plantain at BunNan in Brooklyn, taste the flavors of New Orleans in Tribeca at File Gumbo Bar, and more.
7th Annual Ithaca Reggae Fest (Finger Lakes)
June 20-22
Welcome summer in a positive, family-friendly atmosphere by experiencing a weekend of music, culture, and community in Ithaca’s Stewart Park. This three-day celebration kicks off with a free welcome party on Friday night, followed by two days of live performances from reggae legends like Steel Pulse, Kabaka Pyramid, and Mihali. Beyond the music, explore the Lake Discovery Village, Yoga Village, Skateboard Village, and Art Village, all dedicated to celebrating Ithaca’s vibrant reggae scene and raising awareness for Cayuga Lake conservation. Ithaca; tickets from $43.66.
Taste the East End (Long Island)
June 21
Photo courtesy of Long Island Aquarium
There’s something tasty happening on Long Island’s East End in June as the Long Island Aquarium becomes the setting for a flavor-filled night featuring local restaurants and food vendors pairing their signature dishes with local craft beer, wine and cider. Plus, live music will be provided throughout the aquarium property. Riverhead; $95 per person (+tax), includes all food and craft beverage tastings. Reservations are required. Visit the website or call 631.208.9200 ext. 426. Guests at this event must be 21 and older.
Lewiston GardenFest (Greater Niagara)
June 21-22
Welcome the arrival of summer at this year’s Lewiston GardenFest, taking place along Center Street in Lewiston. Every June, the village becomes a hub for gardeners, where you can explore beautiful open gardens free to the public, shop vendors selling unique garden items and plants that you won’t find anywhere else, and enjoy a garden walk, get tips from master gardeners, participate in a creative container garden contest, and much more! Lewiston; free admission.
Chautauqua Institution 2025 Season (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
June 21–August 24
Credit: @hasanelahi on Instagram
Located on beautiful Chautauqua Lake near Jamestown, the Chautauqua Institution is a truly unique cultural center, renowned for its nine-week summer celebration of the arts, education, and recreation. Enlighten yourself with a morning lecture series, featuring important societal topics ranging from modern comedy to the global rise of authoritarianism. Scheduled entertainment includes Smokey Robinson, Counting Crows, Diana Krall, Lewis Black, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Los Lobos, and the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra. The Institution also features sporting activities and on-grounds accommodations. Chautauqua; various events and prices.
Paddle the Canals: Erie Canal 200! (Capital-Saratoga)
June 22
Celebrate 200 years of the Erie Canal by paddling the five locks of the Waterford Flight! The flight is a series of five locks with a total lift of 169-feet in just over 1.5 miles and were, until recently, the world’s highest lift in the shortest span. You’ll enjoy dramatic scenery, towering locks, and easy paddling on this guided half-day trip. A free shuttle is available to the start and lunch will be served after the paddle at the Peebles Island State Park pavilion. Waterford; $50, includes lunch and a t-shirt.
18th Annual Thousand Islands River Run Motorcycle Rally (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
June 27-29
Motorcycle enthusiasts are gathering in Alexandria Bay for a weekend filled with good food, great company, and exhilarating scenic riding! This year’s rally features tattoo contests, the Ma and Pa Custom Bike Show, live music, the Miss T.I. River Run Contest, the Wind Down Poker Run, the Loud Pipes Contest (to see who’s got the loudest motorcycle), and vendors galore! Alexandria Bay; voluntary $20 registration package includes an official t-shirt, a pin, patch, and a bandanna with this year’s logo. $20 per person registration for Wind Down Poker Run includes complimentary coffee and donuts, a dinner card, and an Official TI River Run Shot Glass, with all proceeds to benefit Children's Miracle Network.
The New York Faerie Festival, A Midsummer's Dream (Central New York)
June 27-29
Photo courtesy of The New York Faerie Festival
Escape the ordinary and venture to the rolling hills and wooded hollows of rural Central New York for a three-day nature-loving and family-friendly festival featuring fairies, elves and fantastic creatures! You’ll be entranced as you walk the paths of the Wattlestone Garden and the Labyrinth, enjoying the play of jugglers, magicians and wandering minstrels, and the art of puppeteers, actors, and storytellers. With parades, processions and interactive performances throughout the day, opportunities abound to share in the festival’s pomp and pageantry. Ouaquaga; Day Pass - $25 adult, $12 child, $1 young child, $5 pet; Weekend Pass - $50 adult, $24 child, $1 young child, $10 pet; Camping Pass - $225 adult, $70 child, $1 young child, $25 pet; save time at the gate by ordering in advance.
Adirondack Wine and Food Festival (Adirondacks)
June 28-29
Credit: @adkwinefestlg on Instagram
Showcasing more than 120 of the region’s best wineries, breweries, distilleries, artisan food vendors, crafts, and food trucks, this festival delights food lovers with the beauty of Lake George as its backdrop. In addition to wine, liquor, and beer tastings, this try-before-you-buy, farmers market-style event lets you sample chocolate, cheese, maple products, ice cream, hot sauce, slushies, jerky, olive oil, mustard, rubs, fudge, cookies, crackers, and more. This family-friendly event offers a kids activity tent, state-of-the-art natural playground, and a skateboard park just outside the Festival Commons on the grounds of Charles R. Wood Park. Lake George; $46.55 general admission each day (includes $3.51 fee and $3.05 tax); $125.67 VIP admission, Saturday, (includes $7.46 fee and $8.22 tax); $97.41 VIP admission, Sunday, (includes $6.05 fee and $6.37 tax); $23.94 designated driver admission (includes $2.38 fee and $1.57 tax). Two-day tickets are also available.
2025 Saratoga Jazz Festival (Capital-Saratoga)
June 28-29
Get ready for an electrifying weekend of jazz at the 2025 Saratoga Jazz Festival, taking place at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. This year’s festival features an unforgettable lineup of 22 world-class artists, spanning jazz, funk, blues, and beyond. Headliners include Gary Clark Jr., Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Gregory Porter, and Cassandra Wilson, alongside rising stars and festival favorites. With two stages, craft beer, delicious eats, family fun, and a fine arts fair, it’s the perfect way to kick off summer in style. Saratoga Springs; regular ticket prices start at $95.75 (including a $6.75 service charge), student ticket prices start at $28.
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