Winter Music Jam
ELLICOTTVILLE - Now that we’re midway through ski season, let’s turn it up a notch with another weekend of superior live music sounding throughout the entire village! Ellicottville’s Winter Music Jam, Feb. 24-26th, will feature three days of live music in all the hot spots, complimenting the list of outdoor fun, shopping and dining you’ll enjoy here in Ellicottville. Produced by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce, there are over a dozen bands scheduled to play.
“Winter Music Jam is a weekend meant for friends, families and fun!” stated Jessica Wallace, business development manager for the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce. “We are excited to share our picturesque town with all our visitors, and we look forward to spoiling them with good snow, great food, and really good music!”
Whether you’re prowling for rock n’ roll, soulful blues, or a good country party, the entertainment planned for Winter Music Jam weekend is sure to cater to all music tastes. Take advantage of all three days of live entertainment by turning your visit into an overnight stay at any of the hotels, condos, B&B’s or vacation properties available in and around the village.
Below is our Top Ten must-visit locations that will keep you jammin’ all weekend long - from cozy lounges and high-energy performances to the hub of food and drink options, it’s all within a four-block footprint of E’ville’s downtown business district. So park the car, my friends! We’re going for a stroll!
1) The Banq - Coming to town Friday night? Of course you are! Nothing primes you up for a great night out than a little pre-party mingle. The Banq is Ellicottville’s chic gathering space. Order up any one of their creative craft cocktails made from only the finest spirits, paired with a small plate to share with friends.
2) Gin Mill - Is beer more your thang? Let the bartenders at the Gin Mill pour you a cold one while you listen to their Friday night band, Two Guys Drinking Beer. No explanation needed.
3) 12 Gates - Ellicottville’s newest taproom stocks all of their signature craft brews plus a plethora of other flavors sure to fit anyone’s taste preferences. Soak up some of that libation overload with an authentic NY-style deli sandwich, piled high and served on seeded or marble rye with 12 Gates’ “West Coast Style” IPA mustard. Pastrami, corned beef, beef on weck, and Jay MacDonald on the mic for a lively Friday night of acoustic entertainment.
4) Dina’s - Saturday morning, treat your group to a wholesome, healthy breakfast. Using fresh, local ingredients, Dina’s restaurant offers everything from omelettes and avocado toast to fluffy pancakes and homemade baked goods. Their espresso bar will give you the jolt you’ll need to move you through the day!
5) Daff - While you’re here, let’s get some shopping in. Next door to Dina’s is one of Ellicottville’s top outdoor fashion stores catering to both men and women. Built for the adventure seeker, you’ll find brands like Pendleton, Patagonia and Kava, plus super stylish accessories to compliment any outfit from Brighton, Pura Vida and more.
6) Balloons - Who’s ready for Happy Hour? Balloons Restaurant & Nightclub always delivers cold drinks and good sounds, and they have a full line-up waiting for you! 77 Stone kicks off the evening at 6:30pm, followed by The Chillbillys, then DJ Kage keeps the party going into the late night hours.
7) Wingate - Rest up! The Wingate is just steps away from all the downtown hot spots. Get a good night’s sleep and start the next morning with a warm shower and a free hot buffet breakfast. The weekend isn’t quite over yet!
8) Holiday Valley - Surely you’ve had your share of indoor entertainment. We encourage you to get some fresh air and hit the slopes to start your Sunday Funday. Visit any of the ticket kiosks located around the resort to get your day pass, then head to the Rental Shop located inside the Main Lodge to pick out all the right gear. Don’t know how to ski? They have lessons available (info at holidayvalley.com). Not interested in skiing? Check out the Mountain Coaster located on resort grounds. It’s a thrill that requires no skill! Fast and fun!
9) The Tee Bar - After you come off the slopes, head back downtown to search out your favorite Ellicottville keepsake. The Tee Bar is loaded with Ellicottville-branded hoodies, hats, magnets, keychains and more, so you can take a piece of Ellicottville with you. Enjoy a scoop of ice cream while you’re there (it’s never too cold for ice cream!) or warm up with a hot fudge sundae.
10) Villaggio - May we suggest finishing out your Ellicottville Winter Music Jam adventure with Villaggio’s Prime Rib and Pasta Bar, served every Sunday evening alongside the music of acoustic solo performer Tui Osborne. This guy can play just about anything; no doubt you’ll recognize each song in his playlist. Family-friendly, chill yet fun, and of course, a delicious meal that will leave you wanting to return. Isn’t that what we strive for?
For a complete Winter Music Jam schedule plus a full list of dining, shopping and accommodations, head to ellicottvilleny.com. And be sure to follow @visitellicottville on IG to stay connected.