All Things Olean
All Things Olean
The ultimate showcase returns during the 5th Annual StrOlean, August 17th
I grew up in the city of Buffalo, a city that loves itself so much and doesn’t feel bad about it. Just one example of that is in the theatre district; acknowledging the murals that climb up and down the sides of buildings, noticing the glitzy Shea’s marquee just north of displayed posters featuring an impressive lineup of upcoming productions, and glancing up at the Electric Tower, obviously plastered with red and blue spotlight to scream pride for our Bills.
You can’t help but feel like the very structures that build up the city around you are just emitting a prideful odor. My favorite part of the summer is always the Taste of Buffalo, another prime example of the city showing off how great it is. There’s nothing quite like perusing rows and rows of tents all concealing a yummy, local, and totally authentic treat just waiting to be tasted. Events like these really help you appreciate the place you call home. And lucky for the folks of Cattaraugus County, the Olean community is similarly full of pride… and ready to share it!
The Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its 5th annual StrOlean event; a showcase of basically everything that’s awesome about Olean. The event will take place on Saturday, August 17th on the 100 block of N. Union Street (Where Beef N’ Barrel is). For the first time in the history of the event, the street will be blocked off so guests can roam freely through the festival. The event will be an epic showcase of all that is Olean. You’ll be able to check out local food, local art, shops, and music while enjoying a beautiful summer day in beautiful Western New York! The event will begin at noon and go until 5:00pm.
You can expect to see a number of craft vendors, musical performances, and games within the event grounds. Restaurants nearby will also be in festival mode, with some of them setting up tents outside to offer light bites and portable beverages.
From the charming brick-and-mortar of Union Street to the breathtaking foothill backsplash, what’s not to love about Olean? The city was named after the nearby Olean creek and was officially established in 1808; the first established city in the now Cattaraugus County. Olean’s commerce majorly excelled due to its proximity to transportation roots, namely the Allegheny River. It was extremely influential in the transport of lumber and other goods. More recently, a 2014 initiative to revitalize downtown has helped make an already great city even greater. Recently, a $12.5 million restoration of the 1915 First National Bank building was completed, just last year.
“After the pain of major construction and redevelopment, it’s a great reminder that we deserve to reap the benefits of a newly revitalized downtown,” said Adam Jester who, aside from having the coolest name of all time, is a major coordinator of StrOlean and other projects in Olean to boost community engagement.
Adam is the CEO of Bamboo Strategy Group and an interim Executive Director of the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce. He is excited to bring the festival atmosphere to Olean’s historic downtown for the 5th year in a row. “StrOlean brings all the fun of a summer event to the commerce center of Olean’s downtown,” Adam added.
The Chamber of Commerce certainly works hard year-round to bring engaging events to the area. Since the summer has begun, they have hosted their Float the Allegheny kayaking event, and the Southern Tier Corporate Challenge 5k Run and 2-Mile Walk. Even in the week before StrOlean, the Chamber will be hosting a restaurant showcase called Southern Tier Restaurant Week. “It allows restaurant members to showcase a special menu item through an online booklet, which will be heavily advertised throughout the region,” said Adam. “The event will be held from August 9th through the 16th, leading right into StrOlean on the 17th."
Adam ended our conversation by promising more events to come as we close in on fall, and urges everyone to keep an eye out for future events and details.
As for StrOlean, it’s going to be a great day to enjoy the city and explore some new restaurants and local businesses. “It’s just a fun afternoon to come to downtown Olean, shop amongst the vendors and brick-and-mortar shops and restaurants, listen to some music, and grab a bite with family and friends,” said Adam.
You can check out all things Olean and learn more about the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce at oleanny.com. There, you can stay up-to-date on all of the events coming to the area.
