Jazz & Blues Weekend
Jazz & Blues Weekend
Over 20 performances will encompass a weekend of music and culture in Ellicottville
ELLICOTTVILLE - Music enthusiasts and jazz aficionados alike will make their way to Ellicottville this weekend for Jazz & Blues Weekend, July 26-28th. Produced by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce, the event promises to deliver a harmonious celebration of soulful melodies and rhythmic blues. Twenty-plus bands are set to perform over the three days, and it’s all within a four-block walkable footprint! Park the car and take in all the sounds - indoors and out!
This year’s lineup boasts an impressive array of artists, each bringing their unique flair and passion to the scene. Headlining the event on Saturday is J.J. Swing. Formed in 1999, this 10-piece band is prominent in horns, allowing them to showcase the music from the likes of Steely Dan, Chicago, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Find them at the the Winery of Ellicottville Outdoor Stage on Monroe Street from 1:00-4:00pm.
Return to the Outdoor Stage on Sunday to hear The George Scott Big Band, an incredible group known to the local jazz scene and part of the famous Colored Musicians Club in Buffalo. Listeners will appreciate their authentic sound and vibrant display of instrumentalists and vocalists. They will also play from 1:00-4:00pm. Pepper in musical acts at all the Ellicottville hot spots and you have all the reasons to make it a weekend getaway! All performances are FREE!
“We’re so honored to be hosting all these talented musicians,” said Brian McFadden, Executive Director of the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce. “We have such a wealth of musical talent in the area, and this festival is a great way to showcase them.”
A portion of Monroe Street in front of The Winery of Ellicottville Outdoor Stage will be closed off and chairs will be set up for those looking to sit and relax and take in all the sounds. The public is welcome to bring their own chairs as well. For those with fancy feet, there will be plenty of room for street dancing.
“Ellicottville has been hosting Jazz & Blues Weekend for 26 years now. It is one of the most anticipated weekends on our summer events schedule,” said McFadden. “It has evolved into one of the most unique music festivals in our area.”
But it's not just about the music. The village will be alive with a myriad of activities and attractions designed to cater to all ages and interests. From ziplining at Holiday Valley and paddlesports at the top of HoliMont, to artisnal cafes and restaurants offering local delicacies and craft beer gardens showcasing regional brews, there's no shortage of ways to tantalize your taste buds and quench your thirst. Bring the family, dine, browse our eclectic shops, and enjoy the best of summer! For a complete Jazz & Blues Weekend line-up, head over to ellicottvilleny.com.
PLANNING UNDERWAY FOR THIS YEAR’S TASTE OF ELLICOTTVILLE
The Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting earlier this week with approximately 20 Ellicottville restaurant representatives in attendance, to begin preparations for this year’s Taste of Ellicottville. Attendees agreed on “Christmas in August” as this year’s theme for the event, to be held August 10-11th. Restaurants are encouraged to decorate their booths in this holiday theme. The Taste of Ellicottville is the largest Taste event in the region featuring only local brick and mortar restaurants.
Small portions of select menu items from each of the restaurants will be offered both Saturday and Sunday from noon-4:00pm. Purchase your food tickets at the event, grab a menu sheet and choose your selections as you walk the streets and sidewalks, where restaurants will be set up for your outdoor tasting pleasure. Tickets are $1 each, with food items ranging from $1-$6. Gluten-free and other healthy options will be available to choose from, as will bottled water and other beverages.
Judging will take place on Saturday with celebrity judges visiting each booth for a tasting. There will also be a Buffalo Themed Dish category in the competition. Awards will be presented after the tastings are complete. Once you’re done tasting, check out the live music offered at the many venues Ellicottville has to offer!
Visit the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce website at ellicottvilleny.com or call 800-349-9099 for more information on the Taste of Ellicottville and the other upcoming events.