Chautauqua County’s Summer Events Kick Off

The summer season in Chautauqua County is brimming with activities for both residents and visitors. The Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce has lined up an array of events to enjoy.

The First Friday series in Westfield kicks off on June 7 on Main Street, featuring local restaurants, retailers, street vendors, food trucks, art, and live music from 5-8 pm. Sponsored by AHN Westfield Memorial Hospital, Brooks-TLC Hospital System, Westfield Boatworks, and Community Bank, it continues on July 12, August 2, and September 6.

Hanover’s Beach Bash Showcase on June 13 from 6-8 pm at Sunset Bay Beach Club in Irving will spotlight local businesses with vendor tables, food, acoustic music, a basket raffle, and a cash bar. Tickets are $12 for Chamber members and $15 for nonmembers, available at www.chautauquachamber.org. Sponsors include Farrell Roofing, Financial Trust Federal Credit Union, M&T Bank, ADD Lumber True Value, and Brooks-TLC Hospital System.

Mayville’s Summer Concert Series at Lakeside Park starts June 27, featuring free family-friendly concerts from 6-8 pm, sponsored by the Town of Chautauqua. Food trucks will be on-site, and the lineup includes Bill Ward & John Cross on June 27 and other local favorites through August 22.

Dunkirk’s Music on the Pier begins June 6, with acts every Thursday at 5:25 pm and headliners at 6:45 pm through August 22. Jamestown’s Third Thursdays continue with live performances on June 20, July 18, and August 15.

The Jamestown Cruise-In, featuring custom and classic cars and live music, is scheduled for August 11. Fredonia’s Italian Festival on June 22 at the Fredonia Beaver Club will offer children’s activities, craft vendors, food, and live music. The Great Blue Heron Music Festival runs from July 5-7 in Sherman, with details at greatblueheron.com.

Chautauqua Institution celebrates its 150th season with performances, lectures, and more from June 22 to August 25 (tickets at chq.org). Lily Dale Assembly’s events run from June 23 to August 30 (details at lilydaleassembly.org). The National Comedy Center’s Lucille Ball Comedy Festival will feature Nicole Byer on August 1 and Jeff Ross on August 2, with more acts to be announced.

For a full list of summer events, visit www.tourchautauqua.com.