THERE’S DEFINITELY A CERTAIN MAGIC that comes with gathering in one of LivCo’s many cozy cafes or pubs to catch a live music set alongside a warming beverage in mid-winter. However, when spring and summer arrive, just like the landscape, LivCo’s music scene takes on a new vibrancy — and it’s something you really have to experience for yourself.
It’s settling back with a glass of wine as you take in a quiet acoustic set and vineyard views. It’s humming along to your favorite classics as you watch the sunset at a local brewery. It’s gathering with locals and travelers alike at an outdoor festival for all the fun and food you expect from summer fests before high-energy acts take the stage.
Whatever your genre of choice, let LivCo’s musicians provide the score for your next getaway. Here’s where to go around the county for live music and new memories.
YEAR-ROUND LOCAL FAVORITES
No matter the season, there are several music venues that locals reliably flock to for some of the best shows around. In Lima, Fanatics Pub has a well-earned reputation for bringing in high-caliber blues and acoustic acts from near and far. The intimate environment attracts true fans who appreciate every note and chord. Check the pub’s calendar before you head in, but rest assured that you’ll find no shortage of upcoming shows.
Dublin Corners Farm Brewery, in Linwood, hosts local bands every weekend, but a stop by in the spring is particularly special, as you can grab a seat in the rustic craft brewery’s indoor-outdoor space. As you sip your local pint made with hops grown right on the farm, take in the sounds and sights all at the same time, as you’re surrounded by the lush pastoral landscape.
For a venue with historic flair, the Geneseo Riviera hosts concerts, movies, and other artistic events in a beautifully restored, early 20th-century theater. More views are to be had at Solitude Brewing in Lakeville, where you’ll find LivCo’s only venue with a rooftop deck. Whether you’re taking in the waterfront or circling the firepit in the beer garden, you’ll be treated to a range of acts as they take to the string light-illuminated wooden stage.
FAMILY & PET FRIENDLY MUSIC SERIES
Some good things are only around for a short time, and that’s the case with LivCo’s myriad outdoor summer music series — all family-friendly and a perfect way to cap off a day spent exploring LivCo’s great outdoors.
In Geneseo, the historic and beautiful Wadsworth Homestead hosts its Sunset Concert Series on every first and third Thursday of the month, June through September. Visitors gather across the expansive lawn starting at 5 pm (though if you arrive a little earlier, you can catch a free yoga session - just bring your mat!), with music lasting throughout the evening. Nosh on some local bites, pick up a souvenir from one of the regional craftspeople, and play some lawn games between sets, before watching the sunset over the Genesee River Valley.
In Avon, Rising Storm Brewing Company’s summer concert series kicks off each weekend the right way, with shows every Friday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Local musicians set up on the outdoor stage, and families gather around on the lawn. Bring your own chair or blanket (and the dog, too!), put away your phone for the evening, and kick back with a brew and bite for an evening of uninterrupted fun.
Just around the corner from the north end of Conesus Lake, No BS Brew Company offers exactly what the name suggests: great beer and a down-to-earth atmosphere. This veteran-owned spot truly comes alive as the weather warms, hosting a packed schedule of live music and events. From lively St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to the high-energy Sausage Festival in May, there is always a reason to gather. On Saturday nights, you can catch local favorites performing on the outdoor stage, making it the perfect place to enjoy a crisp lager or a refreshing slushie. Best of all, the brewery features a rotating lineup of local food trucks and maintains a pet-friendly patio, so you can enjoy the lakeside summer vibes with your four-legged friends by your side.
MAJOR SUMMER FESTS, MAJOR SUMMER FUN
The Avon Corn Festival takes place on the second Saturday in August, and thousands of festivalgoers flock to the streets to browse wares from area vendors, listen to live music across two stages, and indulge in all sorts of festival foods and craft beer. If you’re brave enough, you can test your mettle (and your stomach) during the fest’s requisite corn-eating contest.
For full-on Americana, attend the Hemlock “Little World’s” Fair, which dates back to the 1850s and today offers plenty of classic, rural state fair nostalgia. From midway rides to all the funnel cakes and French fries you can eat, plus grandstand performances from country and rock acts, it’s a can’t-miss. This year’s fair, which takes place July 21–25, will also pay tribute to America’s 250th birthday with a parade honoring first responders, veterans, and service organizations.
Then, attend a festival entirely dedicated to music: the Lima Crossroads Festival is LivCo’s second-largest fest and, better yet, it’s free. The four-day summer tradition, July 30–August 2, brings more than 20 bands to multiple stages and, if that wasn’t enough, there are also plenty of vendors to shop with, a 5K, and a barbecue cook-off.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MUSICAL TRIP TO LIVCO
Before you arrive, download the Visit LivCo app for up-to-date event information and the most current lineups. Don’t forget to pack the live music necessities as well, such as an easily portable chair or blanket for attending outdoor events without seating. Be sure to get the full LivCo experience by pairing your music-centric trip with stops to some of the county’s top outdoor sites, such as Conesus Lake, Genesee Valley Greenway State Park, and Letchworth State Park.
Live music in Livingston County is about more than just artistic expression. It’s about coming together with friends and family and making memories. This summer, get out, support local musicians, and maybe just discover a new favorite voice or venue.
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May 8, 1977. Barton Hall at Cornell University. Some say it's the finest Grateful Dead show ever recorded. Relive the magic as Eric Carlin's Half-Dead brings their highly anticipated "Cornell '77 Revisited" concert series to the Avon Park Theater. ECHD is famous for their keen…
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A whimsical event in Dansville, Fairy Fest celebrates fairies, elves, and gnomes, hosted by the Fairy Doors of Dansville. In addition to the walking trail of fairy door creations (open year-round), you'll enjoy live music, games, 'grab and go' crafts, and other surprises!
- Recurring on the 2nd Sunday of June
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Come join us July 10 & 11 for the 44th annual Geneseo Rotary Summer Festival. Filled with fun activities, tasty food, vendors/crafters and great music! Please check our website for more info on events and the schedule as it becomes available.
Livonia Porchfest is a music festival that takes advantage of the 'stages' all over our neighborhood.
- Hemlock Events Center
- Recurring daily
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- Recurring on the 2nd Saturday of August
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- Recurring on the 1st Saturday of December
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