It is a truth universally acknowledged that there’s never a shortage of something to do during Buffalo summers. By July it often seems like enticing options for outdoor fun are bubbling over—a testimony to the creativity of our many makers, movers and shakers. The challenge then becomes not what to do but finding the time to do it all. This shortlist of alfresco activities is worth clearing the calendar.
Arts immersion
Silo City Reading Series | July 22 & Aug. 26
Step foot inside one of Silo City’s abandoned grain elevators on select evenings this summer, and you’ll be greeted by a celebration of art and community.
Since 2013, Just Buffalo Literary Center has been gifting us the Silo City Reading Series, a fusion of poetry, music and art hosted in one of Buffalo’s most remarkable landmarks. Each evening features readings from both local and visiting poets as well as a live musical performance, all set to the backdrop of visual art installations that transform each event into a fully immersive experience.
People are also reading…
Amplifying love
Buffalo Black & Latino Pride Festival | July 23
A growing local platform that celebrates diversity within the LGBTQ+ community, Upstate NY Black & Latino Pride is hosting Pride Week from July 17-24—culminating with its annual festival on Sunday at Front Park.
Themed #TheStreetFest in a nod to the original street fair held in 2021, it features local entertainment, guest speakers, food and drink. Proximity and accessibility are a key focus for the festival: Its founders selected the event location based on its access to bus routes. They also considered vendors’ history of working with diverse communities, paying homage to their own experiences growing up on Buffalo’s East Side.
Lavender in bloom
Kin Loch Farmstead | 4299 Ridge Road, Cambria
Alex and Ryan Plante, the owners of Kin Loch Farmstead, know a little something about making the most of summertime.
Eight varieties of English and French lavender are in bloom on their Cambria farm from late-June into early-August, and unsurprisingly, a traditional U-Pick lavender is one of their most popular offerings. (Psst … kids 12 and under pick for free!)
Not to be outdone, a lavender-themed date night, lavender yoga and a watercolor class are just a taste of how Kin Loch will be welcoming peak season in the coming weeks.
Challenge accepted
This marks the fourth summer that folks are lacing up their boots and exploring new local trails for the WNY Hiking Challenge. Founder Mike Radomski admits he selected the challenge’s 32 trails to appeal to more seasoned hikers, though there are plenty of opportunities for beginners to get in on the fun as well.
Radomski says he was originally inspired by the neighboring “Allegheny 18” challenge but wanted to take it one step further by creating a community that shared trail conditions and organized informal hikes amongst its members.
To participate in this summer’s challenge, hikers can register on the Outside Chronicles website.
