Albany, N.Y.

At the conclusion of the summit Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the launch of New York’s largest tourism campaign in decades, committing nearly $60 million to grow the industry, create jobs and attract even more visitors to the Empire State.

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Concertgoers Reminded of Alcohol Restrictions in the Park; New CDTA Concert Shuttle Service Highlighted

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. - With the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) - Live Nation concert season set to kick off this Memorial Day weekend with two shows by the Dave Matthews Band, SPAC President and Executive Director Marcia White reminded concertgoers that part of ensuring a positive experience is adhering to the alcohol restrictions in and around the Saratoga Spa State Park. White announced that the New York State Park Police, in cooperation with multiple local and state law enforcement agencies, will continue a coordinated effort against illegal alcohol-related activities in and around the Saratoga Spa State Park during the 2013 SPAC - Live Nation concert series. (more…)

Paddlers to ‘Rock the Locks’ from Minetto to Oswego June 29

Oswego, N.Y. -Paddlers of all ages and abilities have a chance to paddle the locks from Minetto to Oswego Saturday, June 29, in the “Rock the Locks” Oswego Paddlefest. The river paddling event is a community fundraiser to benefit the Oswego YMCA Strong Kids campaign and Oswego Harborfest, and encourages kayakers, canoeists and visitors to enjoy and appreciate the unique beauty of the historic Oswego River.

The recreational event is organized by several local businesses and organizations, including the Oswego County Yakkers, Oswego YMCA and Harborfest. Oswego County Legislator Jacob Mulcahey, District 15, Oswego, is chairman of the steering committee. (more…)

Wayne County, N.Y.

Summer of Roses Event Series- June 13, 20, 27, and August 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. Every Thursday evening except July 4. Each week will feature a different performer from the area. Free! 7 pm to 8 pm, Rose Union Community Building, School Street, Rose.

Macedon Community Concert Series, Macedon - June 13, July 11, August 8. Canal Park Lock 30. 6pm to 8pm. Free, live music. Food available. Bring your own chair or blanket. http://www.villageofmacedon.org/ (more…)

Friday, May 24 at 7 PM

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. - A dynamic roster of bands is slated to compete live at SPAC’s Battle of the Bands, on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. before an audience and a panel of celebrity judges for the chance to win one of two titles and accompanying prize packages: “judge’s choice” and “audience choice.” Tickets are on sale now at spac.org

“This year’s competition will be one for the record books with a line-up of top-notch bands who possess immense artistry, originality, and a plethora of musical gifts,” said Marcia J. White, President & Executive Director.

The full list of finalist bands includes:

7 P.M. | Ghosts on 33^rd: Combining emotion with a heavy melody, Ghosts on 33^rd strives to connect to their fans through their lyrics. Currently the band is working on their first E.P. Hailing from Granville, NY, the band describes their sound as melodic hard core. (more…)

Buffalo’s fourth annual festival features 15 garden walks (including America’s largest),

Buffalo, N.Y. - May 20, 2013 - The fourth annual National Garden Festival will take place from June 21 to Aug. 4 in Buffalo, N.Y. and it is, by far, the largest garden festival in America.

The six-week-long festival offers something for anyone with (or without) a green thumb:

15 garden walks and tours throughout the Buffalo Niagara region, totaling nearly 1,000 private gardens. The most popular of the tours is Garden Walk Buffalo - the largest free garden walk in the country, with more than 350 private gardens on view - on July 27 and 28.

A series of luxury motorcoach tours, operated by AAA Western and Central New York’s Horizon Club Tours. Expert gardeners will provide behind-the-scenes tours of some of Buffalo’s finest gardens, from secluded private yards to the city’s Frederick Law Olmsted-designed parks. The tours each include a sit-down lunch. (more…)

Fort Edward, N.Y.

The 13th annual Cambridge Valley Balloon Festival, held June 7th-9th, features four launches of 10 hot air balloons, fireworks, the Taste of Cambridge with local producers and restaurants showcased, and Moon Glow, a nighttime display of cold burner illuminated tethered balloons synchronized to music. The weekend event includes rides, games and entertainment for the whole family. Visitors can learn more at http://www.cambridgenychamber.com/balloonpage.html. (more…)