Event Celebrate Summer’s End with Free Music in Schenectady!
As summer winds down and schools resume, Schenectady wrapped up the season with a festive “Summer Send-Off” concert at Gateway Plaza on Friday night. The event, organized by the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation, drew a lively crowd ready to enjoy music and community spirit.
Jim Pallotolo, a Schenectady native, shared his excitement about the event. “We’re feeling really good tonight,” he said. “It’s nice on a Friday night being out in Schenectady. I grew up here.” His enthusiasm was echoed by many who came out to dance and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Elizabeth Walsh stumbled upon the concert while biking around town. “We didn’t know where the music was coming from,” she explained. “So we biked around and discovered yet another Schenectady celebration. We’re really happy to find great music and people dancing.”
Maureen Neufeld, executive director of the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation, spearheaded the event. She aimed to bring the community together and highlight the local businesses and arts scene.
“It brings folks downtown to showcase just how many amazing businesses there are in our community and have a great arts event where you can enjoy the atmosphere,” Maureen said.
The concert featured a variety of performances, starting with Sydney Worthley, who delighted the crowd with a set of Taylor Swift hits, including “I Knew You Were Trouble” and “You Belong With Me.”
The night concluded with a performance by the fan-favorite band, the Refrigerators. “We usually follow the Refrigerators around the area,” Jim admitted. “We really love their music. People think we’re crazy, but we really love them.”
Local businesses also joined the festivities, including Mike’s Hot Dogs, Kona Ice of Clifton Park, and Brewski’s Beer Van. Tommy Nicchi, owner of Brewski’s and other local spots, shared his thoughts on the event. “It’s going to be good for business anyway. It’s sunny, we have beer, and it’s ice cold. I’m hoping it’s going to be good for Schenectady,” he said.
The Social Enterprise and Training Center (SEAT Center) was also present, showcasing its programs, which offer youth meaningful work experience in areas like culinary arts and construction.
Maureen Neufeld expressed her love for Schenectady and her excitement about future events. “I think if folks can come on down, they’ll fall in love with Schenectady as well,” she said.
Although this was Schenectady’s final summer concert, Maureen promised more events in the fall. For updates on future events, visit the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation’s website.