What’s going on, 315!
Happy August, 315!
As we dive into the heart of August 2025, the 315 area code is buzzing with opportunities to unwind and connect. With National Relaxation Day on August 15, it's the perfect time to step away from the daily grind and immerse yourself in uplifting local events that celebrate creativity, culture, and community spirit. From art exhibitions and live music to family-friendly nature adventures, this week invites you to recharge amid the summer's warmth.
The lineup highlights diverse activities across our regions, emphasizing positive vibes and shared experiences. Whether you're exploring artistic talents in Syracuse or enjoying outdoor concerts in Oswego County, these events foster joy and togetherness. As we approach World Humanitarian Day on August 19, many gatherings also spotlight volunteerism and cultural appreciation, reminding us of the strength in our communities.
Looking ahead to Senior Citizens Day on August 21, several outings cater to all ages, promoting intergenerational fun. Grab your loved ones, pack a picnic, and make memories, the 315 area is alive with possibilities this week and hot!
Thank you so much to our awesome subscribers, and if you’re new here, welcome! Be sure to share our events with your friends, and as always, follow our Instagram and Facebook to stay in the know.
Best
Jono
Let’s get into it…
Featured Events
Community news, minus the politics and crime – only the good stuff
Everson Museum Hosts Successful Summer Camp - August 15, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Young artists aged 8-12 delighted in a week of creative exploration at the Everson Museum, mastering mediums like painting and ceramics while forging new friendships. This program continues to inspire the next generation of creators in Syracuse.
Local Students Honored with DAR Good Citizen Awards - August 2025. Several high school seniors in Cayuga County received the DAR Good Citizen Award for their dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism, celebrating their positive contributions to the community.
Utica Zoo Welcomes Dinosaur Exhibit - August 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM. Families flocked to the Utica Zoo for a new dinosaur exhibit, sparking wonder and education about prehistoric life, boosting community engagement and tourism in the Mohawk Valley.
Community Volunteers Preserve Nature - August 19. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Locals joined an invasive plant pulling party at Beaver Lake Nature Center, contributing to environmental conservation and enjoying a sense of shared accomplishment.
Upcoming Events
Your guide to what’s happening around the 315 this weekend and next week
Syracuse Area:
August 15
Everson Summer Camp 🎨 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Campers will dive into artistic mediums like drawing, painting, and ceramics, making friends and exploring the museum's collections.
August 14/15
Central New York Watercolor Society Juried Exhibition 🖼️ All Day
Attendees can admire stunning watercolor artworks judged by a renowned artist at the Wilson Gallery.
August 15
Hanlon, Carroll & Martin Jazz Performance 🎹 Evening
Enjoy groovy jazz tunes inspired by legends like Jimmy Smith and Herbie Hancock.
August 15
Minecraft Education Summer Camp 🎮 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Kids in grades 3-5 will engage in game-based learning to build future-ready skills.
August 15
Party in the Square 🎉 5:00 PM
Free concert series with bands, food trucks, and vendors, supporting local music education.
August 16
Festival Latino 2025 🌶️ All Day
Celebrate Latino culture with music from various countries, artisans, and food trucks in Clinton Square.
August 16
Flotsam River Circus 🎪 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
A fun troupe of performers celebrates the Erie Canal Bicentennial with music and puppetry at Willow Bay.
August 17
Asian Elephant Extravaganza 🐘
Experience traditional music, dance, and demonstrations honoring the zoo's elephant herd.
August 19
Invasive Plant Pulling Party 🌱 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Volunteer to help preserve Beaver Lake by removing invasive species, family-friendly activity.
August 21
Thursday Night Fun Run 🏃 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Join a casual run with the Syracuse Chargers Track Club at Onondaga Lake Park.
Oswego County:
August 15
Building Bridges: Networking for Artists 🤝 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Artists and nonprofits can network, learn from experts on budgeting and audience development, with refreshments.
August 15
Oswego Summer Concert Series 🎤 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Enjoy live music performances at Veteran's Stage Park, a perfect family outing.
August 16
Guided Nature Walk at Rice Creek 🌳 11:00 AM
Free nature program exploring local wildlife and trails, open to the public.
August 21
Oswego Summer Concert Series Finale 🎶 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wrap up the series with vibrant live music at Veteran's Stage Park.
Mohawk Valley Region:
August 15/16
Sci-fi Horror Fest 📽️ All Day
Enjoy a festival of sci-fi and horror films and activities in Rome.
August 19
Silk Road Ceramics And Jewelry Artisan Program 🏺 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Explore artisan crafts at Utica Public Library, a creative community gathering.
August 21
Bayside Cemetery Weekly Walk 🚶 7:30 AM
Join a scenic walk through Bayside Cemetery, promoting community health and history.
North Country:
August 15
5th Amazing Race Around Ogdensburg and Festival 🏃 All Day
Participate in a fun race and festival with activities for families.
August 15
Community gathering with ice cream and socializing in Lisbon.
August 15
Annie, Kids Performance 🎭 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Support young theater artists in a free performance in Plattsburgh.
August 16
🎸 Rock & Wrestling: MicroMania with Mini Kiss 📍
Watertown Fairgrounds Arena High-energy evening of wrestling and rock tribute performances
August 16
Million Dollar Quartet Musical 🎤 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Experience a jam session with iconic musicians at Depot Theatre.
August 17
Music and Refreshment at DeKalb Historical Association 🎶 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Celebrate a book launch with music and refreshments.
Finger Lakes Region:
August 16
Saturday afternoon concerts featuring Harvey Fonda with food trucks and wine
August 16
Handforged Knives Workshop 🔨 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Learn to forge your own knife in a hands-on workshop.
August 17
Coil Building Crash Course 🏺 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Beginner-friendly ceramics hand-building class.
August 21
Diana Jacobs Band at Emerson Park 🎸 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Live music performance with parking fee, enjoyable outdoor concert.
Foodie Corner
Where to eat in the 315 this weekend
Foodie Corner
Spotlight on Pastabilities
Nestled in the heart of Syracuse’s Armory Square, Pastabilities is a beloved local institution that has been serving up fresh, house-made pasta since 1982. Renowned for its iconic spicy hot tomato oil—a zesty, fiery condiment that’s become a Central New York staple—this eatery offers a menu brimming with comfort and creativity. Diners can savor dishes like the signature “Wicked Chicken Riggies,” featuring tender chicken and rigatoni in a creamy, spicy tomato sauce, or the classic fettuccine Alfredo, crafted with freshly rolled pasta. The menu also includes hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and gluten-free options, ensuring something for everyone.
The atmosphere at Pastabilities is as inviting as its food, with a warm, rustic interior that blends exposed brick, cozy lighting, and vibrant local art, creating a perfect setting for family dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings with friends.
The restaurant’s commitment to local ingredients shines through in its daily specials, which often feature seasonal produce from nearby farms. Pastabilities is also deeply woven into the Syracuse community, hosting local musicians, supporting charity events, and partnering with the adjacent Pastabilities Bakery, which supplies its famous stretch bread to local markets. Whether you’re dipping that bread into the legendary hot tomato oil or enjoying a glass of wine from their curated list, Pastabilities offers a dining experience that’s both flavorful and heartfelt.
Newsletter Sponsors
Reflections Memory Cafe
Caring for someone affected by memory loss can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone! Held regularly in Baldwinsville, Reflections Memory Cafe offers a welcoming space for individuals with dementia and their caregivers to connect, recharge, and feel seen.
Find support, share experiences, and walk away feeling less alone.
Thank you to our sponsors for supporting our community!
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