Hi there, 315!
As the days continue to get darker, the holidays are getting closer! This week is a great opportunity to get ahead on your holiday shopping - there will be lots of markets and craft fairs all over the area. Support local businesses, or sign up to be a vendor! You can check out other ways to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, too - Friendsgiving at the Zoo is tonight in Syracuse, a Thanksgiving Dinner will be served at the Rotary Club in Herkimer, and the Hobble Gobble Run tomorrow in Potsdam is sure to be a blast.
Live music in CNY is plentiful this week, with jazz, Grateful Dead tributes, dance music, string quartets, and brass ensembles. For the artists among us, there are a bunch of creative events as well, whether it’s a casual Sip and Paint, a quilting seminar, or a painting workshop. And if you’d like to try something new, check out a kickboxing class, the Jewish Food Festival, or a cookie decorating class!
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.
Local Events
Syracuse Area:
Friday, November 14
Fragments by Binaifer Dabu 📖 6 - 7pm
Street Gallery in collaboration with Parthenon Books is excited to announce our 3rd and final live artists showcase of 2025. Please join us at Parthenon Books in Syracuse for “FRAGMENTS”: a segment from Binaifer’s broader collection of stories that blends narrative and verse in a story-telling performance format.
Friday, November 14
Friendsgiving at the Zoo 🦃 6 - 9pm
Want a mouthwatering Thanksgiving feast without spending hours in the kitchen? Come to our Fantastic Friendsgiving Feast buffet dinner at Rosamund Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, and let our expert catering team take care of the cooking! Enjoy a delicious bounty of traditional Thanksgiving favorites with friends and family, plus a cash bar!
https://www.facebook.com/events/811952578676805/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Friday, November 14
Jeff Lederer with the Lamb, Mack and Sorgen Trio 🎷🎶 7:30 - 9:30pm
"Autumn ends, the willow bends with snow," as the lyric goes - the perfect time to insulate yourself from the gales of November with some hot CNY Jazz! Join us at CNY Jazz Central in Syracuse.
Friday, November 14
New Planets 🎶🎸 8 - 11pm
Enjoy some live music at Funk ‘N Waffles in Syracuse! Other-Worldly, Party Music of the Past, Present and Future, New Planets is an ever evolving cast of singers and players. Blending countless sonic narratives and perspectives, the group has become known for creating dance music defying borders and genres.
Friday, November 14
Silent Book Club and Pop-up Library 📚 12 - 1:30pm
Share the joy of reading in a low pressure, no commitment atmosphere at Salt City Coffee in Syracuse. This silent book club is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Book) gathering where members can read together in the comfort of a cozy café, with no pressure to read what others are reading!
Saturday, November 15
A Mindful Approach to Happiness 🧘 2:30 - 3:30pm
Singha Namdrol Rinpoche, founder and spiritual director of Thekchen Choling centers in Singapore, Malaysia and the United States, discusses the importance of happiness and how we can create more of it in our lives. Join us at Petit Branch Library in Syracuse.
Saturday, November 15
The Jamie McLean Band 🎶🎸 7 - 9pm
Jamie McLean Band is a triple threat. The group’s energetic and captivating live show is undeniable. Come check out the music at 443 Social Club in Syracuse!
Sunday, November 16
First Frost Market ❄️🛍️ 12 - 4pm
Join us in Downtown Syracuse for a cozy kickoff to the holiday season! Shop handmade gifts, enjoy festive treats, and celebrate the first chill in the air with local makers and community cheer.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1749297885982138/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Monday, November 17
Pearly Baker’s Best 🎶🎸 7:30pm
Pearly Baker’s Best is a Grateful Dead tribute with both a weekly residency and a devoted following at Funk ‘N Waffles in Syracuse every Monday night. Playing the music of The Grateful Dead, The Jerry Garcia Band, The Beatles and other covers they delight their devout followers with a powerful show once a week.
Tuesday, November 18
Free Paint Session 🎨 5 - 7pm
Drop in at the Soule Branch Library in Syracuse during this casual, self-directed painting session to relax and keep up on your skills in the company of others. All supplies will be provided, allowing you to focus on the fun of creation.
https://cnyarts.org/events/events/view/free-paint-session34107/
Oswego County:
Friday, November 14
Oswego Empty Bowls Fundraiser 🥣 12 - 6pm
Join the SUNY Oswego Art & Design Department and the campus Ceramics Club for the annual Oswego Empty Bowls fundraiser, which benefits Human Concerns, a non-profit emergency food pantry in Oswego, and SHOP, the student pantry on our campus! Handmade bowls will be on sale in Tyler Hall Lobby. It’s never too early for holiday shopping, and these handmade bowls make wonderful, meaningful gifts!
https://cnyarts.org/events/events/view/oswego-empty-bowls-fundraiser/
Friday, November 14 - Sunday, November 16
The Grown Ups 🎭 2pm & 7:30pm
Following a group of camp counselors trying to mold the leaders of tomorrow when tomorrow is looking bleaker and bleaker, The Grown Ups explores the traditions that change us, what it takes for us to change them, and how to change yourself when you're hopelessly, tragically, not prepared for this. Check it out at the Tyler Hall Lab Theatre in Oswego!
Saturday, November 15
Violence Prevention Women’s Kickboxing Class 🥊 10am
Learn some useful self-defense techniques during this class at Oswego Boxing Club!
Saturday, November 15
Angel Paint and Sip 🎨🍻 1 - 3pm
Welcome to Sterling Valley Vineyards! Join us for an Angelic Paint & Sip as we ease into the Holiday season. Come have one of their delicious wines or other beverages, and be guided step by step to create your own masterpiece on an 11 x 14 canvas!
Saturday, November 15
Murder Mystery Dinner at Colloca Estate Winery 🍷🧐 6 - 9pm
Step into a night of mystery and elegance at Colloca Estate Winery in Fair Haven. Indulge in exquisite wines, a chef-crafted dinner, and a live whodunit that will keep you guessing till the last sip!
Sunday, November 16
Stretch Yoga 🧘 11am
Come breathe, unwind, and enjoy some stretch yoga at Brewerton Center for the Arts.
Sunday, November 16
Wickedly Wonderful Brunch 🎳🥞 11am - 1pm
Step into the Emerald City for a brunch experience that’s positively Wicked! Join us at Lighthouse Lanes in Oswego for a spellbinding morning filled with good food, great company, and a little magic on the lanes.
Monday, November 17
Trivia Night 🤓 7pm
Grab your friends and come try your hand at trivia at Lakeview Lanes!
Tuesday, November 18
2D Open Studio: Connect, Create, Collaborate 🎨 6 - 8:30pm
Join fellow visual artists for a welcoming 2D Open Studio! Enjoy our evening “third place” at Salmon River Fine Arts Center in Pulaski to create, connect, and share ideas. Whether you paint, draw, illustrate, or enjoy experimenting with your art; this open studio provides a supportive environment for artists to work alongside peers, exchange inspiration, and build community. Bring your own projects, explore new techniques, and leave refreshed and inspired!
Wednesday, November 19
Painting Realistic Landscapes with Artist Christine Fischer 🎨 4:30 - 7pm
In this workshop at the Salmon River Fine Arts Center in Pulaski, participants will explore the beauty and versatility of painting with only four colors. By working with a limited palette, you’ll learn essential color mixing techniques that create natural, harmonious tones.
Mohawk Valley Region:
Friday, November 14
Jupiter String Quartet 🎶🎻 7:30 - 9:30pm
The Jupiter Quartet brings its well-honed musical chemistry to three works shaped by bold musicality and deeply meaningful thematic inspirations, written between the late 18th century and the present day. Come check it out at the Schambach Center in Clinton.
Friday, November 14
The Polar Express Train Ride 🚂☃️ 4:30 - 6:30pm
Live the magic of the classic Polar Express Train Ride story with the Adirondack Railroad. Depart from Utica’s Union Station and travel north while being served hot chocolate and cookies. When you arrive at the North Pole, Santa will board the train visiting with each family, and giving the first gift of Christmas, the Silver Bell, just like in the book or movie!
https://www.facebook.com/events/759712266830585/759712400163905/?active_tab=about
Saturday, November 15
MCSD Annual Craft and Vendor Fair 🛍️ 9am - 4pm
This highly anticipated event brings together families, community members, and shoppers just in time for the holiday season. Join us at the Utica Recreation Center!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1800451927212450/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Saturday, November 15
Jazz at the Other Side Presents Ron Wilkins 🎶🎷 7:30 - 10pm
NYC based trombonist and vocalist Ron Wilkins returns to The Other Side in Utica, bringing with him more than 40 years of experience.
Saturday, November 15
Holiday Craft Fair 🎄🛍️ 10am - 2pm
Kick the shopping season off right with local, homemade gifts at Schuyler Commons in Utica. Over 20 vendors will be here for your shopping needs.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1356086022794682?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Saturday, November 15
Sip & Sound: A Holiday Mindful Mixer 🍹🎄 7 - 8:30pm
Join us at The Portal in Utical for a cozy, sensory evening that blends mindful mixology and sound healing. Guests will enjoy a live mocktail demo and mindful sipping experience led by Cristi, followed by a restorative sound journey guided by Chelan.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1836075850665769/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Sunday, November 16
SU Brass Ensemble Concert 🎺🎶 3 - 4:30pm
The Syracuse University Brass Ensemble will perform at Grace Church in Utica. Join director Dr. James T. Spencer and associate director Mr. Craig Elwood as they present a diverse repertoire including classical favorites, hymns, and holiday tunes to kick start the spirit of the season!
Monday, November 17
Mohawk Valley Business Women’s Network Evening 👥 5:30pm
Join us at Zensations Therapeutic Massage in Rome, and discover how simple shifts in perspective can foster creativity, strengthen leadership, and help us grow as entrepreneurs. Together, we’ll share stories, insights, and appreciation for the women who make our business community thrive.
https://www.facebook.com/events/1180994550556434/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Wednesday, November 19
Medicine Hunters: Following the First Scientific Expedition 🔬🧪 7:30 - 9pm
Dr. Francisco Hernandez was the physician sent by Spain in 1570 to lead the first explicitly scientific expedition in the Americas. Following his trail into Mexico, Professor Cooley uncovered how indigenous knowledge and European ambition collided in the search for cures. This talk at the Other Side of Utica invites you to see the early Americas as a living laboratory where the dream of universal remedies was born.
Wednesday, November 19
Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner 🦃 4 - 7pm
Join the Mohawk Valley Rotary Club in Herkimer for a free, home-cooked holiday meal for veterans, seniors, families, and anyone who would enjoy sharing good food and good company. Everyone is welcome — no RSVP needed!
https://www.facebook.com/events/811101424846107/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
North Country:
Friday, November 14
Fish Fry 🍤 4:30 - 6:30pm
A fish fry will be held at Knights of Columbus in Ogdensburg. The meal is dine-in, pick up or delivery and includes fried haddock, mac and cheese, fries, fried clams, fried shrimp, chicken nuggets, coleslaw, baked potato and rolls.
https://northcountrynow.com/stories/fish-fry-in-ogdensburg,332653
Friday, November 14 - Saturday, November 15
Hockey Reunion Weekend 🏒 3pm
SUNY Canton is excited to welcome its alumni back to campus with four women's and men's hockey games over two days at the Terry Martin Ice Arena in Roos House. The school is encouraging all alumni, including local alumni, to attend the festivities throughout the weekend.
Friday, November 14
Karaoke & DJ 🎶🎤 1 - 6pm
Join the fun at AMVETS Post 1997 in Heuvelton!
Saturday, November 15
Hobble Gobble Run 🦃🏃 1 - 6pm
Come join us for the 28th Annual Hobble Gobble Prediction Walk/Run in support of the Potsdam Holiday Fund and other local charities! A short (4 miles or less) and long (less than 8 miles) course options will be available for walkers and runners. Music, door prizes, food by our friends at Big Spoon Kitchen, and fun for the whole family!
Saturday, November 15
Mariachi Music at Pickens Hall 🪇🎶 7pm
Pickens Hall is excited to present the Crane School of Music Mariachi Band, Los Osos Del Norte.
Sunday, November 16
Let’s Help the Neighborhood Center! 🖌️🦃 1pm
Come to Parishville Town hall to paint this beautiful fall barn with friends and neighbors! This is a fun activity with a little "thanks-for-giving" built in, as a portion of the fee and donated food items will benefit the local food pantries at a time when they need your help.
Sunday, November 16
Restorative Yin Yoga 🧘 5:30 - 6:30pm
Release hidden tension from your mind-body in this relaxing and peaceful practice at the Yoga Loft in Canton. Intended for all levels of yoga experience.
Sunday, November 16
Jewish Food Festival ✡️ 11am - 3pm
Congregation Beth El hosts its 43rd Annual Jewish Food Festival on Sunday. Enjoy traditional foods, live music, raffles, and a Chanukah gift sale. Proceeds support synagogue programs.
https://northcountrynow.com/stories/jewish-food-festival,333676
Monday, November 17
Modern Band Show 🎶🎸 7pm
“Makin’ the Changes” by Modern Band is playing at St. Lawrence University in Canton. Modern Band (formerly Improv Lab) performs covers of The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Little Feat and more, plus original songs.
Wednesday, November 19
Geeks Who Drink Trivia 🤓 7pm
Test your trivia skills and support a good cause at the Cactus Grill and Cantina in Potsdam. Attendees can participate in an ugly sweater contest, 50/50 raffle, and win door prizes. All proceeds help provide gifts, clothing, and food to local income-eligible families.
Finger Lakes Region:
Friday, November 14
John Michael Montgomery - The Road Home: The Farewell Tour 🎶🎸 8 - 10pm
John Michael Montgomery has turned an uncanny ability to relate to fans into one of country music’s most storied careers. Come check out his show at Del Lago Resort in Waterloo!
Friday, November 14 - Saturday, November 15
Studio Schweinfurth Fall Fiber Retreat 🧵 9am - 4pm
Fiber artists of all kinds are invited to join us for a weekend of creativity at our biannual retreat at Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center in Auburn. You will have full access to both of our spacious studios: our sewing studio and our dye/wet studio. All are welcome whether you are quietly sitting and stitching or trying to accomplish a huge project.
Friday, November 14
Sips & Sounds 🍷🎶 5:30 - 7:30pm
With the hit of our Summer Sips and Sounds music series, we’ve decided to bring back live music to our tasting room! Join us at Montezuma Winery in Seneca Falls for evenings of live music in November. During live music, our tasting bar will be open for glasses of wine, cocktails, draft beer, and flights. Plus, enjoy bites from our kitchen!
https://cayugawinetrail.com/events/winery/11-14-2025
Friday, November 14
Porch Leaner Paint and Sip 🎨🍹 6:30pm
Join us for a porch leaner paint & sip at Britches’ Dance Bar in Auburn! Bar will be open for cocktails, and all supplies are provided!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1468842317710086/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Saturday, November 15
Stellar Nights at Hosmer Winery 🍷🔭 6 - 8pm
Join us for our first-ever stargazing event at Hosmer Winery! We will have a guided tour of the skies above the vineyard by an expert of the sky from the Kopernick Observatory in Vestal. Scope out Orion and his belt while you sip away on a few perfectly paired Hosmer wines!
Saturday, November 15 - Sunday, November 16
Holiday Craft Fair 🎄🛍️ 11am
Come to the Holiday Inn in Auburn to check out this fun craft fair!
https://www.facebook.com/events/4123757861171106?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Sunday, November 16
Autumn leaves may be falling, but your creative spirit will be soaring with this cozy cookie class! Grab the folks you're so very thankful for and spend some quality time together at White Rabbit Roasting Company in Weedsport.
https://www.facebook.com/events/813301611077800/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Sunday, November 16
Simply Dave 🎶🎸 1 - 4pm
Enjoy some live music at Lunkenheimer Brewing Company in Weedsport!
https://www.facebook.com/events/760225219580724/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Sunday, November 16
Stories in Stained Glass: Quilting with Glass and Color 🎨 2 - 3:30pm
Come join us at Willard Chapel in Auburn as we discuss how these stained-glass treasures weave into the fabric of our history, both locally and around the world.
Thursday, November 20
Ashley Cox and Jess Novak 🎶🎸 7pm
Enjoy live music, special guests, and special surprises at Moondog’s in Auburn!
https://www.facebook.com/events/26032736639650388/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22discovery_custom_tab%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D
Steeple Coffee House
Live Music with a Mission.
November 8 | Kristin Gitler Folk Festival w/ Bryan Dickenson & Melissa Grace
November 22 | Ashley Cox

Fall 2025 Steeple Coffeehouse Season
Fall 2025 Steeple Coffeehouse Season
Twenty years ago, several UCF members conceived the idea to provide Central N.Y. musicians a venue for local audiences to enjoy music while also raising funds to serve the Fayetteville-Manlius community. From this idea, Steeple Coffee House was born. At SCH, you can hear CNY favorites and SAMMY award-winning artists playing a range of genres, including bluegrass, folk, jazz, and classic rock’n roll. Seventy percent of SCH funds raised go towards paying the local musicians with the remaining 30% supporting UCF and its
Mission/Outreach ministries, such as the FM Food Pantry. The Coffee House is fully supported and staffed by volunteers.
Concerts held at United Church of Fayetteville’s Fellowship Hall
Beverages and desserts are included.
More info: 315-637-3186
Foodie Corner
Vine & Fig

Situated in the historic city of Rome in Oneida County, Vine & Fig is an inviting wine bistro that's ideal for gathering with friends over a light, elevated meal without the pretension of fine dining. This charming spot emphasizes shareable small plates like their signature fig crostini with ricotta, fig jam, and honey, artisanal cheese plates featuring a selection of local and imported varieties with accompaniments, and fresh tuna tartare that's frequently praised for its quality and flavor. The menu also includes creative options such as crispy smashed salt potatoes with cherry pepper aioli, salads, sandwiches, and steamed seafood pots, with several dishes adaptable for vegan preferences. Pair your picks with expertly crafted cocktails or selections from their extensive wine list, highlighting regional Finger Lakes varieties that complement the food beautifully.
What elevates Vine & Fig is its cozy, welcoming atmosphere—perfect for a small celebration, date night, or simply brightening up gloomy weather—with friendly service and unique, delicious offerings that earn consistent rave reviews for being a treat every time. Whether you're sharing plates or sipping wines, this bistro delivers a sophisticated yet approachable experience in the heart of the Mohawk Valley.
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.
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