Pictured is a Cassadaga summer concert from 2020. This year’s line up begins Wednesday, June 16. Submitted photo

CASSADAGA — The Citizens for a Better Cassadaga proudly announce the 2021 Cassadaga Lakes Summer Concert Series. All concerts take place at Cassadaga Beach, located on Park Ave. in the village.

On Wednesday, June 16 from 6-8 p.m., there will be a strawberry social and the American Eagle Dixieland Band will be playing on the gazebo. They will delight the crowd with music by early jazz masters, ragtime and traditional New Orleans tunes. Local musicians include Dave Golando, Jon Wilder, Mike Willis, Tom Gestwicki, Vince Micciche and John Anderson. Delicious strawberry shortcakes will be available for a donation. This concert is sponsored by Hy-Wit Corporation (new owners of Cassadaga Kwik Fill, Fermentation Station and King Kone), Gay Mark Tire & Wheel and Cassadaga Farm Supply.

The rest of the concerts will be every other Sunday from 5 -7 p.m. on the floating stage and can be attended by land or by boat.

June 27 brings South 79 — an award-winning blue grass band. Performing up and down the eastern coast, they are one of the best blue grass groups around and have recorded in Nashville. Local member Toby Hammond is hoping they let the Canadian band member cross the border by then. Keep your fingers crossed. This concert is sponsored by Cassadaga Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary, Community Bank and a grant from Chautauqua County United Arts Appeal (Projects Pool Program).

July 11 is Pedro and the Smooth Cats. These local favorites will wow everyone with their jazz, blues, R&B and whatever else floats the boat of leader Pete Howard. This concert is sponsored by Just Breathe Massage and Savvy Hair Design.

July 25 is a date to remember because Ruthie Collins is coming to town! Originally from Fredonia, she now resides in Nashville and is a successful part of the music scene there. She will be performing her original Americana and country songs. She has several recordings, and they will be available for purchase at this concert. Ruthie is sponsored by a Tri-County Arts Council Grant (NYS Council on the Arts Decentralization Program).

Aug. 8 presents the Ozone Rangers. They have been around for a looooooong time and haven’t lost their touch. If you like Country Rock and ZZ Top, you will love these guys. They are sponsored by a Tri-County Arts Council Grant (NYS Council on the Arts Decentralization Program).

Aug. 22 is Rustic Ramblers. Traditional country with steel pedal guitar and Buck Howard’s mellow voice will delight even people that don’t usually listen to country music. They are sponsored by the Cassadaga Lakes Association.

Sept. 5 brings Big Tone. They will be playing blues, R&B, classic rock and whatever else they are feeling that day. Cassadaga’s own Kevin Way and friends are always a crowd pleaser. They are sponsored by Wilson Endurance Sports.

Duper’s Catering will be providing the crowd with tasty summertime treats or you can bring your own food and beverages. New this year, will be a local artist and local author at each concert, so bring your wallet, as you might find some interesting purchases. Bring your own chair or blanket. Bring the kids as they can enjoy the playground, sand, and swim. Lifeguards will be on duty.

Parking at the beach is limited. If you are able, please park at the library, church (both on Maple Ave.) or across the street from the fire hall on Mill Street. In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held at the American Legion Post 1280 or the Community Building at 22 Mill St. Attendance may be limited depending on CDC guidelines at the time.