Live music and entertainment will fill downtown Jamestown with the return of “Third Thursdays Jamestown.” Every third Thursday in the months from May to September, will feature a free event at Winter Garden Plaza (313 North Main Street) from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The events take place on the Winter Garden Plaza. Attendees can view the performances by standing, sitting benches or bring a lawn chairs. The Wine Cellar’s patio is open for Third Thursday events, where patron can enjoy a beverage while watching the stage.
The series was started in 2012 by Bill Thomas of Active Artists Alliance, with major support from the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation. Since then, the series has been a delightful summer tradition that adds to Jamestown’s rich music and arts history. The series is also a good calling card in bringing people to visit downtown Jamestown.
The free music series is made possible by Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, Gebbie Foundation, LiveCHQ, Chautauqua County IDA and SitlerHQ.
Here is the Third Thursday Jamestown 2024 schedule:
Thursday, May 16, 2024
“What You Will” – theatrical performance by Madness Most Discreet
Performances at 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
The performance collective, Madness Most Discreet will bring an exciting twist on Shakespeare with the play “What You Will.” The performance is a high energy, fast paced interpretation of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Madness Most Discreet features members from across the country, including Jamestown’s own Emily Drew. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Each performance last close to an hour. There will be two performances of “What You Will” that evening.
Thursday, June 20, 2024
Well Worn Boot, The Hallow Society, and Mikee Strongmen
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
It’s about to get wild, weird, and totally fun. From parts unknown, Well Worn Boot leaves its mark everywhere they go. The full-costume band, combined with their fun 1970’s rock vibe music is an amazing recipe for an unpredictable concert experience. Hailing from the Jamestown-area, The Hallow Society brings with them the spirit of late 1970’s and 1980s metal. Provocative lyrics, strong stage presence and catalogue of rockin’ original tunes makes them a force to reckon with. Chautauqua County’s Mikee Strongmen will play an enigmatic solo tweener set.
Thursday, July 18, 2024
Letter to Elise, Karma Queen and Kallie Williams
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
On this evening, the sounds of power pop music will float throughout downtown Jamestown. Buffalo’s Letter to Elise songs are characterized by catchy hooks, dynamic pop-rock sensibility, intricate guitar work, and being one of the first bands in the last decade to feature an electric cello, indie-rock group. Letter to Elise is proving itself to be one of the hottest new acts coming out of the Western New York area. Also from Buffalo, Karma Queen plays tunes that would make Sheryl Crow and Jenny Lewis so proud. Their acoustic rock-based songs are the perfect soundtrack to summer. A growing presence in the music scene, Warren, PA’s Kallie Williams will play a ukulele-infused tweener set.
Thursday, August 15, 2024
Smilo & The Ghost, Charity Nuse & Sara Rafaloski
The evening will be filled with bluegrass and stripped-down root rocks music. Erie, PA’s Smilo & The Ghost continue to rise in the music scene and acquiring quite a fan base. They have recently celebrated the release of their newest album “Twang and Fire.” Jamestown’s Charity Nuse & Sara Rafaloski combine their creative talents to make an irresistible duo. Their stripped-down songs allow the audience to deeper explore the music and lyrics. A founding member of Big Leg Emma, Charity continues the musical vibe of the beloved group. Sara is also a member of the bluegrass outfit Deep Friend & Dipped in Honey.
Thursday, September 19, 2024
Smackdab, Olmstead Dub System
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
A celebratory funk and reggae party in Winter Garden Plaza will be the perfect way to close out the 2024 Third Thursday Series. One of WNY’s most beloved bands, Jamestown’s Smackdab will headline the performance. The band only plays a few times a year, so anytime they hit the stage it’s a blissful event. Buffalo’s Olmstead Dub System will bust out the reggae and turn Winter Garden Plaza into a big dance party. The band consists of some of the Queen City’s most highly regarded musicians.