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FAIRS, FESTIVALS, AND FARMERS MARKETS

M O H A W K VA L L E Y

LIVING AUGUST 2026

THE GREAT

MVL ROAD TRIP

The People. The Places. The Stories.

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AUGUST 2026 ISSUE 153 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & OWNER CARRIE BYRNE PUTELO CREATIVE DIRECTOR COLLEEN INGERTO DIRECTOR OF INTEGRATED MEDIA & MARKETING LAURYN JOHNS MEDICAL & HEALTH EDITOR DR. JULEEN QANDAH STYLE EDITOR AT LARGE JOANNE DONARUMA WADE FITNESS EDITOR LISA BRIGGS DESIGNER SARAH BURNS CONTRIBUTING EDITORS SARAH FOSTER CALERO KAILA CHAMPOUX LIBBY LEMIRE NAT LEVIN BEN SIMONS TOM STARR MARKETING & CONTENT ASSOCIATE BROOKE FRAWLEY CONTACT US: advertising@mohawkvalleyliving.com press@mohawkvalleyliving.com 315-272-7437

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Editor’s Letter Dear Readers, There is something about August in the Mohawk Valley that makes me want to get in the car, roll the windows down and take the long way home. Maybe it is because August has a way of reminding us that summer does not last forever. Even when your own kids are grown, you can still feel that shift in the air. The fairs start, the farm stands are overflowing, calendars begin filling up again, and suddenly everyone wants to squeeze in one more dinner outside, one more ice cream stop, one more festival or one more ride somewhere that feels just far enough away to count as an adventure. This month, we are so excited to bring you our second edition of The Great MVL Road Trip, and it really is one of my favorite issues we have put together. Not because it is about faraway travel or complicated vacations, but because it is about the kind of days that are right here waiting for us. The ones that start with coffee, include a few stops you did not necessarily plan, and end with everyone saying, “We should do that again.”

There is something about August in the Mohawk Valley that makes me want to get in the car, roll the windows down and take the long way home. You can head toward Old Forge, make your way to Cooperstown, spend time in Little Falls, follow the water to Sylvan Beach, take a country road through farm country or simply choose a route because you have not driven it in a while. Sometimes the best part is not the destination at all, but the bakery you find along the way, the small-town Main Street you forgot how much you loved, the farm stand you almost drove past or the view that makes you pull over for a picture. We wanted to create an issue you could keep in the car, leave on the kitchen counter and come back to on a Saturday morning when everyone wants to do something, but no one knows exactly what. And because no road trip is complete without something good to eat, this month’s MV Eats celebrates our region’s from-scratch bakeries and the people behind them. I have always loved bakeries because they feel special the second you walk in. There is the smell of butter and sugar, the cases filled with beautiful things, the early mornings most of us never see, the family recipes, the trained pastry chefs, the self-taught bakers and the local favorites that become part of people’s routines and memories.

4 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Carrie Byrne Putelo Editor-in-Chief & Owner This month, we are spotlighting bakeries that are doing it beautifully, from elevated pastry shops to neighborhood places people swear by, and I already know readers will tell us who else we need to try next. That is one of my favorite things about covering food in the Mohawk Valley. Everyone has an opinion, everyone has a favorite, and almost everyone has a place they believe deserves more attention. This issue also leans into the last days of summer with fairs, festivals, farms, music, family events, food and traditions that bring people together year after year. There is something about an August fair that never gets old. The midway lights, the fried dough, the animals, the tractor pulls, the music, the kids trying to win a prize and the parents taking pictures even when everyone complains, those are the kinds of moments that stay with us. More than anything, this issue is a reminder of how much there still is to discover close to home. We have lakes, mountains, farms, villages, restaurants, bakeries, artists, makers, business owners and families who keep building something here, and every month we get to tell a little more of that story. So before summer starts to slip into fall, take the drive. Stop for coffee. Buy the pastry. Go to the fair. Walk through the farmers market. Visit the town you have not been to in years. Leave room in the day for a detour, because those are usually the memories we end up talking about later. There is still time for one more summer day, and I hope this issue helps you find it. See you on the road,

Carrie

MOHAWK VALLEY

LIVING

IN THIS ISSUE 04

Letter From The Editor

UP FRONT

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6 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Buzzworthy

August Musts

In The Know

MV Spotlight

Be Social

MV Entertainment

See what’s happening this month

LIFESTYLE & WELLNESS

MV Fit

MV Harvest

MV Health

MV Grown

MV Arts

MV Antiques

FEATURES

CAPTURED

MV Eats

A Look Back

The Great MVL Road Trip

Giving Back

The Last Days of Summer

Fairs, Festivals and Farmers Markets

From Scratch & The Bakery Beat

Buzz worthy

Happenings in the Mohawk Valley in August

AUG

America 250 Selfie Scavenger Hunt

Utica Stampede Rodeo & Expo

1-31 Explore Oneida County’s history in a whole new way with this America 250 historical selfie scavenger hunt. Follow clues to local landmarks, capture creative photos, and discover the Mohawk Valley’s Revolutionary War story while competing for prizes. Location: Oneida County

Professional rodeo rides into downtown Utica for two action-packed nights of bull riding, barrel racing, bronc riding, steer wrestling and more. Arrive early to explore the Rodeo Expo featuring western vendors, food, drinks & family fun. Location: Adirondack Bank Center

AUG

5-19 Gigs on the Green Summer Concert Series

Enjoy summer evenings of live music at Gigs on the Green, Rome’s free outdoor concert series. Bring a lawn chair or blanket & enjoy local food vendors, craft beverages, family activities, yard games & a fun community atmosphere. Location: Griffo Green, Rome

AUG

Canal Fest

History & Artisan Day at Oriskany

26th Annual Schuyler Car & Corn Extravaganza

7-9

Sylvan Beach is the place to be this summer & this event is fun for the whole family! Vendor Show August 8 & 9 and fireworks after dark on the 8th. On Sunday the 9th, join for an afternoon of live big band swing music with the Swing Docs (a 20-piece orchestra!). Location: Sylvan Beach

Experience history, local culture & fresh flavors at this special event. Browse artisan vendors & farm products while enjoying live music, cultural performances, and activities honoring the Battle of Oriskany and America 250. Location: 420 Utica St., Oriskany

The Schuyler Car & Corn Fest is back, kicking off at 3:00 PM. Free admission & fireworks at dusk. Plus so much more happening: car show, bounce house, live music, craft show, food trucks, dog show, axe throwing, hot air balloon rides & more! Location: 282 Wood Lane, Schuyler

AUG

Community MusicFest 2026

Jazz at Beeches Manor

PokeKon-Fest Utica

Bring the whole family to CenterPoint’s free Community MusicFest for live music, kids’ activities, games, art, trail walks, free food & a fun day of community celebration. Location: Centerpoint Church, Barneveld 8 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Spend a summer afternoon at Beeches Manor enjoying free live jazz in support of Nascentia Neighborhood. This year’s festival features headliner Gap Mangione and The New Big Band, along with additional performances in a beautiful outdoor setting. Location: Beeches Manor

Check out this brand new Pokemon Show happening from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. It's fun for the Whole Family! Come see exhibitors that cater to a wide variety of interests including Pokemon candy, magazines, toys, local artists, voice actors, retro, apparel & more! Location: Delta Hotels by Marriott, Utica

Buzzworthy

Sarah’s Spotlight: Event of the Month AUG

Farm to Table Dinner 8828 Fish Hatchery Rd., Remsen

You’ve probably gathered by now that I love all things agritourism. I am SO excited for this upcoming Farm to Table Dinner. Spend an evening at the farm with a stroll through the flowers, a locally sourced dinner by Slate Creek Farms, live music & fireside s’mores. This unique experience also includes a flower arrangement & relaxing countryside setting. P.S. Be sure to check out our Rooted in Oneida County agritourism trail! SARAH FOSTER CALERO is President, Oneida County Tourism & Contributing Editor, Mohawk Valley Living

AUG

21-23

Songs of the Seven Seas

79th Annual NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days

Set sail on a musical journey with Half Moon Orchestra’s Songs of the Seven Seas. Enjoy an evening of live orchestral music inspired by the sea in the intimate setting of MVCC’s Schafer Theater. Location: MVCC Utica

Experience one of the region's premier outdoor traditions at Woodsmen’s Field Days, featuring lumberjack competitions, forestry equipment demos, vendors, educational exhibits, and familyfriendly activities celebrating the logging & forestry industry. Location: Boonville Oneida County Fairgrounds

AUG

20th Annual Latino American Festival

Come and enjoy the Summer Fest 2026 at Hanna Park from 12:00 - 8:00 PM. Live Latin music from La Krema, DJ Richy, a cultural parade, vendors, dominoes & lots of family activities. Location: Hanna Park, Utica

For local events and more, visit

oneidacountytourism.com

AUG

Grit N Grace Live

Clinton Art & Music Festival

Live music in a stunning location in the heart of Oneida County? Sign us up! Head to Marshall Mountain Resort from 6:00 until 9:00 PM to hear Grit N Grace and Jackie Pop. Live music, great views & good times. Rain or shine! Location: Marshall Mountain Resort, Deansboro

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Celebrate creativity at the Clinton Art & Music Festival with live music, local artists, food trucks, hands-on art demonstrations, family activities, a cornhole tournament, and plenty of small-town charm. Location: Clinton Village Green MohawkValleyLiving.com | 9

Things to Do

August Musts

By Lauryn Johns

RAISE A GLASS FOR RESCUE

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

MAKE A SPLASH

If your perfect summer afternoon includes dogs, local vendors, good food, and a glass of wine, this one belongs on your calendar. Safe at Last Animal Rescue's 4th Annual Dog Days of Summer returns to Middleburgh Winery with rescue organizations, shopping, raffles, food, and wine slushies, all benefiting animals looking for their forever homes. Well behaved, leashed dogs are encouraged to join the fun.

Summer nights were made for movie nights. Load up the car and head to El Rancho Drive-In Theatre for a classic drivein experience, or invite friends over for a backyard showing complete with lawn chairs, bug spray, and plenty of popcorn. It's a simple way to slow down and make the most of the season.

Looking for the ultimate August adventure? Grab your sunscreen and spend the day on the water. From tubing the West Canada Creek to paddling a kayak across a quiet lake, there are plenty of ways to cool off while taking in some of the Mohawk Valley's most scenic views.

Unadilla Drive-In El Rancho Drive-In Theatre Ozoner 29 Twin Drive-In Theater

West Canada Creek Tubing in Middleville Mountainman Outdoor Supply Comp., Old Forge Delta Lake State Park in Rome

Middleburgh Winery’s - Dog Days of Summer! August 15, 1-4 p.m.

WANDER THROUGH A SUNFLOWER FIELD

GRAB DINNER AT WHAT THE TRUCK

August is peak sunflower season in the Mohawk Valley, making it the perfect time to wander fields of golden blooms. Whether you're searching for the perfect family photo, planning a golden hour outing, or bringing home a hand-picked bouquet, visiting a local sunflower field is one of summer's sweetest traditions. Bring your camera.

Nothing says summer in the Mohawk Valley quite like dinner from a food truck on a warm evening. For more than a decade, What The Truck has been bringing neighbors together over great food, live music, and family-friendly fun. This year, the popular series has expanded to three locations, making it even easier to grab a bite and enjoy one of the region's favorite summer traditions.

Simple Farms in Remsen | Savicki's Farm Market in Clinton | Hickory Hill Farms in Fonda | Perry's Sunflower Maze in Broadalbin | Sand Flats Orchard in St. Johnsville Bloom times vary with the weather, so be sure to check with farm before visiting. *Photo Credit - Vintage Junebug Photography

10 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Ilion, 39 Pleasant Ave.: Wednesdays through August 12 | 4-8 p.m. Deerfield, Fire Hall, Trenton Road: Tuesdays through August 18 | 4-8 p.m. Oneida Castle, Village Offices: Thursdays through August 20 | 4-8 p.m.

Building tomorrow together. At Beacon Bank, we’re focused on building your tomorrow, here in the Mohawk Valley. Whether you’re starting a business, navigating a new chapter or planning ahead, our experts can guide you every step of the way.

“Commercial Real Estate activity in the Mohawk Valley continues to gain momentum through multifamily, manufacturing and industrial redevelopment projects. Beacon Bank is committed to the Region, and as a seasoned Commercial Real Estate and Construction Lender, we are well positioned to meet the development needs of the community.” Kevin M. Gaglione SVP, Director and CRE Team Leader

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In the Know

Hitthe theRoad Roadto toBetter BetterHealth HealthHit RightHere Hereat atHome Home Right Summer is the perfect time to hitthe theroad roadand andexplore exploreeverything everythingthe theMohawk Mohawk Summer is is the perfect time toto hit Summer the perfect time hit the road and explore everything the Mohawk Valley has to offer.Whether Whether you'rediscovering discoveringaa anew newfavorite favoriterestaurant, restaurant, visiting visiting aa Valley has toto offer. you're Valley has offer. Whether you're discovering new favorite restaurant, visiting local park taking a drive through our region, every journey is reminder local park or taking a scenic scenic drivethrough throughour ourregion, region,every everyjourney journeyis isaa a reminder reminder local park oror taking a scenic drive that some of the best destinationsare arecloser closerthan thanyou youthink. think. that some the best destinations are closer than you think. that some of of the best destinations The same true when comes your health. At Mohawk Valley Health System The same is true when it comestoto toyour yourhealth. health.At AtMohawk MohawkValley ValleyHealth Health System System The same is is true when it it comes (MVHS), our primary care providersare arehere heretoto tohelp helpyou youstay stayhealthy healthythrough through every every (MVHS), our primary care providers are here help you stay healthy through every (MVHS), our primary care providers stage life. From annual wellness visits and preventive screenings to managing stage of life. From annual wellnessvisits visitsand andpreventive preventivescreenings screeningsto tomanaging managing stage of of life. From annual wellness chronic conditions and helpingyou younavigate navigateunexpected unexpectedillnesses, illnesses,your yourprimary primary chronic conditions and helping you navigate unexpected illnesses, your primary chronic conditions and helping care provider your partner achieving better health. care provider is your partner inachieving achievingbetter betterhealth. health. care provider is is your partner inin Having an an established established primary primary care care provider provider means means having having someone someone who who knows knows Having Having an established primary care provider means having someone who knows your health history, understands your goals and can help coordinate your care when your health history, understandsyour yourgoals goalsand andcan canhelp helpcoordinate coordinateyour your care care when when your health history, understands you need need specialists specialists or or additional additional services. services. It's It's one one of of the the most most important important steps steps you you you you need specialists or additional services. It's one of the most important steps you can take to protect your long-term health. can take to protect your long-term health. can take to protect your long-term health. As you you travel travel throughout throughout the the Mohawk Mohawk Valley Valley this this summer, summer, remember remember that that quality quality AsAs you travel throughout the Mohawk Valley this summer, remember that quality healthcare is never far from home. With primary care offices conveniently located healthcare is never far from home. With primary care offices conveniently located healthcare is never far from home. With primary care offices conveniently located throughout our region, region, MVHS makes it easy easy to access access the care care you need need close close to throughout our MVHS makes it to the you to throughout our region, MVHS makes it easy to access the care you need close to where where you you live, live, work work and and play. play. where you live, work and play. Life doesn't doesn't always always fit fit into into a a 9-to-5 9-to-5 schedule, schedule, which which is is why why several several MVHS MVHS primary primary Life Life doesn't always fit into a 9-to-5 schedule, which is why several MVHS primary care care practices practices offer offer extended extended hours hours for for added added convenience. convenience. Extended Extended hours hours are are care practices offer extended hours Office, for added convenience. hours are available at the the Herkimer Medical Children's Health Extended Center (pediatric (pediatric available at Herkimer Medical Office, Children's Health Center available atonly), the Herkimer Medical Office, Children's Health CenterMedical (pediatric patients Whitesboro Office, patients only), Whitesboro Medical Medical Office Office and and the the Town Town of of Webb Webb Medical Office, patients only), Whitesboro Medical Office the Town ofand Webb Medical Office, which offers offers seasonal extended extended hours to and serve residents and visitors alike. The Town Town which seasonal hours to serve residents visitors alike. The which offers seasonal extended hours to serve residents and visitors alike.making The Town of Medical Office also on-site X-ray and services, it of Webb Webb Medical Office also offers offers on-site X-ray and ultrasound ultrasound services, making it of even Webb Medical Office also offers on-site X-ray and ultrasound services, making it easier to receive timely care while enjoying all the Adirondack region has to even easier to receive timely care while enjoying all the Adirondack region has to even easier to receive timely care while enjoying all the Adirondack region has to offer. offer. offer. Whether you're you're new new to to the the area, area, looking looking for for a a new new provider provider or or simply simply haven't haven't Whether Whether you're new to the area, looking for newis provider or simply established a care relationship yet, a to started. established a primary primary care relationship yet,a now now is a great great time time to get gethaven't started. established a primary care relationship yet, now is a great time to get started. The MVHS Medical Group is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, The MVHS Medical Group is accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, call 315-624-4600 or visit visitismychart.mvhealthsystem.org/MyChart/OpenScheduling mychart.mvhealthsystem.org/MyChart/OpenScheduling The MVHS Medical Group accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment, call 315-624-4600 or to book call to315-624-4600 book online. online. or visit mychart.mvhealthsystem.org/MyChart/OpenScheduling to book online. No No matter matter where where the the road road takes takes you you this this summer, summer, make make your your health health part part of of the the A trusted primary care provider can help keep you on the path to Nojourney. matter where the road takes you this summer, make your health part of the journey. A trusted primary care provider can help keep you on the path to living living your healthiest healthiest life – today today andprovider for years yearscan to come. come. journey. A trustedlife primary care help keep you on the path to living your – and for to your healthiest life – today and for years to come.

Mohawk Valley Gives Mohawk Valley Gives Returns September Returns September18 18

One One day. day. Hundreds Hundreds of of local local nonprofits. nonprofits. Thousands Thousands of of opportunities to make a difference. opportunities to make a difference. One day. Hundreds of local nonprofits. Thousands of

opportunities to make a difference. Mohawk Mohawk Valley Valley Gives Gives returns returns on on Thursday, Thursday, September September 18, bringing the community together for the the September fifth 18, bringing the community together for fifth Mohawk Valley Gives returns on Thursday, annual day giving in of annual day of of giving in support support of nonprofit nonprofit 18, bringing the community together for the fifth organizations serving serving Herkimer, Oneida, Oneida, and and organizations annual day of giving inHerkimer, support of nonprofit surrounding counties. Hosted by the Community surrounding counties. Hosted by the Community organizations serving Herkimer, Oneida, and Foundation Herkimer and Counties and Foundation of ofcounties. HerkimerHosted and Oneida Oneida and the the surrounding by theCounties Community UpMobility Foundation, Foundation, the the event event has has become become one one of of the the region's region's most most inspiring inspiringFoundation annual traditions. traditions. Last year, year, donors contributed of Herkimer and donors Oneidacontributed Counties and the UpMobility annual Last $6.5 to of local helping organizations continue their ranging from health more $6.5 million millionthe to hundreds hundreds of local nonprofits, nonprofits, organizations continue their work work in in areas areas ranging from health care care more than than UpMobility Foundation, event has become one ofservices, thehelping region's most inspiring annual year, donors contributed and education education to the the arts, arts, animal animal welfare, veterans youth programs, and more.traditions. Early giving givingLast opens Monday, September 14, and to welfare, veterans services, youth programs, and more. Early opens Monday, September 14, $6.5 million to hundreds of local nonprofits, helping organizations continue their work in areas ranging from health care more than making making it it easy easy to to plan plan your your support support before before the the big big day. day. Whether Whether you you choose choose one one favorite favorite organization organization or or several, several, every every donation donation stays stays and education to the arts, animal welfare, veterans services, youth programs, and more. Early giving opens Monday, September 14, local bonus prizes prizes and and incentives incentives local and and helps helps strengthen strengthen the the Mohawk Mohawk Valley. Valley. Participating Participating nonprofits nonprofits also also have have the the chance chance to to earn earn bonus making it easy to plan your support before the big day. Whether you choose one favorite organization or several, every donation stays throughout the the campaign, campaign, making making every every gift gift go go even even further. further. throughout local and helps strengthen the Mohawk Valley. Participating nonprofits also have the chance to earn bonus prizes and incentives Presentedthe by Staffworks, Staffworks, M&T Bank, Bank, andgift Utica National Insurance Group, Group, Mohawk Mohawk Valley Valley Gives Gives is is a a reminder reminder that that when when our our throughout campaign, making every go National even further. Presented by M&T and Utica Insurance community community comes comes together, together, the the impact impact reaches reaches far far beyond beyond a a single single day. day. Learn Learn more, more, browse browse participating participating nonprofits, nonprofits, or or make make your your Presented by Staffworks, M&T Bank, and Utica National Insurance Group, Mohawk Valley Gives is a reminder that when our donation at MohawkValleyGives.org. donation at MohawkValleyGives.org. community comes together, the impact reaches far beyond a single day. Learn more, browse participating nonprofits, or make your 12 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026 donation at MohawkValleyGives.org.

Your Health Journey Starts Here ALL Mohawk Valley Health System Primary Care Offices are accepting new patients! Find a primary care office near you: • Utica: East Utica, North Utica, Sister Rose Vincent Family Medicine Center • New Hartford: Medical Arts and Crossroads Plaza • Whitesboro, Clinton, Washington Mills and Waterville • Rome • Herkimer and Little Falls • Boonville, Barneveld and the Town of Webb • Oneida • Children’s Health Center (pediatric patients)

Extended Hours Several offices offer extended hours for added convenience, including Herkimer, Whitesboro, and the Town of Webb, which also provides on-site X-ray and ultrasound. The Children’s Health Center offers extended hours for pediatric patients.

Two easy ways to schedule: 1. Book online in minutes. • Use the QR code below to see available appointments and book instantly. If you do not see the clinic you are attempting to schedule with, please call the number below. 2. Prefer to talk to someone? • Call 315-624-4600 to schedule with our team.

Scan the QR code to find a provider near you.

In the Know

A Tradition Rooted in

THE NORTH COUNTRY

Woodsmen's Field Days returns to Oneida County for its 79th year

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

For nearly eight decades, the New York State Woodsmen’s Field Days has celebrated the skill, strength, and heritage of the forest industry, bringing generations of competitors, families, exhibitors, and spectators to Boonville each summer. Returning August 21–23, 2026, to the Boonville-Oneida County Fairgrounds, this beloved North Country tradition is now in its 79th year and remains one of the most recognized forestry and lumberjack events in the country. What began in 1948 as a tribute to the working woodsman has grown into a full weekend of competition, demonstrations, exhibits, entertainment, and community pride. At the center of the weekend are the woodsmen competitions, where athletes bring the

tools and techniques of the forestry trade into the grandstand arena. Crowds gather to watch events that require power, precision, balance, and speed, from axe throwing and crosscut sawing to log rolling, speed climbing, log skidding, and other traditional lumberjack contests. This year’s event will once again feature both the World’s Open Lumberjill Championship and the New York State Open Lumberjack Championship, showcasing top competitors and keeping these time-honored skills alive for new generations. But Woodsmen’s Field Days is more than a competition. It is also one of the region’s great summer gatherings, with more than 200 forest industry exhibitors, equipment displays, chainsaw carving, safety demonstrations, vendors, food concessions, children’s activities, community events, and plenty to explore throughout the fairgrounds. Visitors can see the latest in forestry equipment and tools, watch live demonstrations, browse artisan and industry vendors, and learn more about the forest products industry that has long shaped the economy and identity of northern New York.

NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days August 21–23, 2026 Boonville-Oneida County Fairgrounds, Boonville, NY Gates open daily at 8 a.m. WoodsmensFieldDays.com 14 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Photos by Lucinda Rowlands, Rowlands Graphics

The weekend also has a strong family tradition. For many, Woodsmen’s Field Days is an annual homecoming — a chance to meet friends, bring the kids, walk the grounds, cheer from the grandstand, and spend a summer day in the Adirondack foothills. From professional loggers and foresters to campers, hunters, woodworkers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking for something different to do before summer winds down, the event continues to draw people who feel connected to the land, the work, and the culture of the North Country. Part of what makes Woodsmen’s Field Days so special is that it honors both the past and the present. The weekend celebrates the rugged traditions of the lumberjack while also highlighting today’s forest industry, from modern equipment and safety practices to the people and businesses keeping the work moving forward. It is entertainment, education, competition, and heritage all in one place. Gates open daily at 8 a.m., rain or shine, with free parking available. Admission includes access to the grandstand events, and visitors are encouraged to check the official website for schedules, ticket information, camping details, and event updates. Whether you go for the championships, the exhibits, the parade, the kids activities, the food, or simply the chance to experience one of the North Country’s most enduring summer traditions, the New York State Woodsmen’s Field Days remains a true August classic.

In the Know

A Summer Celebration at Hanna Park Some events feel like more than a day on the calendar. They feel like community. They feel like music in the park, families gathering, food, dancing, culture, and one of those summer afternoons that reminds you why the Mohawk Valley is so special. On Sunday, August 23, the Mohawk Valley Latino Association will host the 20th Annual Latino American Festival at Hanna Park in Utica, celebrating Latino culture, community, and heritage in the heart of the city. The festival runs from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature live Latin music, a DJ, cultural parade, vendors, dominoes, and family-friendly activities. Come for the music, stay for the food, bring the kids, meet friends, and experience the color, energy, and pride of the Latino community right here in the Mohawk Valley. More information at mvlautica.org. 20th Annual Latino American Festival Sunday, August 23 | 12–8 p.m. Hanna Park, Utica

A Utica Tradition Lives On For more than a century, the Santa Rosalia Society has helped keep one of East Utica’s most meaningful cultural traditions alive. Founded in 1916 by nine men from the Palermo region of Sicily, the society was created to honor Santa Rosalia, the patron saint of Palermo. What began as a religious and cultural celebration grew into one of East Utica’s most beloved traditions, with Mass at Mount Carmel Church, an hours-long street procession, band concerts, fireworks, food, games, and generations of families gathering along Mohawk Street. Though the neighborhood has changed over the years, the society has worked to preserve and revive the feast, which now stands as one of the last remaining Italian-American traditions of its kind in the Utica area. One of the most treasured moments continues to be the recitation of the famous Poesia Santa Rosalia in Sicilian dialect. Santa Rosalia Feast Saturday, August 29 | 5–10 p.m. Sunday, August 30 | 11 a.m. Mass and procession Mount Carmel Church, Utica

Save the Date: Little Falls Cheese Festival One of the Mohawk Valley’s most delicious fall traditions returns this October, bringing cheesemakers, food lovers, families, and visitors back to downtown Little Falls. The Little Falls Cheese Festival will be held Saturday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Main Street. The festival features New York State cheesemakers, gourmet foods, craft beverages, live music, food trucks, restaurants, pubs, and plenty of reasons to make a day of it. Visitors can sample and shop a wide variety of New York farm-produced cheeses, from cheddar, gouda, and Havarti to soft cheeses, goat cheeses, cheese curds, yogurts, butter, and more. New this year are ticketed, guided cheese tastings led by The Cheese Traveler of Albany.

Little Falls Cheese Festival Saturday, October 3 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Main Street, Little Falls littlefallscheesefestival.com Admission, parking, and shuttle buses are free. 16 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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In the Know

Gabe expected toto suit up for Utica this season. Gabe Klassen among the new additions to suit up for Utica this season. GabeKlassen Klassenisisisamong amongthe thenew newadditions additionsexpected expected suit up for Utica this season.

COMETS SUMMER COMETS CHECK-IN COMETS SUMMER SUMMERCHECK-IN CHECK-IN

By Joe By Benson Joe Benson

New leadership, fresh ofof momentum are building Newleadership, leadership,fresh freshtalent talentand andaaarenewed renewedsense sense of momentum are building New and renewed sense momentum are building anticipation for the 2026-27 anticipationfor forthe the2026-27 2026-27season. season. anticipation season.

The Comets are set to embark The Cometsare areset setto toembark embarkon ontheir their The Comets on their th thth anniversary season when the 202614 anniversaryseason seasonwhen whenthe the202620261414 anniversary campaign kicks off on Friday, 27campaign campaignkicks kicksoff offon onFriday, Friday, 2727 October on the road against October222on onthe theroad roadagainst againstthe the October the Providence Bruins. The Comets ProvidenceBruins. Bruins.The TheComets Cometswill will Providence will host their Home Opener the following hosttheir theirHome HomeOpener Openerthe thefollowing following host weekend on October 10 at 6 PM at the weekendon onOctober October1010atat66PM PMatatthe the weekend Adirondack Bank Center against the AdirondackBank BankCenter Centeragainst againstthe the Adirondack Rochester Americans, marking the first RochesterAmericans, Americans,marking markingthe thefirst first Rochester time in franchise history in which timeininfranchise franchisehistory historyininwhich which time Opening Night will be held on a OpeningNight Nightwill willbe beheld heldon onaa Opening Saturday. Saturday. Saturday. The Comets had an incredible finish to TheComets Cometshad hadan anincredible incredible finish to The the 2025-26 season, falling justfinish one to the 2025-26 season, falling just one the 2025-26 season, falling just one point shy of playoff contention in a pointshy shyof ofplayoff playoff contention point contention ininvery aa scenario which came down to the scenario which came downtoto thevery very scenario which down the last game of thecame AHL regular season. In last game of the AHL regular season. In last gameto oflast the season’s AHL regular season. addition strong finish,In addition to last season’s strong finish, changesto inlast Newseason’s Jersey Devils’ addition strong finish, changesininNew New Jersey Devils’ management and an influx of dynamic changes Jersey Devils’ management and aninflux influxofofdynamic dynamic players into the organization’s management and an playersinto into the organization’s prospect pool are fueling rising players the organization’s prospectpool pool are fueling rising anticipation for the upcoming season. prospect are fueling rising anticipation for the upcoming season. anticipation for the upcoming season. Sunny Mehta was named the new General Manager ofnamed the Devils on April SunnyMehta Mehta wasnamed thenew new Sunny was the 16, and less than a month later, Braden General Manager of the Devils onApril April General Manager of the Devils on Birch was hired to serve as Devils’ 16, and less than a month later, Braden 16, and less than a month later, Braden Assistant General and Birchwas washired hiredtotoManager serveas asDevils’ Devils’ Birch serve Comets’ General Manager. The duo has Assistant General Manager and Assistant General Manager and not wasted any time, addingThe both size Comets’ General Manager. duo has Comets’ General Manager. The duo has and skill to the pipeline, and showing a not wasted any time, adding both size not wasted any time, adding both size and skill to the pipeline, and showing | Mohawk 18and Living Magazine and AUGUST 2026 skillValley to the pipeline, showing aa

vested interest inin player development vested interest in player development vested interest player development in Utica. inUtica. Utica. in

captain Ryan Schmelzer is set captain Ryan Schmelzer captain Ryan Schmelzer is to setreturn to return forfor his sixth season in Utica. for his his sixth sixth season season in in Utica. AnAn infusion of new talent, the the return of of An infusion of new new talent, infusion of talent, return several core players, and solid several core core players, players, and and solid several leadership on the bench have created leadership on the the bench leadership on bench have created renewed vigor for AHL hockey in the renewed vigor vigor for for AHL AHL hockey in the renewed Mohawk Valley. Mohawk Valley. Valley. Mohawk

So far this offseason, 11 players have Sofar far thisoffseason, offseason, players have been signed or acquired1111via tradehave who So this players are expected up forvia the Comets been signedto orsuit acquired viatrade trade who been signed or acquired who this season, a dramatic increase over are expected to suit up for the Comets are expected to suit up for the Comets the past few years. this season, dramaticincrease increaseover over this season, aadramatic the past few years. the past few years. As far as familiar faces, Head Coach Parent is gearing up for his Asfar farRyan asfamiliar familiar faces, Head As as faces, Head second full season as is bench bossup and Coach Ryan Parent gearing forhis his Coach Ryan Parent is gearing up for second full season as bench boss and second full season as bench boss and

Storytelling PHOTOGRAPHERS MAKING MEANING WORKS FROM THE WELLIN MUSEUM’S COLLECTION SEPTEMBER 12, 2026 – JUNE 12, 2027

MV Spotlight

Restored, Reimagined and Ready to Gather Petal and Bloom in Rome brings new life to a historic farmhouse with five guest suites, gathering spaces and a few beautiful surprises. By Carrie Byrne Putelo

There are some places you walk into and immediately start wondering about all the lives they have already held. Petal and Bloom, a restored historic farmhouse just outside Rome, is one of those places. I recently had the chance to tour the property after Jeff Petroski and Murphy Williams brought it back to life, and what struck me first was not just how beautiful it is, although it really is. It was the care behind the restoration. The home still feels like a farmhouse. It still has that sense of history and character. But now, every room feels fresh, warm and thoughtfully designed for the way people gather today. With five private guest suites, shared gathering spaces, outdoor areas and a basement lounge that feels like a hidden surprise, Petal and Bloom has been reimagined for wedding weekends, family gatherings, retreats and group getaways. It gives people room to spread out, but it also creates the kind of spaces where everyone naturally comes back together. 20 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Each suite has its own name and personality: Wild Rose, Lavender, Jasmine, Apple Blossom and Lily and Lace. Some are cozy and simple, while others offer extra room for additional guests, sitting areas or connecting space. The details feel personal without being overdone, and the private baths, kitchenettes, Smart TVs and climate control make the stay comfortable without taking away from the charm of the house. At the center of the property is the Sunflower Café kitchen and dining area, a bright shared space where guests can make coffee, gather for breakfast, bring in dinner or sit around the table together. It is easy to picture a wedding party starting the day there, a family lingering over coffee, or a group settling in after a day of exploring. And then there is the basement. A speakeasy-style lounge underneath a farmhouse in Rome was not exactly what I expected, but it may be one of the most

memorable parts of the property. With a fireplace, pool table, poker table, games, bar area and lounge seating, it has a completely different feel from the upstairs suites. It is the kind of space where people can stay awhile, unwind and enjoy being together. What makes Petal and Bloom special is that it does not feel like the past was erased. It feels like the house was given another chance. The before-and-after photos tell that story beautifully. You can see the transformation from tired rooms and forgotten corners into spaces that feel bright, welcoming and full of possibility. It is the kind of restoration that reminds you how much beauty already exists in the Mohawk Valley when someone takes the time to see what a place can become. For MVL, this is exactly the kind of local space we love to spotlight: thoughtful, beautifully restored and created by people who saw something worth saving. Petal and Bloom is more than a place to stay. It is a farmhouse with a past, a fresh new chapter and plenty of room for new memories to begin.

AT A GLANCE Restored by: Jeff Petroski and Murphy Williams Location: Rome, New York Designed for: Wedding weekends, family gatherings, retreats, group getaways and special occasions Inside: Five private guest suites, a shared kitchen and dining area, outdoor spaces and a speakeasy-style basement lounge

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MV Spotlight

Brimstone Bakery Big-city pastry, small-town charm, and a Sharon Springs stop worth building a road trip around. By Carrie Byrne Putelo

One of the best parts of a Mohawk Valley road trip is finding those places that make you say, “How lucky are we that this is here?” Brimstone Bakery in Sharon Springs is one of those places. Brimstone is one of those road trip finds that makes you feel lucky to live within driving distance. In the heart of Sharon Springs, you’ll find beautifully made pastries, thoughtful lunch, handmade cakes, and a welcoming café that makes the trip feel instantly worth it. Chef Anthony Leberto brought his talent, creativity, and culinary background to Sharon Springs after working in New York City and San Francisco. When he arrived in Sharon Springs in 2017, he was drawn to the creative, entrepreneurial spirit of the village. In 2018, he opened Brimstone Bakery, bringing with him a love for traditional American baking and all the influences that make it feel familiar, comforting, and exciting at the same time. Today, Brimstone produces an impressive and ever-changing selection of cookies, biscotti, brownies, bars, scones, sweet and savory pastries, layer cakes, wedding cakes, and specialty desserts. It is the kind of place where you can stop in for a pastry and coffee, pick up something beautiful to bring home, order a cake for a celebration,

PLAN YOUR VISIT Brimstone Bakery Retail & Café 922 Chestnut Street, Sharon Springs 518-284-6093 | brimstonebake.com Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 8am–3pm Closed Sunday and Monday Lunch: 11am–3pm

ALSO VISIT: Brimstone Bakery at Fenimore Art Museum

Fenimore Art Museum 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown Hours: 11am–3pm daily 22 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

or turn a quick visit into lunch. And lunch is very much part of the experience. At Brimstone Bakery’s retail space and café at 922 Chestnut Street in Sharon Springs, guests can enjoy handmade soups, salads, sandwiches, quiche, breakfast pastries, specialty coffee, and seasonal offerings. Lunch is served from 11am to 3pm, making it a perfect stop during a day trip through Sharon Springs, Cooperstown, Cherry Valley, or the surrounding countryside. There is something special about Brimstone because it feels considered without feeling fussy. The food is beautiful, but still warm. The flavors are creative, but still comforting. It is the kind of place that makes you slow down, look around, and remember why we love exploring these small towns so much. Brimstone also offers catering for all

occasions and budgets, bringing that same handmade quality and creative point of view to gatherings, celebrations, weddings, and events. Brimstone’s presence also extends to Cooperstown, where Brimstone Bakery at Fenimore Art Museum brings the bakery’s signature hospitality and café offerings to one of the region’s most beautiful cultural destinations. Whether you are planning a visit to the original café in Sharon Springs or spending the day at Fenimore Art Museum in Cooperstown, Brimstone is a delicious reminder that some of the best road trip stops are closer than you think. This is exactly what the Great MVL Road Trip is all about: discovering the places, people, and flavors that make our region feel so rich, so creative, and so worth exploring.

FADED ELEGANCE: PORTRAITS OF HAVANA BY MICHAEL EASTMAN April April 11 – – December December 31 31

Red Couch, Havana, 2010, Digital C-Print, Collection of RedMichael Couch,Eastman. Havana, 2010, Digital C-Print,Luntz Collection of Courtesy of Holden Gallery Michael Eastman. Courtesy of Holden Luntz Gallery

IN NATURE’S STUDIO: TWO CENTURIES OF AMERICAN LANDSCAPE PAINTING

Frederic Edwin Church (American, 1826 – 1900), Frederic Edwin Church (American, 1826 – 1900), and DeWitt Clinton Boutelle (American, 1820 and DeWitt Clinton Boutelle (American, 1820 – 1884), Cotopaxi, 1862, oil on canvas, 34 1/2 x – 1884), Cotopaxi, 1862, oil on canvas, 34 1/2 x 56 inches, Museum Purchase, 1929.32.1. Reading 56 inches, Museum Purchase, 1929.32.1. Reading Public Museum, Reading, Pennsylvania. Public Museum, Reading, Pennsylvania.

May May 23 23 – – September September 7 7

JOIN US FOR THE OPENING OF THE AMERICAN MASTERWORKS GALLERY

ALSO DON’T FORGET...

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26

The The Linda Linda McCartney McCartney Retrospective: Retrospective: From From the the Light Light May 23 – September 7 May 23 – September 7 Boundless Boundless Spirit: Spirit: American American Folk Folk Art Art at at Fenimore Fenimore Art Art Museum Museum April 1 – December 31 April 1 – December 31 Art Art by by the the Lake Lake Saturday Saturday August August 8, 8, 10am 10am -- 5pm 5pm

FREE FREE admission admission ages ages 19 19 & & under under

SCAN SCAN FOR FOR TICKETS TICKETS AND INFORMATION AND INFORMATION FENIMOREART.ORG FENIMOREART.ORG

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BOILERMAKER

This year’s Boilermaker welcomed 9,118 finishers in the 15K and 4,204 in the 5K, up from 8,640 and 3,970 in 2025. “With incredible weather and event records being set, it was a perfect day,” Boilermaker President Mark Donovan said. “Looking ahead to the 50th year of the Boilermaker Road Race set for 2027, the energy of this year is sure to carry us through.”

24 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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Be Social

Westgate Heights Celebrates Ribbon Cutting The community came together on July 16 to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of Westgate Heights in Utica. Clayton Homes representatives from Frankfort and other locations joined local officials, homeowners and community members for the celebration, where guests toured the model homes and learned more about the new neighborhood. Matt Bushey of Clayton Homes of Frankfort spoke during the event, marking an exciting new investment in the Mohawk Valley community. For more information, visit westgateheightsny.com.

SHARE YOUR MOHAWK VALLEY MOMENTS WITH US! PRESS@MOHAWKVALLEYLIVING.COM 26 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 • 6PM

Opening Night UTICA COMETS UTICA COMETS VS ROCHESTER AMERICANS

MV Entertainment

AUGUST ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR By Megan Wright

City of Amsterdam’s National Night Out (1) When: August 4th @5:00pm-10:00pm Where: Veterans Park, Amsterdam Showtime Trio (2) When: August 7th @6:00pm Where: Babe's at Harbor Point, Utica

4 3

Gloversville Railfest (3) When: August 8th @10:00am-8:00pm Where: W Fulton St, Gloversville Grandparents Weekend (4) When: August 8th @10:00am-5:00pm August 9th @12:00pm-4:00pm Where: Spring Creek Lavender, Remsen Schoharie County Sunshine Fair (5) When: August 11th-16th @8:00am Where: 113 Sunshine Drive, Cobleskill

Capitolfest When: August 14th-16th @10:00am Where: Capitol Theater, Rome Pete Holmes (6) When: August 15, 8 p.m. Where: Turning Stone Showroom, 5218 Patrick Road, Verona Hummingbird Hills 16th Anniversary Celebration and Car Show When: August 15th @11:00am-3:00pm Where: Hummingbird Hills Winery, Fultonville Herkimer County Fair (8) When: August 18th-August 23rd Where: Herkimer County Fairgrounds St. Johnsville Community Fair When: August 27th-28th @4:00pm-10:00pm; August 29th @1:00pm-10:00pm Where: Soldiers and Sailors Park, St. Johnsville NYS Woodsmen's Field Days (7) When: August 21st-23rd @8:00am Where: 222 Schuyler St, Boonville

COMING SOON Mike Zuglan’s 2026 Joss Northeast 9-Ball Turning Stone Classic XLII When: September 3, 4 p.m. Where: The Event Center at Turning Stone, 5218 Patrick Road, Verona Details: Free spectator admission The Wiz When: September 29th-30th @7:30pm Where: 258 Genesee St. Suite 507, Utica 28 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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MV Entertainment

THE MUSIC SCENE By Carrie Byrne Putelo

Jes Sheldon & the Stewards of Sol (1) When: August 6, 6:30 p.m. Where: Paris Hill Barn, 2817 Old State Route 12, Paris

The Outlaws (2) When: August 7, 8 p.m. Where: Turning Stone Showroom, 5218 Patrick Road, Verona Rebecca Miner’s Patsy Cline Tribute (3) When: August 9, 4 p.m. Where: Remsen Center for the Arts, 9627 Main Street, Remsen Home Free: Highways & High Seas Tour (4) When: August 14, 8 p.m. Where: Turning Stone Showroom, 5218 Patrick Road, Verona

Ryan Quinn (5) When: August 30, 2 p.m. Where: Brimfield Farm Winery, 8300 Brimfield Street, Clinton

DON'T MISS Sydney Irving (6) When: August 15, 8 p.m. Where: Unity Hall, 101 Vanderkemp Avenue, Barneveld Getting to attend an intimate concert by an artist destined to play much larger venues and cities is a rare and special experience. Sydney Irving's showcase concert on August 15th at Unity Hall in Barneveld will be one of them. A compelling songwriter and dynamic performer, Sydney will open with an acoustic set before taking the stage with her full band. Get details and tickets at unityhall.com/events.

WORTH THE DRIVE Lake Street Dive (7) When: August 5, 7 p.m. show / 5 p.m. doors Where: Beak & Skiff, 2708 Lords Hill Road, LaFayette County: Onondaga County Andy Frasco & The U.N. + Kitchen Dwellers (8) When: August 22, 8 p.m. Where: Ray Brothers BBQ, 6474 U.S. Route 20, Bouckville County: Madison County

COMING SOON SIRSY When: September 17, 8 p.m. Where: Unity Hall, 101 Vanderkemp Avenue, Barneveld British Invasion Tribute When: September 10, 6:30 p.m. Where: Paris Hill Barn, 2817 Old State Route 12, Paris 30 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

NYS

WOoDSMEN’S FIELD DAYS

MV Eats

FROM SCRATCH:

Meet the Bakers By Libby Lemire

Each of these bakers has a unique story, but they share a common philosophy: they work entirely from scratch. They take pride in the quality of their ingredients and hands-on craftsmanship. Many were drawn to the Mohawk Valley because of its rich agricultural resources. They value the communities that supply their kitchens, the communities they serve, and the connections forged through food. After long hours spent experimenting and refining everything from crusty breads to delicate pastries and crinkle cookies, these artisans share a taste of the Mohawk Valley, one small batch at a time.

ANTHONY LEBERTO Brimstone Bakery

922 Chestnut Street, Sharon Springs Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown “Everything we serve, we make. We don’t serve soda because we don’t make it.” He’s happy to serve you a blueberry-basil lemonade, though. Anthony truly epitomizes From Scratch: everything from sandwich bread and quiche to sticky buns and rhubarb crumb cake made with rhubarb harvested from his garden. Growing up, Anthony gravitated toward cooking and food was woven deeply into his family life. Originally, however, he went to the Newhouse School and moved to San Francisco to write for a healthcare newspaper. While there, he was inspired by the city’s food scene, where farmto-table culture was taking root long before it became a national trend. He convinced a neighborhood café to hire him and teach him the basics of baking. He still

remembers his mentor’s advice: “Baking is like ballet. Every movement counts.” His mentor taught him both baking and cooking, making him equally comfortable in the worlds of sweet and savory. He also learned the value of hospitality and customer experience—qualities that remain central to Brimstone today. Looking back, Anthony sees how each stage of his career led to Brimstone. After a move to New York, he worked as a food stylist for Martha Stewart and her magazine, learning the art of “perfectionism, branding, and

32 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

merchandising.” He went on to style for other magazines: VOGUE, Food & Wine, and O, The Oprah Magazine before taking on the role of a family’s private chef, which eventually developed into a niche catering business. He and his husband, Lance, began looking for a weekend escape from New York City. After a weekend at the American Hotel in Sharon Springs, they fell in love with the area, and began looking at real estate. After only three viewings, Anthony fell for the dilapidated one, and he and Lance began a two-year renovation project. He continued working in NYC and

collaborated with Beekman 1802 producing artisanal items. He also built a thriving online business shipping his own sweet treats— cookies, brownies, scones, and biscotti. Eventually, local catering successes led him to look for a brick-and-mortar home. He walked by a structure with a makeshift front porch and thought, “This is a good place for a bakery.” Renovations began again. Brimstone opened as a retail bakery in 2021, and added lunch service in 2022. Anthony’s warm, welcoming demeanor will greet you when you visit, and you will indulge in fresh food that will undoubtedly delight.

MV Eats

MARTINE COOK

Waterville Standard Bakery 128 E Main Street, Waterville There is nothing standard about the Waterville Standard Bakery. High standards? Absolutely. It is in a league of its own. Martine Cook’s culinary career took a circuitous route. After culinary school and a month in Provence, she cooked at a hot French-Creole restaurant in Boulder, Colorado, where she worked every station on the line, learning speed and efficiency. Eventually, she grew disenchanted with the industry and spent the next decade teaching, working as a paralegal, and cooking solely for pleasure. After meeting in California, marrying, and settling in Atlanta, Martine and her husband, Jack, found themselves rethinking their future when the 2008 financial

crisis transformed their jobs and neighborhood. “We started talking about how to reinvent ourselves.” Drawing on Jack’s Middletown roots, access to farmers markets, affordable certification, and favorable home-kitchen laws, they purchased a “hobby farm,” in Upstate New York, where they began growing tomatoes, herbs, potatoes, and other produce for local customers. Martine remembers wandering around with her daughter, Samantha, in tow, look-

ing for a gap in the market where she could carve out her own niche. In 2010, she began baking croissants. As she and Jack raised their daughter, farmed, and sold at markets, they quietly built a loyal following, a network of suppliers, and the foundation for a bakery. When Jack and Martine began looking around for a brickand-mortar location, they saw opportunity in Waterville. Other nearby towns had everything they needed, while Waterville

had vacant storefronts and room for something new. They envisioned their bakery as a draw to Waterville and a gathering place for the community. Today, the Waterville Standard Bakery is exactly that. “On Saturdays and Sundays, there's a line out the door before we open. It’s touching and humbling," Martine said. If you dream of visiting France someday, this is a good place to get acquainted with authentic French croissants.

BRIAN WEISS Leavened

240 Bohlen Road, Gilboa A honeymoon in Italy and France set Brian Weiss on an unexpected path. After years working in hospitality, he returned home inspired by the deep connections between local ingredients, seasonality, and traditional craft he encountered abroad. What began as an effort to make his own bread and pasta quickly became an obsession with naturally leavened bread. After relocating from Brooklyn to a 200-year-old farmhouse in Gilboa, he started bringing loaves to a handful of local farmers markets and quickly discovered a loyal audience. “Through word-

of-mouth and showing up every week, I went from selling 15-20 loaves per market to nearly 80. That's when I began to feel this might be more than just a hobby.” Brian’s bread is built slowly and with extraordinary intention.

34 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Each loaf is shaped by hand and made with grains that have been grown and milled close to home. He describes Leavened as a “micro” bakery, producing anywhere from three to 300 loaves a week, and distributing

them through markets, restaurants, and preorders. His goal is to eventually open an on-site bakery at his Gilboa farmhouse— but for now, his naturally leavened breads are well worth seeking out. LeavenedNY.com.

MV Eats

TRISHA GORDON Honey & Salt

3963 Oneida St., Washington Mills

Honey & Salt reflects the balance at the heart of Trisha Gordon's baking. She loves honey, and there is a favorite honey syrup that ignites nostalgia, while salt nods to the savory side of her kitchen. “The word salt explains anything savory I may make— like my raviolis,” she said.

time to move beyond her home kitchen into commercial space.

Trisha attended culinary school, earned a master’s degree in business, and built a career in hospitality. Through it all, she maintained her drive to bake and to own a place of her own. After making 600 apple pies for a local café, she realized it was

Everything Trisha makes is from scratch. She stays true to family recipes, believes in the purity of ingredients, and is unapologetically picky about freshness. Despite the capabilities of her commercial kitchen, she remains intentionally small.

That decision reflects what she values most: relationships. Trisha wants to grow thoughtfully, without losing the close ties she has built with customers and suppliers. “I want to grow organically and make sure I can preserve the authentic, genuine connections,” she said. Honey & Salt treats can be

found at Calabria Coffee, Utica Coffee, The Lifted Cup, and Café Florentine. Customers can also place preorders online for pickup at her Oneida Street location. Once a month, Trisha hosts a pop-up there, which she especially loves because it gives her the freedom to bake whatever she wants.

ALEX RITZ Fox Tale Artisan Bakery 407 Canal Place, Little Falls I can’t recall tasting a better scone (sorry, Kate). Fox Tale’s chestnut blueberry is perfect in texture and likely not attainable at home— most of us don’t have chestnut flour in our pantry. There is the from scratch, focus on locally sourced ingredients aspect to Alex’s baking, but what makes it particularly special is the uniqueness of what she creates: tahini chocolate, Earl Grey lemon, bright hibiscus orange, or a multigrain loaf with einkorn, hemp hearts, and millet. Her first bakery job was at Sofra in Boston, where she was introduced to an entirely new world of flavors, techniques, and creativity. She calls her path into baking a roundabout one. She started in farming and originally planned to work just the winter season in a bakery. “I loved the idea of being involved in the entire journey of food—from seed to table.” Her love of baking has deeper roots though, “My grandmother was a tremendous inspiration and, in many ways, the spark behind Fox Tale. Growing up, she imparted her passion for creating joy and nourishment through food.”

After living and traveling in many parts of the country, she knew she wanted to come back someday and put down roots here. “I love the rhythm and beauty of small-town life, the rolling green hills of summer, the vibrant colors of autumn, and the quiet beauty of winter.”

Alex grew up in Cobleskill, but spent much of her youth in Little Falls with her grandparents.

A few years ago, the opportunity finally presented itself, and returning felt like the

36 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

right decision. Being closer to family has been incredibly meaningful, and family has played a significant role in opening Fox Tale. Fox Tale's adorable fox serves as a sort of mascot and appears in the bakery's signage and logo. Alex says she named him Rowen. She calls him her “guardian” as she pursues her love of connecting nature, people, and food.

MV Eats

ANDREA MARANVILLE Sweet Life of A Baker 552 Sherrill Road, Sherrill

When Andrea Maranville was headed to London for the final round of The Great American Baking Show, her father offered simple advice: “Be yourself.” She heard him. When talking with Andrea, her authenticity is unmistakable, and it carries over into her baking. Before she became known for her baking, Andrea worked in government and politics, including a stint in Albany during the Pataki administration. After a move to Bolton Landing for her husband's job, she stayed home to raise their four children and began teaching herself to cook and bake. Over two decades in her home kitchen, she developed recipes, honed techniques, and learned through trial and error. “Every time something went wrong, I made it better. If you fail at something, it's what you do to turn it around. I failed forward.” A later move to Central New York brought Andrea back to familiar ground. A graduate

of Vernon-Verona-Sherrill, she was excited that her children would have the opportunity to attend the same school district. By then, baking had become much more than a hobby. After appearances on The Great American Baking Show and Food Network’s Summer Rush, she leased kitchen space at the Oneida County Mansion House and hosted monthly pop-ups under the name Sweet Life of a Baker, the name she had already given her food blog.

MV’S BAKERY BEAT Regardless of where I am in this world, I will find a good bakery. Fortunately, there’s no shortage in the Mohawk Valley, and there never has been. I grew up “earning” a donut after attending Sunday Mass, and decades later, I created the same incentive program for my children, alternating between Holland Farms and Gingerbread Bake Shop. Most of us have favorite go-to bakeries for particular things—who hasn’t debated Mohawk Valley’s best halfmoon? When we asked local bakeries about their top seller, each one rattled off at least three. Understandably, it’s a difficult question when you’re delivering multiple layers of deliciousness to the community. These bakeries satisfy our collective craving for quality and freshness and give us reason to indulge. If there's one on this list you haven't tried, you may discover a new favorite. There's nothing sweeter than having such a robust Bakery Beat right here in the Mohawk Valley.

38 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

A bakery wasn't necessarily part of her plan, but when a space became available in downtown Sherrill in 2021, she went for it. Today, her bakery case is filled with recipes she developed at home and later scaled for customers. Andrea uses only “real ingredients, no fake extracts,” and works in small batches. For Andrea, that might mean 18 cups of sugar instead of two, but her philosophy remains the same: keep it real.

Mr. Buzz Bakery, Utica Meat pies Delroy Thomas has been baking since he was 14 years old. He started in his father’s bakery in Jamaica before coming to the United States and opening his own. It’s a family affair here, like it was there, with homeland specialties and a whole array of cakes and cupcakes in nearly every flavor imaginable.

The Friendly Bake Shop, Frankfort Honeybun It’s nearly impossible to pass this sweet storefront without your senses taking notice. I parked a block away and I could’ve found it with my eyes closed. Carrie Viti-Reiling told her second-grade teacher she would own the bakery one day. Thirty-five years later, she does and reports to work at 2:00 a.m. to bake everything fresh.

SATURDAY 7:00 PM | CBS SUNDAY 7:30 AM | NBC 10:30 PM | FOX

MV Eats

Schneider’s Bakery

Gingerbread Bake Shop

Cooperstown Old-Fashioned

Washington Mills Halfmoon Cake

Since 1887, Schneider’s has been the quintessential small-town bakery. A Cooperstown landmark, it has always enticed passersby with sweet temptations featured in its windows, many of which are made from original recipes— like the standout old-fashioned!

When Carrie Byrne Putelo tried to describe how she feels about Gingerbread’s halfmoon cake, you could tell her mind was replaying her most recent experience. Eventually, she managed a “Sooooooo good”— as if no one should ever be left alone with one.

Five Kids Bakehouse

Cravings Bakery

Gilbertsville Cronut

Gloversville Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

“The baked goods rival any that I’ve had in NYC, Europe, and Asia— their cronuts might be the most delicious thing I’ve ever tasted.” That’s one customer’s appraisal. Because the cronuts are a little fussy to make, they appear only on Saturday mornings. Between the picturesque village and the destination bakery, the cronuts are on my agenda.

Ashley Alikhan credits her beloved grandmother, Mimi, for the bakery’s best seller. “There’s a trick to her oatmeal chocolate chip, and I’ve never found one like it,” she said.

40 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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MV Eats

The Brownie Company

Salvatore's Italian Bakery & Bagel Shoppe

Utica S’more Brownie

Washington Mills Chocolate & Cannoli Pustie

Sam Arscott’s signature brownies were a parting gift at a party I attended. Let’s just say there wasn’t a crumb left by the time I pulled in my driveway. She has proven the versatility of an old favorite, and makes her mark with both her creativity and quality.

When the bakery came up for sale last year, Dan Ryan fulfilled a childhood dream of becoming a baker. His philosophy: don’t change what’s working. Ryan kept the staff and recipes that built the bakery’s reputation, and plans only to add to its legacy.

Karam's Middle East Bakery

Ferlo's Original Bakery

Yorkville Pita, Flatbread

Rome Bread

The same spectacular dough comes in different shapes and sizes. It’s been a local legend for decades–the kind of thing worth making a special trip for. What more is there to say? Try it, you’ll understand.

Since 1896, Ferlo’s has been Rome's go-to source for bread and remains the last bakery of its kind in the city. It’s a busy place, with trays upon trays of bread and a display of goodies to lure you in, even when you're just there to pick up a loaf of bread.

42 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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MV Eats

Holland Farms

Daylight Donuts

Yorkville Jelly Bun

New Hartford Sour cream Donut

There is no better jelly donut (at least in my opinion). I try to keep the temptation isolated to the weekend, but the cow catches my eye multiple times a week as I drive by, practically calling out, "How about a jelly bun?"

As we said in our July issue, Daylight is a village staple where many start their day. Their sour cream donuts are like a super-dense glazed donut—I can attest, they’re deeelicious.

Shorebreak Bakery

Boulevard Diner

Sylvan Beach Bombolini

Whiteboro Lobster Tail, Cannoli & Miniature Strawberry Cheesecake

What’s a beach town without a bakery? Look for the “Moke” parked out front —a perfect reflection of the bakery’s adorable vibe. Their customers go crazy for their Nutella Bomolini. If chocolate isn't your favorite, there’s a vanilla option too.

It’s nearly impossible to pass Boulevard Diner’s bakery case without stopping for a closer look. Filled with pastries made from scratch, it adds something sweet to the Grimaldi family’s longtime tradition in Whitesboro. The flaky, cream-filled lobster tail, classic cannoli and miniature strawberry cheesecake are each worth saving room for—or taking home for later.

44 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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Road Trips

The Great MVL

Road Trip Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Mohawk Valley This August

restaurants, antique shops, and small towns filled with character. One day can take you into the foothills of the Adirondacks, while another can lead you along the Erie Canal, through rolling farm country, or toward one of the beautiful lakes that make this region such a special place to explore.

There is something special about a summer road trip.

Last year, our Great MVL Road Trip introduced readers to some of our favorite destinations throughout the region. This year, we decided to approach the journey a little differently by mapping out six scenic drives that showcase the Mohawk Valley one route at a time.

It is not just about getting to a destination. It is about taking the scenic route, pulling into a town you have always meant to visit, stopping for lunch at a family-owned restaurant, browsing an antique shop that was never part of the plan, or following a sign toward a waterfall simply because you finally have the time. Some of the best summer memories are made in those unplanned moments, when the drive itself becomes part of the experience.

Along the way, you will find outdoor adventures, charming villages, historic landmarks, museums, local restaurants, hidden gems, and many of August’s biggest fairs and festivals. Whether you are planning a Saturday afternoon getaway, a family day trip, a dinner drive, or a full weekend escape, these routes are designed to help you experience the very best our region has to offer.

That is one of the things I love most about living in the Mohawk Valley. Within an hour or two, you can experience an incredible variety of places, from waterfalls and lakes to historic Main Streets, museums, fairs, farm stands,

So fill the gas tank, roll down the windows, leave a little extra time for detours, and enjoy the ride. Some of the best places to discover this summer are closer than you think.

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 47

Road Trips

Five Scenic Drives, Endless Adventures. Choose Your Route 1

ROUTE 12 NORTH & ROUTE 28 Utica Barneveld Remsen Forestport Old Forge

ROUTE 365 Rome Verona Verona Beach Sylvan Beach

ROUTE 28 SOUTH & ROUTE 20

ROUTE 12B & ROUTE 20

ROUTE 5 & ROUTE 5S

Herkimer Richfield Springs Cooperstown Sharon Springs

Clinton Hamilton Madison Bouckville

Utica Frankfort Little Falls Canajoharie

Stops Along the Route Cliff's and Beacon Bank

 CLIFF'S  C1 Commercial Drive – New York Mills

 BEACON BANK  C9

East Herkimer

 B1 North Utica Branch

 C10 Ilion

 C2 North Utica – Utica

 B2 Whitesboro Branch

 C11 Sauquoit

 C3 Alder Creek

 B3 Black River Blvd Rome Branch

 C12 Clinton

 C4 West Rome

 B4 Erie Blvd West Rome Branch

 C13 New Hartford

 C5 Ridge Mills – Rome

 B5 Ilion Branch

 C14 Washington Mills

 C6 Taberg

 B6 West Winfield Branch

 C15 Culver Avenue –

 B7 Genesee St New Hartford Branch

 C7 Kirkland – Clinton  C8 Herkimer

Utica

 C16 Burrstone Road – New Hartford

The Great MVL Road Trip brought to you by:

48 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

 B8 Seneca Turnpike New Hartford Branch  B9 Amsterdam Branch

1 OLD FORGE

HERKIMER COUNTY BOONVILLE

FORESTPORT

ONEIDA COUNTY

 C3 REMSEN

 C7 SYLVAN BEACH

 C5

2 VERONA BEACH

 C6 ROME

MARCY

 B2

VERONA

CLINTON

MADISON BOUCKVILLE

FULTON COUNTY

 B1

UTICA

 C8

MADISON COUNTY

BARNEVELD

 B3

 B4

 C1  B8 C17

 C2

FRANKFORT

 B7

LITTLE FALLS

 C16  C14  C10  B5  C9 C13  HERKIMER C15   C11

 C12  B6 RICHFIELD SPRINGS

5  B9

CANAJOHARIE

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

HAMILTON SHARON SPRINGS

COOPERSTOWN

OTSEGO COUNTY

SCHOHARIE COUNTY

MVL ROAD TRIPS POWERED BY:

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 49

Road Trips

Route 12 North

& Route 28 From City Streets to Mountain Peaks WHY GO The farther north you travel, the more the landscape begins to change. Forests replace city streets, waterfalls tumble through rocky gorges, and the Adirondacks feel closer with every mile. This drive can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you want it to be, with country stores, ice cream stops, museums, hiking trails, scenic views, and plenty of reasons to keep going until you reach Old Forge. This is a perfect route for families, outdoor lovers, and anyone who wants to trade a busy schedule for fresh air, water views, and a little Adirondack magic.

Pixley Falls State Park Boonville

ROUTE Utica → Barneveld → Remsen → Forestport → Old Forge (Boonville can be added as a Route 12 side trip.)

CARRIE’S PICK

Ride the chairlift at McCauley Mountain, spend time exploring Old Forge, and finish the evening watching the sunset over First Lake.

FUEL UP AT CLIFF’S Your Official Road Trip Stop Coffee • Fresh Food • Snacks • Cold Drinks • Fuel Convenient Cliff’s Stops for This Route • New York Mills – 4862 Commercial Drive • Utica – 385 North Genesee St. • Alder Creek – 11468 NY 12 First Lake Old Forge 50 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

• Port Leyden – 3205 NY 12

DON'T MISS THIS!

NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days August 21–23, Boonville The NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days is one of the region’s signature summer traditions, celebrating the forestry industry with lumberjack competitions, chainsaw carving, logging demonstrations, vendors, exhibits, food, entertainment, and family fun.

Woodsmen's photo by Lucinda Rowlands, Rowlands Graphics

NYS Woodsmen's Field Days Boonville

STOPS ALONG THE WAY • NY Energy Zone Museum • Utica Zoo • Pixley Falls State Park • Bonnie’s Country Store • McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift • Enchanted Forest Water Safari • Bald Mountain Fire Tower

Bald Mountain Old Forge

Moose River Route 28

McCauley Mountain Old Forge

Ohio Tavern & Restaurant Cold Brook

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

WHERE TO EAT

• Chase Waterfalls at Pixley Falls

Before you Head out:

• Hike to the Fire Tower at

Bald Mountain

• Paddle Board Across First Lake • Kayak the Moose River

Boulevard Diner – Whitesboro

On the way: Bonnie’s Country Store – Forestport

Detour: Ohio Tavern & Restaurant – Cold Brook MohawkValleyLiving.com | 51

Road Trips

Bellamy Harbor Park Rome

Route 365

Lewis Point, Oneida Lake

• Fort Stanwix National

Monument • Bellamy Harbor Park • Erie Canal Trail • Turning Stone Resort Casino • Sylvan Beach Amusement Park • Oneida Lake waterfront

Entertainment, History, & Lakeside Fun WHY GO This drive brings together some of the Mohawk Valley’s most recognizable summer experiences in one easy day trip. You can start with Revolutionary War history in Rome, follow the Erie Canal, enjoy resort dining and entertainment in Verona, and end the day along the sandy shoreline of Oneida Lake. It is a great route for families, couples, visiting guests, or anyone who wants a day that feels like a mini vacation without going far from home. 52 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

STOPS ALONG THE WAY

FUEL UP AT CLIFF’S

Your Official Road Trip Stop Coffee • Fresh Food • Snacks • Cold Drinks • Fuel

CARRIE’S PICK Spend the morning exploring Fort Stanwix, enjoy lunch in Rome, and end the day with dinner and ice cream near Oneida Lake before watching the sunset from the beach.

Convenient Cliff’s Stops for This Route • Rome – 1221 Erie Boulevard West • Rome – 7823 Rome-Westernville Road • Taberg – 4094 Route 69 • Clinton/Kirkland – 7481 State Route 5

Sylvan Beach Canal Fest August 7–9, Sylvan Beach Sylvan Beach Canal Fest brings summer to the water with vendors, water-ski shows, the blessing of the boats, a kids fishing derby, family activities, and plenty of reasons to spend the weekend along Oneida Lake and the Erie Canal.

DON'T MISS THIS!

Sylvan Beach Amusement Park Sylvan Beach

Black Stallion Vernon

WHERE TO EAT

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Beeches Manor – Rome

• Spend the Afternoon at

Sylvan Beach on Oneida Lake

DiCastro’s Brick Oven – Rome Black Stallion – Vernon The Pancake House – Sylvan Beach

• Wander the Erie Canal Sylvan Beach Canal Fest Sylvan Beach

ROUTE Rome → Verona → Verona Beach → Sylvan Beach

Walking Trails • Watch the Sunset at

Lewis Point, Oneida Lake Sylvan Beach Oneida Lake

Photo by Cameron Sanborn

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 53

Road Trips

Route 28 South

Diamonds, History & Americana WHY GO

Route 28 South is a road trip filled with discovery. It begins with one of the Mohawk Valley’s most famous treasures, Herkimer Diamonds, and continues through historic sites, canal heritage, country shops, lake views, and one of the most iconic small towns in America. Be sure to stop by Weisser’s Jewelers in Herkimer, where they have been creating unique and beautiful Herkimer Diamond jewelry for the last 45 years. This drive has something for almost everyone. Families can dig for crystals, shoppers can browse locally made treasures, and history lovers can visit Herkimer Home or explore the region’s Erie Canal heritage. Farther along the route, art and culture lovers can spend the afternoon in Cooperstown visiting Fenimore Art Museum, Fenimore Farm & Country Village, or the National Baseball Hall of Fame. By the time you reach Otsego Lake, the day feels like a true getaway.

Kingfisher Tower Otsego Lake

ROUTE Herkimer → Richfield Springs → Cooperstown

(OPTIONAL DETOUR: Richfield Springs Main Street Cooperstown

→ Sharon Springs)

CARRIE’S PICK Spend the afternoon at

Fenimore Art Museum, stroll Cooperstown’s Main Street, and enjoy dinner overlooking

Otsego Lake.

FUEL UP AT CLIFF’S

Your Official Road Trip Stop Coffee • Fresh Food • Snacks • Cold Drinks • Fuel Convenient Cliff’s Stops for This Route • Herkimer – 430 Mohawk Street • Herkimer – 412 East State Street • Ilion – 20 Central Avenue • Sauquoit – 9553 Pinnacle Road 54 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

WORTH THE DETOUR

Brimstone Bakery Sharon Springs

Sharon Springs

American Hotel Sharon Springs

From Richfield Springs, take a country-road detour to Sharon Springs, one of the region’s most charming historic villages. Known for its mineral spring history, preserved architecture, boutique shopping, and destination-worthy stops, Sharon Springs is an easy add-on for readers who want to extend the day beyond Cooperstown. Plan ahead to visit with the Beekman goats, browse the Beekman 1802 shop, and make time for Brimstone Bakery, a road trip-worthy café and bakery known for beautifully made pastries, handmade cakes, thoughtful lunch, and sweet and savory baked goods. Lunch is served from 11am to 3pm, making it a perfect stop before continuing through the scenic Route 20 corridor. End the day with dinner at The American Hotel before taking the scenic route home.

STOPS ALONG THE WAY • Herkimer Diamond Mines • Herkimer Home State Historic Site • Erie Canal Cruise from Gems Along the

Mohawk • Butternut Barn Primitives • Fenimore Art Museum • Fenimore Farm & Country Village • National Baseball Hall of Fame • Weisser’s Jewelers

Beekman 1802 Sharon Springs Herkimer Diamond Mines Herkimer

Fenimore Farm Cooperstown

WHERE TO EAT Before you Head out: Munger’s Luncheonette – Herkimer

Brimstone Bakery at Fenimore Art Museum – Cooperstown Origins Café – Cooperstown 1909 & The Leatherstocking Golf Course Bar & Grill at The Otesaga – Cooperstown

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES • Dig for Herkimer Diamonds

On view through September 7 Fenimore Art Museum, Cooperstown

• Take a Cruise on the

Erie Canal

• Explore Fenimore Museum’s

Grounds and Gardens

• Glimmerglass Queen Boat

Tour of Otsego Lake

• Kayak Brookwood

Point to Kingfisher Tower

The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light

DON'T MISS THIS!

This summer exhibition at Fenimore Art Museum offers a compelling look at the life and work of celebrated photographer Linda McCartney, whose photographs captured musicians, family life, and cultural moments with warmth and intimacy.

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 55

Road Trips

Clinton Village Clinton

Route 12B

& Route 20 Village Greens, College Towns & Antique Treasures

ROUTE Clinton → Hamilton

→ Madison → Bouckville FUEL UP AT CLIFF’S

Your Official Road Trip Stop Coffee • Fresh Food • Snacks • Cold Drinks • Fuel Convenient Cliff’s Stops for This Route • Clinton – 33 Utica Street • Clinton/Kirkland – 7481 State Route 5 • New Hartford – 17 Genesee Street • Washington Mills – 3931 Oneida Street

WHY GO This scenic drive brings together some of the region’s most classic small-town experiences, from village greens and college campuses to rolling countryside and antique fields. It is an easy, beautiful route for readers who like to browse, wander, shop, eat well, and make a day out of the places between destinations. Begin in New Hartford, then make your way toward the bucolic village of Clinton, where the village green, local shops, restaurants, and Hamilton College give the day a charming start. Continue south toward Hamilton, home to Colgate University, walkable streets, local restaurants, and the kind of college-town energy that makes summer exploring feel easy. From there, head toward Madison and Bouckville, where Route 20 becomes one of the best-known antique corridors in New York State. This route is especially strong in August, when Madison-Bouckville Antique Week turns the fields, shops, and show spaces along Route 20 into a treasure hunter’s dream. 56 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Calabria Coffee New Hartford

Root Glen Clinton

Charlie's Place Clinton

STOPS ALONG THE WAY

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

WHERE TO EAT

• New Hartford Village Green • Calabria Coffee • Clinton Village Green • Hamilton College • Downtown Hamilton

• Grab Calabria Coffee and Browse

Before you Head out:

& Colgate University • Madison-Bouckville Antique Show • Route 20 antique shops like Victorian Rose Vintage Antiques

Around New Hartford’s Village

Symeons – Yorkville

• Explore Hamilton College’s Root Glen

Charlie’s Place – Clinton

• Wander the Madison-Bouckville

The Lucky Dog Bistro – Clinton

• Raise a Glass at Hamilton

Bouckville

Antique Show Fields

Ray Brothers Barbecue –

Harvest Winery

Flour & Salt – Hamilton

• Walk The Leland Reserve Trails Madison-Bouckville Antique Week Madison-Bouckville

CARRIE’S PICK Spend the morning in Clinton, continue to Hamilton for a walk through town or around the Colgate campus, and save plenty of time for treasure hunting in Madison-Bouckville.

MadisonBouckville Antique Week August 9–15, Route 20, Madison-Bouckville Madison-Bouckville Antique Week transforms miles of Route 20 into one of New York State’s largest outdoor antique events, with antiques, collectibles, vintage décor, folk art, furniture, and one-of-a-kind finds spread across fields and shops throughout the area.

DON'T MISS THIS!

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 57

Road Trips

Route 5 & Route 5S

Canal Communities & Historic Main Streets WHY GO

Few drives tell the story of the Mohawk Valley quite like Route 5 and 5S. Following the historic Mohawk River and Erie Canal corridor, this route connects communities shaped by water, industry, immigration, architecture, and local pride. Start in Utica with breakfast, lunch, or a favorite downtown stop, and then follow the corridor east through Frankfort and Little Falls, where Canal Place, Moss Island, antique shops, restaurants, and dramatic rock formations make the city one of the most distinctive destinations in the region. Continue toward Canajoharie, Fonda, and Fort Hunter for museums, historic sites, river views, and canal heritage. This is a route for people who love history, architecture, Little Falls Canal Main Streets, and Celebration discovering the stories August 7–9, Little Falls behind the places we pass every day. The Little Falls Canal Celebration honors the city’s heritage, community spirit, and connection to the Erie Canal with familyoriented programs, community events, food, music, and activities throughout Little Falls.

Erie Canal Lock E17 Little Falls

DON'T MISS THIS!

ROUTE Utica → Frankfort →

Little Falls → Canajoharie

FUEL UP AT CLIFF’S

Your Official Road Trip Stop Coffee • Fresh Food • Snacks • Cold Drinks • Fuel Convenient Cliff’s Stops for This Route • Utica – 385 North Genesee Street • Utica – 1262 Culver Avenue • New Hartford – 1701 Burrstone Rd • Herkimer – 430 Mohawk Street • Herkimer – 412 East State Street Little Falls Canal Celebration Little Falls 58 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

• Ilion – 20 Central Avenue

CARRIE’S PICK Try Rock Climbing at Moss Island with Clark Sports on 8/25 or 8/27, browse Canal Place, and enjoy a margherita pizza at Nonna Maria Wood Fired Oven before continuing east through the river corridor. Munson Utica

Nonna Maria Wood Fired Oven Little Falls

Moss Island Little Falls

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

STOPS ALONG THE WAY

• Hike Around Moss Island

• Munson Museum • Canal Place • Moss Island • Arkell Museum • Canajoharie Gorge • Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site • Fonda Speedway

• Explore Erie Canal Locks and

Towpaths • Visit the Robert B. Woodruff

Outdoor Learning Center

• Catch a race at the Fonda

Speedway

WHERE TO EAT The Tailor and The Cook

Utica

Crust Utica

Friendly Bake Shop

Frankfort

Nonna Maria Wood Fired Oven

Little Falls

Arkell Museum Canajoharie

Fonda Speedway Fonda MohawkValleyLiving.com | 59

Road Trips

Choose Your Own Road Trip Family Fun, Outdoor Adventures & Culture-Filled Days

McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift

Not every great August road trip has to follow one route from beginning to end. Sometimes the best summer days begin with a simple question: What do we feel like doing today? Maybe you want something easy to do with the kids before summer winds down. Maybe you want to get outside, find a waterfall, walk along the canal, or spend a few hours near the water. Maybe you want a day built around museums, history, art, and the stories that make our region so interesting. That is the beauty of exploring the Mohawk Valley. There are so many ways to build a day around what you love, and you do not have to travel far to feel like you went somewhere special. Use this guide as a starting point, choose a few stops, and make the day your own. Erie Canal Trail

60 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Cooperstown

Utica Children's Museum

Bald Mountain

Enchanted Forest Water Safari

Utica Zoo

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ROAD TRIPS

EASY PAIRING

Herkimer Diamond Mines + Erie Canal Cruises

August always feels like the month when families want to fit in just a little bit more. There are still summer days to enjoy, visiting relatives to entertain, kids to get out of the house, and memories to make before the routine of fall begins again.

Howe Caverns

STOPS TO CONSIDER • Enchanted Forest Water Safari – Old Forge • Herkimer Diamond Mines – Herkimer • Sylvan Beach Amusement Park – Sylvan Beach • Fort Stanwix National Monument – Rome • McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift – Old Forge • Erie Canal Cruises – Herkimer • Utica Zoo – Utica • NY Energy Zone – Utica • Fenimore Farm & Country Village – Cooperstown • Howe Caverns – Schoharie County

CARRIE’S PICK

Plan a day around Herkimer Diamond Mines and Erie Canal Cruises. It gives kids something hands-on, gives adults a beautiful ride along the canal, and still leaves time for lunch, ice cream, or a stop along the way home.

STOPS TO CONSIDER Verona Beach State Park

Glimmerglass State Park

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Some August road trips are all about getting outside. The destination might be a waterfall, a lake, a trail, a fire tower, a canal path, or simply a beautiful view that makes you want to stay a little longer.

CARRIE’S PICK

Mine Kill State Park

• Pixley Falls State Park – Boonville area • Bald Mountain Fire Tower – Old Forge area • McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift – Old Forge • Moss Island – Little Falls • Canajoharie Gorge – Canajoharie • Verona Beach State Park – Verona Beach • Oneida Lake – Sylvan Beach and Verona Beach • Otsego Lake – Cooperstown • Glimmerglass State Park – Cooperstown area • Erie Canal Trail – Rome, Utica, Little Falls, and beyond • Vroman’s Nose – Schoharie County • Mine Kill State Park – North Blenheim

For a day that feels like a true summer escape, head to Little Falls for Moss Island, Canal Place, and a walk along the water. It is scenic, historic, close to home, and one of those places that always reminds you how much beauty there is right here in the Mohawk Valley.

EASY PAIRING Moss Island + Canal Place in Little Falls

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 61

Road Trips

Black River Canal Museum

MUSEUMS, CULTURE & HISTORY For some readers, the best road trips are the ones that come with a story. They want to visit a museum, walk through a historic site, tour an old home, explore a gallery, see a theater, or spend time in a place that helps them understand the region in a deeper way.

STOPS TO CONSIDER • Fort Stanwix National Monument – Rome • Munson – Utica • Ruth and Elmer Wellin Museum of Art – Hamilton College, Clinton • Herkimer Home State Historic Site – Little Falls area • Fenimore Art Museum – Cooperstown • Fenimore Farm & Country Village – Cooperstown • National Baseball Hall of Fame – Cooperstown • Arkell Museum – Canajoharie • Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site – Fort Hunter • Old Fort Johnson – Fort Johnson • Johnson Hall State Historic Site – Johnstown • Old Stone Fort Museum – Schoharie Wellin Museum • Iroquois Museum – Howes Cave of Art + Clinton • The Glove Theatre – Gloversville Village Green • Stanley Theatre – Utica

EASY PAIRING

CARRIE’S PICK

Spend the day in Cooperstown with Fenimore Art Museum, Fenimore Farm & Country Village, the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and dinner near Otsego Lake. It is one of the easiest ways to turn a day trip into something that feels like a vacation. Fenimore Farm & Country Village

62 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site

BEFORE YOU HEAD HOME The more I explore the Mohawk Valley, the more I realize how much there still is to discover, and the more I appreciate the kind of magic that makes this region feel so deeply personal. It is not just the lakes, trails, farms, historic sites, restaurants, museums, and small towns we are lucky enough to have close by. It is the people who bring those places to life. Here, the beauty is in the lakes, trails, farms, historic sites, restaurants, museums, and small towns we are lucky enough to have close by, but it is also in the business owners who know their customers by name, the families who keep traditions going, the volunteers who make local events happen, the organizations that quietly serve our communities, and the neighbors who show up for one another. Sometimes we imagine the grass must be greener somewhere else, but the more time I spend exploring the Mohawk Valley, the more I realize how much has been right here all along. Before summer slips into fall, I hope this guide inspires you to take one more drive, stop somewhere new, support a local business, stay for the sunset, and come home with a story. Munson

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The TheNY NYEnergy EnergyZone’s Zone’sSuper-Powered Super-PoweredSaturday Saturdayevent eventbrings brings superheroes, superheroes, Touch-A-Truck Touch-A-Truck fun, fun,bounce bounce houses, houses, crafts, crafts, The NY Energy Zone’s Super-Powered Saturday event brings giveaways, giveaways,and and more moretotoUtica. Utica.fun, bounce houses, crafts, superheroes, Touch-A-Truck giveaways, and more to Utica. Before Beforethe thebackpacks backpackscome comeout outand andthe theschool-year school-yearroutine routine feelsbig, big, begins, begins,there there isisstill stilltime time for forone oneand more more summer summer day daythat thatfeels Before the backpacks come out the school-year routine exciting, exciting,there and andcompletely completely easy for forfamilies. families. begins, is still timeeasy for one more summer day that feels big, exciting, and completely easy for families. On OnSaturday, Saturday,August August22, 22,the theNY NYEnergy EnergyZone ZoneininUtica Uticawill willhost hostits its Super-Powered Super-Powered Saturday, Saturday, aafree free community community celebration for its On Saturday, August 22, the NY Energy Zonecelebration in Utica willfor host Super-Powered Saturday, free next community celebration for visitors visitorsofofall allages. ages. Located Locatedaright right nexttotothe theUtica UticaZoo, Zoo,the the event event visitors of all ages. Located right next tolove themost: Utica Zoo, the event brings bringstogether together some some ofofthe thethings things kids kids love most:superheroes, superheroes, brings together some of the things kidshouses, love most: superheroes, big bigtrucks, trucks, hands-on hands-on activities, activities, bounce bounce houses, giveaways, giveaways, and and big trucks, hands-on activities, bounce houses, the thechance chanceto toexplore explorevehicles vehiclesthey they usually usually only onlygiveaways, see seedriving drivingand by. by. the chance toNY explore vehicles they usually only see driving by. This Thisyear, year,the the NYEnergy Energy Zone Zonewill will also also be becelebrating celebrating its itsfive-year five-year This year, the Energycuriosity Zone willabout also be celebrating its five-year anniversary anniversary ofofNY sparking sparking curiosity about energy energy and andelectricity. electricity. anniversary of sparking curiosity about energy and electricity. highlightofofthe theday dayisisTouch-A-Truck, Touch-A-Truck,featuring featuringaavariety varietyofof The Thehighlight highlight ofNYPA the day is Touch-A-Truck, featuring a variety of The emergency emergency and and NYPA vehicles. vehicles. Families Familiescan can get getan anup-close up-close look look and NYPA vehicles. Families can getmoving an up-close look atemergency atthe thevehicles vehicles that that help help keep keepour our communities communities moving and andsafe. safe. at vehicles that helptoto keep ourpoint, communities moving and safe. For Forthe kids, kids, it’s it’sthe the chance chance climb, climb, point, ask askquestions, questions, take take For kids, it’ssee thethese chance to climb,vehicles point, ask questions, take photos, photos, and and see these impressive impressive vehicles from from aawhole whole new new photos, and see these impressive vehicles from a whole new perspective. perspective. perspective. thefun, fun,the theevent eventwill willinclude includesuperhero-themed superhero-themed Adding Addingtotothe toand theappearances, fun, the eventgiving will include superhero-themed Adding activities activities and appearances, giving children children another anotherreason reasontoto activities and appearances, giving children reason dress dressup, up,imagine, imagine, and andjump jumpinto intothe the spirit spiritofanother ofthe theday. day. ItItisisaato dress up, imagine, and jump into the spirit of the day. It iscomes a perfect perfect fitfitfor forthe theEnergy Energy Zone, Zone, where where the theidea idea ofof“power” “power” comes fit for the Energy Zone, where the idea of “power” comes toperfect tolife lifeinina afun funand andfamily-friendly family-friendly way. way. to life in a fun and family-friendly way. Safety Safetypresentations, presentations,arts artsand andcrafts craftsactivities, activities,bounce bouncehouses, houses, Safety presentations, arts and crafts activities, bounce houses, giveaways, giveaways, and andmore moreround round out out the theday, day, making making ititan aneasy easy outing outing giveaways, and more out the day, making an easy outing for forfamilies familieslooking looking totoround make makethe themost most ofofthe thefinal finalit stretch stretch ofof for families looking to make the most of the final stretch of summer. summer. summer.

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Super-Powered Super-PoweredSaturday Saturday Super-Powered Saturday 10 10a.m.-4 a.m.-4p.m. p.m. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Saturday,August August22 22 Saturday, August 22 NY NYEnergy EnergyZone, Zone,35 35Utica UticaZoo ZooWay, Way,Utica Utica NY Energy Zone, 35 Utica Zoo Way, Utica AAfree freecommunity communityevent eventfor forvisitors visitorsofofall allages ages A free community event for visitors of all ages featuring featuringsuperhero superherofun, fun,Touch-A-Truck, Touch-A-Truck,safety safety featuring superhero fun, Touch-A-Truck, safety presentations, presentations,arts artsand andcrafts, crafts,bounce bouncehouses, houses, presentations, arts and crafts, bounce houses, giveaways, giveaways,and andmore. more.Families Familiescan canenjoy enjoyhands-on hands-on giveaways, and more. Families can enjoy hands-on activities activitiesand andcelebrate celebrateone onemore moresummer summerday daynext next activities and celebrate one more summer day next totothe theUtica UticaZoo. Zoo. to the Utica Zoo. Admission: Admission:Free FreeParking: Parking:Free Free Admission: Free Parking: Free Location: Location:Next Nexttotothe theUtica UticaZoo Zoo Location: Next to the Utica Zoo 64 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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Inside the NY Energy Zone, the fun continues with interactive exhibits that turn electricity, energy, and technology into a hands-on experience. Visitors can explore exhibits, watch a 3D movie, learn about solar and wind energy, step into the role of a control room operator, and discover how power travels across New York State. It is educational, but it does not feel like school. It feels like a summer adventure. And for parents, it checks every box: free admission, free parking, indoor and outdoor activities, family-friendly entertainment, and a location right next to the Utica Zoo. Whether you make it the main event or pair it with a zoo visit, lunch, or one last ice cream stop, the Super-Powered Saturday event is a simple way to turn an August day into a memory.

66 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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Fairs, Fests & Markets

Fonda Fair

SUMMER’S NOT OVER YET Fairs, Festivals & Farmers Markets Worth Making Time For By Lauryn Johns

August is the part of summer that always sneaks up on us. One minute we are talking about all the things we want to do, and the next we are somehow looking at back-to-school posts and wondering where the season went. So before summer slips away, this is your sign to make a few more plans. Go to the fair. Grab fried dough for dinner. Wander a festival. Spend a Saturday morning at the farmers market. Pull over for sweet corn, sunflowers, peaches, berries, or whatever looks too good to leave behind. From county fairs and lakefront weekends to antique trails, market mornings, and favorite farm stands, August is full of those easy, local, last-days-of-summer moments that make the Mohawk Valley feel like home.

Great New York State Fair

FAIR SEASON FAVORITES There is something about fair season that just feels like summer. The midway lights, the animals, the grandstand events, the local 4-H kids, the tractor pulls, the fried dough, the lemonades, and the annual debate over whether you are going for dinner or dessert first. Whether you are making it a family night, meeting friends after work, or just going because it would not feel like August without at least one fair, there are plenty of chances to get your fix before the season winds down.

Schoharie County Sunshine Fair August 11th - 16th

Herkimer County Fair August 18th - 23rd

Great New York State Fair

COMING UP Fonda Fair September 2nd - 7th

August 26th - September 7th

MohawkValleyLiving.com | 69

Fairs, Fests & Markets Santa Rosalia Feast

FESTIVAL DAYS & WEEKEND WANDERS If your August calendar still has a few open weekends, this is where to start. The Mohawk Valley and surrounding region are packed with festivals that give you a reason to take the scenic route, stay out a little later, or turn a regular Saturday into a full summer day.

Perry's Sunflower Festival & Farm Day

Fencepost Festival

Head to Sylvan Beach for Canal Fest, hunt for treasures during MadisonBouckville Antique Week, make the trip to Boonville for Woodsmen’s Field Days, or spend the day surrounded by sunflowers, music, art, food, and local vendors. Some are long-standing traditions, some are quick day trips, and all of them are good excuses to get out while summer is still very much here.

NYS Woodsmen's Field Days

Glimmerglass

Now - August 15th

Cooperstown Music Festival

August 4th, August 12th, and August 17th

Mary, Mother of Our Savior Parish & Notre Dame Elementary School’s Annual Bazaar

Sylvan Beach’s Canal Fest August 7th - 9th

Fencepost Festival

September 3rd, 4th, and 5th

August 7th - 8th (Broadalbin)

Garlic and Herb Festival

Madison-Bouckville Antique Week

September 12th

August 9th - 15th

Cruisin Into Waterville

Perry’s Sunflower Festival & Farm Day

September 19th

August 16th (Broadalbin)

Montgomery County Sundae On The Farm

NYS Woodsmen’s Field Days August 21st - 23rd

September 20th

Latino American Festival

Remsen Barn Festival

August 23rd (Utica)

September 26th - 27th

Art & Music Festival August 29th (Clinton)

101st Annual - Santa Rosalía Feast August 29th - 30th (Utica)

70 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

COMING UP

Little Falls Cheese Festival

Little Falls Cheese Festival October 3rd

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DISCOVER The Schoharie County Farmers Market

MARKET MORNINGS A farmers market morning is one of the easiest ways to make summer feel a little slower. Bring a tote, grab a coffee, pick up something fresh for dinner, and somehow leave with flowers, baked goods, honey, tomatoes, and three things you had no plan of buying but absolutely needed. From weekday markets to Saturday morning staples, there are so many places to shop local across the Mohawk Valley. Whether you are stocking the fridge, planning a picnic, or just looking for a reason to get out of the house, chances are there is a market happening nearby.

Held Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 24 through October 11, indoors at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds (113 Sunshine Drive, Cobleskill). Shop fresh, locally grown produce, meats, baked goods, handcrafted items, and more while supporting Schoharie County farmers and artisans. Built through a community-wide effort, the market is creating a vibrant destination that celebrates local agriculture and keeps food dollars close to home.

MAKE IT A MARKET DAY Pick a farmers market, add a farm stand, and build the rest of the day around it. Bring a cooler, take the scenic route, stop for lunch, and let whatever looks best at the market decide what is for dinner.

FIND A MARKET THIS WEEK Need flowers for the kitchen table? Tomatoes for dinner? Fresh bread for the weekend? A reason to take the long way home? Check the list, pick a day, and make a plan around it. Market dates and times can change, so be sure to double-check before heading out.

ONEIDA COUNTY • Oneida County Public Market – Saturdays from 9AM - 1PM • Clinton Farmers Market – Thursdays from 10AM - 4PM • Cooperstown Farmers Market – Saturdays from 9AM - 2PM • Dolgeville Farmers Market – Saturdays from 9AM - 1PM • Whitesboro Farmers Market – Mondays from 2PM - 7PM • Oriskany – Wednesdays from 2PM - 7PM • Chestnut Street Farmers Market (Rome) – Wednesdays from 2PM - 6PM • Utica Farmers Market – Wednesdays from 9AM - 5PM • Vernon Center – Wednesdays from 3PM - 7PM • Booneville Community Harvest Market – Thursdays from 12PM - 5PM • Vienna – Thursdays from 2PM - 6PM • New Hartford Farmers Market – Wednesdays from 2:30PM - 6:30PM

Schoharie County Farmers Market Cooperstown Farmers Market

MADISON COUNTY • Cottage Lawn Farmers Market – Every Tuesday 2PM - 6PM, Oneida • Hamilton Farmers Market – Every Saturday 8AM - 1PM, Hamilton Village Green, Hamilton • Lenox Farmers Market – Every Friday 11AM - 3PM, St. Anne’s Church, 134 Main Street, Lenox

HERKIMER COUNTY • Little Falls Farmers Market – Every Saturday – 8 AM - 12PM • Old Forge Farmers Market – Fridays from 2PM - 5PM, G.T. Hiltebrant Recreation Center Parking Lot, 201 North Street, Old Forge • Frankfort Farmers' Market – Saturdays from 9AM to 1PM • Mohawk Valley Farmers’ Market – 12PM to 6PM, Herkimer • Richfield Springs Farmers Market – Saturdays from 9AM - 1PM

OTSEGO COUNTY • Cooperstown Farmers' Market – Tuesdays: 12PM - 5PM and Saturdays: 9PM - 2PM • Oneonta Public Market – Saturdays: 9AM - 1PM

MONTGOMERY COUNTY • Canajoharie Farmers’ Market – Sundays 10AM to 2PM • Amsterdam Market on the Mohawk – Saturdays 10AM to 2PM

FULTON COUNTY • Johnstown Farmers' Market – Tuesdays 3PM to 6PM • Gloversville Farmers' Market – Saturdays 8:30AM to 12:30PM • Northville Farmers Market – Saturdays 10AM to 2PM 72 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

DON’T FORGET THE FARM MARKETS & STANDS Some of the best summer stops are the ones you do not overthink. A roadside sign. A greenhouse full of color. Sweet corn stacked by the dozen. Berries that barely make it home. A farm stand you pass once and then somehow work into every drive for the rest of the season. These are a few of our favorite farm markets and stands to keep on your radar as August rolls on. Stop for produce, flowers, plants, baked goods, or whatever happens to be fresh that day. • North Star Orchards • Candellas Farm and Greenhouse • Tassleberry Farms • Clark Mills Farm Stand

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MV Fit By Lisa Briggs

Back in the

Groove Resetting Your Routine Before Fall Takes Over There is something about August that feels like we are standing with one foot in summer and one foot in fall. We are still trying to squeeze in the last lake days, road trips, cookouts, late nights, ice cream stops, and slow mornings, but at the same time, the back-toschool lists are starting, sports schedules are coming in, work routines are picking back up, and everyone starts thinking, “Okay, I really need to get myself back on track.” And honestly? That is normal. Summer is a beautiful season, but it is not always a structured one. We travel more, eat out more, stay up later, move differently, and sometimes let our regular routines slide. That does not mean we failed. It means we enjoyed our summer. But August is the perfect time to gently start getting back in the groove before September arrives and life feels like it is moving 100 miles an hour. The biggest thing I tell people is this: do not wait until everything is busy to start taking care of yourself again. Start now, in small ways. You do not need a complete life overhaul. You do not need to spend two hours in the gym. You do not need to punish yourself for enjoying summer. You just need to begin again. That is why I believe so much in a 30-minute workout. At Fit Body Boot Camp, our workouts are designed for real life. They are 30 minutes because most people do not have unlimited time. They have jobs, families, school dropoffs, appointments, practices, errands, and a lot of people

Do not wait until

everything is busy to start taking care of

yourself again. Start now, in small ways.

depending on them. But 30 minutes? That is doable. Thirty minutes can change your energy, your mindset, your mood, and the way you walk into the rest of your day. And when fall routines start back up, that matters. A 30-minute workout gives you structure without taking over your schedule. It gives you accountability when motivation is low. It gives you coaching, encouragement, and a plan, so you do not have to walk in wondering what to do. You just show up, move your body, and leave stronger than when you came in. This time of year, I always encourage people to focus on consistency instead of intensity.

74 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Photo Credit: Erin Covey

You do not have to go from summer mode to perfection overnight. Start with two or three workouts a week. Start drinking more water again. Start getting to bed a little earlier. Start adding more protein to your meals. Start taking a walk after dinner. These small habits add up quickly, especially when you do them before the chaos of fall fully kicks in. For parents, teachers, college students, business owners, and anyone whose schedule shifts in September, this is your reminder that your health has to be part of the routine too. It cannot be the first thing to go when life gets full. When you take care of yourself, you have more patience, more energy, more confidence, and more strength for everyone and everything else. And please remember,

getting back on track does not have to feel heavy. It can feel good. It can feel like reclaiming a part of yourself. It can feel like walking into a room where people know your name, cheer you on, and remind you that you are capable even on the days you are tired. So as summer winds down, give yourself permission to reset, because you deserve to feel good heading into the next season. Fall will be busy. The calendar will fill up. The mornings will get earlier. The routines will come back. But before all of that happens, take 30 minutes for you. That might be exactly what helps you feel back in the groove.

LISA BRIGGS is the owner of Fit Body Boot Camp in Whitesboro and Clinton & Contributing Editor, Mohawk Valley Living

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MV Harvest

Fresh Corn Polenta with Marinated Tomatoes and Basil Tomatoes and corn are the pinnacles of summer produce, and many people think that they are best eaten raw. I, however, like them better after a bit of cooking, when their sweetness and flavor become even more concentrated. United under a shower of fresh basil, these are the generous flavors of high summer, redolent of sun in each bite. If you’ve never made polenta with fresh corn before, you’ll probably find it more forgiving than the classic cornmeal-based version, and sweeter as well. While I suggest tomatoes here, the polenta would be a great canvas for any kind of seasonal vegetable and herb mélange. To make it more substantial, consider adding a plank of seared halloumi on top or a few chunks of torn mozzarella, stirred in right before you take the polenta off the stove. This recipe serves four people as a starter or two as a main course.

By NAT LEVIN Local Foods Mohawk Valley

Ingredients For the tomatoes: 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half lengthwise 2 large cloves of garlic, crushed 1/2 teaspoon Morton’s kosher salt (1 tsp if using Diamond) 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon chili flakes 1/4 cup olive oil

For the polenta: 6 ears of corn, shucked 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 cup water 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 handful of torn basil leaves

To marinate the tomatoes, combine all ingredients in a medium bowl while you begin to prepare the polenta, or up to four hours in advance of dinnertime. To make the polenta, use a sharp knife to slice the kernels off each ear into a large bowl. This is easiest to do by standing the corn on its flat base at the bottom of the bowl and carefully running the knife down the base of each kernel, making sure to get as close to the cob as possible. Reserve cobs for soup stock! Over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter in a Dutch oven or other high-sided, heavybottomed pot. Add the corn, 1 teaspoon of salt,

and ½ cup of water. Cook for ten minutes, until the kernels begin to split a bit. Use an immersion blender to puree most of the corn – there should still be some texture to the mixture, and the occasional whole kernel. Continue cooking for another 10 – 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened slightly. Five minutes before the polenta is done cooking, briefly blister the tomatoes in a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil. Serve the polenta in bowls with a big spoonful of tomatoes and a scattering of torn basil leaves. You can also skip cooking the tomatoes and just spoon the marinated tomatoes directly onto the polenta. Either way, make sure you fish out the garlic cloves!

Local Foods Mohawk Valley is an online local food collective offering the Mohawk Valley the best local food year-round via a virtual store. Customers shop online from over fifteen local vendors Wednesday–Sunday and pick up on Tuesday at the St. Mary’s Preschool in Clinton between 5:00–6:30pm. www.localfoodsmohawkvalley.com 76 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

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MV Health Summer Safety in 30 Seconds

THE TOP 10 REASONS KIDS END UP IN THE ER BEFORE SCHOOL STARTS

Ease back into sports and practices. Pain that changes how your child moves should be checked. • One person on the trampoline. • Wear a life jacket, even if your child is a strong swimmer. • Drink water before you’re thirsty. • Enter unfamiliar water feet first—never dive unless you know it’s deep enough and free of hazards. • Leave fireworks to the professionals. • Apply and reapply sunscreen. • Trust your gut. If your child doesn’t seem right, have them checked.

And Yes … We Saw Every One of These Last Summer.

The best emergency visit is the one you never need. Have a safe, fun finish to your summer!

By Dr. Juleen Qandah

There’s something about the last few weeks of summer. Parents are trying to squeeze every ounce of fun out of vacation. Kids suddenly believe they’re invincible. And emergency departments across America quietly brace themselves. As an ER physician, I can almost tell what month it is without looking at a calendar. August has its own personality. It’s loud, adventurous, sunburned, slightly overconfident, and usually begins with the words, “Watch this.” While many injuries are simply accidents, plenty are preventable. So before you hear the words, “Mom…don’t be mad…,” let’s review the annual August Hall of Fame.

10 The Trampoline Olympics

One kid jumps. Then two. Then six. Someone decides it’s a great time to try a backflip they watched on YouTube. The result? Sprained ankles, broken wrists, fractured elbows, and occasionally much worse. REALITY CHECK: The safest trampo-

line is one with only one jumper at a time, even if your kids insist that’s “boring.”

9 Back-to-School Sports Injuries

August is when summer fun suddenly turns into preseason practice. Kids go from sleeping in and swimming all day to running drills in the heat, cutting across fields, jumping, sprinting, and trying to “shake

it off” when something hurts. That’s when we see ankle sprains, knee injuries, wrist fractures, heat exhaustion, and the occasional concussion. REALITY CHECK: Ease back in. Stretch,

hydrate, take breaks, and don’t ignore pain that changes how your child walks, runs, throws, or plays.

8 Scooter and E-Bike Crashes

Today’s scooters are faster than many parents realize. And e-bikes? They aren’t toys. They’re motorized vehicles capable of serious speeds. REALITY CHECK: The faster the ride,

the more serious the injuries we see.

7 Fishhooks

Only at the lake can someone proudly announce, “I caught something!” …and they’re talking about their brother’s ear. Please don’t try the internet trick with fishing line unless you truly know what you’re doing. Fishhooks near the face or eyes belong in the emergency department.

6 Diving Into Unknown Water

Every summer someone assumes the lake is deeper than it really is. The safest way to enter unfamiliar water is feet first. Water depths change, and hidden rocks, logs, sandbars, or other underwater hazards aren’t always visible. One bad dive can change a life forever.

78 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

5 Bee Stings and Bug Bites

1 “It Didn’t Seem That Bad…”

Most are annoying. A few are emergencies.

This is the phrase we hear more than any other.

If your child develops trouble breathing, swelling of the lips or tongue, widespread hives, dizziness, or faints after a sting, don’t wait. Call 911 immediately.

Children are remarkably tough. Sometimes too tough.

4 Playground “Hold My Juice Box”

A child who keeps playing after getting hurt can still have a broken bone, a concussion, or another significant injury.

Children are fearless. Gravity is undefeated. Monkey bars continue their decades-long rivalry with wrists, elbows, and collarbones.

Trust your instincts. If something seems off, have it evaluated.

3 Dehydration

Summer should absolutely include scraped knees, muddy shoes, campfires, fishing trips, football practices, and memories your kids will tell their own children someday.

Kids are having too much fun to stop drinking water. Then practice runs long. The sun is blazing. Everyone feels “just tired.” Hydration starts before they’re thirsty. And don’t forget the coaches standing out there, too.

2 Backyard Fireworks

If your emergency physician tells you to leave fireworks to the professional…it’s because we’ve seen the alternative. Hands heal. Eyes often don’t.

One Last Thought

Our goal isn’t to wrap kids in bubble wrap. It’s to help them take smart risks instead of dangerous ones. So enjoy every last sunset, every cannonball, every pickup game, every football practice, and every ice cream cone before school starts again. And if we don’t see you in the ER this August…We’ll all consider that a successful summer.

Things ER Doctors Wish Every Parent Knew Kids hide pain better than adults. "Walk it off" isn't a diagnosis. Hydration starts before practice. Every child on an e-bike should wear a helmet. Lakes change from year to year-never dive into unknown water. Fireworks belong to professionals. Your parental instinct is one of the best screening tools in medicine.

MV Grown

The Beginning of Harvest By the time August rolls around in the Mohawk Valley, farms are moving into one of the most important parts of the year. And It is not fall yet, and there is still plenty of summer left, but the season has started to change. After months of planting, cultivating, fixing equipment, watching the weather, and waiting on the fields, harvest begins to show up at farm stands, in wagons, in barns, and across the region. For a lot of farmers, August is when the work shifts from getting things ready to bringing things in. Sweet corn is being picked, tomatoes are ripening, and cucumbers, snap beans, zucchini, summer squash, peppers, onions, potatoes, herbs, berries, peaches, and cantaloupes are coming in. It does not all happen at once, but some days it can feel pretty close. A crop that looked like it had another week may need attention right away, and a farm stand that was full in the morning may need to be filled again by afternoon. A lot of harvest comes down to timing. Farmers are watching the weather, watching the fields, and trying to make the right decision each day. Sometimes that means picking ear80 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

ly before the heat gets too strong, and sometimes it means working later because rain is coming. A field that needed rain earlier in the season may now need a dry stretch so the crop can be picked and packed. Plans change quickly because the crop, the weather, and the market all have a say. At the same time, hay season is still going. Second and third cutting are underway for many farms, and those weather windows can be short. You need enough dry days, the right equipment, and enough hours in the day to get the work done. The hay being made now will feed livestock months from now, when the fields are covered in snow and summer feels far away. Livestock farmers are busy too. Animals still need to be fed, watered, bedded, and cared for every day, no matter how much else is going on. Dairy cows do not know it is harvest season, and beef cattle, sheep, goats, horses, chickens, and pigs still depend on the same steady routine. No matter what is ready in the field, the animals still have to be taken care of first. For people who visit farm stands and farmers markets this month, August is when the tables start to fill up. There are flowers, fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, maple products, honey, and all kinds of local food to bring home. It

By Ben Simons is one of the best times of year to eat from the Mohawk Valley, but there is a lot of work behind it that started long before anything reached the table. The sweet corn was planted long before anyone was thinking about dinner. The tomatoes were started when the nights were still cold. Pumpkins and winter squash that will be ready in the fall are already growing in the field, apples are sizing up in the orchards, and field corn that will be chopped and stored for winter feed is getting closer every day. Harvest is not just the end of the season. It is the result of everything that came before it. It is also a reminder that local farms depend on local people. When you stop at a farm stand, shop at a market, or bring home something grown nearby, you are helping keep farms moving and local food on local tables. August brings long days, heavy work, and a season that seems to move faster every week. There will still be more crops to pick, more hay to make, more markets to attend, and more long days before things slow down. For now, harvest is beginning, and the fields are starting to give back. That is the Mohawk Valley, and that is what we grow.

MV Arts

By Carrie Byrne Putelo

3 1

AUGUST ART HAPPENINGS Fenimore Art Museum: The Linda McCartney Retrospective: From the Light When: On view through September 7 Where: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown A rare look at the life and work of Linda McCartney, whose camera captured music legends, family moments, nature, activism, and the spirit of an era. The exhibition features portraits of artists including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin and more, while revealing McCartney’s lasting legacy as a photographer and storyteller.

Munson Museum of Art: Watercolor Stories: Art of Charles E. Burchfield When: On view through September 13 Where: Munson Museum of Art, 310 Genesee St., Utica Munson’s featured summer exhibition explores the artistic relationship between celebrated American painter Charles E. Burchfield and Munson benefactor Edward Wales Root. Featuring 24 expressive watercolors from Munson’s collection, along with related artwork and archival materials, the exhibition offers a vivid look at nature, music, memory, and the creative exchange between artist and collector.

View Arts Center: 17th Annual Ice Cream Social & Pottery Sale (1) When: August 1, 11:00am–3:00pm Where: Point Park, Old Forge Art meets summer tradition at View’s annual Ice Cream Social and Pottery Sale. Browse handcrafted pottery, enjoy a sundae, and celebrate local creativity in the heart of Old Forge.

Munson Museum of Art: Lunch & Listen (2) When: Fridays, August 7–28 @ 12:00pm Where: Munson Museum of Art, Root Court, 310 Genesee St., Utica Inspired by Charles Burchfield’s love of music, this free Friday series pairs live performances with readings from Burchfield’s letters to Edward Root, creating a beautiful midday connection between art, music, and memory.

Fenimore Art Museum: Art by the Lake (3) When: August 8, 10:00am–5:00pm Where: Fenimore Art Museum, 5798 State Highway 80, Cooperstown Fenimore’s signature outdoor juried art event returns with artists, demonstrations, awards, and sweeping views of Otsego Lake. It’s one of the region’s most scenic summer art experiences.

82 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

6 View Arts Center: 45th Annual Adirondacks National Exhibition of American Watercolors (4) When: August 8–September 27 Where: View Arts Center, 3273 State Route 28, Old Forge One of View’s signature exhibitions, this national watercolor show celebrates the beauty, skill, and expressive range of water media, bringing artists and collectors to Old Forge for a major Adirondack arts tradition.

Rome Art & Community Center: Summer Nights Paint & Sip (5) When: August 12, 6:00pm–8:00pm Where: Rome Art & Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome Create a tropical summer night painting during this relaxed evening workshop at Rome Art & Community Center, with step-by-step instruction and a fun, social setting.

View Arts Center: Artist Talk with ANEAW Juror Sarah Yeoman (6) When: August 16, 12:00pm–1:00pm Where: View Arts Center, 3273 State Route 28, Old Forge Watercolor artist and ANEAW juror Sarah Yeoman shares insight into her creative process, her connection to the Adirondacks, and the inspiration behind her work.

Pratt Munson Faculty Show (7) When: Opens August 28; on view through October 2 Where: Pratt Munson Gallery at Munson, 310 Genesee St., Utica This annual exhibition highlights the work of Pratt Munson faculty artists and offers a fresh look at the creative voices shaping the next generation of artists in Utica. Opening reception is August 28 from 3:00pm–5:00pm.

COMING UP Storytelling: Photographers Making Meaning | Works from the Wellin Museum’s Collection (8) When: Opens Saturday, September 12 at 4-6pm Where: Wellin Museum of Art, Hamilton College Opening this fall, Storytelling explores how photographers use images presented in series, at times juxtaposed with text, to create narratives and communicate a particular message. The exhibition features work by Eve Arnold, Rhona Bitner, Danny Lyon, Mike Mandel, Wright Morris, Bill Owens, Gordon Parks, Milton Rogovin, Keisha Scarville, Lorna Simpson, and Garry Winogrand.

SSUMM UMME ERRPPRO ROGGRRA A MMSS Celebrate Celebratenature, nature,creativity, creativity,and andlifelong lifelonglearning learning

Quilling Quilling Café Café with with Sandie Sandie Craven-Griffiths, Craven-Griffiths, Cats Cats inin the the Attic Attic Cards Cards Wednesday, Wednesday, Aug. Aug. 5,5, 66 toto 88 p.m. p.m.

Terrarium Terrarium Workshop: Workshop: Build Build Your Your Surface Surface Pattern Pattern Design Design with with Julie Julie Gratien Gratien Own Own Tiny Tiny World World with with Rachel Rachel Wednesday, Wednesday, Aug. Aug. 26, 26, 1 to 1 to 44 p.m. p.m. Stewart, Stewart, The The Plant Plant Stand Stand $40 Members Members| |$50 $50 General General Public Public Wednesday, Wednesday, Aug. Aug. 19,19, 66 toto 88 p.m. p.m. $40

Celebrate Celebrate the the natural natural forms forms in in Charles Charles E. E. Burchfield’s Burchfield’s work work in in this this beginnerbeginnerfriendly friendly quilling quilling class. class. Create Create aa handmade handmade gift gift box, box, tag, tag, greeting greeting card, card, oror canvas canvas piece piece toto keep keep oror share. share.

Inspired byby Charles Charles E. E. Burchfield’s Burchfield’s $60 $60 Members Members| |$70 $70 General General Public Public Inspired early early work work asas a wallpaper a wallpaper designer, designer, Perfect Perfect forfor beginners beginners and and plant plant lovers lovers this this workshop workshop introduces introduces the the basics basics alike, alike, learn learn how how toto layer layer materials, materials, ofof creating creating repeating repeating patterns patterns forfor arrange arrange plants, plants, and and style style your your finished finished wallpaper, wallpaper, textiles, textiles, apparel, apparel, and and more. more. piece piece while while gaining gaining tips tips forfor continued continued Materials Materials provided. provided. Ages Ages 12+. 12+. care care atat home. home.

$35 $35 Members Members| |$45 $45 General General Public Public

Join Join usus every every Friday Friday in in August! August! Lunch Lunch && Listen Listen Fridays, Fridays, Aug. Aug. 7 to 7 to 28, 28, noon noon

Boxed Boxed lunches lunches available available forfor purchase purchase oror bring bring your your own! own!

Enjoy livelive performances ofof Enjoy performances FR music byby composers Charles music composers Charles F R E EE E. E. Burchfield admired, paired Burchfield admired, paired with readings from hishis letters with readings from letters toto Edward Root. Edward Root.

PLAN PLANYOUR YOURVISIT! VISIT!

View View allall programs programs atat munson.art/summer-programs munson.art/summer-programs oror call call 315-797-0000 315-797-0000

310 310 GENESEE GENESEE ST.ST. | | UTICA, UTICA, N.Y. N.Y. 13502 13502 | | MUNSON.ART MUNSON.ART

Watercolor Watercolor Stories: Stories: Art Art ofof Charles Charles E.E. Burchfield Burchfield OnOn view view through through Sept. Sept. 1313

MV Antiques

Madison-Bouckville Antique Week There’s nothing quite like browsing an antique display and stumbling upon the very toy you once cherished, the same china your grandmother set on the table for Sunday dinners, or the baseball card you dreamed of owning as a child. For just a moment, you're transported back to childhood. As you turn the delicate china over in your hands, you can almost smell the Sunday sauce simmering on the stove. Holding a well-loved Barbie, you remember the imaginary worlds you created. Flip through a stack of vintage baseball cards, and suddenly you're back in your grass-stained uniform, trading with friends after an afternoon at the ball field.

with open arms. They travel as far as Florida, Tennessee, and Canada bringing a variety of items from different corners of the U.S. and the world. Visitors and vendors alike make it a family tradition to visit town for the show year after year because there are so many sights to see. Erin Zyla, President of Madison-Bouckville Promotions, the organization responsible for the show, is present every year. She loves to greet familiar faces and enjoys knowing what they like so she can provide them with a personal touch by pointing them in the right direction. After all - the show is like a giant search and find, full of niche items.

It is truly incredible how an item from the past can take you back in time or spark a memory.

From curiosities, collectibles, country primitives, antiques, and additional fun finds in the field tents to food trucks, fair food, and kettle corn, you'll be entertained from 8-5PM each day the show is held. If you prefer browsing indoors, the antique and curiosity shops lining Route 20 are also open during the show.

The Madison-Bouckville Antique Week, occurring August 9-15, is your chance to go to an event where the past seamlessly merges with the present. Here you'll find thousands of opportunities to recall these precious memories and hold a piece of history in your hands. The first show in 1972 had just 35 vendors. Today, the show has grown into a massive event that attracts over 50,000 visitors throughout the week, some traveling as far as California and even Scotland! Visitors of all ages can expect free admission to the show, which spans 2 miles on Route 20 and is chock full with over 2,000 dealers and hundreds of thousands of treasures. Vendors are welcomed to sell their wares

Whether you are a serious collector or a casual shopper, visitors can browse vintage comic books, vintage holiday items, vintage clothing (which is now trending), collectibles, and 80s toys, just to name a few. Some items have a lot of competition - especially popular items like baseball cards, military items, like daggers and uniforms and metal signs featuring cars or popular sodas. If you see these items, cash out quickly! They won’t last all week. Those who visit are often excited and even surprised at what the antique and collectible

By Kaila Champoux

world calls “oddities” or “curiosities” which are unusual, obscure, or macabre historical items that aren’t often seen. In previous years, a Vintage Children’s Casket and a sixlegged taxidermied pig were some items that were at the show falling into this category. There is no telling what surprises await. Whether you're spending one dollar or several thousand, there's something for every budget and every interest, making this an accessible event for all to enjoy. John Booth, a Utica native, has been an avid collector for 35 years. He frequents Bouckville and especially enjoys attending Antique Week. He describes MadisonBouckville as a step back in time, and “a place where your past is just ahead.” Grab the family and make a memory of it enjoy all of what Madison County has to offer: boat or take a dip in one of the many lakes, go to The Wild Animal Park, and book a room for the night. Then, start the next day fresh at the show. If you decide to spend a few hours at the show or the whole week enjoying Madison County, you won’t be disappointed. Whether you're searching for a cherished childhood toy, the missing piece to a beloved collection, or hoping to reconnect with a part of yourself that only a familiar treasure can awaken, you'll find that at every booth at Madison-Bouckville Antique Week holds a memory, a story, and a piece of history just waiting for its next chapter. You'll never know what you'll discover.

Pro Tips for Visitors:

Madison-Bouckville Antique Week August 9th - 15th Route 20 in Bouckville 8AM - 5PM each day, FREE ADMISSION 84 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

• Bring Cash or expect to use the ATMs on site as most vendors are on a cash basis. • Go early and break for lunch at one of the many food vendors! • Wear comfortable shoes, layers, and consider an umbrella for rain or shine days! • Don’t forget water, snacks, a wagon to cart your goods to your vehicle, or reusable bags! • There are many booths so it can be easy to get turned around. Jot down the field and tent or if you really love the item, buy it before it is gone! • Madison-Bouckville is a year-round collector’s destination, so if you can’t make the big show, consider visiting the shops that are open year round or visit during the June show, Holiday Stroll, or Spring Shop Hop!

11821 Woodhull Rd, Forestport (315) 392‑7072

Hours: Thu, Sun & Mon: 10am–6pm, Fri & Sat: 8am–8pm, Tue & Wed: Closed

Vendors Wanted!

All kinds of Unique Vendors!

Also home of

Artisans, Crafters, Antiques to Retro, including Food Items 315-628-1506 renewedandrescued.com

142 North Main St., Herkimer • 315-219-9195

Open 7 days a week: Mon-Sat: 10am-4:30pm, Sun 10am-2pm • mohawkvalleycommunitymarket.com

utternut Barn Primitives B 50th Year “Something to Crow About” Offering Early Antiques Primitive Wares Needfuls Purposeful Stuff Richfield Springs, NY Open Most Every Day: 10-5 315-858-0964 www.butternutbarnprimitives.com

A Look Back

1956 1956

Enchanted Forest Enchanted Forest By Libby Lemire By Libby Lemire InInhonor anniversary,we wewanted wanted honorof of their their 70th 70th anniversary, toto take A Look Back at Enchanted Forest’s original take A Look Back at Enchanted Forest’s original roots. roots. InIn1956, businessmen,armed armedwith with 1956,three three local businessmen, aa budget transformed80 80acres acresofof budgetof of$250,000, $250,000, transformed for the formerswamp swamp land into attraction for the former into aa35-acre 35-acreattraction the young young at “youngand and the “young at heart.” heart.”Guests Guestswere were invitedinto into the the Enchanted Enchanted Forest, fairy invited Forest,aaworld worldofof fairy tales,pirates, pirates, and and an tales, an old old mining miningtown. town. Admission was was just just $1.00 Admission $1.00for foradults adultsand and.25 .25cents cents for children, with rides available for an additional for children, with rides available for an additional fee. More than 140,000 guests visited the park that fee. More than 140,000 guests visited the park that first season. Its founders were clearly on to first season. Its founders were clearly on to something. something. For more than seven decades, Paul Bunyan has

For more than seven Bunyan has stood watch over the decades, park as it Paul has expanded, stood watch over the park as it has evolved, and entertained generationsexpanded, of visitors. evolved, entertained of visitors. Now, theand World’s Greatest!generations television series, which Now, the World’s Greatest! series, which showcases some of the mosttelevision remarkable products, showcases the most remarkable products, a people, andsome travelofdestinations, has taken notice, people, andin travel destinations, true notch Paul Bunyan's ax. has taken notice, a true notch in Paul Bunyan's ax.

86 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

Family owned and operated for over 50 years!

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Open M-F 8-4:30 • (315) 735-5577 • www.jmdoor.net

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Open Mon -Sat: 10am-5pm www.ironwoodfurniturestore.com

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Giving Back

Finding Fur-ever with Purrs and Whiskers

The Oneida County-based foster rescue is helping cats and kittens find safety, love and forever homes. When I recently welcomed Deanne Balutis of Purrs and Whiskers to MVL TV for our first Finding Fur-ever segment, I expected to introduce viewers to a few adorable kittens looking for homes. And we did. In fact, Dolce and Gabbana, pictured at right, have since been adopted together. But we also talked about something much bigger: the growing need for cat rescue across Oneida County, the importance of foster families and the life-saving work happening every day through Purrs and Whiskers. The nonprofit rescue serves Oneida County, helping cats and kittens in need receive veterinary care, a safe place to recover and the opportunity to find loving forever homes. The animals come from many different situations. Some are strays or surrendered pets. Others are born outside, sick, injured or simply unwanted. Many are tiny kittens who need warmth, food, medical attention and patient care before they are ready for adoption. Purrs and Whiskers is foster-based, which means the animals are cared for in homes rather than a traditional shelter. That experience helps them feel safe and become comfortable with people, routines and everyday home life. Foster families give shy cats time to come out of their shells, provide nursing mothers with a quiet place to raise their kittens and help animals adjust to children, dogs and other pets. The number of cats and kittens the rescue can save depends directly on the people willing to help. More foster homes create space for more animals. Donations help cover veterinary care, spay and neuter procedures, testing, vaccines, food, litter, medicine and supplies. Every adoption also opens a foster home for the next cat waiting to be rescued.

Donate

For those who cannot adopt, fostering and donating are the most meaningful ways to make a difference. Purrs and Whiskers provides support and supplies, while foster families offer patience, love and a safe place to land. The need is real. But so is the difference this community can make.More information can be found at purrsandwhiskerscny,org

Available at Press time

HOWIE 88 | Mohawk Valley Living Magazine AUGUST 2026

STELLA ARTOIS

Join us for

Kubota Orange Days!

August 8 at Lowville August 15 at Waterville 9AM 2PM at both locations for special offers, demos, and lunch on us!

CANASTOTA 4154 Route 31 (315) 697 2214

WATERVILLE 962 Route 12 (315) 841 4181

LOWVILLE

8207 Route 26 (315) 376 0300

WhitesFarmSupply.com

* © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2026. $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 36 months on purchases of new Kubota BX23s equipment dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Example: 36 monthly payments of $27.78 per $1,000 financed. Customer instant rebate of $4,500 on Kubota BX23s available with cash or standard rate financing, including $0 Down, 5.99% A.P.R. financing for up to 84 months. Customer Instant Rebate is not available with 0% A.P.R. or other promotional financing. Offers expire 09/30/26. Terms subject to change. For complete warranty, disclaimer, safety, incentive offer and product information consult your Dealer or KubotaUSA.com.

23 GeneseE Street

Village of New Hartford, NY 13413 23 GeneseE Street Village of New Hartford, NY 13413