SALAMANCA, N.Y. — Area residents are encouraged to grab their lawn chairs and head to Allegany State Park’s Quaker Beach area to celebrate the nation’s independence at noon Wednesday. Activities begin with a chicken barbecue at noon, until sold out, by the Coldspring Volunteer Fire Department.
At 6 p.m., music will be provided by Allegany’s own Artist in Residence, Keith James, an accomplished pop singer/songwriter from Buffalo. Organizers said James’ soulful vocals and infectious stage presence have landed him success not only on the local stage, but the national stage as well. One of his most notable feats was appearing on season six of NBC’s “The Voice.” He has also entertained at special events for the Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bills and at many other local and regional venues.
The headlining act will be Jillian Eliza beginning at 7:30 p.m. Eliza of Buffalo started singing at a very young age and began writing songs at just 10 years of age. She has been performing throughout Western New York since the age of 18, performing with numerous bands, playing at bars and venues, as well as partnering up with WYRK, Buffalo’s country music station.
She has shared the stage with National artists such as Josh Turner, Wynonna Judd, Granger Smith, Jarrod Niemann, Drake White, Thompson Square, Joe Nichols, Eric Paslay, Morgan Wallah, Dylan Scott and others.
Other activities during the event will include the Naturalist Table from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Quaker Bathhouse. Capping off the evening will be a firework display over the waters of Quaker Lake. As of 2017, the launch site is located at the midpoint of the lake. Patrons should plan on adjusting their location to get the best view. The map depicts the best vantage points which include both ends of the lake, a few areas on each side of the lake, as well as Quaker Beach, near the sand.
Patrons who plan to view fireworks at the beach should plan to arrive early as the parking lot has limited capacity and will be closed once it is full. Attendees are asked to obey all designated “No Parking” zones.
For more information, check the Allegany State Park Facebook page or contact the Quaker Run Area Rental office at (716) 354-2182.
