For years I’ve been talking up Saranac Thursdays in Utica, NY. It truly is one if the best things to do in the city.

For us Uticans Saranac Thursday is the first true sign of summer.

Saranac Thursday has really evolved since it started. I remember when it was just getting going and there would be some nights when it was just me, the band, and the people pouring beers.

Now I think they break the 3,000 mark every Thursday. Even on a rainy day there are some dedicated people in the beer tents supporting the Brewery.

What’s most amazing about this string of events is the people you see. Every time I go I bump into an old friend or someone I haven’t seen in since high school. That alone is worth the admission price. But then the Saranac Brewery buys you your first beer. Oh, and there is a band too.

I have to admit that a lot more attention is placed on the beer then the music. But the bands definitely do a great job and over the years they have been trying to bring in better acts.

Get ready Utica! Saranac summer is starting.