Just because it isn’t snowing—for a few more months, at least—doesn’t mean that Western New Yorkers can’t enjoy a few days of family fun at the Holiday Valley Ski Resort. The Ellicottville Summer Festival of the Arts kicks off on Friday at 6pm with the HoliMont Sponsors Reception featuring Bob Lucia and the Seven Swing Street Band, followed by a gazebo concert with family entertainment by Glenn Colton. Saturday promises a day full of arts and activity with the annual pet parade and a house and garden tour; rounding off the evening, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra plays outdoors beginning at 8pm, performing an Armed Forces Salute as well as John Williams’ memorable musical scores from the Star Wars movies. Rebel and Imperial forces collide, up close and personal, when members of the North Ridge, Buffalo’s official FanForce chapter, present full-costume appearances by Darth Vader, stormtroopers, Tusken raiders, Anakin Skywalker and many other movie favorites. An elaborate fireworks display follows the BPO performance, marking this Independence Day weekend. The Strawberry Festival begins at 1pm Sunday, and Tommy James and the Shondells bring the festival to a close that night. All weekend there will be a juried arts & crafts show, food and beverages and Ellicottville’s famous professional championship rodeo.

Friday, June 30 - Sunday, July 2

Visit www.ellicottvilleny.com or www.ellicottvillerodeo.com

for information and a full schedule of events.