Schenectady holds free end of summer concert

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- With many schools now back in session, the summer is coming to an end. To celebrate the sunny season, the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation held a "Summer Send-Off" concert Friday evening at Gateway Plaza.

“We’re feeling really good tonight it's nice on a Friday night being out in Schenectady, I grew up in Schenectady," said Jim Pallotolo.

Crowds gathered from all over, for dancing and music that some said they just couldn't pass up.

“We didn’t know where the music was coming from," said Elizabeth Walsh. "So we biked around and discovered that yet another Schenectady celebration was happening, so really happy to find great music and people dancing."

Maureen Neufeld, the executive director of the Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corporation organized this event to bring the community together.

“It brings folks downtown to showcase just how many amazing businesses there really are in our community and have a great arts event where you can come and enjoy the atmosphere," said Maureen.

Singer Sydney Worthley started the evening with a Taylor Swift-inspired set, singing songs like "I Knew You Were Trouble" and "You Belong With Me". The night ended with a performance from a fan-favorite band, the Refrigerators.

“We usually follow the refrigerators around the area, and we really love their music and people think were crazy but we really love them," said Jim.

Many local businesses were also there including Mike's Hot Dogs, Kona Ice of Clifton Park, and Brewski's Beer Van. Tommy Nicchi, who owns Brewski's, as well as The Broken Inn in Niskayuna and the Horses Lounge in Schenectady, said he didn't just come here for the good business.

“It's gonna be good for business anyway, its sunny and we have beer, and its ice cold so, I’m hoping it's gonna be good for Schenectady,” said Tommy.

The Social Enterprise and Training Center, SEAT Center, also set up shop alongside the concert. They displayed programs such as culinary, construction and more. This program aimed to connect youth with meaningful work experience.

Maureen said there are plenty of reasons to love Schenectady, and she's looking forward to sharing that with the community.

“I think if folks can come on down, they’ll fall in love with Schenectady as well," said Maureen.

Although this is Schenectady's last concert for the summer, Maureen said there will be more in the fall. For more information on those events, visit their website.