Summer is finally here, and as the world starts to open up again, we’re finally able to enjoy some of our absolute favorite summer activities – of which there are many, according to Lynda Marino, Marketing Director for Canterbury Woods Williamsville.
“While many people think that New York City is the place to be in our state, Buffalo and the surrounding area is really where it’s happening,” she says. “Our town of Williamsville is chock-full of favorite activities and events throughout the summer months, and I know that I and our residents are excited to get out and have a more ‘normal’ summer.”
Lynda says that some favorite events like the Glen Park Art Festival and the Main Street Music Festival are still up in the air, but there are plenty of others that have announced their schedule for the 2021 season.
“Living in Williamsville means that you can choose from a wide variety of summertime opportunities,” she says. “We’re looking forward to organizing events both on and off campus for residents at Canterbury Woods Williamsville and helping everyone create a summer to remember.”
Whether you’re a visitor this summer or are a lifetime citizen, here are some can’t-miss local activities for seniors this summer in Williamsville and the surrounding areas.
- Enjoy the tastes of the town.
Farmers markets pop up every summer to show off the bounty of locally owned vendors and farmers, and the Williamsville Farmers Market is one of the area’s most beloved. The market is open every Saturday from June 5 to October 30 and offers local-only products including fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, fresh roasted coffee and spirits, specialty food and artisan goods, fresh cut flowers and more. Visitors can peruse the sights and smells as well as enjoy live music and storytelling.
Market Hours: Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Amherst Town Hall Lot | 5583 Main Street | Williamsville, NY 14221
- Attend a local festival.
If elephant ears, corn dogs, rides and live music are your thing, then you’re in luck! Williamsville and the surrounding area is host to a number of favorite festivals and events that are fun for young and old.
- While we aren’t certain if Taste of Williamsville will be taking place this year, the Taste of Buffalo will be held July 10–11. Presented by Tops Pharmacy, this is the nation’s largest two-day food festival. The 38th annual Taste will take place in Niagara Square and Delaware Avenue in downtown Buffalo. The Taste is a not-for-profit organization with more than 1,000 volunteers helping to put on the annual event.
- Every year in July, The Jolly Boys put on Old Home Days – a four-day festival that celebrates the Williamsville community with rides, games, food and entertainment. All proceeds from the event are donated to local children’s organizations and charities, so you’re not just having fun – you’re supporting a good cause. The 2021 festival will be held July 13–16 at Island Park in Williamsville.
- Bring your best “bud” and make a day of it at the 17th annual Village of Williamsville Garden Walk. The award-winning event will take place on Saturday, July 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Within one square mile, you’ll take in an eclectic mix of gardens, many with water features and garden art. It’s also an easy walk to the Williamsville Farmers Market and Glen Falls.
- Dine in the shadow of history.
If you’ve never been to The Eagle House or Glen Park Tavern, you’re simply missing out. These two restaurants are the oldest businesses in Williamsville and currently offer delicious food in a gorgeous, history-laden atmosphere. The Eagle House began in 1832 as a humble spot for a good meal and a bed for the night for weary travelers making the trek from Buffalo back to Batavia via horse-drawn wagons. Glen Park Tavern was constructed in 1887 as a way to attract area residents and travelers who took the stagecoach route that ran along Main Street. Today, both these restaurants remain at the hub of our community and are lively places to meet friends and family, enjoy easy conversation and partake in great spirits.
- Stroll through the park.
Glen Park, which is located near the picturesque Glen Falls, is a popular spot to spend an afternoon. The park’s open spaces and paved walkways offer easy viewing (and listening) of the multitiered falls. The remnants of an old mill race can be explored along the south west corner of the park, near the red mill. The northern end of the park neighbors Amherst State Park, and is an easy walk to see ruins of various mills past. Glen Park is a popular destination for picnickers, wedding parties, duck-feeders and anyone who wants to spend a delightful day enjoying the sunshine.
- Take a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Buffalo.
Buffalo is one of the premier destinations to tour Wright’s work, due to the decades-long friendship the architect held with Darwin Martin, a Buffalo business executive. The city (which is just a short drive from Williamsville) holds two Wright-built buildings as well as three buildings inspired by the works of the great architect. The 1.5-arce Martin House is considered by many as the finest example from Wright’s Prairie Period, while Graycliff Estate blends Arts and Crafts architecture thanks to the designs of Ellen Biddle Shipman (and also shares innovative architectural elements that are also found in Wright’s most famous work, Fallingwater). The three posthumous designs – The Blue Sky Mausoleum, the Fontana Boathouse and the Frank Lloyd Wright Filling Station – are all must-see stops for architecture buffs and lovers of history.
- Meander along the marina.
The Erie Basin Marina is a beautiful riverfront park and marina located on Buffalo’s downtown waterfront. Situated next to the Erie Canal Harbor, it’s home to a private marina, a public park, and gardens with a waterfront observation tower, restaurants, and a lovely, winding waterfront path to stroll along. During the summer, the marina’s glorious garden features a variety of flower collections and an award-winning rose garden set against the backdrop of the tranquil water and bobbing yachts and boats of the marina. You’ll spend a lively day surrounded by walkers, joggers, boaters, kayakers and families enjoying the lovely surroundings and views.
- Sail away into the sunset.
What better way to round off a summer day than taking in the sights and sounds of the city on a beautiful river cruise? There are a number of companies that offer narrated tours, sailing adventures and engaging experiences. Depending on your mood, you can enjoy magnificent sunsets over Lake Erie, sip wine and nosh on a cheese and cracker buffet, sample the area’s best beers on a craft beer cruise or entertain grandkids on a fun-filled pirate adventure with treasure hunts, face painting, pirate stories and music.
This is just a sampling of the many local events and activities that are can’t-miss for seniors living in the Williamsville area. Grab your sunscreen, wear your walking shoes and get ready for a summer filled with meaningful memories and enjoyable adventures.
Find Your Fulfillment
Canterbury Woods Williamsville is a Continuing Care Retirement Community like you’ve never seen. Canterbury Woods Williamsville is not only the perfect location for rest and relaxation, thanks to 62 tranquil acres, but there’s also easy access to Buffalo’s urban location. Offering the highest quality independent living lifestyle and security, you’ll be part of a welcoming community consisting of both friends and neighbors while experiencing gracious living, first-class health care and the freedom to create the lifestyle you desire.
Continuum of Care
As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Canterbury Woods Communities provide a comfortable environment and first-rate services to support every level of need. Assisted living apartments allow Williamsville residents to benefit from additional support while maintaining their independent lifestyle. If skilled nursing, rehabilitation or memory care is ever needed, residents can experience the support they require. They can also enjoy all this and more at our sister community in Buffalo.
Contact us today to discover more about Canterbury Woods Williamsville! (716) 427-6928