Christian Quiñones blends food and music to tell the stories of people from around the world who enrich Utica and call it home
FREE EVENT!
8:00 PM CONCERT
Albany Symphony
An Erie Canal Bicentennial Event
John Stafford Smith: “Star Spangled Banner”
George Frideric Handel: Water Music
1. Overture (Largo and Allegro)
2. Adagio e staccato
15. Bourrée (from Suite in D major)
7. Minuet
6. Air
8, 9. Bourrée and Hornpipe
12. Hornpipe (from Suite in D major)
Christian Quiñones: Words in Your Heart (world premiere)
Jack Frerer: Arrangements of pop hits and American classics
John Philip Sousa: “Stars and Stripes Forever”
John Philip Sousa: “Washington Post March”
Orchestra concert featuring world premiere by Christian Quiñones, telling the story of Utica’s uniquely beautiful community of immigrants through a blending of music, food, and stories. Orchestra also performs selections from Handel’s Water Music, favorite Pop songs, Patriotic fanfare, and sing-alongs.
Free and family-friendly!
PRE-CONCERT EVENTS & PERFORMANCES
1:30 PM Flame the Band
5:30 PM World Refugee Day Performances in Partnership with The Center in Utica
8:00 PM Albany Symphony Concert
1:00-6:00 PM: FREE DAYTIME ACTIVITIES
Albany Symphony Kids Zone Activities
And more!
FOOD AND BEVERAGE FOR PURCHASE 1:00 -9:30 PM
A Taste of Utica
Utica Community Food Fest, featuring Bosnian, Lebanese, Karen, Somali, Mexican, Dominican, and many other cuisines of food.
Just Try It Sudanese Foods
The Grapevine - Lebanese Food Truck
Yummilicious Bakery - Delicious Bosnian Desserts
DikinDurt Distillery - Craft Whiskey Distillery
And more!
As part of its Water Music NY: More Voices partnership with the New York State Canal Corporation to commemorate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, the Albany Symphony will present an all-day festival in the new Harbor Point in Utica on July 3, 2025. The festival celebrates the critical role played by immigrant and refugee communities in building modern-day Utica. As the centerpiece of the festival, Puerto-Rican-born composer Christian Quinones will create a new commissioned work for orchestra and narrators, telling the story of Utica’s uniquely beautiful community of immigrants through a blending of music, food, and stories. In preparation, Christian visited community members and professional chefs in Utica to cook and interview them, and to video and audio record their narratives about their journeys, food, and how food reflects life. Including visits with members of the Bosnian, Lebanese, Karen, Somali, Dominican, and other communities, Christian will weave a joyful musical celebration of the beautiful variety of peoples and cultures in the Utica area. The July 3 festival will include sharing delicious food, as well as celebrating community through dance, music, recreation, and immersive explorations of history, culture, and the natural world.
INFORMATION
About Harbor Point
Experience Utica’s latest canal-side gem at the grand opening of Harbor Point. This waterfront festival features live music, food, games, kayak rentals, and historical displays.
The Albany Symphony’s Guide to Utica
Nestled between the Mohawk River and the Adirondack Mountains, Utica is a city teeming with deep-rooted history, striking vistas, and culinary flair. Known to be a haven for immigrants from all nations, there is a strong sense of community pride established within New York’s tenth-largest city. This pride is evident in everything from Utica’s numerous well-preserved landmarks to the multitude of regionally specific, signature dishes served up in its eateries.
The Erie Canal and Utica:
After breaking ground in Rome in 1817, the first stretch of the canal reached Utica in 1819. Along with the construction came significant economic and cultural changes for the region. The work opportunities led to an influx of immigrants, many of whom were Irish, German, and Italian, determined to plant new roots in the city. As well, the ease of transporting goods made possible by the canal transformed Utica into a manufacturing “boomtown.” Factories, forges, and warehouses popped up along the banks, primarily producing goods which fell under the categories of textiles and machinery.
Today, the canal’s route through Utica can be experienced by foot or bike on the section of the Erie Canalway Trail found there. And although the canal may no longer play the important role in transportation and commerce it once did, its impact can still be felt throughout Utica even now — particularly in the legacy of welcoming and celebrating the diverse cultural heritages that make up the fabric of the city.
THINGS TO DO IN UTICA:
Whether you’re in the mood for museum-hopping, catching a show, or immersing yourself in the great outdoors, Utica has an assortment of options to fit your taste. On the list below, you’ll find the city’s top visitor attractions. These tried-and-true favorites, each infused with a unique element of the region’s history, are guaranteed to please crowds of all ages.
Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute
310 Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
With a brilliant and diverse array of art spanning two centuries, the cultural crown jewel of Utica would have to be the Munson. Among the permanent pieces one can discover within their substantial collection of American and European art are works from such prominent names as Georgia O’Keeffe, Pablo Picasso, Francisco Goya, and Rembrandt. Just as impressive are the special exhibitions, family-friendly activities, and live music performances organized by the museum on a regular basis. Make the most of your visit by also stopping by Fountain Elms, a historic mansion which sits next to the Munson. Originally built by the Munson family back in 1850, this stunning example of Italianate architecture is furnished by ornate pieces of decorative art evocative of the Victorian era.
How to book: Admission to the museum is free year-round.
259 Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13501
Attending a show at The Stanley Theatre doesn’t just guarantee you’re in for a night of entertainment — the moment you enter the doors, you’ll feel whisked away to the exuberant decadence of the Roaring Twenties. This Mexican Baroque-style stunner of a building was first conceived as a cinema in 1928 by famous architect, Thomas W. Lamb. And while some of the building’s original details speak to this bygone era, such as the grandiose entry-way staircase and walls framed by elaborate filigree, the performances staged at the Stanley today are thoroughly modern. Past acts include Tony Bennett, Jerry Seinfeld, Martina McBride, and a bevy of touring Broadway productions.
How to book: Check the “Upcoming Events” section of their website for information about, and tickets to, current shows.
1608 Genesse Street, Utica, New York 13502
History buffs will delight in the opportunity to journey through Utica’s extensive and storied past at the Oneida County History Center. Throughout the displays in the Center’s 5,000-square foot gallery, visitors can learn about the people and events that defined the city. Exhibits include information about the indigenous peoples who resided in the area, the role its citizens played in the abolition and women’s suffrage movements, and, of course, the impact the Erie Canal made on the region.
How to book: Admission is run on a “pay what you wish” basis, with a suggested donation of $5.
330 Main Street, Utica, New York 13501
Perhaps the most popular attraction in Utica, the Adirondack Scenic Railroad will let you adventure through the natural beauty of Central New York. All of their round-trip train tours depart from the renowned Union Station, a local architectural treasure which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From there, you can hop aboard for an experience of your choice — the company offers a variety of trip options including a wine-tasting ride, an outing to Old Forge, and special, seasonal events. Regardless of the journey you take, you can expect to find breathtaking landscapes and exceptional service in every car.
How to book: You can browse their trip offerings and book tickets through their website. Be sure to make reservations in advance as the rides often sell out.
620 Memorial Parkway, Utica, New York 13501
Get in your daily dose of sunshine by exploring the trails which weave through Utica’s premier green space, Roscoe Conkling Park. The spot’s 385 acres contain easy, family-friendly trails that will take you through the woods and past some of Utica’s most notable tourist attractions. On top of the park’s highest hill, you can glimpse at the city’s prized bronze monument, the “Eagle,” alongside incredible views of the Mohawk Valley. Also located in the park is the Utica Zoo, which houses over 200 animals, including lions, red pandas, and alpacas. You can even practice your swing across 18 picturesque holes at Valley View, the golf course situated within Roscoe Conkling’s borders.
How to book: While admission to the park is free, some of its attractions are not. Tickets for the Utica Zoo can be purchased on-site and run $9 per adult / $6 per child. You can find fee information for the Valley View Golf Course online and book a tee time by calling 315-732-8755.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN UTICA:
Utica’s long and storied reputation as a welcoming place for immigrants and refugees from around the world can be understood deeper than what you might read in history books — it can be physically tasted on the plates served up around the city. Here, you’ll find numerous Italian eateries serving up specialty local dishes like tomato pie, sausage rolls, “pusties”, and “Utica Greens”, as well as cuisine rooted in the Irish, Jamaican, and Vietnamese cultural traditions. The list below highlights just a few of the places to grab a great nosh around this Upstate gem. And, after you eat, don’t forget to wash it all down with one of the hoppy pints from Utica’s famous breweries!
Coffee and Pastry Places:
92 Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
Due to the fresh coffee beans they roast on-site, you’ll be able to smell this buzzy java shop from down the block. A leader in the development of the city’s coffee scene, tourists and locals alike flock beneath the Utica Coffee Roasting Company’s espresso-themed murals for their morning caffeine fix. While their coffee is tasty enough to take down black, you could also add some fun flavor to your usual cold brew by grabbing one of their pistachio cold foam americanos. Also available for purchase are light breakfast items, such as oatmeal, egg sandwiches, and pastries. After you order, you can browse the display of items from local merchants on sale around the store.
667 Bleecker Street, Utica, New York 13501
With all the Italian bakeries that populate the streets of Utica, you better believe the locals have strong feelings about which ones are worth going to. However, everyone holds a special spot in their hearts for Florentine — opened back in 1928, it is a legendary community institution for pastries, cakes, and all things sweet. They are most famous for their mouth-watering pasticciottis, a handheld, pie-like dessert filled with custard which Utica natives refer to as “pusties."
2644 Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
Another must-try local dish in Utica is the ubiquitous sausage roll. Similar to a calzone, this savory treat is made from pizza dough that is generously filled with sweet Italian sausage and mozzarella. And no place cooks up a sausage roll better than combination bakery/deli, Rosa’s Trattoria. Alongside your sausage roll, you should also grab one of Rosa’s renowned fried bologna and hot pepper sandwiches — a no-frills bite that will take you back to your days of childhood bagged lunches.
Spots for Casual Eats:
614 Bleecker Street, Utica, New York 13501
The second oldest pizzeria in the entire country, O’Scugnizzo is the originator of yet another unmissable item on the Utica food bucket list: tomato pie. You can think of this dish as basically pizza without the gooey mozzarella oozing off the top. However, while it might just be dough topped with a thick layer of tomato sauce and a dusting of parmesan cheese, it still packs a wallop of flavor. And, although you can no longer buy it at the original price of a nickel, you can guarantee the recipe for the dish remains the same since it was first cooked in 1914.
601 John Street, Utica, New York 13501
As its name might imply, the specialty here is the fragrant, Vietnamese comfort food dish of Phở. The mix of noodles, broth, and various toppings will warm your heart (and body), as will the quick and friendly service found here. Not to mention, it’s a true haven for those looking for vegetarian options amidst this meat-heavy city. Rest assured that there’s plenty of plant-powered selections to be discovered throughout their menu.
606 South Street, Utica, New York 13501
Your taste buds will be transported to the Caribbean when noshing down on curry shrimp, beef patties, plantains, and other Jamaican delights at this casual dining spot. For those who can handle the heat, a definite highlight at Simma would be their jerk chicken, which is tangy, sweet, and spicy all at once. Even if you’re a newbie to the flavors of Jamaican cuisine, the helpful and knowledgeable staff will be happy to guide you through the menu of scrumptious choices.
Spots for Dining Out:
311 Main Street, Utica, New York 13501
When it comes to fine-dining in Utica, there’s no doubt Tailor and the Cook sets the high bar which all other spots aspire to. This American-style, farm-to-table restaurant features a menu which changes seasonally to incorporate the best and freshest local produce and meats in their dishes. One thing that remains consistent though is their excellent, award-winning, cocktail and wine offerings, which pair perfectly with whatever specials happen to be on the plate on any given night.
268 Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
Both the ambiance and the food at this Italian restaurant, which is housed within an old bank, is sure to delight any diner. Beneath the mosaic map that decorates their bar area, you can enjoy one of the best happy hours around while sipping their quirkily-named signature cocktails, such as the “My Cousin Vinny” or “The Gabagool.” After your glass is empty, don’t leave without dipping a fork into their selection of homemade tagliatelle, rigatonis, and spaghetti dishes.
131 N Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
The family behind this intimate, Italian restaurant is responsible for one of the most famous dishes in Utica: Utica Greens. Concocted back in the 1980s, Utica Greens are a savory mix of escarole, prosciutto, and hot cherry peppers topped with toasted breadcrumbs and Romano cheese. And, while they are unquestionably the must-order dish to split amongst your whole table, you’ll also find a tasty variety of pizzas and pasta dishes to satisfy your craving for traditional Italian-American favorites.
Spots for Drinks:
830 Varick Street, Utica, New York 13502
Beer historians (and general enthusiasts) will love visiting the 1888 Tavern at the Saranac Brewing Co. for a pint as notable as it is refreshing. When Prohibition ended in 1933, the first legal beer served in the entire country was a Utica Club, a pilsner-lager blend that is still poured out to this very day by the Brewery. During the summer, you can even enjoy the Utica Club, or another one of their popular tap selections, while sitting outside in the sunshine at the outdoor Biergarten.
623 Columbia Street, Utica, New York 13502
Located in Utica’s Irish Cultural Center, the Five Points Public House is just like a spot you would expect to find in Dublin’s famed Temple Bar area. And that’s not just due to the restaurant’s inventory of fine Irish whiskeys, taps full of Guinness, and scrumptious selections of shepherd’s pie and corned beef — as all the furniture and decor, including the gorgeous wooden bar, were handcrafted by expert artisans back in Ireland.
8300 Brimfield Street, Clinton, New York 13323
A quick 11-minute drive from Utica’s Downtown center is the town of Clinton, which is home to a long-standing vino playground, Brimfield Farm Winery. With the farm owned by the same family for over 100 years, you can enjoy a wine tasting at Brimfield in the hayloft of the winery’s century-old, renovated red barn. With stunning panoramas of the Mohawk Valley Region surrounding the space, the views outside the barn are just as worthy of your attention.
WHERE TO STAY IN UTICA:
When it comes to a place to stay in Utica, there are multiple options for every person’s taste and style. Check out this handy guide below, which includes information on the hotels, as well as the distance of each spot from the concert location site.
102 Lafayette Street, Utica, New York 13502
Formerly known as the Hotel Utica, the building that houses the Doubletree was originally built in 1912. Its magnificent lobby, garnished by marble columns and opulent chandeliers, harkens back to the days when it played host to such notable names as Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, Judy Garland, and Amelia Earhart. While many features of the decor evoke a historic elegance, all of the rooms are freshly renovated and well-stocked with modern travel amenities.
Distance to concert location: 4-minute drive, 21-minute walk.
Notable amenities: Free parking, fitness center, business center, on-site restaurant, room service.
How to book: Through the DoubleTree website, or by calling 315-724-7829.
1423 Genesse Street, Utica, New York 13501
If you’re in the mood for a classic Northeastern bed-and-breakfast experience, the Rosemont Inn will check all the boxes. This boutique hotel is housed in a restored Victorian-era residence and contains eight unique rooms. Within these units you can find luxury, antique features such as clawfoot tubs and decorative fireplaces. However, the biggest bonus at this spot might be the delicious breakfasts and freshly-brewed coffee prepared every morning for guests by the long-time innkeeper.
Distance to concert location: 8-minute drive, 40-minute walk.
Notable amenities: Free parking, free breakfast, pet-friendly.
How to book: Through their website.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Utica
23 Wells Avenue, Utica, New York 13502
With numerous glowing online reviews from previous guests and a location steps away from the Harbor Park concert location, the Holiday Inn is a superb option for those craving an easy, hassle-free stay for their Utica adventure. The traditional amenities of this notable chain include clean rooms with comfy beds and a dedicated business center for calls and meetings. Especially for those traveling with kids, their indoor, heated pool will provide hours of fun, splash-time for the young ones to enjoy.
Distance to concert location: 2-minute drive, 8-minute walk.
Notable amenities: Free parking, free breakfast, fitness center.
How to book: Through their website or by calling 1-888-465-4329.
172 North Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
Another classically reliable hotel experience can be found at the Hampton Inn Utica. Owned by the Hilton company, this Hampton Inn provides great mainstays for any traveler, including a breakfast buffet, heated pool, and all-around quality service. Unlike many other chain hotels, this one has pet-friendly rooms — so, for an additional fee, you can bring Fido along on your journey.
Distance to concert location: 3-minute drive, 10-minute walk.
Notable amenities: Free parking, free breakfast, fitness center.
How to book: Through their website or by calling 315-733-1200.
The Pratt Smith House Bed and Breakfast
10497 Cosby Manor Road, Utica, New York 13502
Located a little off the beaten path in a quieter, more rural part of Utica is the Pratt Smith House. This tranquil, colonial brick house was built in 1815 and, while updated with modern-day life essentials (such as air conditioning), the decor still gives off that whimsical, old-school New England essence. Don’t skip on the welcome treat of delicious homemade brownies or cookies that will greet you at the desk upon arrival.
Distance to concert location: 7-minute drive, 34-minute walk.
Notable amenities: Antique furnishings, welcome snacks, free breakfast.
How to book: Call 315-732-8483.
119 North Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
Super close to the concert, as well as the popular dining and nightlife attractions of Downtown Utica, Home2Suites by Hilton is sure to be a comfortable, convenient place to stay. If you would rather eat-in, their suite options come with a full-sized refrigerator, microwave, burner cooktops, sink, and dishwasher to prepare your own culinary creations. These suites also offer a dedicated workstation with an ergonomic chair and, after you finish those emails, you can relax in the water of the building’s indoor, heated pool.
Distance to concert location: 1-minute walk, 2-minute drive.
Notable amenities: Free parking, free breakfast, fitness center.
How to book: Through their website or by calling 315-733-1000.
71 North Genesee Street, Utica, New York 13502
Yet another great option around the corner from the Symphony’s performance location is the Fairfield Inn & Suites. This Marriott property gets the most acclaim from guests for its friendly service, 24/7 coffee and tea stations, and overall incorporation of environmentally sustainable practices in their operations. And Fairfield’s on-site laundry and dry-cleaning services guarantee your clothes will be as spotless as their hotel rooms.
Distance to concert location: 3-minute walk, 1-minute drive.
Notable amenities: Free breakfast, fitness center, dry-cleaning service, pool.
How to book: Through their website or by calling 315-798-9600.