Finger Lakes Effect News

This week in the Finger Lakes - April 2nd, 2025

Author

Adam Moody
April 02, 2025

If you’re going to be in or around Auburn anytime soon, it’s a good time to find out that we’re closing in on the 100-year anniversary of the Erie Canal opening which was a big deal in 1825 - allowing local goods to be transported only a few miles from Auburn to the canal and then to bigger markets farther…afloat.

Lots of events happening this week - we’ve got a few areas to cover first, but if you’re hungry for events, scroll down - it’s hard to miss the “Events” section.

Before we get into it, just one quick little thing:

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Ready For Your New Pet?

Meet Kalina! 🎉🎉🎉

Kalina is a 2 year old mixed breed medium sized dog who’s looking for a good home after a long journey.

Need a furry friend? Check out Kalina’s page here and set up a visit at the Tompkins County SPCA. But act fast—word on the street is that animals rarely last more than a week or two before finding homes.

TRAIL OF THE WEEK: Ebenezer’s Crossing

This section of the Finger Lakes Trail is just west of Watkins Glen—and with the weather warming up, it’s a great time to check it out.

There are water features, a lean to, and it’s a choose your own adventure when it comes to distance.

Trail details here.

Scenery might be slightly less green this weekend.

EVENTS

Wednesday

  • Lucky Hare Run Club (Watkins Glen) - Lucky Hare Brewing Bar & Grill - meet up with other walkers and runners between 5:30—6 pm and follow the planned routes (1-3ish miles). Hang out for a drink or a bite after.

  • FLX Trivia Night (Geneva) - Ventosa Vineyards - 6—8 pm in the banquet room. Also…Ventosa Vineyards has free, local, live music year-round every Wednesday, along with a buy 1, get 1 happy hour.

  • Sip ’n Stitch (Hammondsport) - Living Roots Winery - Sip ‘n Stitch is a cozy evening of crafting, wine, and conversation with winemaker Beth - for makers of all skill levels. 1 drink minimum.

Thursday

Friday

  • Mandy Goldman & Friends Live (Newfield) - Stone Bend Farm - Live music at Stone Bend’s huge greenhouse—slash—brewpub--slash--hangout spot? Sounds like a good time!

  • Geneva Jazz Fest 2025 (Geneva!) - Geneva - The 3rd annual Geneva Jazz Festival returns April 4–6, 2025, with three days of top-tier performances, food, and drinks across stunning venues in Geneva, NY.

  • An Evening With David Sedaris (Ithaca) - State Theatre - Humorist David Sedaris returns to the State Theatre with all-new stories, sharp wit, and book signings before and after the show—sure to make you laugh, reflect, and maybe both at once.

Saturday

  • Ithacon (Ithaca) - Ithaca College - ITHACON™ is a fan-run, student-organized comic convention with roots back to 1976, offering an authentic, community-focused experience where comics—not Hollywood—take center stage.

  • Stewart Park Waterfront Cleanup (Ithaca) - Stewart Park - Join Friends of Stewart Park for the Annual Waterfront Cleanup on Saturday, April 5, from 10 am to noon—help care for Cayuga Lake’s shoreline with community, tools, and teamwork!

Sunday

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Forks On The Road: Eats & Drinks

Adam Grill: Big on Flavor, Light on Frills

If you’re looking for a meal that’s delicious, Adam Grill in Ithaca is the place to be. Located in a no-frills food court, it may not win any awards for ambiance—but trust us, the food more than makes up for it.

The menu is packed with Mediterranean must-haves: juicy meat or falafel gyros, crispy chicken over salad, and a lamb-over-rice platter that’s legendary among those in the know. 🔥 

Top it off with their signature white and red sauces, and you’ve got a meal that’s big on flavor—and even bigger on portions.

What truly sets Adam Grill apart, though, is the heart behind the counter. The owners are as warm as their freshly grilled pita, genuinely happy to serve up their delicious food with a smile. Whether you're a regular or just pita-ing around town, they’ll make sure you leave full and happy. - Jeney

Google Map directions - click here. Just note: Ttey’re open 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays only.

That’s All Folks

Until next week - have a great weekend and enjoy the area.

If you come across any great events or locations, hit reply to this email and let me know!

Adam Moody

P.S. The Finger Lakes Effect will be evolving as it goes - if you have an idea for the style, look, or topics, hit reply and let me know.