This Rare Festival Cast a Warm Glow On a Cool Night
As a Finger Lakes golden hour faded to navy blue, The Windmill came alive with campfire and shop lights shining in the dusk.
Music and laughter joined in chorus while people danced and enjoyed fresh food and drink.
Only the second of its kind in The Windmill’s history, this gathering was not for a holiday, tradition, nor private event.
Instead, Friday Evening Fest was a reason to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate fun for its own sake.
Welcoming the Weekend on a High Note
A cool autumn day ushered in our second-ever open evening. Undeterred by the chill, visitors arrived cozied up in warm layers.
Pop-up fire pits lent extra warmth against the brisk air, with enough logs stacked to last us the night.
Kids and the young at heart enjoyed performances by balloon artist, Sir James, an entertainer and craftsman in his own right.
As the sky dimmed, the Street of Shops became a luminous walkway charged with festive energy.
Shop owners and guests joined in the open air, reveling in the special joy reserved for the end of Friday.
Ending the Day, Embracing the Evening
The stage was set, so our local rock n’ roll legends from Black Robin Band elevated the night with classic tunes.
Over by the fire pits, folks roasted marshmallows for melty s’mores.
Adults looking to quench their thirsts found no shortage of refreshments. LyonSmith Brewing, Fulkerson Winery, and Firefly Nectar served up libations.
The Windmill’s acreage always has a fun and festive mood, but seeing its vibrance light up the night was magical.
Coming Next Season (2026): More After-Hours Special Events
Thank you to everyone who joined us to make the occasion unforgettable. Seeing the cheer that Friday Evening Fest brought, we knew The Windmill needed more.
Our events committee—who coordinate the entertainment offered free for all visitors—is already eyeing next season for evening festivities.
If live music catered by local merchants in open air is your kind of fun, stay tuned for our next party under the stars!
We’ll save you a seat by the fire.
Stop By to Shop Through November
The best place to find upcoming events is on The Windmill’s social media and our monthly newsletter, Summer Breeze.
Follow us for the latest updates from the Finger Lakes!
See you soon!
