About Electric City SummerFest
A Summer Festival Built for Schenectady
Electric City SummerFest was created to bring people together on North Broadway in Downtown Schenectady for a weekly celebration of music, food, culture, local business, and community giving.
Every Thursday from May 28 through July 30, 2026, the Broadway corridor becomes a free outdoor gathering place where neighbors and visitors can enjoy live music, support local restaurants and bars, shop vendors, connect with community partners, and give back to local causes.
Our Mission
Bringing People Together Through Music, Community, and Giving
Our mission is to create a free, welcoming summer festival that celebrates the energy of Downtown Schenectady through live music, local food and drinks, small businesses, community programming, and charitable giving — bringing people together while supporting the neighborhoods, organizations, and voices that make the Electric City shine.
Our Vision
A Signature Summer Tradition for the Electric City
Our vision is to make Electric City SummerFest a signature Schenectady tradition: a summer-long gathering that strengthens North Broadway, supports local businesses, uplifts community causes, and gives residents and visitors a reason to come together downtown every week.
Who Makes SummerFest Possible
Local Venues, Civic Partners, Sponsors, and Neighbors
Electric City SummerFest is anchored by three founding North Broadway venues: Vice & Virtue, 20 North, and Centre Street Pub. Together with the City of Schenectady, Metroplex Development Authority, Downtown Schenectady Improvement Corp, Discover Schenectady, and presenting sponsor Bosch, the festival is designed to drive foot traffic, create memorable summer nights, and support the local community.
Founding Venues
Built on North Broadway. Open to Everyone.
SummerFest is designed to be inclusive, approachable, and easy to enjoy, whether you come every week or visit for one special night.
More Than a Concert Series
From youth programs and family support to cancer awareness and community services, the giving model is built into the heart of the festival.
Electric City SummerFest is about more than the music. Each week highlights a local charity partner, with a portion of drink sales going directly back to organizations serving the Schenectady community.