Tonawandas Gateway Harbor announces 2015 concerts and events

Tonawandas Gateway Harbor Inc.'s 2015 concerts and events opened in style last Sunday with the "Taste of the Tonawandas." Visitors enjoyed everything from appetizers to desserts, with an assortment of vendor's booths, children's entertainment and two live bands.

The fun continues with the free admission Wednesday night concert series, from 5:30 to 10 p.m., starting June 17 with Ultra Violet, followed by Black Widow, a top area and award-winning rock band. On June 24, the Strangers provide a party rock atmosphere as they warm up the crowd for Beatle Magic, one of the top Beatles tribute bands on the East Coast. And July 1 brings the jamming energy of High Horse followed by a Grateful Dead tribute, The Maniacs.

On July 8, duo headliners ASP, the All Star Project, bring classic memories with a band consisting of former members of Talas, Benhatzel, The Trolls and more. Next up will be a reuniting of Cock Robin, a top rock band from the '70s.

NY Rockin Revue follows July 15; this group has performed in over 31 countries and opened 25 national concerts. Chicago Authority is a nine-piece tribute band traveling to Gateway that concentrates on early, high-energy music.

Following a week off, the concerts return strong July 29 with The Shuffling Madness, a band that can recreate the sound of early Jethro Tull with amazing accuracy. The band has set the stage for the Massachusetts based tribute band which performs throughout the U.S. and Canada.Who Are You features a complete repertoire of Who favorites.

Aug. 5 brings the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame act, the Trolls. And Fare Trade will reunite with all six original members and some guitar southern rock.

Aug. 12 will feature Impact, a party rock band that blends a mix of rock, pop, metal, dance, country and everything in-between, which sets the perfect stage for Nerds Gone Wild. They are an '80s tribute band like you have never seen before, complete with taped glasses, bowties, flood pants and contagious fun.

Aug. 19 features Mid Life Crisis, by popular demand. They are a classic rock/dance/party band featuring vocalist Davey Zee, who has toured with Chubby Checker and performed worldwide. Strictly Hip, a nationally touring band focused on the music of Tragically Hip follows next on stage.

The series wraps up with Exit on Aug. 26, featuring the sounds and feels of the original artists, regardless of the era. One of the best for live performances. Hit N Run, always draws capacity crowds and has the crowd jumping for more.

Other happenings:

•The "Hooked on the Tonawandas Fishing Derby" is June 27 and 28. A $15 entry fee makes you eligible for $3,000 in cash prizes and merchandise. Youth may fish for free and be entered in raffles for free fishing merchandise. This is a free fishing weekend, so no fishing license is required.

•The "Chocolate & Wine Festival" takes place from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. Free admission, a host of chocolate, candy, beverages, children's activities and contests for young and old will be featured. Wine tasting is available for the adults.

•T-NT Gateway Markets, offering an evening of food, acoustic music and atmosphere, continues 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays through Oct. 1. Check out the food trucks, artisans, craft activities and merchant booths.

Gateway Harbor is located in North Tonawanda on Sweeney Street (between Webster and Main streets) and in the City of Tonawanda on Young Street between Delaware and Main streets. It is separated by the Erie Canal and features unique ambiance for leisure activity in Western New York and beyond. Boaters are welcome.

For further information, contact Linda Foels at 716-930-2622 or email [email protected].