Can you believe it? The last weekend in June is nearing which means July is just around the corner. Wow, the summer really does go by fast! Lucky for you, there are summer events planned nearby to allow you to stop for a minute and really enjoy the summer season.

Cazenovia and Hamilton: One of my favorite things about summer is an abundance of fresh veggies and fruit grown locally. The tastes of this produce is incomparable to any other and we get a chance to support our local economy which is always a rewarding thing to do. Every Saturday throughout the Summer there are farmers markets taking place in Cazenovia and Hamilton. I have been to both and they are equally as fantastic...so fantastic in fact that you should make a day of it and check out both of them. There are also local artisans and crafters that use the farmers market to showcase their talents and sell their goods. Aside from the produce and art, there are other homemade products for sale such as jams and maple syrup. Its the time for planting gardens, so pick up a few plants while you're there. The Cazenovia Farmers Market is open from 9am-5pm. For more information visit the Cazenovia Chamber of Commerce website. The Farmers Market in Hamilton begins at 8am and ends at 1pm.

Canastota and Chittenango: Now we need something for the kids to do...To a child, what is better than being out in nature and having fun? NOTHING. Well at least thats what I remember from my childhood. Kids love to be outside, so here are a few ideas to get them moving outside while getting some...what I like to refer to as "fun education". First, The Great Swamp Conservancy Inc. will host, "Whats lives in a pond"? This event will take place in Canastota, on Saturday the 28th from 1-2pm and is free to all children and adults. Here is a great opportunity for children (and parents) to get their feet wet and explore nature with the aid of nets, bottles, and magnifying glasses. Pre-registration is required for this event. For more information please visit the GSC website or call, (315)-697-2950.

Next, we move up the road a ways to Chittenango Falls State Park for Children's Nature Journaling. On Saturday the 28th, children in grades 2-5 will get up close and personal look to the park’s natural environment through the outdoor art-based activities of nature journaling. Children will be encouraged to explore the outdoors using all their senses while recording their findings artistically and scientifically in personal nature journals. Art supplies will be provided. This event is part of a children's nature themed program series that will take place each Saturday at 2:30pm at Chittenango Falls State Park. For more information please call, (315)-655-9620.  

Cazenovia: Back to something for the adults...The same people that are bringing you the Children's Nature Journaling are presenting, Create Art in the Park, a series of adult art education programs to take place in Chittenango Falls State Park. These programs will be held every Sunday at 2:30pm starting with Sunday the 29th. You will learn basic nature sketching and watercolor techniques. The program will consist of guided introductory exercises and individual artistic exploration of the park. Art supplies will be provided. Come unleash your hidden artist and express yourself in a relaxing and soothing environment. For more information please call, (315)-655-9620.

So there you have it, something for the family, something for the kids and last...but not least, something for YOU. Whether you are an artist, you want to become an artist or you just want to support an artist...well then this weekends events are tailored toward you.