June is here, and Downtown Ithaca is already in motion. This week brings a lineup of can’t-miss experiences before the big kickoff — and the countdown to the first Thursday night concert is officially on.
Wednesday, June 4: King Alcohol Ends Reign — A Prohibition Walking Tour
Before national Prohibition ever took hold, Ithaca had already earned some memorable nicknames: “Sodom,” “Sin City,” and “Rum Town, USA.” This Wednesday, June 4 at 5:30 p.m., you can trace that history on foot.
King Alcohol Ends Reign is a 10-block walking tour through downtown Ithaca led by trained docents, exploring the city’s spirited — and often surprising — relationship with Prohibition. It’s a great way to experience the downtown streetscape with fresh eyes and a story behind every corner.
When: Wednesday, June 4, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Where: Downtown Ithaca (meeting point on the event page)
Tickets: $15 — details at downtownithaca.com/events
Friday, June 5: First Friday Gallery Night
Every first Friday of the month, galleries and venues throughout Ithaca and Tompkins County open their doors for Ithaca Gallery Night — 5 to 8 p.m., free to attend. Up to 20 participating spaces feature local, regional, and international visual artists, with new exhibits, opening receptions, and art across every medium imaginable: painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, ceramics, fiber art, and more.
This Friday is a perfect opportunity to stroll the Commons, pop into the shops, grab dinner, and discover something new. Check ithacagallerynight.com for the full list of participating venues.
When: Friday, June 5, 5–8 p.m.
Where: Galleries and venues throughout downtown Ithaca and Tompkins County
Cost: Free
One Week Away: The Summer Concert Series Kicks Off June 11
The Beginnings Credit Union Summer Concert Series officially launches one week from Thursday — June 11 — at the Bernie Milton Pavilion on the Ithaca Commons. This year’s opener features Jill McCracken and Maddy Walsh & The Blind Spots, running 5 to 8 p.m. Free. All ages. No ticket needed.
With 12 Thursday nights of live music ahead — from Latin jazz to bluegrass to brass bands — this is the summer to make the Commons your regular Thursday destination. Come for the music, stay for everything that makes downtown Ithaca feel alive.
See the full 2026 lineup and plan your summer at downtownithaca.com/summer-concert-series.
