By Kate Bartlett
Saturday, July 25 marks the 6th Annual HillTAP signature summer event combining live music, scenic mountain views, local craft beverages, and outdoor activities at Holiday Valley’s Spruce Lake. The event is ideal for friends, families, and anyone who loves craft beer, live music, and nature. It’s a great weekend to experience music in Ellicottville.
HillTAP was created by 42 North Brewing Company founder John Cimperman, who envisioned a unique festival combining music, local flavor, and the scenic beauty of Holiday Valley. “HillTAP is much more than a music festival,” explains Dash Hegeman, Marketing Director at Holiday Valley. “It’s a one-of-a-kind summer experience here in Ellicottville. Guests begin the day with a scenic chairlift ride to Spruce Lake, where they can enjoy live music, local craft beverages, great food, and outdoor activities surrounded by the natural beauty of Spruce Lake. As the day unfolds, the festival moves back down the mountain for additional performances, creating an experience that’s truly unique as far as music festivals go.”
This year, the overall HillTAP experience remains true to what guests have come to love, but the music lineup brings something fresh to the festival. “We’re excited to welcome Americana favorites Driftwood as the headlining act, along with Pressing Strings, a Maryland-based trio making their first appearance in Western New York with a unique blend of rock, blues, and folk,” says Dash. Opening the day at Spruce Lake is Buffalo’s own Ed Croft & Tina Williams, whose roots, soul, blues, and country sound is the perfect fit for starting the day off.
Whether guests have been attending HillTAP since its inception, or coming for the first time, this year’s lineup offers a great mix of regional favorites and new sounds that elevate the experience. “Every year, we aim to pair the scenic mountain experience with talented artists that complement the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere,” says Dash.
Beyond the entertainment, guests can try activities like axe throwing with Hatchets & Hops, bike and e-bike demos, riding the scenic chairlift, or simply relaxing with friends while enjoying the mountain views. Great food is also a big part of the experience, with favorites from Dina’s and Fat Bob’s BBQ alongside a selection of local craft beverages from 42 North Brewing and 1911 Cider.
What really sets HillTAP apart is the combination of live music, outdoor recreation, local food and drinks, and the natural beauty of Holiday Valley. It’s a laid-back summer festival where people can explore, unwind, and enjoy everything that makes Ellicottville such a great destination. “I love how 42 North Brewing has done such a fantastic job of creating a festival that is all about kicking back and being able to just enjoy being outside for the day,” explains Dash. “Between just sitting back and enjoying the natural setting to listening to live music, and all the different activities that are available to do, there’s something to do for pretty much everyone. And when you combine that with some tasty food and drinks, it definitely makes for a great experience.”
For more information, visit holidayvalley.com or 42north.com and follow on social media for updates. Tickets include access to the chairlift, live music, food trucks, craft beer, and various outdoor activities. Kids under 10 are free with an adult.