By Kate Bartlett
This weekend, February 21-23 marks the 7th annual Winter Music Jam put on by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce. This annual festival celebrates the second phase of ski season with local musicians playing at various venues throughout Ellicottville.
The Winter Music Jam was started by the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce in 2018 as a way to gather the community in celebration of the ski season. “Ellicottville has always been an amazing place to ski,” comments Barb Pump, Executive Director of The Chamber. “We started this festival as an opportunity to get the community together in our local establishments, celebrating with music in good company during the second half of ski season.”
This year, the festival kicks off on Friday, February 21 at Edna’s at the Tamarack Club from 4-7 with Jamie Smith from Porcelain Bus Drivers. Skipdog will play at 6pm at The Ratchet Hatchet and 2 Guys Drinkin’ Beer at The Gin Mill at 8pm. Over 20 local musicians will perform throughout the weekend at various venues in Ellicottville including Balloons, Gin Mill, Cygaro, Villaggio, Mill Street Sports Pub (formerly Finnerty’s) and The Ratchet Hatchet. “It’s a great way to experience our town,” says Barb. “Come out an enjoy local artists at some of our most popular establishments.”
Balloons, Gin Mill and Villaggio have been participating in the Winter Music Jam for several years, but The Ratchet Hatchet, Mill Street Sports Pub and Cygaro have just recently started hosting bands. “We’re thrilled to have these restaurants participating, and we’re looking forward to visitors and locals coming out to experience some of the best Ellicottville has to offer,” says Barb.
Holiday Valley will also have music with Trevor from PA Line upstairs in the main lodge at T-Bar from 4-7 on Saturday, February 22. “Having live music here always adds an extra level of fun to visiting Holiday Valley,” says Dash Hegeman, Marketing Director for Holiday Valley. “Whether you’re a local season passholder or here with your family on vacation, we want to provide you with a festive experience that will leave you wanting to come back and do it all over again. The music acts we are able to bring in throughout the season do a great job of elevating the vibe after a day out on the slopes.”
Barb encourages everyone to come out and experience local musicians during the Winter Music Jam. “We have so many talented musicians in the area. With so many bars and restaurants participating, there’s something for everyone. Come out and visit one or try them all! It’s a great way to spend an evening or the weekend here in Ellicottville.”
All venues are indoors, so guests can be warm no matter the weather. For more information and full schedule of events, visit ellicottvilleny.com and follow on social media @ Ellicottville, NY.Music Line Up 2025