By Kate Bartlett
Summer is not shy on outdoor events and entertainment in WNY, and Larkin Square in Buffalo is another place to add to the list of venues. “Opened in June 2012, Larkin Square is in the center of Larkinville, the site of the former Larkin Soap Company warehouse buildings. Owned and operated by Larkin Development Group, this public space provides a backdrop of colorful furniture amongst whimsical architecture, where community gatherings are filled with food, music and fun.” –(larkinsquare.com)
Throughout the summer, the square comes alive with fun, free, family-friendly events including Food Truck Tuesday, Live at Larkin concerts, and the Larkin Square Author Series. Larkin Square is quickly gaining attention as one of the most unique spaces in Western New York with something for everyone any day of the week.
The square kicked off another season of Food Truck Tuesdays June 7th featuring 20 food trucks from the Buffalo and Rochester areas complete with live music and entertainment. Stop by every Tuesday from 5-8 through August 30 to sample dozens of food trucks and enjoy live music on their Boardwalk plus beer, wine and other beverages offered by Larkin Square. An updated listing of each week’s food trucks and band schedule can be found on their website.
Live at Larkin brings the Square to life every Wednesday evening from 5-8pm through August 31 with a signature local band on their outdoor stage. A special ticketed event will be held July 13 with details TBA. Guests can enjoy a selection of food from Chef Darian Bryan’s Jerk Hut, food trucks, drinks, and shop artisan vendors. Beer, wine and cocktails are also available for purchase. Bands include Grosh & Guests, Farrow & Friends, Universal Phunk and more. Full music schedule is listed on their website and follow social media for special updates.
Drop in on Monday evenings between 4-8 for family-centered activities with Valley Community Association. Weekly themed activities for kids grades K-8 include scavenger hunts, art, photography, music and movement, and more. Hula-hoops and crafting supplies will also be on hand.
Fitness in the Parks hosts cardio-kickboxing in the Square every Monday at 6pm, and Zumba on Saturdays at 1030am. All are welcome, no reservations needed, this runs through August. You can also get active with a game of Pickleball on one of two Larkin’s Pickleball courts. Bring your own paddle and balls, courts available on a first-come first-serve basis.
The Larkin Square Author and Speaker Series features both local and national authors of fiction and non-fiction works. The Series also welcomes speakers on a variety of topics with an interesting story to share. These informal talks are free and open to the public, and include time for Q&A and book-signings. The first event in this series features author Lauren Belfer in conversation with Margaret Sullivan, speaking about Belfer’s new novel, Ashton Hall. Check for updates on their website and follow-on social media.
Larkin Square is located at 745 Seneca Street in Buffalo, NY, just one block north of the Larkin at Exchange Building, at the intersection of Swan and Seneca Streets.