About JulyFest
In 1963, a group of merchants in the downtown business district got together and decided to create a festival celebrating downtown. July seemed like a great month - the weather was usually nice and people were shopping and the workers would be happy to have an excuse to go outside and enjoy themselves. Thus JulyFest was born.
Downtown Binghamton is a significantly different place now than it was then - the businesses are still there, but now there are students from the University, young professionals in lofts, and boutique shops dotting the district. In recent years JulyFest has been reinvigorated to bring back a sense of pride and enjoyment to the downtown district. 2008 marks the 45th year of JulyFest, and we're proud to continue the tradition.
JulyFest is a two-day event. Things kick off on Friday shortly before lunch. Vendors are lined up and down Court and Washington Streets and outdoor seating and food is setup down State Street. There are classic cars and music and kettle corn and artists displaying their works. When the festival ends on Friday afternoon around 6pm, Live at Five takes over with live music through the evening on State Street. Saturday morning it all starts over again and the festival lasts all day Saturday with more music, games, and entertainment all day long.
Join the fun! See the Schedule of Events for a list of what's happening at this year's JulyFest!
In 1963, a group of merchants in the downtown business district got together and decided to create a festival celebrating downtown. July seemed like a great month - the weather was usually nice and people were shopping and the workers would be happy to have an excuse to go outside and enjoy themselves. Thus JulyFest was born.
Downtown Binghamton is a significantly different place now than it was then - the businesses are still there, but now there are students from the University, young professionals in lofts, and boutique shops dotting the district. In recent years JulyFest has been reinvigorated to bring back a sense of pride and enjoyment to the downtown district. 2008 marks the 45th year of JulyFest, and we're proud to continue the tradition.
JulyFest is a two-day event. Things kick off on Friday shortly before lunch. Vendors are lined up and down Court and Washington Streets and outdoor seating and food is setup down State Street. There are classic cars and music and kettle corn and artists displaying their works. When the festival ends on Friday afternoon around 6pm, Live at Five takes over with live music through the evening on State Street. Saturday morning it all starts over again and the festival lasts all day Saturday with more music, games, and entertainment all day long.
Join the fun! See the Schedule of Events for a list of what's happening at this year's JulyFest!