Griffis Sculpture Park Summer Festival Returns Aug. 16 with Live Music, Art & Family Fun
The annual fundraiser features live performances by Letter to Elise and other regional artists, plus art vendors, food trucks, family activities, and the opportunity to explore one of Western New York's most unique outdoor sculpture parks.
EAST OTTO - Music and festivals have been part of the Griffis Sculpture Park since the very first day the park opened in October 1968. Throughout the park’s history, festivals and events have showcased a wide variety of art forms and creative expression. Many people remember the legendary 1991 concert by 10,000 Maniacs that attracted over 3,000 people on a steamy July day, or when in 1994, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, The Band, played to a large, adoring crowd.
For the past 14 years, the Griffis Sculpture Park Summer Festival has been taking place on the third Sunday in August. The fundraiser event has always featured local original music acts, arts vendors, food trucks, and several opportunities to enjoy and explore the sculptures scattered throughout the park.
The 2026 Griffis Sculpture Park Summer Festival will take place on Sunday, August 16 from 12:00-6:00pm. The headlining act is Letter to Elise, a rising band known for blending shimmering ‘80s-inspired alt-pop with raw modern energy. Fresh off an appearance on NBC’s The Voice, Letter to Elise brought their harmony-rich sound and unmistakable Buffalo spirit to a national audience.
The festival lineup also features performances by La Krema (a Latin band with an English twist), Karma Queen (indie rock), Alex Glenfield & Ravi Padmanabha (throat singer and percussion), and Shaky Paw (groove heavy, electronic). Tickets to the festival can be purchased at Eventbrite. Admission is $25; children 12 and under are free.
“This is a very family-friendly event,” said Doug Sitler, park board member. “We like that children 12 and under are free to attend, as it provides families with a wonderful opportunity to expose children to arts and nature.”
The event is also an important fundraiser for the Ashford Hollow Foundation, which owns and operates the sculpture park. The park has been a 501(c)3 non-profit since 1969. Funds raised at the festival help maintain and keep the park open to the public. An estimated 40,000 people visit the park each year. It is a major visitor attraction in Cattaraugus County and Western New York.
“Many of our volunteers call the festival ‘the best day of the summer’ due to the music, the incredible scenery and the overall relaxing, friendly vibe of the festival,” said Doug Sitler, park board member. “It’s a blissful afternoon for all of those who attend.”
Learn more about the park at griffissculpturepark.org and purchase your festival ticket at eventbrite.com.