Looking for a quick summer getaway? We’ve got just the place along the historic Erie Canal and the scenic Mohawk River. It’s the kind of place where weekends turn into adventures. Whether you’re hitting the trails, paddling through history or taking in some live tunes, there’s always more for you to do in Montgomery County, New York, this summer.
Boat the Mohawk
Grab your boat and cruise the Mohawk River, part of the legendary Erie Canal system that celebrates its bicentennial in 2025. Montgomery County makes it easy with plenty of boat launches and marinas. Make some wake, enjoy some fishing or just kick back and take in the views. It’s all about slowing down to take in what makes life great in the summer.
Paddle the Erie Canal
Want to add a little history to your adventure? Hop in a kayak and glide through the iconic locks and historic sections of the Erie Canal. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned paddler or a newbie – anyone looking for some R&R will love the calm waters and historic structures. It’s the perfect way to unwind and explore at your own pace. Or join the hundreds who paddle as part of the annual Kayak-a-Thon happening Aug. 23 between the vibrant river communities of St. Johnsville and Canajoharie. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are all welcome for this daylong event that grows each year.
Hit the Trails
Montgomery County’s 40 miles of the Erie Canalway Trail are your go-to for biking or a casual stroll. Ride through scenic landscapes, stop at local towns for snacks or pause at historic landmarks along the way. Immerse yourself in 200 years of history with the bicentennial edition of Cycle the Erie Canal from July 12 through 20. Cyclists cover 40 to 60 miles a day on this popular annual bike tour. Whenever you choose to ride, it’s all about enjoying the moment and making memories as you explore everything the trail has to offer.
Music on the Mohawk Concert Series
Montgomery County summer nights are filled with Music on the Mohawk all summer long. This lively concert series offers a great mix of music that rotates among our Erie Canal communities throughout the month. It’s the perfect summer night under the stars for fans of all genres.
2026 Music on the Mohawk Schedule
Music in the Park
Where: Thursday Nights in Haslett Park, Fort Plain
When: Concerts and FREE and begin at 6:30 PM
- July 2nd
- Spike and the Boys (Classic Rock/Country)
- July 9th
- TBD
- July 16th
- Empty Pockets Band (Country-Blue Grass-Gospel)
- July 23rd
- Big Fez and the Surfmatics (Surf and Beach Music)
- July 30th
- Midnight Exist (Rock)
- August 6th
- Get Up Jack (Irish Folk)
- August 13th
- Cooperstown Community Band (Patriotic, Marches, Show Medleys)
- August 20th
- Electric City Horns (Rhythm & Blues, Dance, Pop, Soul, Swing)
- August 27th
- Realtime Dixieland Band (Jazz)
Riverlink Park Summer Concert Series
Where: Riverlink Park
When: Every performance begins at 7:00 PM
- July 3rd
- Big Sky Country (3rd Before the 4th Celebration)
- July 11th
- Coconut Telegraph (Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band)
- July 18th
- Dark Sarcasm (Pink Floyd Tribute Band)
- July 25th
- Showtime (Back by Popular Demand)
- August 1st
- AWF 518’s Got Talent (Karaoke Contest)
- August 8th
- Across the Pond (Beatles Tribute Band)
- August 15th
- Latinfest Music Festival
- August 22nd
- Dead Man’s Waltz (Grateful Dead Tribute Band)
- August 29th
- Crossfire Hurricane (Rolling Stones Tribute Band)
- September 5th
- Legacy (Journey, Foreigner Tribute Band)
Music on Mainstreet
Where: 20 Mohawk Street Canajoharie
When: Tuesdays in August
- July 28th
- The Ghost Town Blues Band (Allman Brother Style Jams)
- August 4th
- Kara Grainger (Modern Roots, Blue, Soul)
- August 11th
- As Is (Classic Coves and Original Music)
- August 18th
- Big Fez (1960’s Music)
- August 25th
- Lustre Kings (Roots-Rock)
St. Johnsville Summer Concert Series
Where: 1 Marina Dr., St. Johnsville, NY 13452
When: Mondays in July & August, 6:30-8:30 PM, Rain or Shine
- July 6th
- Downshift (Southern Rock)
- July 13th
- Dead Zep (Grateful Dead-Led Zeppelin Fusion)
- July 20th
- Matthew Vroman Band (Country from the 50s-Today)
- July 27th
- KAOS (Rock from the 70s-90s)
- August 3rd
- David Wong (Solo Violinist Playing Familiar Hits)
- August 10th
- That 80s Band (Dance Fun)
- August 17th
- Grit N Grace (Modern Country/Rock/Dance)
- August 24th
- Unjust Ritual (Classic Rock)
- August 31
- Past Prime (Classic & Modern Country/Rock)
But, Wait … There’s More
There’s plenty more to do beyond the water, trails and tunes. Catch an Amsterdam Mohawks baseball game, get your adrenaline fix at the Fonda Speedway or check out the disc golf scene at the popular Burbine course. Whatever your style, Montgomery County is full of ways to make this summer unforgettable.
