Live Music in the Maple City every Thursday June 25-August 27
From HPG,
HORNELL, NY – Hornell Partners for Growth (HPG) is proud to announce the return of Thursdays at the Square, a free summer concert and family activity series taking place from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in Union Square Park from June 25 through August 27, 2026.
This year’s series is made possible through the generous support of HP Hood, the Presenting Sponsor of the entire 2026 Thursdays at the Square season. As one of the region’s largest employers and a longtime supporter of community initiatives, HP Hood’s partnership helps ensure that Thursdays at the Square remains free and accessible to everyone while bringing live music, local vendors, family activities, and community engagement opportunities to downtown Hornell throughout the summer.
In addition to our Presenting Sponsor, we would like to recognize First Heritage Federal Credit Union, Matt Getman of Twin Tier Tent Rentals, Hornell Kiwanis Club, Maple City Savings Bank, and the Arts Council of the Southern Finger Lakes for their commitment to supporting family-friendly events, community engagement, and opportunities that bring residents and visitors together throughout the summer.
We would like to recognize and thank the more than 250 businesses that make up the Hornell Business Improvement District. Their continued support of HPG and commitment to making Hornell a vibrant place to live, work, shop, and visit helps make programs like Thursdays at the Square possible.
Each Thursday at the Square event features live entertainment, free children’s activities, community organizations, local businesses, and opportunities for neighbors to gather and enjoy summer evenings together. Food vendors will change throughout the season, providing attendees with a variety of local favorites and unique menu offerings. Craft vendors interested in participating throughout the season are encouraged to contact HPG at hornellpartners@gmail.com for vendor information. Local farmers and agricultural producers are especially encouraged to participate and will receive a free vendor space.
In the event of severe weather, cancellations, postponements, or location changes will be announced as early as possible through the Discover Hornell App and HPG social media channels. Community members are encouraged to download the free Discover Hornell App and like and follow HPG on Facebook for the latest event updates, announcements, and schedule changes.
June 25 – Alumni Night
Celebrate Hornell’s alumni and community spirit with high-energy Classic Rock from Midnight Storm from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Families can enjoy a special Writing Night where children create their own summer storybooks, with mini Scholastic books available for younger children while supplies last.
HPG would like to thank the Arts Council of the Southern Finger Lakes for its $450 grant award supporting the opening night performance by Midnight Storm. This funding helps expand access to free arts, music, and cultural experiences for families throughout the community. This intergenerational evening blends music, creativity, and community connection in the heart of downtown Hornell.
July 9 – Community Connections Night
Honor Hornell’s railroad heritage with locomotive-themed music from Tin Lizard from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The evening will feature train-inspired crafts and interactive exhibits from the Hornell Erie Railroad Museum. It’s a night that connects generations through local history, creativity, and hometown pride.
July 16 – Family Game Night
Enjoy live music from Ellen & the Fam from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM while spending an evening playing board and card games provided by the Friends of the Hornell Public Library. Family Game Night is designed to bring generations together through friendly competition, laughter, and community fun.
July 23 – Feed the Community Night
Returning for its second year, HPG joins Fresh Start Church, Fidelis Care Health Insurance, and Wegmans to provide a free community meal for all attendees while enjoying Classic Rock favorites from North of 40.
This special evening brings neighbors together through food, music, and meaningful connections with local businesses and nonprofit partners.
July 30 – Kids Night
One of the most anticipated evenings of the season, Kids Night features music from DJ Truth, free face painting by Badger & Butterfly Studios, balloon creations by Fun That Pops, and Punch & Judy puppet shows at 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM.
It’s an unforgettable evening designed just for kids to dance, laugh, play, and celebrate summer.
August 6 – Explore Music: Jazz Night
Experience an evening of Jazz featuring The John Nyerges Jazz Quintet from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Dream Float from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Families can participate in hands-on “Build-a-Band” jazz-themed craft stations while discovering the rhythms, sounds, and creativity that make jazz a uniquely American art form.
August 13 – Create Your Own Art Puzzle Night
Guests can design and decorate their own custom puzzles while enjoying the honky-tonk, rockabilly, and blues sounds of Dirt Turtles from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
This relaxed, hands-on evening combines art, music, and creativity for all ages.
August 20 – Latin Jazz Night
Feel the rhythm with Jorge T. Cuevas & The Caribe Jazz Allstars performing Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cha Cha, and Swing, complete with live dance lessons before each style.
A Punch & Judy puppet show begins at 5:30 PM, giving families an opportunity to enjoy entertainment before taking to the dance floor.
August 27 – Lost Mix Tape Night
Close out the season with Lost Mix Tape’s high-energy ’90s hits and a final evening of family crafts and activities. It’s a nostalgic celebration filled with sing-alongs, throwback favorites, and summer memories in the making as Hornell gathers one last time for the 2026 season. HPG is always seeking community-minded businesses and organizations interested in supporting local events and activities throughout the year. Sponsorship opportunities are available for upcoming events including the Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks, Maple City Festival, and future Thursdays at the Square seasons. Businesses interested in learning more about sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact HPG at hornellpartners@gmail.com
