Yep, it’s that time of year again! The third annual Buy Local Bash is coming up very fast and it’s one of the few yearly events you shouldn’t miss. Conceived by the folks at SyracuseFirst, the Buy Local Bash is a celebration of the amazing regional food and drink producers, independent businesses, and distinct local culture that make Syracuse a place I love so much. On top of the wide range of excellent local food, local beer and wine, live local music, and strong community atmosphere, it’s also a wonderful networking opportunity no matter who you are or what you do. Don’t miss it!
If you weren’t already aware, November is Buy Local Month as part of SyracuseFirst’s mission to encourage reinvestment in the community. In case “reinvestment” sounds like a big financial commitment, it’s not. Just by choosing Recess Coffee over Starbucks, or eating at Beer Belly Deli instead of Chipotle, you are reinvesting in Syracuse. A much higher percentage of dollars spent at local, independent businesses stay here, which is the most important thing we can do to reinvigorate a flagging economy. Local is everything. SyracuseFirst and director Chris Fowler (among others: Jamie White for one) are the heart and soul of Syracuse’s buy local movement. Via the SF site: SyracuseFirst is a not for profit network of locally owned, independent businesses and organizations dedicated to building a sustainable community by encouraging citizens to ‘Think Local First’. Want to learn more or become a SyracuseFirst member? Here’s a little testimonial: I met Chris by chance at Recess Coffee one afternoon and we ended up chatting for a few hours. Chris connected me with the SyracuseFirst network after seeing my work. I reached 300 brand new people in one day and they became my initial core readership. At a time when I was unsure of how to get things going Chris Fowler and SyracuseFirst single-handedly gave me the answer.
But back to the Bash. Primarily a social event, the Buy Local Bash brings together local food producers and their products, local beverages, artists, live music, and so much more in one central location. Last year it was at Benjamin’s on Franklin. This year things have obviously improved because the event moved to The Regional Market. I can’t think of a better venue given the sheer amount of vendors and some 500 people expected this year. The Buy Local Bash is a not for profit event and your $20/$25 gets you access to all kinds of local food samples as well as FREE selected brews from Middle Ages Brewing Company, Saranac, Empire Brewing Company, and more. Last time everyone had their fill just off samples and all my friends and I were pretty enthused about the free beer. Buy Local Bash 2011 was a blast and brought all kinds of people together. If you want my prediction, this one is going to be even better.
From what I can officially confirm as of today, local cookie/pastry company Sweet Praxis and always-fair trade, always-organic coffee roasters Recess Coffee are on the list. Here’s just a sampling of who will be there. 83 & Company, AppeThaizing, Assumption Food Pantry, Beak & Skiff, Cafe Kubal, Carly Bakes, China Towne, Cookie Connection, Empire Brewery, Eve Galleria, Evil Treats, Giovanni Foods, Hot Mamma Gina’s, Lakeland Winery, Lilipad Creations, Lockwood Farms, Lune Chocolat, Middle Ages Brewery, Owera Vineyards, Ponchito’s, Recess Coffee, Red House Arts Center, Roji Tea Lounge, Saranac Brewery, Smoke Incorporated BBQ, Sweet Rebecca’s Cupcakes and Confections, Terra Organic Spa, MoST, WCNY, and Witty Wicks Candles. That’s a long list and that’s not even everyone!
As far as the music goes, Los Blancos is headlining. I’m sure all locals have at least heard the name Los Blancos. I’m most familiar with them from Empire’s Blues Brunch, where you’ll find them most Sundays. Best described as a roots music band, they cross many genres including soul, zydeco, Latin, funk, folk, and outlaw country. No matter what sort of music you enjoy, Los Blancos seems to have something for everyone. They’re especially fun to see live and play at various local venues (Shifty’s for one). The Side Project plays a mix of pop, rock, and, standards and will open for Los Blancos at the Bash.
Don’t miss out on this great and extremely important event. There’s nothing even remotely similar to the Buy Local Bash in Syracuse and you can bet on a delicious, fun night of all things local. Show your support of Syracuse’s independent businesses and buy a ticket below!
Buy Local Bash 2012
Monday, November 19th from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
The Regional Market
2100 Park Street (Directions)
BUY TICKETS NOW! -$20 in advance/$25 at door.
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