Artpark to Celebrate 50th Anniversary Next Week

Artpark Amphitheatre (WIBV archive photo)

BUFFALO, NY (WIVB) — Artpark will celebrate its 50th anniversary on July 24.

“It’s very exciting because the project has evolved a lot over the years and had different lives,” said Dave Wedekindt, interim president of Artpark. “The 50th anniversary is a great time to look back, but we’re also looking forward and excited about the program we have here and the magnitude of what we’re doing here. A lot of great pieces have come together for an exciting future.”

To celebrate the milestone, Artpark will host a birthday party — the nonprofit’s largest fundraiser of the year — with proceeds going toward Artpark’s arts and cultural education programs, which aren’t funded by ticket sales like concerts.

“The generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations really helps Artpark realize the magnitude of what we do each year,” Wedekindt said.

Tickets to the venue’s anniversary party include access to the Artpark Skybox, a beer and wine bar open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., catering from Southern Junction and a spot to watch Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo perform at the Artpark Amphitheatre. There will also be a celebratory fireworks display after the show, and Artpark has announced “fun surprises” for guests.

Wedekindt is excited about the event and discussed what the Artpark Skybox has to offer.

“They’ll be able to support Artpark and show their support for what Artpark brings to the community,” he said. “They’ll have a great view of the stage and the gorge and hopefully be able to enjoy a beautiful sunset while they’re there.”

Tickets for the fundraiser are $150 each and are available at this link. The event will be standing room only, but guests are welcome to move around the Skybox, Party Deck and Amphitheatre.

“Great people, a fun time and of course, everyone loves Pat Benatar and Neil Geraldo,” Wedekindt said. “They put on a great show, with great energy and great sound, so I think it’s going to be a really special night.”

The Artpark season continues after the event with a packed summer, including 13 concerts, a Buffalo Jazz Composers workshop and a new art installation called The Secret Symphony of Plants, a free event that allows people to experience the music created by the park’s plants, culminating in a concert of original music inspired by the installation’s music. Wedekindt described the event as “a unique Artpark experience,” bringing together art, nature and culture.