Fall in Upstate New York brings more than just stunning foliage; it delivers an amazing lineup of must-see concerts across the region.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a quick road trip, these ten concerts are worth packing your bags for this autumn season.
1. Djo (Joe Keery): Sept. 24 at RIT, Rochester
Fans of Stranger Things know Joe Keery as Steve Harrington, but his music project Djo has carved out its own devoted following. His indie-pop sound gained viral attention with “End of Beginning,” and his newest album expands that atmospheric style.
On September 24, Djo performs at Rochester Institute of Technology, giving students and travelers alike a chance to catch him in a midsize venue before he moves on to larger stages.
Visitors can pair the show with a day exploring Rochester’s High Falls or the George Eastman Museum, then grab dinner in the city’s bustling Public Market District before heading to campus for the concert.
2. Toad the Wet Sprocket with KT Tunstall & Vertical Horizon: Oct. 3 at Palace Theatre, Albany
The Palace Theatre in Albany hosts a triple bill of ’90s and 2000s favorites on October 3. Toad the Wet Sprocket will bring radio staples like “All I Want” and “Walk on the Ocean.” Singer-songwriter KT Tunstall adds her powerful voice and hits such as “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree,” while Vertical Horizon rounds out the lineup with “Everything You Want.”
The Palace Theatre, with its ornate 1930s architecture, provides an elegant backdrop for the nostalgic evening. Travelers can explore downtown Albany’s Empire State Plaza or spend the afternoon at the New York State Museum before catching the show.
3. David Byrne at Landmark Theatre, Syracuse: Sept. 23, 2025
Former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne brings his innovative solo show to Syracuse’s magnificent Landmark Theatre. The ornate 2,800-seat movie palace from 1928 provides a stunning backdrop for Byrne’s artistic performance style.
Known for his theatrical concerts, Byrne combines music with choreography and visual elements that push the boundaries of traditional live shows. Attendees can expect a mix of solo material alongside reimagined Talking Heads classics like “This Must Be The Place” and “Burning Down the House.”
Syracuse’s revitalized downtown offers plenty of pre-show dining options within walking distance. Fans traveling from out of town should consider staying overnight to explore the city’s vibrant arts district. At 73, Byrne continues to deliver some of the most creative live performances in modern music.
4. Alice Cooper & Judas Priest at SPAC, Saratoga Springs: Sept. 27, 2025
Metal meets shock rock when Alice Cooper and Judas Priest share the bill at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. SPAC’s 25,000-capacity amphitheater nestled within Saratoga Spa State Park creates a unique concert experience that combines natural beauty with hard-hitting music.
Alice Cooper, the 77-year-old godfather of shock rock, still delivers theatrical horror-inspired performances complete with guillotines, monsters, and pyrotechnics. Judas Priest brings five decades of heavy metal mastery, with Rob Halford’s powerful vocals soaring through classics like “Breaking the Law.”
The venue’s lawn seating offers an affordable option for fans wanting to experience this legendary double bill. September weather in Saratoga Springs is typically perfect for outdoor concerts. Many visitors make a weekend of it by exploring the historic downtown and famous mineral springs.
5. Steve Winwood at Turning Stone Casino, Verona: Sept. 27, 2025
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Steve Winwood brings his soulful voice and keyboard wizardry to the intimate Showroom at Turning Stone. The 800-seat venue provides a rare opportunity to experience this legendary musician in a close-up setting.
Winwood’s career spans over 60 years, from his teenage success with the Spencer Davis Group to Traffic, Blind Faith, and his solo hits like “Higher Love.” His distinctive voice remains remarkably unchanged, and his instrumental skills on organ and guitar continue to impress audiences worldwide.
The Showroom’s excellent sightlines and acoustics make every seat feel premium. Fans often report that Winwood’s band delivers extended jam versions of classics that showcase his jazz and R&B influences. This performance coincides with his 77th birthday month, adding special significance to an already memorable concert experience.
6. T-Pain: Oct. 10 at Outer Harbor, Buffalo
On October 10, the Outer Harbor along Lake Erie transforms into an open-air party when T-Pain headlines. Known for 2000s anthems like “Buy U a Drank” and “I’m Sprung,” T-Pain’s catalog also includes countless collaborations with hip-hop and pop stars. His shows are high-energy sing-along sessions that pull in fans across generations.
Buffalo’s waterfront venue offers wide views of the lake, making it a scenic spot for a fall concert. Travelers can spend the day exploring Canalside, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, or sample the city’s famous wings before heading to the harbor for the night’s performance.
7. Gary Allan at The Vine Theater, Del Lago Resort & Casino, Waterloo: Oct. 3, 2025
Country music maverick Gary Allan brings his gritty vocals and authentic songwriting to The Vine Theater at del Lago Resort. The 2,400-seat venue offers an intimate atmosphere for fans to connect with Allan’s emotional performances.
Allan’s distinctive blend of traditional country, rock, and Bakersfield sound has earned him a loyal following over his 25-year career. His gravel-tinged voice perfectly delivers hits like “Watching Airplanes” and “Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain)” alongside tracks from his latest album.
The Finger Lakes location makes this concert ideal for a weekend getaway. Visitors can explore nearby wineries during the day before enjoying the evening performance. The casino resort offers convenient accommodations for those wanting to extend their stay and experience the beautiful fall foliage surrounding Seneca Lake.
8. Jamey Johnson at Turning Stone Casino, Verona: Oct. 5, 2025
Grammy-nominated country traditionalist Jamey Johnson returns to the Turning Stone Event Center with his outlaw country sound. Johnson’s powerful baritone and storytelling abilities have earned him comparisons to legends like Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard.
Fans appreciate Johnson’s unwavering commitment to authentic country music in an era of pop-country crossovers. His three-hour performances typically feature no setlist, creating unique shows where he follows his instincts and audience reactions. The Event Center’s excellent sound system perfectly captures the nuances of Johnson’s voice and his exceptional band.
October in Central New York offers spectacular fall colors for travelers making the drive to Verona. Many fans make this concert part of a fall foliage tour through the region. Johnson’s performances are known for deep cuts alongside hits like “In Color” and “High Cost of Living.”
9. Trapt at The Westcott Theater, Syracuse: Oct. 5, 2025
Hard rock band Trapt delivers an intense live experience at Syracuse’s Westcott Theater. The standing-room venue holds approximately 700 fans, creating an electric atmosphere perfect for the band’s high-energy performance style.
Lead singer Chris Taylor Brown brings passionate vocals to the band’s catalog of hits, including the massive chart-topper “Headstrong.” The Westcott’s powerful sound system and intimate setting allow fans to feel every guitar riff and drum beat throughout the performance.
Located in Syracuse’s university district, the venue is surrounded by casual dining options perfect for a pre-show meal. The theater’s historic character adds charm to the concert experience. Many out-of-town fans combine this show with Syracuse University sporting events happening the same weekend for a complete entertainment package.
10. Ben Folds: Oct. 19 at Nazareth University, Pittsford
Pianist, songwriter, and former Ben Folds Five frontman Ben Folds brings his solo tour to the Glazer Music Performance Center at Nazareth University on October 19. The intimate setting highlights Folds’ mix of sharp lyrics, storytelling, and improvisational piano skills, with setlists often changing night to night.
Fans can expect both classic tracks like “Brick” and selections from his recent albums. Pittsford, located just outside Rochester, is a picturesque canal town perfect for a fall weekend.
Visitors can walk the Erie Canal path, browse boutiques in Schoen Place, and enjoy dinner at local restaurants before capping the evening with the concert.
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