Food Truck Battle, ‘Beetlejuice,’ RetroGameCon Spring Edition: 29 things to do this week in CNY

Calendars are filling up nicely as we move closer to summer and an increasing number of outdoor events.

Start your week with the quiet calm of a Silent Book Club meeting on Monday. On Tuesday, hear Syracuse-based author Debbie Urbanski speak or create your own expression of self at Pink Rock Culture Co-op.

Cult classic “Beetlejuice” hits the stage Wednesday, and if you’re looking for even more laughs, so does “Whose Live Anyway” — at the Landmark and Crouse Hinds theaters, respectively.

Later this week, fill your bellies at Salt City Market‘s AAPI Month-inspired sampling event, the two-day Battle of the Wings at the Inner Harbor and the two-day Food Truck Battle at the NYS Fairgrounds. Cheer on the Syracuse Mets or take a step back into CNY history this weekend at Lorenzo State Historic Site, the H. Lee White Maritime Museum and the Clay Historical Association.

There are also several opportunities to support important causes in our community, including Mocktails for Mental Health, benefiting Safe Space CNY; White Coat Rock, a concert that supports scholarships for future health professionals; and a barbershop-style a cappella concert with donations going to a local food pantry.

MONDAY

Silent Book Club

Grab a book and head to the Northern Onondaga Public Library for a quiet evening Monday. Silent book clubs don’t involve discussions, questions or reading requirements. Bring a book of your choice or pick up one of the librarian’s recommended reads and spend some time in the world on its pages. This event is for adults.

Where: 100 Trolley Barn Ln., North Syracuse

When: Monday, May 12 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

How much: Free. Registration is recommended.

TUESDAY

Author Event: Debbie Urbanski

Bestselling author Debbie Urbanski will return to Parthenon Books Tuesday for a book launch event. Urbanski’s work focuses on the intersections of horror, fantasy, sci fi, memoir and the planet. To celebrate the release of “Portalmania,” her first book of short stories, Urbanski will read from the book and discuss it with Sarah Harwell, director of SU’s creative writing program.

Where: 333 S. Salina St., Syracuse

When: Tuesday, May 13 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

How much: Free to attend. Registration required.

Art Cafe: Collage Buffet

Stop by creative space Pink Rock Culture Co-op for a self-guided art experience Tuesday. Dive into the art supplies and 2D elements to make what interests you: a collage, decoupage, junk journal, vision board or mixed media. Start something new or bring a work in progress. Pink Rock is a sober space; tea, coffee, seltzer and water will be available. Guests are welcome to bring their own non-alcoholic beverages.

Where: 201 E. Jefferson St., Syracuse

When: Tuesday, May 13 from 6 to 10 p.m.

How much: $10. Sign up online.

WEDNESDAY

‘Beetlejuice’

Day-O! Based on the beloved Tim Burton film, the ghost with the most takes the Landmark Theatre stage Wednesday for opening night; “Beetlejuice” is the last show of the ‘24-’25 Broadway in Syracuse season. The hilarious touring musical follows the story of strange and unusual teenager Lydia Deetz as she grapples with the discovery of a recently deceased couple and a demon in her new home. The show is recommended for ages 13+ and runs through May 18.

Where: 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse

When: Wednesday, May 14 at 7:30 p.m.

How much: $45-$98, includes fees. Tickets can be purchased online.

Venissa Santi 3rio Music Night

Cuban American vocalist Venissa Santi and her trio bring a blend of jazz, Afro-Cuban traditions and original songwriting to Orozco Gallery in Ithaca on Wednesday. Santi has released two critically acclaimed albums, “Bienvenida” and “Big Stuff.” The gallery is opening its doors this month as a pop-up space for creativity, connection and cultural celebration. The space is sober, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available at the cash bar.

Where: 115 S. Cayuga St., Ithaca

When: Wednesday, May 14 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

How much: Free to attend. For more details and optional registration, visit the gallery owner’s site.

Mocktails for Mental Health

Join Right Mind Syracuse at Emerald Cocktail Kitchen Wednesday for a mocktail and craft workshop. Learn how to make two seasonal mocktails — along with a lesson on bar tools and techniques — plus an additional hands-on craft activity, while live music by local performers sets the mood. ECK’s full menu will also be available. Ten dollars from every ticket goes to Safe Space Organization, which provides mental health education, support and resources.

Where: 1333 W. Fayette St., second floor, Syracuse

When: Wednesday, May 14 from 6 to 8 p.m.

How much: $40. Registration required.

Build Your Own Herb Box

Get growing at Jake’s Greenhouse and Ice Cream on Wednesday. First, build, paint and decorate your own 12- by 14-inch wooden herb box. Then choose up to six herbs to plant; expected selection to include mint, basil, thyme, dill, bay leaf, cilantro, parsley, oregano, rosemary and lemongrass. All materials will be provided. The class will be held outside or in the greenhouse.

Where: 210 Genesee St., Canastota

When: Wednesday, May 14 from 6 to 8 p.m.

How much: $35. Register in advance.

‘Whose Live Anyway?’

Four acclaimed improv actors bring their comedic stylings to the Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater Wednesday. Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis and Joel Murray, well known for their TV antics, will perform songs and sketches in their totally unscripted, off-the-cuff manner. Bring your suggestions and watch for audience participation opportunities. All ages welcome but language is likely to be at a PG-13 level.

Where: 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse

When: Wednesday, May 14 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

How much: $87-$106, includes fees. Purchase tickets online.

THURSDAY

AAPI Month-inspired Sampling Event

Each of the 11 diverse vendors at Salt City Market are celebrating the AAPI community Thursday night by doing what they do best: making tasty bites. Savor dishes like an Asian-inspired elote (EllaRae’s Tacos), a beef curry puff (Firecracker Thai Kitchen), noodle salad with tamarind (Mamma Hai), pineapple soy-glazed chicken wings (SOULutions) and a chocolate matcha bun (SINBUN), plus much more. Salt City Coffee will pour coconut draft lattes, and attendees 21+ can add on Salt City Bar’s blue milk piña colada for $5.

Where: 484 S. Salina St., Syracuse

When: Thursday, May 15 from 5 to 9 p.m.

How much: $35 tickets can be purchased online.

Celebration Dinner Honoring Larry Loh

Join music lovers at Rosamond Gifford Zoo Thursday evening to say thank you and bid farewell to The Syracuse Orchestra’s outgoing Maestro Larry Loh. The event includes a cocktail hour with music by The Syracuse Orchestra Woodwind Quintet, a plated dinner, dessert, a brief program honoring Loh and an open bar and social hour. Attire is business casual.

Where: 1 Conservation Pl., Syracuse

When: Thursday, May 15 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

How much: $100. Visit The Syracuse Orchestra’s website to purchase your ticket and select a meal option.

White Coat Rock: Funding the Future of Healthcare

A local favorite cover band, Jam Theory will perform their upbeat repertoire at Funk ‘n Waffles Thursday night. Upstate Medical University‘s Spinal Chords, featuring faculty, staff and med students, will open the show. The concert benefits scholarships for the SUNY Upstate Nursing Alumni Association and the SUNY Upstate Health Professions Alumni Association.

Where: 307-313 S. Clinton St., Syracuse

When: Thursday, May 15 from 8 to 11 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m.

How much: $18.22 in advance (includes fees) or $20 at the door. Purchase your tickets online.

FRIDAY

Syracuse Mets vs. Lehigh Valley IronPigs

Take yourself out to the ball game Friday to cheer on the hometown team at NBT Bank Stadium. And may the force be with you, because it will also be Star Wars Night, with costumed characters in attendance. The team will wear specialty Star Wars jerseys that will be auctioned off to benefit the Rescue Mission Alliance at syracusemets.com/auctions. It will also be Fizzy Friday for fans 21+ with a ticket package that includes two canned beers or cocktails at the Jim Beam Pub & Grub. The night will also feature a Taste NY Willow Rock Tap Takeover and post-game fireworks.

Where: 1 Tex Simone Dr., Syracuse

When: Friday, May 16, game starts at 6:35 p.m.

How much: $21 to $45. Military, child and senior discounts available at the box office. Purchase tickets online in advance.

Lorenzo State Historic Site Tour

The historic Lorenzo Mansion, outbuildings and grounds reopen for the season on Friday. Explore the 1807 Federal-style home of Cazenovia founder John Lincklaen on a guided tour, learn more in the carriage house and visitor center, and walk through the formal garden. The property will be open Wednesdays through Sundays and Monday holidays.

Where: 17 Rippleton Rd., Cazenovia

When: Friday, May 16 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The last tour departs at 4 p.m.

How much: $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, children 12 and under are free.

Don Flemons

The Folkus Project presents multi-hyphenate talent Don Flemons at May Memorial UU Society on Friday, its last show of the season. Known as “The American Songster,” Flemons is a songwriter, music scholar, actor, narrator, podcaster and more. The multi-instrumentalist is an expert in several instruments including banjo, guitar, jug, percussion, quills and rhythm bones, and he performs works from over a century of American roots, country, bluegrass, Americana, folk and blues music. Flemons has earned a Grammy and multiple Grammy and Emmy nominations, among other honors.

Where: 3800 E. Genesee St., Syracuse

When: Friday, May 16 at 8 p.m.

How much: $25 for general admission, $22 for Folkus members. Purchase tickets online in advance.

‘The Revolutionists’

Friday is opening night for CNY Playhouse’s run of “The Revolutionists.” This women-powered comedy is set in 1793 Paris during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror. Billed as “a comedy, a quartet, a revolutionary dream fugue, a true story,” the show explores violence and legacy, art and activist, feminism and terrorism, compatriots and chosen sisters and how change is made in the world. Performances continue through May 24.

Where: 116 W. Glen Ave., Syracuse

When: Friday, May 16 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

How much: $22. Purchase tickets in advance.

Food Truck Battle

Food trucks from all over the region and beyond will pack Chevy Court at the NYS Fairgrounds Friday afternoon. The annual event features 50+ food vendors and a live music lineup both days. Vote for your favorite trucks, enjoy craft beer and wine slushies, and support local artists in the Artisan Village. Keep the kids entertained in the Kidzone with activities and $5 face painting. The fun continues Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Where: 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse

When: Friday, May 16 from 4 to 10 p.m.

How much: $10 entry fee for ages 12+, children under 12 are free. See vendor and music details, and purchase tickets in advance online. Samples range from $3-$5. Prices on full-size items vary.

Battle of the Wings

Head to the Inner Harbor for the first day of the sixth annual wing competition. Wing warriors from CNY and out of town will serve up their takes on the finger food, while live music, additional food trucks, craft beer and wine slushies, craft vendors and fireworks round out the experience. The battle wages on the next day from noon to 10 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Jim & Juli Boeheim Foundation.

Where: 328 W. Kirkpatrick St., Syracuse

When: Friday, May 16 from 4 to 10 p.m.

How much: $10 entry fee at the gate, $3 for two wings at each vendor

SATURDAY

Annual Plant Sale

Cornell Cooperative Extension Onondaga’s Master Gardener plant sale takes place Saturday at Immanuel United Methodist Church. Arrive early for the best selection of locally grown perennials, native plants, ferns and herbs. Organizers take cash or personal checks only.

Where: 303 Kasson Rd., Camillus

When: Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to noon

How much: Free to attend, plants start at $3.

TACNY Junior Café Scientifique

STEM-loving middle schoolers can explore secret messages on Saturday at the MOST. Dr. Aparna Das, chair of the computer science and cybersecurity department at Le Moyne College, will lead a session on encryption and how to make it uncrackable. The monthly series from TACNY (Technology Alliance of CNY) takes place during the school year and features local professionals and academics who present topics and encourage students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering and math. Students must be accompanied by an adult and can explore the museum for free after the event. A continental breakfast is provided at 9:15 a.m.

Where: 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse

When: Saturday, May 17 from 9:30 to 11 a.m.

How much: Free. Register through TACNY’s website.

‘Aesop’s Fables’

An interactive performance for all ages, “Aesop’s Fables” by Christopher Parks will take place on Hangar Theatre’s KidsStage this weekend. Storytelling and song are woven together in this 60-minute show to share Aesop’s memorable tales, such as “The Tortoise and the Hare” and “The Boy Who Cried Wolf,” and their lessons with humor and a fresh take. Another performance takes place on Sunday, May 18.

Where: 801 Taughannock Blvd., Ithaca

When: Saturday, May 17 at 10 a.m. and noon

How much: $15. Tickets are available online.

RetroGameCon: Spring Edition

Put on your wigs, wardrobe and foam weaponry for this one-day, all-ages gaming convention taking place at esports facility Elite Gaming Arena, in the Atrium Building on Saturday. Enter the cosplay contest, browse more than 50 vendors offering merchandise, collectibles, gaming arts and crafts and more. Meet voice actors from major video games; engage in tabletop, retro and modern gaming experiences; and sit in on live stage events and panels.

Where: 2 S. Clinton St., Syracuse

When: Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

How much: General admission $13.51 (includes fees), ticket and merch bundle $42.33 (includes fees), children 5 and under are free. See more info and purchase tickets at the con’s website. Tickets will also be available at the door until sold out.

Lake Ontario Waterfront Festival

The H. Lee White Maritime Museum hosts an outdoor, family-friendly celebration this Saturday. Enjoy free admission to the museum and its new Erie Canal Bicentennial exhibit, tour historic vessels, see live raptor presentations, water rescue demos, Great Lakes conservation and science exhibits and more. A children’s area includes hands-on activities and The Happy Pirates entertainment troupe. If weather permits, take a boat ride from Wright‘s Landing to tour the historic Oswego Lighthouse. To reserve a time and tickets for the boat rides, call 315-342-0480. Boat ride is not recommended for children younger than 5.

Where: West First Street Pier, Oswego

When: Saturday, May 17 from noon to 4 p.m. Boat rides available from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

How much: Free to attend. Boat rides are $20 for adults, $15 for ages 5-12.

Ekphrastic Poetry Workshop

Allow a current art exhibition to inspire your creative writing in the galleries & education center at the Everson Museum of Art Saturday. Attendees will write poems or flash stories in response to Nancy Friedemann-Sánchez’s “Dream Map and Cornucopia,” and can share and receive feedback in a supportive setting. Class is limited to 20 participants, so pre-registration is encouraged.

Where: 401 Harrison St., Syracuse

When: Saturday, May 17 from 1 to 3 p.m.

How much: Free with museum admission, which is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors 65+ and students, $5 for children 6-12, $2 with EBT card and free for members and military (with ID). Register here.

53rd Annual Teenage Competitive Awards Ceremony

Celebrate the creativity and talent of the next generation of visual artists Saturday at Community Folk Art Center’s gallery. The Syracuse chapter of The Links, Incorporated — an international volunteer service organization whose members are professional women of African descent — presents the annual contest. Prizes will be awarded to students from high schools across Syracuse in categories such as 2D drawing, painting, 3D and mixed media, plus special recognitions for most eclectic, director’s choice and best in show.

Where: 805 E. Genesee St., Syracuse

When: Saturday, May 17 from 2 to 5 p.m.

How much: Free.

Rocky’s Cigars 40th Anniversary Dinner

Aficionados can join Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust founder and cigar expert Steve Saka for a special dinner and gourmet cigar experience at Lock 1 Distillery on Saturday. The event, in honor of the Syracuse cigar store’s four decades in business, features a prime ribeye dinner and dessert, and samples of Rocky’s Anniversary rye whiskey. The general admission ticket includes four cigars and access to the cash bar. VIPs will enjoy five cigars, one hour of open bar, cash bar, hors d’oeuvres and a late-night wagyu and wine by the grill.

Where: 17 Culvert St., Phoenix

When: Saturday, May 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. for general admission, or from 5 to 10 p.m. for VIP ticket holders.

How much: General admission is $115, VIP is $165. Purchase tickets on the store’s website.

SUNDAY

Lupus Awareness Memorial Walk

The second annual walk to support the Lupus Foundation of America takes place Sunday in Central Park in Cicero. The event is held in honor of those who have lost the fight of surviving lupus, while funds bolster the foundation’s efforts to improve the quality of life for people affected by the complex disease. Registration fees are collected through Zelle, CashApp or Venmo.

Where: 6540 Route 31, Cicero

When: Sunday, May 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

How much: $25 or $100 for a team of 5 in advance, $30 day of event. Register online.

Shop Small Sunday

The popular open-air vendor market hosted by Wildflowers Armory returns to downtown for the season on Sunday. Celebrate small local businesses with more than 50 artisans, antique dealers, vintage curators and not-for-profits that will fill the parking lot. Take in live music and spoken word performances, live painting and more as you shop.

Where: 484 S. Salina St., Syracuse

When: Sunday, May 18 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

How much: Free to attend.

Harmony Helps: A Cabaret from Broadway to The Beatles

The Harmony Katz and Katz Meow choral groups will perform a benefit concert at the Basilica of The Sacred Heart of Jesus church hall Sunday. The a cappella concert will feature popular tunes sung in barbershop style with four-part harmonies. Complimentary refreshments to follow. The groups are collecting goodwill monetary donations to support the Basilica’s food pantry. Park at the Syracuse Academy of Science.

Where: 927 Park Ave., Syracuse

When: Sunday, May 18 at 2 p.m.

How much: Free to attend.

Clay Historical Association Open House

Step back in time with the Clay Historical Association, which is hosting its first open house of the 2025 season this Sunday. The Cigarville Train Station, Sellen-Weller barn, replica 1800s log cabin and visitors center will all be open. Each building features artifacts, exhibits, media and memorabilia donated by Town of Clay families and the collections paint a picture of the town’s early years, when it had a thriving tobacco industry.

Where: 4939 Route 31, Clay

When: Sunday, May 18 from 1 to 3 p.m.

How much: Free to attend.