There are some places that just feel right for live music. The kind of place where the room hums before the first note is even played. Where the food is good, the drinks are cold, and the people show up ready to connect.
That’s exactly what you’ll find at Brookton’s Market in Brooktondale, New York.
I’m excited to share that I’ll be performing there again on Saturday, May 9th at 6:00 PM, and the best part is it’s completely free to attend.
If you’re anywhere in the Ithaca or Finger Lakes area, this is one of those nights you won’t want to miss.
A Special Place With Deep Roots in Brooktondale
Brookton’s Market isn’t just another stop along the road, it’s a cornerstone of the Brooktondale community.
The market itself has been around for over 20 years, but the building has served as a store for nearly a century. That kind of history shows in the best way possible. There’s a warmth to the space that you just can’t manufacture.
It’s the kind of place where:
- Locals run into each other without planning to
- Travelers stop in and end up staying longer than expected
- Music feels like it belongs
And lately, there’s been a renewed energy flowing through the market thanks to new leadership.
New Management, Fresh Energy, Same Community Spirit
Brookton’s Market is now being managed by sisters Bea and Jessica, who grew up right here in the area. Their connection to the community runs deep and you can feel it in everything they’re doing.
As Bea shared with me:
“We grew up in the area and we remember summers at Brookton’s… we want to restore everything to its former glory.”
In just a few short months, they’ve already started making that vision a reality. They’ve been:
- Bringing in live music regularly
- Adding new locally-inspired products like sweatshirts and candles
- Refreshing the menu and drink offerings
- Creating a welcoming space for both longtime locals and new visitors
It’s not about reinventing Brookton’s it’s about bringing it back to life in a way that honors what it’s always been.
What to Eat and Drink at the Show
Great music is even better when paired with great food and drinks. And Brookton’s Market delivers on both.
Here are a few highlights straight from Bea:
Sandwiches You Can’t Miss
The Brookton’s Club – Their most popular sandwich by far. A hearty, classic choice that’s become a go-to for regulars.
The Local – A fresh caprese-style sandwich with tomato, mozzarella, and pesto. Simple, local, and packed with flavor.
Bea put it best: “Really any sandwich on the menu is going to be good.”
Cold & Refreshing Drinks
Cold Brew with Coffee Ice Cubes – A summer favorite that keeps your drink strong all the way through.
Housemade Lemonade – Available in strawberry, raspberry, or classic lemon. Perfect for a warm May evening.
Local Beer & Cider on Tap
Brookton’s is also stepping up its tap list with some excellent local options, including:
- A hazy IPA from Hampshire Farms Brewery under their “Bloom” label
- A standout beer called Upside Over
- A rotating selection of ciders on tap
Whether you’re in the mood for something crisp, hoppy, or refreshing, they’ve got something for you.
More Than a Market: Supporting Local Dreams
One of the things I love most about what’s happening at Brookton’s right now is how they’re showing up for the community in new ways.
A great example of that is they’re sponsoring a local kart racer Riley Collins.
@roguesilent43 No words needed #FYP #Karts ♬ blow hoodtrap remix itsdryko - DRYKO
Riley recently unveiled a new kart with the Rogue Silent Racing crew, and you can catch them racing at Action Park East Speedway in Greene, New York.
It might seem like a small thing, but it’s actually a big deal.
When a local business invests in young talent and grassroots sports like kart racing, it sends a message that they believe in the community.
That kind of support is what keeps small towns vibrant. It’s what turns a market into a hub. And it’s exactly the kind of energy that makes events like this show feel meaningful.
Why This Show Matters (And Why You Should Come)
For me, shows like this are what it’s all about.
Not big stages. Not big production. Just:
- A great vibe whether the music is inside or outside
- Great people
- And songs that mean something
Brookton’s Market creates the perfect setting for that kind of experience. It’s intimate, it’s welcoming, and it gives us a chance to connect in a real way.
If you’ve been following along with my music or my videos, this is your chance to experience it live in one of the most authentic venues around.
If you haven’t, this is the perfect place to start.
Event Details
Location: Brookton’s Market, Brooktondale, NY
Date: Saturday, May 9th
Time: 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
Come early, grab a sandwich and a drink, and settle in for the evening.
Make a Night of It
Bring a friend. Bring your family. Stay for a while.
Grab a Brookton’s Club, try the cold brew, maybe sample that hazy IPA, and enjoy a night of live music in a place that truly cares about the people who walk through its doors.
Brookton’s Market is stepping into a new chapter and this show is a great way to be part of it.