PREVIEW: ROCK the LOCK 2026 at Schoharie Crossing
08/15, 8/22, and 8/29 @ Putnam Canal Store at Yankee Hill Lock
From history buffs to music lovers, August’s ROCK the LOCK music series blends music with the wild history of the Putman Canal. Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site is offering the perfect summer show, hosting three afternoons of concerts and fun outside the Putman Canal Store at Yankee Hill Lock.
These events have it all, featuring local as well as regional music acts ranging from indie to gospel, blues, folk and even funk. They will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, August 22, and August 29..
Headlining the show on August 15 is The Zorbas Trio — the group that’s “unafraid” to make music from the deep soul. This Saratoga-based band combines jazz, indie, and rock with a classical touch. They will be hitting the stage after Blast-Craze: a trio ripping unforgettable originals and covers.
The following Saturday, on August 22, Cosby Gibson and Tom Staudle will leave you in awe with their blend of humorous licks and rocking folk. The duo are award-winning songwriters planning to perform high-quality covers and originals. Opening is Scott from Agape Blues Company, delivering soulful blues and gospel-inspired rock’n’roll.
The series concludes on August 29 with soaring harmonies, energetic jams and driving rhythms by The Red Wagon. The incredible four-person bluegrass band offers songs from the ‘60s through today, including engaging and exciting originals. Their songwriting inspiration lies in the human experience, as they touch on deep-rooted tradition and stories. Opening is a delightful combination of quirky originals, stark covers and smokey vocals by deVer.
The 2026 series is the fourth annual ROCK the LOCK series, graciously supported by The Friends of Schoharie Crossing, WEXT Radio, and Karen’s Produce and Ice Cream. Saratoga Arts makes these performances possible through the Community Arts Regrant Program, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
The location for this series is Yankee Hill Lock at Schoharie Crossing, 550 Queen Anne Road, Amsterdam, Montgomery County. Since rain may change the venue location, keep an eye on the social media for announcements or contact Schoharie Crossing directly for details.
These are free, open-air events — bring a lawn chair and dress for the weather. For more information, please call the Visitor Center: 518-829-7516 or email SchoharieCrossing@parks.ny.gov.
