May 2011
These are planning days…in these last few days before the summer season kicks into full swing we offer a glance at what the season can hold for Westfield residents and visitors alike. We encourage you to follow the links and explore all that the Chautauqua region has to offer.
The Westfield Farmers Market is a great way to start the weekend. Stroll through historic Moore Park perusing and selecting locally grown fruits and vegetables or check out fresh baked goods, Amish woven baskets, woodcraft, hand-made soaps, jams, jellies and other canned items. Local wineries in the Lake Erie Wine Country are also showcased each week. Many visitors choose to continue their day lunching in the park, enjoying the live music, exploring local antiques, shops and restaurants, or checking out the Westfield Walking Trails (follow sign from Moore Park).
In late June and July the Farmers Market partners with local artists to showcase Art in the Park. For five weeks market patrons are able to appreciate and purchase local fine artist’s work from watercolors to oil to photography. Works of artists who are part of the North Shore Arts Alliance’sChautauqua Lake Erie Art Trail can be viewed online.
Another must-see on Saturdays is Cross Roads Farm and Craft Market , open every Saturday from 9 to 5 through mid-December. Cross Roads is a cooperative of vendors known for their quality crafts, artwork, woodwork, imported gifts, specialty supplies, unique collectibles, food, candy, coffee, hand-made clothing and home decor. The Cross Roads Farm and Crafts Market is located atop a steep escarpment that divides two watersheds and offers breathtaking views.
The Westfield Recreation Department and Patterson Library both offer a variety of summer activies for children and adults. For families who want to explore the great outdoors, there are several opportunites in and around Westfield, including enjoying the panoramic views of Lake Erie from the Luensman Overlook Park, a hike on a Chautauqua Rails to Trails trail, or a trip to Panama Rocks Park , a ridge of quartz conglomerate rock shaped by a glacier. Families can also enjoy a cruise aboard the Chautauqua Belle , a classic steamship and Chautauqua Lake icon. For a more adventurous lake experience, check out Osprey Charters at Barcelona, Lake Erie for a shipwreck dive.
A trip to the Chautauqua Institution offers thought-provoking lectures, great music and a relaxing atmosphere, and admission is free on Sundays.
These are just a sampling of the places and events that shape Westfield during the summer months. Please check out our community calendar as well as the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau or many more ways to enjoy Westfield and the surrounding Chautauqua region. Happy exploring!