Submitted by guest blogger Bayle Reichert

It was a frigid Wednesday evening, and the town of Saranac Lake had been booming all week thanks to the Winter Carnival celebration that happens every February. My friends and I had been out and about, enjoying the activities during this cold winter week, and we were deciding on where to go to listen to music that night. 

Multiple bands were playing at different locations downtown, making it difficult to choose where to go for our next leg of our Carnival journey. We found out that there was a high quality band playing at the Waterhole Upstairs Music Lounge, located in the heart of Saranac Lake. The band was called Annie in the Water, and to get in it was only $10, what a deal! The night was just about to begin.

Be yourself and dance!

We walked into the Waterhole and lights were flashing across the vaulted ceiling while people danced to the groovy music playing on stage. I immediately walked into the crowd to start dancing with my friends. One of the big reasons I love going to this bar for music is because it’s easy to express myself, no one judges me on my Charlie Brown dance moves. The upstairs music lounge has an upper and lower level, where dancing can be done downstairs and observing can be done upstairs.  

Party on the Patio

From The Suitcase Junket to After Funk, throughout the entire year the Waterhole is jamming with different bands. Who doesn’t love enjoying music outside on warm summer nights? At the Waterhole there is free music every Thursday night on their outdoor patio during the summer months. These shows are part of the Party on the Patio series — the full schedule is usually announced in spring and can be found on the Waterhole’s website and Facebook page.

A local hub

Having local music available at night is a big plus for me. Being a night owl, I love to go out every once in awhile to get my groove on and dance the weekly stress away. Within walking distance of many restaurants, hotels, galleries, and stores in Saranac Lake, the Waterhole is excellent for anyone looking for an evening of dancing and good vibes. The bands that play at the Waterhole always make the crowd go crazy with their upbeat jams!

Some of the upcoming shows at the Waterhole:

Friday, March 29
Starship Mantis — From Pittsburgh, PA, this band combines the musical and cultural roots of jazz, funk, hip-hop, pop, and EDM. 
Doors: 8 p.m., Show: 9 p.m., $10, 21+

Sunday, April 7
Carrie Nation & The Speakeasy — From Wichita, KS, this sextet plays high-energy brass n’ grass style music. 
Doors: 8 p.m., Show: 9 p.m., Advanced: $10 at the door: $12, 21+

Friday, April 19
The Lizards: Phish tribute 
Doors: 8 p.m., Show: 9 p.m., $10, 21+

Saturday, April 27
Gratefully Yours: Grateful Dead tribute
Doors: 8 p.m., Show: 9 p.m., $10, 21+

This week in ADK news:

Avalanche Pass

Birding hot spots

Furry friends welcome

Spring birding

Dinner and drinks, Schroon style

Angler season is coming

Downtown or cabin in the woods?