After 25 Years, Blues on the Bridge Returns to Its Original Binghamton Site

You know it's really September when the first notes of Blues on the Bridge start drifting across the river. This end-of-summer tradition is celebrating its 25th year, and for this milestone, it's coming home.

Binghamton's Blues on the Bridge Moves Back to Original Riverside Site

If you've been going to Blues on the Bridge for a while, you'll notice something different this year. Because of ongoing construction in the Confluence area, the festival, running 1 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, moves to the south side of the Washington Street Bridge Memorial Park, the exact spot where it all began decades ago.

"It's where the magic began," organizer Donny Wilkins said. "We need to shrink the stage a little bit because of the size of the bridge, but our fans can expect a bigger show with bigger sound and bigger fun."

A Familiar Face Steps Back This Year

If you're a regular at this festival, you probably know the name Tom Martinos as well as you know the bands. The former owner of Tom's Texas Hots and longtime co-organizer has stepped back this year due to health issues. Wilkins' wife Lori has taken over much of Martinos' logistics role, handling vendors, sponsors, and the countless behind-the-scenes details that keep the day running.

"Tommy is missed. He was 'the straw that stirred the drink,' and like his famous hot dog chili sauce, it's a recipe that's very hard to duplicate," Wilkins said. "Our hearts go out to him and his caretakers as he slowly recovers from his stroke."

Blues on the Bridge 2026 Lineup and Schedule

Here's who you'll want to plan your day around:

1 p.m.: The Silvertones
1:50 p.m.: Nate Gross Band
2:50 p.m.: String of Pearls
3:40 p.m.: Triple Cities Soul Machine
4:30 p.m.: Revenants
5:20 p.m.: The Mudpuppies
6:10 p.m.: Junkyard Heights
7 p.m.: The Gents
7:50 p.m.: The Egomaniacs

Organizers are also teasing a few surprise musical guests, so don't wander off too early.  The lineup is subject to change.

What to Know Before You Head to the Festival

Expect dozens of food tents and vendors, face-painting for the kids, and a fenced-in beer area for the adults. If you're driving, a section of Conklin Avenue and Washington Street will close for parking and accessibility, and parking is limited, so give yourself a better shot at a good spot by rideshare, carpooling, or walking in if you're close enough.

A few more things worth knowing before you pack the car: coolers and glass bottles aren't allowed, open container laws are in effect, and state and local smoking laws apply. Bring a lawn chair if you're planning to stay a while, and you probably should; this is a full day of music.

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The rain date is Saturday, Sept. 26. Organizers will make that call on Friday, Sept. 18, so watch The Real Blues on the Bridge Facebook page for updates.