News

June 17, 2026

WEXT Radio Presents 2nd Annual WEXT Local 518 Fest on July 25 at Music Haven

WEXT Radio, the Capital Region’s listener-supported roots and rock radio station from WMHT Public Media, will present the second annual WEXT Local 518 Fest on Saturday, July 25th from 2pm to 9:30pm at Music Haven in Schenectady’s Central Park.

The free, all-day celebration shines a spotlight on the talent of the Local 518 music scene with seven acts spanning indie rock, folk, Americana, pop, and more. Headlining the festival are two popular acts that have recently released new music: SIRSY delivers energetic indie pop-rock with dynamic live performances, and Sly Fox & the Hustlers, a high-energy funk, soul, and groove-driven party band.

The festival kicks off at 2pm with The Sugar Hold, followed by Shannon Tehya performing as a duo at 3pm, the Alec Lewis Group at 3:45pm, and The Belle Curves at 4:55pm. Moving into the evening, Aila Chiar takes the stage at 5:55pm, with Sly Fox & the Hustlers at 6:45pm, finishing with SIRSY to close out the night at 8:20pm.

As Mel & Rich from SIRSY proclaim, “Dorothy said, ‘there’s no place like home’. What a rare gift WEXT is to the 518. We’ve played nationwide for two decades and you’d be hard pressed to find a local station so dedicated to supporting their local scene. They lift up not just independent artists but the entire community. We’re excited to celebrate them at WEXT Fest this year!”

WEXT’s Local 518 Fest continues the station’s commitment to supporting and elevating local artists while bringing the community together for a full day of live music in one of the region’s most unique outdoor venues.

“There is so much incredible talent and music in the Local 518. It’s not easy to limit yourself to just seven acts for the lineup for WEXT Local 518 Fest,” said Chris Wienk, afternoon host and program director at WEXT and Vice President, Radio at WMHT Public Media. “Free and open to the public, this event showcases what WEXT does best: highlight our diverse and vibrant local music scene and bring the community together to enjoy it.”

A variety of local food and beverage vendors, including Electro Taco and Mike’s Hot Dogs, will be on site throughout the event.

WEXT Local 518 Fest is presented with support from Music Haven, Chet & Karen Opalka, the Aimee & Gary Dake Advised Fund of the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, and Denis Entertainment Group.

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