Island Takeover: Summer on Papermill Island
This summer, Papermill Island comes alive.
Island Takeover is a brand‑new summer series bringing live music, themed nights, and community events to the waterfront in Baldwinsville — almost every week, all summer long. From laid‑back nights by the water to high‑energy concerts and dance parties, Island Takeover is built for summer nights you don’t want to miss.
Whether you’re coming out for a national artist, a foam party, a movie night with the family, or just looking for something fun to do on a warm evening, Island Takeover gives you a reason to head to the island again and again.
And if you’re a local artisan vendor, we’d love for you to join us at one (or all) of our Night Markets on the island this summer! Get more info here.
This is year one — and it’s all happening June through September.
Tickets are ON SALE now for our national concerts and select events on the island. Check the schedule below for admission info and event details.
What You'll Find At Island Takeover
Island Takeover isn’t about one big weekend. It’s about giving summer a rhythm — something to look forward to week after week.
Throughout the season, you’ll find:
- Live music from national touring artists, along with local and regional performers
- Theme nights like Emo Night, 80s & 90s Nights, Yacht Rock, and Country Line Dance Nights
- Easy, all‑ages events like Family Fun Days and outdoor Movie Nights
- Community nights including Night Markets with local vendors, food, and art
- One‑of‑a‑kind events you won’t find anywhere else during the summer
Island Takeover Concert Series
A major part of Island Takeover’s first season is a lineup of national touring artists hitting the island throughout the summer, with more announcements still to come!
National Artist Performances
Upcoming Island Takeover Events
MoreMonthly Highlights
June: Kickoff & First Big Nights
Island Takeover launches with a mix of welcome‑to‑summer energy and live music. June includes the Island Takeover Open House, performances from the B’ville Pop/Rock Orchestra, Emo Night, Yacht Rock Night, a Night Market, a Foam Party, and national touring artists Almost Monday, Joe P, The Crowe Boys, and special guest Braison Cyrus.
July: Peak Summer Mode
By July, the island is in full swing. Expect School’s Out Movie Night, Family Fun Day, multiple Foam Parties, Emo Night, Yacht Rock Night, a national performance from Matt Maeson, the Leon Day Party, a Night Market, and an 80s Night to close out the month.
August: Big Nights & Unique Events
August brings some of the most anticipated events of the season, including Emo Night, a high school Battle of the Bands‑style showcase, another national touring performance from Ripe, Movie Nights, the Honk Festival, Country Line Dance Night, 90s Night, and another Night Market. This is Island Takeover at its most diverse.
September: Final Stretch of Summer
Island Takeover wraps up its debut season with a run of memorable nights, including a Silent Disco, End of Summer Party, Emo Night, Movie Night, a Night Market, and Yacht Rock Night — a perfect send‑off to summer on the island.
See You On The Island!
Parking Information
Parking is available within walking distance of Papermill Island for all Island Takeover events. Multiple event parking areas are located throughout the Village of Baldwinsville, making it easy to access the island for concerts, theme nights, and community events.
Where to Park
Event parking is available in designated public lots throughout the village. These lots are marked on the map and are located near:
- Baldwin Canal Square
- Public parking areas north of the river
- Additional public lots south of the river within walking distance of Papermill Island
Guests can use any of the marked Event Parking locations shown on the map and follow pedestrian routes to the island.
Walking to Papermill Island
Papermill Island is accessible on foot via nearby bridges and walkways. Most parking areas shown are only a short walk to the event site.
Please follow posted signage, sidewalks, and crosswalks when walking to and from events.
Important Notes
- Parking availability may vary by event and arrival time
- Street parking is subject to local regulations and posted signs
- Do not block driveways or park in restricted areas
- Event staff and local signage may direct traffic during larger events
We recommend arriving early to allow time for parking and walking to the island, especially for concerts and high‑attendance events.
👉 View the parking map below for exact locations before attending your event.
Know Before You Go
To help keep Island Takeover events safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone, please review the following guidelines before attending.
What You Can Bring
- Chairs and blankets are welcome
- One unopened bottle of water per person is allowed
Entry & Re‑Entry
- No re‑entry once you’ve entered the event site
Bags & Security
- No backpacks unless they are clear bags
- All purses and bags are subject to search upon entry
Prohibited Items
For the safety and comfort of all guests, the following items are not allowed:
- Coolers
- Outside food or drinks
- Bottles or glass containers
- Pets
- Weapons
- Pop‑up tents
- Professional video equipment or cameras with detachable lenses
Event staff and security reserve the right to deny entry or remove items that do not comply with these guidelines.
We appreciate your cooperation in helping make Island Takeover a fun and safe summer experience for everyone.
Event Sponsors & Food Partners
Island Takeover is powered by partners who help bring summer to life on Papermill Island.
This season is supported by UnitedHealthcare, Melo Roofing, & Mess’s Fireworks, whose involvement helps make Island Takeover a welcoming, community‑driven experience all summer long.
When it’s time to eat, you’ll find local favorites on the island throughout the season, including The Wildcat on Wheels and Chick‑fil‑A, with food vendors rotating as the summer goes on.
Additional sponsors, partners, and food trucks will be joining the Island Takeover lineup as the season builds.
If you have a local business or are interested in being a vendor for our Night Markets, reach out to us! Get more info here.
Stay In The Loop
Island Takeover is set for the summer — with concerts, themed nights, and events happening all season long.
Plans are locked in, but as always, it’s worth checking back just in case something new gets added.
🏝️ See you on Papermill Island this summer!
