‘Old Home Days’ Returns To Williamsville

The Old Home Days festival in Williamsville debuted in 1973 at that time, being held in St. Peter and Paul’s parking lot, and has evolved and grown year after year to become the event we are all familiar with today. In July every year, The Jolly Boys entertain with a 4-day festival that celebrates the community with rides, games, food, and entertainment at Island Park in Williamsville, NY.

As were most community events, Old Home Days ended up being canceled last year because of the pandemic.

This year's event runs from Tuesday, July 13 through Sunday, July 18 at Island Park in Williamsville and promises rides, games, food, a beer tent, and music. The festivities kick off with a parade down Main Street at 6:30 p.m. tonight (Tuesday 7/13).

According to WKBW-TV, the Jolly Boys of Williamsville event has been their largest fundraiser for 40 years now, with proceeds supporting youth organizations in Amherst and Williamsville.

"We just kind of continued to hold out hope that it was going to take place and things were going to get better," says Richard Galmarini of the Jolly Boys. "You can see the people are excited."

This year's event will be similar to previous years but with some added precautions. For example, there will be more hand-washing stations, and non-vaccinated people will be required to wear masks for additional safety.

Also, with assistance from the Erie County Department of Health, COVID-19 vaccinations will be given to those interested on Wednesday and Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

You can find a full schedule of events here.