Songs, Cider, & Community: Fall at The Shipyard
Article by Ari Goldfarb, University Union Editorial Board
Staff Writer | Photo by Josh Chun
As the fall semester reached its midpoint, Syracuse University students gathered for one of the most atmospheric shows of the season at The Shipyard, University Neighborhood’s only outdoor music venue. The event captured everything that makes autumn in Syracuse special, blending live music, cozy treats, and a warm sense of community under the October night sky.
The venue was transformed into a fall haven, complete with strings of warm fairy lights, a small bonfire glowing in the corner, and the sweet scent of cider and smoke drifting through the air. Attendees sipped on hot apple cider, snacked on fresh donuts and settled in for a night of acoustic performances that perfectly matched the season’s mood.
The evening featured standout acts, including Drowsy (Ethan Molettieri) and Callan Foster, both of whom delivered soulful, engaging sets that drew a growing crowd as the night went on. The atmosphere was relaxed yet lively, with students gathering closer to the stage as the music filled the crisp autumn air.
Photo by Josh Chun
Adding to the night’s charm was a unique “halftime show” between sets, where three audience members were invited to step up and shoot basketballs into the house’s garage-door hoop. It was a lighthearted moment that kept the crowd laughing and energized between performances.
Just a few weeks later, on Saturday, November 8, The Shipyard once again came alive with another memorable performance. This time, Syracuse student Kyra Rubenstein took the stage, performing alongside friends who traveled from her hometown in New Jersey. Kyra delivered a beautiful and heartfelt set that drew an impressive crowd of classmates and friends, including me. Her performance filled the space with warmth and authenticity, showcasing both her musical talent and her ability to connect with the audience in a genuine, personal way.
Photo by Josh Chun
As the final songs echoed through The Shipyard and the bonfire burned low, it was clear that these fall shows had created something special. They left behind a shared memory of music, laughter, and community. The combination of live acoustic sounds, seasonal treats, and authentic student energy made The Shipyard’s concerts truly unforgettable, proving that sometimes the best campus nights are the ones spent under the stars, surrounded by friends and the spirit of the season.
