Events
Wine Class: “Fall” In Love with Oregon Wine
There’s something about Oregon wine that just feels right when fall rolls around.
Join us at Symposium for an evening dedicated to one of America’s most distinctive and exciting wine regions. Oregon may be best known for Pinot Noir, and we’ll certainly talk about why it thrives there, but the story of Oregon wine goes far beyond a single grape.
Throughout this guided tasting, we’ll explore the climate, geography, and winemaking culture that have shaped Oregon into the wine destination it is today. We’ll travel through its key growing regions, talk about what makes them different, and taste a thoughtfully curated selection of wines that showcases the range of styles Oregon has to offer.
Come curious, leave with a few new favorites and maybe fall a little bit in love with Oregon wine. Purchase tickets HERE.
As always, the bar will stay open for purchase of beer or wine until 9 p.m.
Cheers!
Please Note - Class will start at 6:15 and the doors will open right at 6 p.m. Thank you!
Live music at Symposium with Tim Britt!
Back by popular demand - Tim Britt Live at Symposium!
Tim’s back, playing and singing a wide variety of your favorites from 7-10 p.m. - Don’t miss out!
Live Music with Stephen Babcock
Join us on 10/1 for live music with Stephen Babcock!
Hailing from the Rust Belt, Stephen Babcock's journey began in modest surroundings, a world shaped by the blue-collar pulse of industry. Eight years of relentless dedication birthed "Said & Done," Stephen's inaugural project that resonated with the authenticity of Rust Belt roots. As the release echoed beyond the industrial horizon, he embarked on a nationwide tour, from intimate Nashville writers' rooms to stages across the United States. "Fiction," the critically acclaimed EP dropped in April 2018, showcasing Stephen's genre-blending prowess. Opening for Ed Sheeran, William Hinson, Brad Goodall, and others, he became a favorite of PASTe, Atwood Magazine, Variance Mag and more. "Monroe," released in October 2021, solidified his place in the musical landscape. "When We Were Kids Ourselves" followed in late 2022, both albums weaving tales inspired by the honest songwriting Stephen has become known for. With the release of Stephen’s latest album “A Break in the Conversation” in September 2024, Stephen’s trajectory from Rust Belt beginnings to a musical force on the horizon signifies not just an individual journey but a collective anthem for those who find strength in simplicity and beauty in struggle.
Women in Hospitality Happy Hour at Symposium!
Women are a force in hospitality. We just don't get enough opportunities to be in the same room. So we're especially excited to host the NYS Restaurant Association's Women in Hospitality Regional Happy Hour at Symposium on October 7.
Join us for a chance to step away from the day-to-day, meet other women across the industry, talk shop, make connections and maybe leave knowing a few more people in your corner.
Register HERE
Wine Class: Same Grape, Different Place - The Many Faces of Syrah
Continuing our "same grape, different place" series, we’ll follow Syrah around the globe and discover just how dramatically climate, place and winemaking can transform the same grape.
From its Old World roots to its bolder New World expressions, you’ll taste your way through the many personalities of this fascinating grape.
Come ready to taste, compare, and discover which face of Syrah is your favorite.
As always, the bar will stay open for purchase of beer or wine until 9 p.m.
Cheers!
Purchase tickets HERE
Please Note - Class will start at 6:15 and the doors will open right at 6 p.m. Thank you!
Save the date! Holiday Fashion Show with Juls & Jane Boutique
Join us for our 4rd annual holiday fashion show! Symposium turns into a runway as we partner with Juls & Jane boutique in the Village of Lancaster for a sneak peek at their holiday collection!
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Entry to the show includes one brunch cocktail, cheese and charcuterie, a “swag bag,” first look, and chance to purchase pieces from Juls and Jane’s holiday collection.
Tickets on sale soon!
Live Music with Stephen Babcock
Join us for Sunday Brunch on 11/1 for live music with Stephen Babcock!
Hailing from the Rust Belt, Stephen Babcock's journey began in modest surroundings, a world shaped by the blue-collar pulse of industry. Eight years of relentless dedication birthed "Said & Done," Stephen's inaugural project that resonated with the authenticity of Rust Belt roots. As the release echoed beyond the industrial horizon, he embarked on a nationwide tour, from intimate Nashville writers' rooms to stages across the United States. "Fiction," the critically acclaimed EP dropped in April 2018, showcasing Stephen's genre-blending prowess. Opening for Ed Sheeran, William Hinson, Brad Goodall, and others, he became a favorite of PASTe, Atwood Magazine, Variance Mag and more. "Monroe," released in October 2021, solidified his place in the musical landscape. "When We Were Kids Ourselves" followed in late 2022, both albums weaving tales inspired by the honest songwriting Stephen has become known for. With the release of Stephen’s latest album “A Break in the Conversation” in September 2024, Stephen’s trajectory from Rust Belt beginnings to a musical force on the horizon signifies not just an individual journey but a collective anthem for those who find strength in simplicity and beauty in struggle.
Thanksgiving Wine Class with Dan Bissell, from Keuka Spring Vineyards
There's bound to be a variety of herbs, spices, textures and flavors at your harvest table -it's what makes Thanksgiving dinner so delightful! Choosing wine that compliments a wide range of dishes is the key to pleasing palettes and keeping things low-stress and high-enjoyment. We are so excited to have Dan Bissell, Keuka Spring Vineyards Head Winemaker back at Symposium to guide us through some classic cool-climate varietals that are perfect for your holiday table.
A Finger Lakes resident since 2007, Dan has many years of experience in the wine business working in all aspects of the industry. He's always been fascinated by both the science and magic that go into making outstanding wines. He joined the Keuka Spring team in the 2020 harvest as Assistant Winemaker, and became Head Winemaker in the summer of 2021.
Your ticket includes: Wine class hosted by Symposium Wine Bar owner, Katie McKenna-Heveron with special guest, Dan Bissell. We'll taste through wines accompanied by meats, cheese and a few Thanksgiving -inspired small-bite. Wine and beer from our menu will be available for purchase at the bar, after class, until 9 p.m.
Get tickets HERE
Doors open at 6 p.m. and class starts at 6:15.
Save the Date! Wreaths and Wine: A Festive Craft Night
A holiday craft and a glass of wine in a cozy spot? Yes please!
Join us as we partner with Treetop Acres, a family-owned 22-acre farm in Lockport, NY with over 5,000 Christmas trees! Co-owner, Liz Barczys will be leading you through your wreath-making journey.
You’ll choose between a traditional holiday wreath, or a Buffalo Football themed wreath. We’ll have all of the supplies needed for the evening (including one complimentary glass of wine, or N/A beverage). All you need is a few crafty friends and some holiday spirit!
Stay tuned - tickets will go one sale soon!
Wine Class: Holiday Sparkling Wine and Cheese
We’re ending our 2026 wine-class series on a sparkling note!
Join us for a dazzling evening of bubbles as we pop, sip, and swirl our way through some of the world’s most iconic sparkling-wine regions.
You’ll enjoy five spectacular sparklers paired with a curated lineup of cheeses that make each glass absolutely shine.
So grab your sparkle-loving friends, get ready to toast to the end of an incredible year, and treat yourself to this effervescent experience.
(And yes… it makes the perfect gift! 🎁🥂)
Purchase tickets HERE
As always, the bar will stay open for purchase of beer or wine until 9 p.m.
Cheers!
Please Note - Class will start at 6:15 and the doors will open right at 6 p.m. Thank you!
Game Day Brunch at Symposium!
Come hang out with us on 9/13 for a Block Party Brunch! West Main Street is being closed off for the event, and you know our brunch game will be STRONG! Sip pre-game mimosas, our house bloodys and espresso martinis while enjoying your favorite brunch dishes (plus a few specials by Chef Sarah). Reservations highly recommended! For parties of 6 or more or to reserve outside seating, call us at (716) 288-7777. Otherwise, click HERE to make an online reservation.
Lancaster Wine Walk
Join us for the 12th Annual Wine Walk put on by the Village of Lancaster! The afternoon includes wine at 25+ tasting sites. Shop with local merchants, prizes and enjoy live music.
The Wine Walk runs from 4-8 p.m. and Gimme Buffet will be playing from 7:30pm-9:30pm!
Symposium will be sampling delicious wines from 4-8 and our dining room and patio are open all evening! Kitchen is open from 2-10 p.m and the bar is open until 11 p.m. For parties of 6 or more or to reserve outside seating, call us at (716) 288-7777. Otherwise, click HERE to make an online reservation.
$35 Presale. $40 per person (day of the event). Includes: wine tasting glass & tastings at each location.
Click HERE for tickets!
Wine Class: Chillable, crushable red wines
Red wine doesn't always have to be big, bold, and room temperature.
Join us at Symposium Wine Bar as we explore the delicious world of chillable, crushable red wines - lighter-bodied reds that shine when served slightly cool. These are the wines made for patios, picnics, summer dinners, and easy conversation.
During this guided tasting, we'll sample a curated lineup of reds from around the world while discussing what makes a wine "chillable," how temperature impacts flavor, and why these refreshing styles are becoming some of the most sought-after wines of the season.
Whether you're a devoted red wine drinker or someone who usually reaches for white or rosé in the warmer months, you'll leave with a fresh perspective on red wine, and a few new favorites to enjoy all summer long.
Expect great wine, engaging conversation, and Symposium's relaxed, approachable style of learning.
We'll taste through wines accompanied by cheeses and charcuterie. Wine and beer from our menu will be available for purchase at the bar, after class, until 9 p.m.
Doors open at 6 p.m. and class starts at 6:15.
Cheers to warm days and coole reds! 🍷
Tickets are going fast! Purchase them HERE
Cookie Decorating with Buffalo Cake Pops!
(This is a rescheduled class)
Join us in this springtime class where you will get 7 sugar cookies to decorate. In this guided class, you’ll go step by step to show you the sugar cookie way- flooding consistencies, using wet on wet techniques for fun effects and how to use a stiffer consistency for final details. To finish, you’ll be able to bring your cookies home, and you’ll also receive our royal icing recipe to practice your cookie decorating skills at home!
The wine bar will be open for drinks and light refreshments to purchase and enjoy while decorating.
Age minimum on this class is 8 years and up. In this particular class, all persons in the room must have a ticket to participate, due to limited seating.
Learn more, and purchase your tickets HERE
Manifest and Mimosas at Symposium Wine Bar
Led by manifestation practitioner Lisa Coppola, this guided workshop blends reflection, visualization, creativity, and practical mindset work to help participants gain clarity and move forward with greater purpose. While manifestation can sometimes sound abstract, many of the practices explored (visualization, intentional focus, written goal-setting, and pattern awareness) are rooted in well-studied psychological and behavioral principles.
Through guided prompts and hands-on creative exercises, you’ll begin building a personal “vision book” designed to help you clarify goals, reconnect with what matters most, and create with intention.
Tickets are $35 and includes:
A welcome mimosa (low-proof option available)
Vintage books and soft-cover notebooks that transform into your vision book
Guided prompts and facilitation
Magazines and materials
A take-home prompt sheet to continue the process after the workshop
What to bring:
A pen
Scissors
An open mind
Get your tickets HERE
“First Sundays” Jazz Brunch Series - Max Kilijanski Trio
“First Sundays” Jazz Brunch Series is winding down for the season and we’re so excited to have the Max Kilijanski Trio with us! On Sunday, July 7 we welcome Max Kilijanski on percussion, Shea Antonicelli on keyboard and Chris Stoll on vocals.
Max is a local musician, producer, and music teacher. He loves Rock, Jazz, Latin, and Pop music and also writes his own songs. Music has been his lifelong passion. He plays 9 instruments and teaches guitar, piano, bass, drums, and voice.
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
The LVMA presents - Lancaster Live Concert Series #1
Come down to West Main Street in the Village of Lancaster for the first of 4 live concerts on the street! Tequila Sunrise, Eagles and Tom Petty tribute band will be performing from 6-10 p.m. and of course, we have Ed Wyner live at Symposium from 4-6 p.m. before the main event! We’ll have delish food and drinks, and remember - beverages available to go!
Live music at Symposium with Ed Wyner!
Let’s kick off Lancaster’s first summer concert with a couple hours of great music, cocktails, food and wine!
Join us on Sat. 5/23 from 4-6 p.m. for a pre-concert set with Ed Wyner at Symposium, before the street fills up and the music starts.
Reservations recommended - reserve a table HERE
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
Live music at Symposium with Ed Wyner!
Join us for live music by Ed Wyner at Symposium! You know him as lead vocalist "Milton Wild" in Nerds Gone Wild, but we get him all to ourselves for a three-hour set from 6-9 p.m. performing all of your favorites. Join us for holiday cocktails, wine, beer and delicious food specials! Reservations welcome! * trivia cancelled for this event*
Spring Cookie Decorating with Buffalo Cake Pops!
Join us in this springtime class where you will get 7 sugar cookies to decorate. In this guided class, you’ll go step by step to show you the sugar cookie way- flooding consistencies, using wet on wet techniques for fun effects and how to use a stiffer consistency for final details. To finish, you’ll be able to bring your cookies home, and you’ll also receive our royal icing recipe to practice your cookie decorating skills at home!
The wine bar will be open for drinks and light refreshments to purchase and enjoy while decorating.
Age minimum on this class is 8 years and up. In this particular class, all persons in the room must have a ticket to participate, due to limited seating.
Learn more, and purchase your tickets HERE
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
“First Sundays” Jazz Brunch Series - John and Lisa Hasselback
“First Sundays” Jazz Brunch Series at Symposium continues this May with the talented John Hasselback, Jr. on trombone and Lisa Hasselback on keyboard. Reservations are highly recommended.
John Hasselback, Jr. began his musical career at an early age, performing with his father as a young teenager. He received a Bachelor of Music Performance degree from the Hartt School of Music, where he studied both Classical and Jazz Music, and apprenticed with the legendary Jackie McLean. He has since received Education and Graduate degrees from SUNY Fredonia and Empire State College. John has been very active as a performer, working across the United States and Europe with many noted Jazz artists including Jaki Byard, Don Menza, Maynard Ferguson, Roswell Rudd, Gap Mangione and Chuck Mangione. He is a featured soloist on recordings with Gap Mangione, Kenny Wheeler, and Don Menza. Recently, John was a featured member of the Don Menza Quintet, performing in Munich Germany, and performed as a member of the Ron Carter “Great Big Band” at Birdland in New York City. He has served as an Artistic Director for the Buffalo Jazz Collective, dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and advancing the rich Jazz heritage of Western New York. John has been named "Top Jazz Trombonist in Western New York" by the JazzBuffalo poll numerous times, since the poll’s inception in 2014. John is currently in his 22nd year at West Seneca Central Schools, where he is the director of the Jazz Ensemble at West Senior High School and serves as the coordinator of the district's annual Jazz festival. Additionally, he serves as the Erie County Music Educators Association Chairman for Jazz.
Texas native, Lisa Hasselback received her high school education at Interlochen Arts Academy where she studied piano, oboe and mallet percussion. She attended The Hartt School of music at the University of Hartford and received her Bachelors degree in African-American Jazz Studies under the leadership of alto saxophonist, Jackie McLean. She received her master’s degree in Education from Canisius College in Buffalo, NY. She has taught elementary and middle school general music since 1988 and has been employed by Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda Union-Free School District since 1990. Presently she teaches vocal music to kindergartners, 1st and 3rd graders at Hoover Elementary School. Lisa has played with the Buffalo Philharmonic Pops Orchestra for trumpeter Byron Stripling and vocalist Marva Hicks, The New York Voices, Liz Callaway singing the Carole King songbook; the American Idol winner, Melinda Doolittle; the concert opener for Gladys Knight, the BPO Prohibition Concert featuring vocalists Bronson Norris Murphy, Madison Claire Parks and Myra Maud and most recently she was a featured soloist for the Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole tribute concert entitled Unforgettable with vocalists Dee Daniels and Denzal Sinclaire. Lisa has toured with The Four Lads, The Four Aces and The Chordettes. She has played for Bob Newhart at Chautauqua Institute and with Houston Person at the Albright-Knox Summer Jazz Series. Through the years she has played in big bands and jazz festivals in the Buffalo area and continues to teach private lessons.
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
Springtime Book Swap
Get ready for a night of literary delights and bookish camaraderie at our bi-annual Book Swap! Join us for an evening of swapping stories and sharing reads as you pass on well-loved books and get new-to-you books in return.
A fun twist for this event - after our swap, we’ll be taking a field trip over to Vibe Yoga’s bookstore, “Books & Breath” for some literary shopping. Holly, owner of Vibe Yoga, is offering a 15% discount off of your purchase that evening! (It’s just a few steps from Symposium)
How the swap works:
You can bring up to 5 gently used books that you LOVE and are ready to pass along to a new reader. Any kind of book is welcome – fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, self-help, how-to, mystery, thriller, “contemporary romance” *wink, wink*
Before you arrive:
Write a sticky note with what you loved about the book and stick it on each cover.
Upon arrival:
You will “shelve” your book based on its genre and browse the book selection while sipping on wine, beer and cocktails, and chatting with fellow book enthusiasts. When it’s time to swap, you will be able to select up to as many books as you brought. If there are books remaining at the end of the swapping rounds, they will be open to all.
Your ticket includes delish cheese and charcuterie to snack on.
The bar will be open to purchase wine, beer or mocktails and cocktails.
Grab tickets HERE
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
Wine Class: The Wines of Bordeaux
Join us for an in-depth exploration of Bordeaux, a region that has shaped the way the world understands wine.
We’ll taste through a curated selection that showcases Bordeaux’s full range, from a refreshing sparkling, to expressive whites and classic reds built on some of the most important grape varieties in the world. Along the way, we’ll break down what makes Bordeaux unique: its geography, its blending traditions, and the balance between Old World structure and modern drinkability.
This class is designed to be approachable, engaging, and most importantly, delicious!
We'll taste through wines accompanied by cheeses and charcuterie. Wine and beer from our menu will be available for purchase at the bar, after class, until 9 p.m.
Doors open at 6 p.m. and class starts at 6:15.
Tickets are going fast! Purchase them HERE
“First Sundays” Jazz Brunch Series - Elliot Scozzaro Duo
“First Sundays” Jazz Brunch Series at Symposium continues this April with the incredibly talented Elliott Scozzaro Duo featuring Elliott on saxophone and George Caldwell on keyboard. Reservations are highly recommended.
Elliot Scozzaro is a saxophonist, composer, arranger, and educator from Buffalo, NY. He holds a Bachelor of Music from Capital University in Columbus, OH and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies at the University of North Texas (UNT), where he played lead alto saxophone in the seven-time Grammy-nominated One O’ Clock Lab Band. In 2016, Elliot was named a semi-finalist in the North American Saxophone Alliance Jazz Competition. After spending several months in the great city of Chicago, Elliot joined the renowned Glenn Miller Orchestra in January 2018.
For several months in early 2019, Elliot played woodwinds in the showband on the American Duchess, a riverboat based on the Mississippi River. Afterward he returned to Buffalo, where he maintains a busy schedule as both a leader and sideman throughout the Western New York region. Elliot is currently on faculty at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Fredonia and Buffalo State University and also serves as the Program Coordinator for the Buffalo Jazz Collective, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and advancing the rich jazz heritage of Western New York.
George Caldwell is a grammy-award winning jazz pianist. Highlights of his career as a jazz pianist include: a stint with tenor saxophonist Clifford Jordan; piano chair of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, and touring the globe with the renowned Count Basie Orchestra. He garnered a Grammy in 1996 for the cd Live at the Manchester Craftsman’s Guild. His Broadway, National and European Tours include Black and Blue, and Bring in ‘da Noise, Bring in ‘da Funk. He has shared the bandstand with Dizzy Gillespie, Cab Calloway, Shirley Bassey, Quincy Jones, Joe Williams, George Benson, Kenny Garrett, Gregory Hines, Savion Glover, Lou Rawls, Lionel Hampton, George Coleman, Roy Hargrove, and Bobby McFerrin. Caldwell has also performed at major jazz festivals and in the great concert halls of the world.
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
Live music at Symposium with Ed Wyner!
Join us for live music by Ed Wyner at Symposium! You know him as lead vocalist "Milton Wild" in Nerds Gone Wild, but we get him all to ourselves for a three-hour set from 6-9 p.m. performing all of your favorites. Join us for holiday cocktails, wine, beer and delicious food specials! Reservations welcome! trivia cancelled for this event
Wine Class: The Wide World of Rosé
Rosé is far more than a seasonal pour, it’s a reflection of place, grape and winemaking style!
As we welcome the arrival of spring, join us for the Wide World of Rosé as we taste through a curated selection from around the world. We’ll compare regions, grape varietals, and production methods to uncover how climate, technique and tradition shape what ends up in your glass.
From mineral-driven and delicate to textured and expressive, this class will expand your understanding of what rosé can be, and how to pair it with confidence all season long.
We'll taste through wines accompanied by cheeses and charcuterie. Wine and beer from our menu will be available for purchase at the bar, after class, until 9 p.m.
Doors open promptly at 6 p.m. and class starts at 6:15.
Tickets available HERE
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
Live music at Symposium with Tim Britt!
Back by popular demand - Tim Britt Live at Symposium! Tim’s back, playing and singing a wide variety of your favorites from 7-10 p.m. - Don’t miss out!
International Riesling Day Exclusive Wine Tasting
In honor of International Riesling Day, join us in Symposium's private room for an intimate, guided tasting designed to challenge everything you thought you knew about this iconic grape. We’ll explore five distinct expressions of Riesling from different corners of the world, comparing dryness levels, structure, aromatics and the role of acidity.
Each ticket includes:
• Five curated Riesling pours
• A full glass of your favorite from the tasting
• Mini charcuterie and cheese pairings
• Guided discussion in an intimate limited-seat setting
The tasting concludes in time to transition into live music with Tim Britt at 7 PM...and perhaps another glass.
Tickets are extremely limited!
Purchase Tickets HERE
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com
DJ Trivia at Symposium!
Grab your smartest friends and join us for DJ Trivia every Thursday starting at 7 p.m.! If you’d like to make a reservation, give us a call during business hours or email us at symposiumwine14086@gmail.com