Scenes from Music on the Pier in Dunkirk.

Music by the lakes is a refreshing tune for many to kick off the summer months. My, how we have been waiting for something that was only two years ago a given.

Once state Gov. Andrew Cuomo gave the go-ahead to reopen New York state, area municipalities have moved quickly to give residents something to look forward to in the coming weeks. In Dunkirk, the city announced plans for Fourth of July fireworks as well as a number of Music on the Pier events. The first took place last week.

Cassadaga was even quicker, putting out a schedule in mid June. On Sunday, award-winning bluegrass group, South 79, will be performing on Cassadaga’s Floating Stage from 5 to 7 p.m. Cassadaga Beach and Floating Stage are located on Park Avenue, Cassadaga. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved to the American Legion, Post 1280 or the Community Room at the fire hall on Mill Street.

If it is not concerts, how about sporting events. Strangely, it was many national venues that began to show the U.S. that we could gather again. In April, the Texas Rangers’ home opener welcomed 40,000 fans. More recently, Buffalo’s Sahlen Field that is currently hosting the Toronto Blue Jays will expand capacity.

We’re not totally out of the woods with COVID-19 and its impact. But coming together — and getting out after more than a year of precautions — is adding to the appeal of this summer.