Across New York State, visitors took time during the summer to cherish the lands they love by attending events honoring the system’s Centennial. Our parks and historic sites held numerous activities celebrating the 100-year anniversary , which ranged from community commemorations and canalside concerts to kayak parties and other festivities. This sampling demonstrates the breadth of unique experiences available to visitors, with more to come as we approach the final months of 2024!

Bethpage Airshow (Jones Beach State Park)

Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons was on hand for this year’s Bethpage Airshow at Jones Beach, which celebrated the Centennial and the 95th anniversary of the park. The Memorial Day event included a gigantic birthday cake, which weighed a literal ton!

Crailo State Historic Site 100^th Anniversary Celebration

Crailo State Historic Site celebrated their own 100-year anniversary as a historic site, having been donated to the citizens of New York State by van Rensselaer descendant Susan de Lancey van Rennselaer Strong in 1924. This Rennselaer site traces the Dutch influence on New York State and tells the story of the von Rennselaer family. Many joined in celebrations which included the Yankee Doodle Marching Band.

Boat Float ‘N Folk (Old Erie Canal State Historic Park)

In June, New York State Parks and Historic Sites and several local organizations teamed up to produce the 2024 edition of Boat Float ‘N Folk at Erie Canal State Historic Park, a 36-mile recreational corridor in Central New York which stretches from Dewitt to Rome. The day-long celebration saw numerous kayakers (including a T-Rex!) take to the Erie Canal and enjoy a sunny, warm morning of paddling. Throughout the afternoon, revelers enjoyed a sampling of folk music from area artists, as well.

Grant Cottage Community Day Celebration

During its summer celebration, Grant Cottage State Historic Site honored both the Parks Centennial and the legacy of its namesake, Civil War general and 18th US President Ulysses S. Grant. Attendees enjoyed reenactments, numerous fun-filled pursuits, and delicious foods from local vendors.

Long Island State Park Celebration (Hecksher State Park)

At Hecksher State Park in East Islip, a throwback celebration transported visitors back in time to explore the region’s history from the 1920s through the present day. Games, music, dancing, juggling and other activities provided an afternoon of fun and excitement.

Bash at the Beach (Hamlin Beach State Park)

In June, New York State Parks and Historic Sites and Friends of Hamlin Beach added Centennial flair to their annual Bash at the Beach festival at Hamlin Beach State Park along Lake Ontario near Rochester. Family friendly programming and spectacular concerts made the day a true celebration. The program also included a ribbon cutting for new Mobi-mat roll-out accessibility mats, which greatly increase accessibility to many parts of the beach.

New York State Park Legacy Celebration (Letchworth State Park)

July saw Letchworth State Park’s State Park Legacy Celebration. The program began at the Glen Iris Inn, where re-enactors portraying park founder William Pryor Letchworth and his executive assistant Caroline Bishop greeted patrons over a delicious breakfast. Later, the Friends of Letchworth hosted their annual CCC Legacy Ceremony that honored the stalwart Civilian Conservation Corps crews who helped to shape the park during the 1930s. Local historian Tom Cooke shared a riveting tale of the area at the Humphrey Nature Center. Activities provided by community groups and a fireworks finish made for an unforgettable day.

Bennington Battle Day (Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site)

The annual “Bennington Battle Day” commemorates an important victory during the American Revolutionary War. On August 16, 1777, a clash between the British army and American militia resulted in a decisive American victory which led to the British defeat at Saratoga and the American forces’ ultimate victory. This year’s remembrance led by costumed interpreters also put a spotlight on the Centennial.

The excitement continues with the premier of WMHT’s “From Land to Legacy” documentary at Saratoga Spa State Park on Monday, September 9 and its Capital Region broadcast debut on Wednesday, September 11 at 8 PM. (If you’re outside of the WMHT viewing area, check with your local PBS affiliate for dates and times.) Please check out our events page for Centennial celebrations in your area, as well. While you’re visiting, be sure to check off some of the activities featured in the Centennial Challenge. When you’re back home, Share Your Story and tell us all about the memories you’ve made. We’ll see you out there!

– Written by Patrick Yacco, Empire Fellow