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Category - Arts & Culture

Four people stand on podiums with raised arms under a sunny sky at the Olympic Jumping Complex, flanked by flags.

New York State has been the home of monumental moments in Black history. From Harlem’s jazz scene to Frederick Douglass’ legacy in Rochester to Harriet Tubman’s home in Auburn, explore the people, places, and stories that shaped America on a weekend getaway to New York State destinations rich in Black culture, history, and heritage.

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Orchid Fest

Get ready for a month of celebration in New York State! Commemorate Women's History Month by exploring the state’s rich history of the Women's Rights Movement. Join the revelry of St. Patrick's Day at parades and festivals spanning from New York City to Buffalo. Celebrate Pride in the Adirondacks, indulge in mouth-watering maple products at a cherished Empire State tradition, and experience the excitement of winter sports.

Exterior of Buffalo City Hall in New York

From blockbuster hits to creative indie productions, filmmakers and TV producers often turn to New York State for distinctive locations. The thousands of movies and shows filmed here every year feature some of the state’s most impressive attractions, giving viewers the chance to experience New York from the comfort of their own homes.

A look at the One More River to Cross exhibit at the  Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
CREDIT: @JADEPHOTOGRAPHS ON INSTAGRAM

Museums, attractions, and cultural institutions across New York State are commemorating Black History Month this February with special programs and events honoring and celebrating the great contributions and achievements of African Americans. From art workshops to live performances to moving exhibits, find unique and meaningful ways to celebrate and understand Black history, culture, and heritage with these family-friendly events.

Blue, green, yellow, and orange ceramic bottles on display

Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or pop culture enthusiast, New York State's world-class museums are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. What better way to warm up during the winter months than by spending the day exploring an exciting exhibit? From the first ever exhibition dedicated to Long Island native Billy Joel to an exhibit with larger-than-life-sized animal sculptures made entirely from LEGO® bricks, there really is something for everyone. Be sure to add these must-see Empire State exhibits to your winter itinerary before they're gone! 

A woman posing for a picture wearing a brown fedora and a striped shirt in her wine shop at Down the Rabbit Hole

From cultural cuisines to jazz music, bookstores, dance, and sweet treats, shop local during your next New York State getaway and support New York’s Black-owned businesses this month and every month! 

Two female and one male dancer dressed in white dance in front of a blue backdrop at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

From New York City to Buffalo, the Empire State is packed with rich Black art and culture. Witness riveting performances from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, explore Black-owned art galleries, or take a walking tour through Jackie Robinson’s Harlem. Whether you prefer a beautiful art museum or a lively festival, here are some great places to celebrate, honor, and commemorate Black art and culture throughout the state. 

A car's headlights are visible as it rolls down a NYC Chinatown street at night under the glow of hundreds of colorful Chinese Lanterns

Get set to celebrate the Lunar New Year in New York State! The Lunar, or Chinese, New Year is celebrated for 15 days, from New Year's Eve on January 28 to the Lantern Festival on February 12. 2025 marks the Year of the Snake, specifically the wood snake, which is associated with traits of wisdom, knowledge, intelligence, intuition, and creativity. Here are just a few ways you can celebrate the Lunar New Year in New York State!

A person watches the sunrise from Artists Rock at North-South Campground

Now is the perfect time to make 2025 resolutions and new year goals for renewal and self-discovery.

A person dressed in a polar bear costume stands in the ocean water in Coney Island during the New Year's polar plunge

Say hello to 2025 in style in New York State by warming up with a variety of fun, exciting, and delicious events! Whether you want to take in a two-for-one show on Broadway, groove to the smooth