The Beat

A Shining Beacon of Light, Liberty & Jewish Confidence

Ahead of Celebration of 250 Years Since America’s Founding, Iconic Menorah to Shine Forth as Universal Symbol of Liberty 

New York, NY — In a moment of great annual anticipation, The World’s Largest Menorah—a 36-foot New York City icon and the world’s most recognizable menorah—will be erected at the corner of 5th Ave and 59th St. across from the Plaza Hotel, on Wed. Dec. 10 at 8 am. …

Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — One of the most significant collections of American thoroughbred racing trophies in the sport’s history — the Whitney family collection — has been bequeathed to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame by the late John Hendrickson, the Museum’s former chairman who unexpectedly passed away in August 2024.

Lewiston, NY –  DSP Shows and Artpark are proud to announce Ray LaMontagne - Trouble 20th Anniversary Tour at Artpark’s Mainstage Theater in Lewiston NY, on September 22, 2026 at 7:00PM with special guest The Weather Station.

Utica, NY – Park Ranger William Sawyer has explored local history for more than 30 years. His research into celebrations from the 1700s shows how different cultures, including Native American, Dutch, German, English, and others, all helped shape the holidays we know today.

Schenectady, NY (December 3, 2025) - Throughout December, Schenectady County Historical Society (SCHS) will welcome guests to its historic sites for a suite of holiday-inspired programs.

The biggest event happening at SCHS is the annual Festival of Trees fundraiser. Over 70 sponsors from local businesses and non-profit organizations have come together to decorate trees in a sparkling blend of wit and whimsy.

“Noble Train Begins”, running December 5-7, commemorates the daunting 300-mile transport of artillery from Fort Ticonderoga to drive the British out of Boston

Additional photo, video and media materials may be accessed by clicking here. Video credit: “Fort Ticonderoga”

Ticonderoga, N.Y.—This week, beginning December 5 and running through December 7, Fort Ticonderoga will celebrate the 250^th anniversary of one of the most ambitious and successful military operations of the American Revolution. Henry Knox’s expedition to bring a “Noble Train of Artillery,” featuring nearly 60 tons of vital military equipment on a 300-mile journey from Fort Ticonderoga to George Washington’s army outside Boston, is one of the Revolution’s most enduring events.

Lewiston, N.Y. –  Artpark and Company announced today a grant award totaling $25,000 from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) to support the arts and culture sector. Through New York State’s continued investment in arts and culture, NYSCA has awarded $80.9 million in FY 2026 to arts and culture nonprofits across all 10 regions and a historic number of artists.

Projects Completed Through Governor’s Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition

$18 Million Provided for Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport Provides Comprehensive Upgrades to Modernize Airport Campus While Expanding Cultural and Community Spaces

$18 Million Provided for Ogdensburg International Airport Provides Modern Gateway to and from the North Country

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of two transformational airport projects in Rochester and Ogdensburg, supported by $36 million in state funding under the Governor’s $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition.

Current Passholders Can Renew Online and Save for the Season 

Order by December 14 to Have in Time for the Holidays 

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced that the 2026 Empire Pass is now available for purchase. The $80 Empire Pass provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to New York State Parks, state boat launch sites, arboretums, park preserves and Department of Environmental Conservation Forest preserves.

Tickets now on sale

New York, N.Y. - South Street Seaport Museum announces the 2026 sailing season for the 1885 Schooner Pioneer beginning in May and running through October. Tickets range from $5–$70 to sail New York Harbor and are on sale now! Get them here.