The Beat

Cayuga County, N.Y. (April 2025) – The Erie Canal, a defining feature of New York’s history and development, is celebrating its bicentennial in 2025, and Cayuga County is ready to welcome history enthusiasts eager to honor this milestone. With a rich canal heritage and a full lineup of engaging events and resources, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories, sights, and experiences that have shaped the region for two centuries.

101st Airborne Reenactors Create Realistic Paratrooper Experience for C-47 Passengers

Farmingdale, NY (April 6, 2025) -- American Airpower Museum (AAM) continues its popular C-47 D-Day Living History Flight Experience with four 2025 dates to commemorate the 80^th anniversary of the end of World War II.  AAM’s mission is to educate the public about aviation history and in particular, the important role that military aviation has played in defense of the United States during World War II and beyond.  Our flights are an excellent way to teach present day Americans what it was like to participate in an actual combat mission during WWII. …

Wurtsboro, N.Y. (March 11, 2025) – The Village of Wurtsboro will host a bicentennial celebration for the Delaware & Hudson (D&H) Canal, marking 200 years since this historic waterway transformed trade and transportation in the region. The event will feature a parade, historical exhibits, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The parade will end at the reenactment site where a portion of Philip Hone’s groundbreaking speech will be read.

With special exhibitions and programs throughout 2025
Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is celebrating the 75^th anniversary of its 1950 founding with numerous special exhibitions, a variety of signature events, and expanded programming throughout 2025.

Shoshana Bean, Sofia Carson, Taylor Dayne, Micaela Diamond, and Angélique Kidjo Join The New York Pops for its 42nd Birthday Gala, “Words And Music: Diane Warren”

New York, N.Y. (February 19, 2025) — Notable guest artists including Shoshana Bean (GRAMMY Award winner and two-time Tony Award nominee), Sofia Carson (star of Netflix’s Purple Hearts and Carry-On), Taylor Dayne (singer of the number one hit “Love Will Lead You Back”), Micaela Diamond (Tony Award nominee for Parade and original Broadway cast member of The Cher Show), and Angélique Kidjo (five-time GRAMMY Award winner) will join The New York Pops to honor legendary songwriter Diane Warren at the orchestra’s 42nd Birthday Gala, Words and Music: Diane Warren, on Monday, April 28, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall. Additional guest artists to be announced.

Historic Gathering of International Tall Ships and Naval Vessels to Highlight the Nation's Semiquincentennial Celebration, July 3-8, 2026

New York, NY (January 28, 2025) – As the United States prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary in 2026, plans have taken shape for a monumental celebration in the Port of New York and New Jersey. Sail4th 250, the non-profit organization leading the charge, today revealed more details about what’s in store for the region from July 3-8, 2026. 

Utica, N.Y. (January 23, 2025) – “Got an old mule and her name is Sal, 15 miles on the Erie Canal!” These famous lyrics from the classic song The Erie Canal remind us of the waterway’s rich history—and now, the canal is celebrating an incredible milestone: 200 years! 

To commemorate this bicentennial anniversary, Oneida County Tourism (OCT) is inviting you to share your love for the canal by entering the Oneida County Tourism Capture the Canal photo contest. This is your chance to showcase your talent, celebrate your community and make history right here in Oneida County. Winning photos will be featured in the OCT Destination Guide, on social media, and our website.

Events and Activities to Commemorate Triumphs, History, Community, and Legacy Impact 

Lake Placid, NY (January 14, 2025)— The New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority announces a line-up of events celebrating the 45th anniversary of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, a milestone that holds deep significance for the community and sports history. Through March 8, 2025, Olympic Authority venues, the Village of Lake Placid, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum are hosting a range of engaging activities, events, and commemorations that honor the iconic moments and remarkable achievements that have shaped this winter sports haven.

Lake Placid, N.Y. – When you turn 100, it’s easy to look back and see so much in the rearview mirror. This is certainly the case for the iconic Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa in Lake Placid, which is celebrating its centennial year in 2024.

The history of the Mirror Lake Inn dates back to 1924 when Climena Alford, a native of Lake Placid, married William Rufus Wikoff of Massachusetts. Mr. Wikoff, who had found financial success with his "Fuller Brush Man" concept, retired in 1926, and the couple moved to Lake Placid. There, Mr. Wikoff transformed an old estate into the Mir-a-Lac Inn, quickly establishing it as a high-quality resort that attracted wealthy clientele from across the state.