NEWSLETTER
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.
Capture the Canal Photo Contest Details
Whether you’re a resident, visitor, history enthusiast, nature lover, or photographer, we want to see the Erie Canal through your eyes. Submit your best Erie Canal photos for a chance to win exciting prizes.
- How to Enter: Submit your photo entries at https://upload.crowdriff.com/oneida-county-tourism-erie-canal-contest
- Deadline: All entries must be submitted by Friday, February 28, 2025.
- Judging: Photos will be reviewed by the Oneida County Tourism team.
- Winners Announced: Friday, March 7, 2025. Winners will be notified directly and celebrated on our social media channels (Facebook and Instagram)
- Prizes: Winners will receive gift cards, exclusive OCT swag bags, and the chance to have their work featured across our marketing platforms!
Join us as we celebrate two centuries of the Erie Canal’s impact on Oneida County’s history, culture, and community. “The Erie Canal has played a defining role in shaping Oneida County’s history, economy and identity for 200 years,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “This photo contest is a great way for residents and visitors alike to celebrate its legacy and showcase the beauty and significance of this historic waterway. I encourage everyone to take part and help capture the spirit of the Erie Canal for future generations."
President of Oneida County Tourism Sarah Foster Calero noted, "We are so excited to launch this contest while simultaneously getting our communities excited for the Erie Canal Bicentennial. Oneida County is fortunate to have so much history, especially with its deep ties to the canal. We're excited to see how others capture its beauty."
If you think you have the perfect photo of the Erie Canal within Oneida County, please visit our website https://www.oneidacountytourism.com/photo-contest/ to learn more and submit your entry.
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About Oneida County Tourism
Oneida County Tourism is the official tourism promotion agency for Central New York’s Region, representing Utica, Rome, Verona, and Sylvan Beach. Through strategic marketing and public relations, the organization attracts visitors across sectors, including leisure, meetings, sports, travel trade, and film/TV production. Governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, Oneida County Tourism is dedicated to showcasing the region’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.