The Beat

Events, Places, Programs and Virtual Content Features African American Impacts on State History

Governor Kathy Hochul invites New Yorkers to help celebrate African American contributions to state history during Black History Month through events, online programming and visits to State Parks and historic sites.

"New York State is home to incredible cultural heritage for Black History Month, and our parks and historic sites give us a chance to reflect on the invaluable contributions made by the African American community as well as the struggles and challenges that many still experience today," Governor Hochul said. "As we celebrate Black History Month, it's up to each of us to do everything in our power to build a better, more just society. Divided, we falter alone - but united, we rise together."…

Waterford, N.Y. – The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is inviting New Yorkers to take part in a special winter fitness challenge, the FEBRUARY 15 Canalway Challenge. Participants pledge to complete 15 miles by walking, running, hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing during the month of February to earn a 15-Miler badge. Participants can choose to log miles at national, state and local parks, on the Canalway Trail, or even in their own neighborhoods. Any location within the boundaries of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor counts. 

Keuka Lake: A Wine Story

Hammondsport, NY –  In 2018 and again in  2019, the Finger Lakes was named the "Best Wine Region" in the United States by USA Today. For 2019, VinePair Magazine named the region #2 of “The World’s Top 10 Wine Destinations.” The region has been earning a lot of accolades over the past several years and with good reason. The Atlantic wrote: “. . . no up-and-coming domestic region has received as much serious attention as the Finger Lakes of upstate New York.” You might not realize it, but this is an “up-and-coming” wine destination that has been about 200 years in the making. …

Weekend Races to Draw 400 Athletes to Mt. Van Hoevenberg

Lake Placid, N.Y. – The Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) is thrilled to host the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA) Super Tour/New England Nordic Ski Association (NENSA) Eastern Cup at Mt. Van Hoevenberg this Saturday & Sunday, January 29th & 30th. The Super Tour will gather approximately 400 of the nation’s top cross-country ski athletes to race on the new competition trails each day, and it will be the largest event staged at the facility since its recent modernizations. This Super Tour also serves as a test event for the FISU World University Games, which will take place January 12-22, 2023.

LEGOLAND® New York Resort officially announces April 8^th as its opening date for the 2022 season 

Families can expect new attractions and experiences to be revealed throughout the year, including the debut of a new water playground, two new entertainment stages with brand-new shows, the first annual July 4^th Red, White & Boom celebration, a bigger Brick-or-Treat bash, and the first-ever Christmas Bricktacular

Now through February 28, families can book a multi-day spring vacation package starting at $179.99 per person!

Goshen, NY (January 26, 2022) – Another year of awesome is here! Today, LEGOLAND® New York Resort – with the help of a few clever kids – announced April 8^th as the official opening date for the 2022 season. Annual Pass, vacation package and single-day ticket holders will once again be able to enjoy incredible adventures throughout the Park’s seven LEGO® themed lands, including Brick Street, Bricktopia, LEGO® NINJAGO® World, LEGO Castle, LEGO City, MINILAND and LEGO Pirates.

Date Nights, Family Nights, and More! 

Buffalo, NY - The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens has filled their latest exhibit with specialty nights and themed weeks that will create unforgettable memories for all ages. Whether it’s a family activity or a date night, the exotic plants, lights, and enchanting environment will make for a perfect tropical escape from the brisk Buffalo weather. …

Waterford, NY- The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is celebrating National Plan For Vacation Day on January 25 with the release of seven new multiday itineraries that make it easy to plan a trip along the New York State Canal System and Canalway Trail. The itineraries feature cycling, paddling, and sightseeing options with plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy regional foods and beverages. Information about accessibility is included to make it easier for people of all abilities to experience the canals.

Watkins Glen, N.Y. – Are you and your sweetie looking for a Valentine’s Day adventure? Maybe a romantic get-away (or stay-cation) mixed with a touch of nature? Consider these two options!

The Inn at Glenora

Our Inn will be offering a Valentine's Day package the weekend of Friday, Feb 11 through Sunday February 13. Rates vary by room type, but the package includes an overnight stay for 2, a $50 Veraisons gift card, a bottle of Glenora sparkling wine, and a box of chocolates from Keuka Candy Emporium in Penn Yan. (Vintners Guestroom: $249, Vintners Deluxe Guestroom: $249, Vintners Select Guestroom: $349)…

Featuring three captivating evening programs held on select Wednesdays January-March

Ticonderoga, NY – Fort Ticonderoga’s popular wintertime Fort Fever Series returns in 2022. From the comfort of your home, enjoy programs led by Fort Ticonderoga museum staff who share their latest fascinating research and cutting-edge discoveries. On January 26 at 7pm, enjoy the first evening program of the year! Join Fort Ticonderoga Vice President of Public History Stuart Lilie for “Brace Yourself with Holsters” which explores the common details of 18th-century holsters and their rapid evolution on the eve of the Revolutionary War.

Lake George, N.Y. – The wait will soon be over for the debut of the most anticipated new winter attraction in New York. Ice Castles in Lake George will open to the public on Sunday, January 23, 2022. Tickets will go on sale at www.icecastles.com/new-york on Wednesday at 8pm ET.

Ice artisans are working around the clock to get the attraction at Festival Commons ready for Sunday’s grand opening. The interactive experience will feature ice-carved tunnels, fountains, slides, frozen thrones, and cascading towers of ice embedded with color-changing LED lights.