Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Events at State Parks
Event Search Results
Skip Navigation LinksHome / Events / Search Results
350 events matched your search
Wed 30 Apr
Last Day of the Month Hike
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Join an educator as we stroll around Grafton Lakes State Park. The hike is around Long Pond and is approximately 2.5-3 miles. Please wear sturdy shoes and register before time. Call to register at 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Thu 01 May
Exhibition: A Black History of Colonial New York
Thursday, May 1, 2025 until Sunday, June 22, 2025
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Presenting an overview of Black history in New York from the colonial New Netherland period to the American Revolution, the exhibit covers topics such as slavery, the slave trade, resistance, self-emancipation, and military service, with a focus on the Philipse Manor, Westchester County, and the lower Hudson Valley. Exhibition free with general museum admission.
Registration: Not required
Thu 01 May
First Day of the Month Hike
Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719

Join John Brown Farm for a series of guided winter hikes on the first day of the month from February till May. The free hikes are sponsored by the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and will be guided by Cheryl Craft, a historic interpreter for John Brown Farm. The program will focus mainly on getting outdoors and enjoying a small group hiking experience. There will be opportunities to share local history along the way. All hikes will start at 10am and will require advance registration.

If there is enough interest, the first hike on May 1 will be spring hike to John Thomas Brook in Vermontville

The planned hikes are variable in length and difficulty, though none require any special technical skills. They will require winter gear such as trekking poles, and possibly snowshoes or traction devices depending on trail conditions. Participants will need their own gear. 

Register for hikes by texting or calling the guide at 518-806-9719, preferably in advance, but at least 24 hours before the scheduled hike. You may also search for Events on our Facebook page for additional details.
Registration: Required
Thu 01 May
Opening Day for Visitor Center
Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street. The Visitor Center and Museum will open for the 2025 season on May 1st. Come explore the Pathway to Empire exhibit. Admission is free. Tours of the grounds are available for a nominal fee. Seasonal Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Sunday 1pm-5pm.
Registration: Not required
Fri 02 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 2, 2025 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during May. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Not required
Fri 02 May
Spring Forest Bathing at Minnewaska
Friday, May 2, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Immerse yourself in the beautiful forest at Minnewaska on this guided walk led by Jane Dobson with Mind the Forest. The wellness practice of Forest Bathing is the perfect antidote to the fatigue and stress many of us feel as a result of our technology-laden and busy lives. On this approximately half-mile walk, we will slow down and directly experience the world through our senses. We'll rekindle curiosity and let go of our to-do lists. As we mindfully connect with the natural world, our perspective shifts, opening us to awe and wonder, and deepening our sense of connection. This wellness practice continues to grow across the globe as science demonstrates the health benefits of Forest Bathing, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, focus and sleep. Join us for one or all sessions of this five-part spring series as we use mindfulness to explore themes of sensory anesthesia, species loneliness, and our relationship with time. This program is open to participants aged 16 and older, with minors accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 02 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 2, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 02 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 2, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 02 May
Meditation in Motion: Labyrinth
Friday, May 2, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

World Labyrinth Day is May 3rd! As a part of NYS Parks' Wellness focus this year and May being mental health awareness month, join a nature center educator to learn about meditation in motion and create a simple labyrinth on the beach. Geared toward ages 13+. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Fri 02 May
Meditation in Motion: Labyrinth
Friday, May 2, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

World Labyrinth Day is May 3rd! As a part of NYS Parks' Wellness focus this year and May being mental health awareness month, join a nature center educator to learn about meditation in motion and create a simple labyrinth on the beach. Geared toward ages 13+. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
Bird Banding
Saturday, May 3, 2025 until Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
Crown Point's Bird Banding Station will begin operations on May 3, 2025 and continue through May 16th. Originally launched in 1975, migrating birds have been monitored at Crown Point in early May ever year for the past 50 years. Members of the public are encouraged to visit and learn about this citizen science project, and to help celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Banding Station at Crown Point. The Bird Banding Station is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
Intro to Birding
Saturday, May 3, 2025 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Join us for an introduction to birding with special guest Matt Kelly. We will learn about birding and then go on a short 1-mile walk near the Welcome Center. This program has 2 separate sessions: one for Adults and one for kids. Each program has separate registration. You can register at 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
Beginning Birder Walk
Saturday, May 3, 2025 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Interested in birding but don't know where to start or just began and looking to learn more? Join in! We'll share tips & tricks you can use on your journey to this fun, engaging hobby! Binoculars provided Parking! $10 fee Registration is required, Registration through Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/beginner-birder-walk-tickets-1251658236479?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 08:45 AM - 01:00 PM
Max V. Shaul State Park
Save the date! Volunteer with us to help with park projects such as planting trees and flowers, painting, trail and campsite clean-up, and more! BBQ lunch provided. Stay tuned for registration details.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Pear Orchard Pavillion, I Love My Park Day is an annual event that brings together thousands of volunteers to enhance and celebrate New York's amazing parkland. Join your friends, family and neighbors and sign up today to volunteer at your favorite state park or site. Registration required. Register here: www.ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day at Hubbard Lodge
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fahnestock State Park (Clarence Fahnestock)
Work with Friends of Fahnestock and Hudson Highlands State Parks and experienced gardeners from the Philipstown Garden Club to help rehabilitate the Ann Odell Butterfly Garden at Hubbard Lodge. There will be a range of activities for experienced gardeners and novices alike, including potting perennial seedlings, spring cleanup of paths and beds, planting annuals that attract butterflies, and continued preparation of existing overgrown beds. We will have some gardening tools, but please bring your own if you have them. We recommend long sleeves, long pants, sun hat, and covered shoes (encountering poison ivy is possible). Recommended for ages 13+. Please bring a refillable water bottle, your enthusiasm, and muscle for a wonderful day outdoors.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
FDRs ILMP day will be held at the pool area putting mulch in the flower beds from 9am-11am. Volunteers will park in the pool parking lot.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Parks Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Join us at Grafton Lakes State Park for Parks & Trails New York's I Love My Park Day! This statewide event is the largest single-day volunteer event in New York State, coordinating thousands of volunteers annually to help improve and celebrate local parks! We participate in this event each year, but the help of our awesome volunteers is cruicial every year. Get involved in our community and join us to help improve our park! Registration for this is done through Parks & Trails New York at the following link: https://www.ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day. Their website has additional information about the event as a whole. For any questions about what we're doing at GLSP specifically, call 518-279-1155. We'll see you out there!
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Volunteers may engage in different maintenance tasks to help with the upkeep of the Jay Estate grounds and/or historic gardens. Activities may include helping with invasive species control and removal, leaf raking, etc. Some of these activities may require some lightweight lifting. You will be outside so please dress accordingly. Please bring your own water bottle. At the end of the event, we will have a soft ice cream truck on site for participants to enjoy free ice cream. Families are definitely welcome! Children 13 or younger must be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times. Tools and gloves will be provided. No previous experience is needed. Rain date: May 4 or TBD Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Everyone's favorite day of volunteerism is back! The state-wide day of pitching in to help the parks is organized by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY)in partnership with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and local Friends groups, to celebrate and enhance New York's parks and historic sites and bring visibility to the entire park system and its needs. This annual event is a volunteer opportunity for people of all ages to give back to our beloved Preserve. This spring, join Rockefeller State Park Preserve staff and the Friends of Rockefeller State Park Preserve to build up our Preserve and our community! Cost: FREE. Registration required with Friends of Rockefeller State Park Preserve. Please register at: I Love My Park Day — Friends of the Rockefeller State Park
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I LOVE MY PARK DAY at Schuyler Mansion
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
(518) 434-0834

Grab your gardening gloves for this spring clean-up of the historical grounds! Volunteers are needed for planting, weeding, raking, and pruning! Registration required.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day at Hubbard Lodge
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Taconic Outdoor Education Center
Work with Friends of Fahnestock and Hudson Highlands State Parks and experienced gardeners from the Philipstown Garden Club to help rehabilitate the Ann Odell Butterfly Garden at Hubbard Lodge. There will be a range of activities for experienced gardeners and novices alike, including potting perennial seedlings, spring cleanup of paths and beds, planting annuals that attract butterflies, and continued preparation of existing overgrown beds. We will have some gardening tools, but please bring your own if you have them. We recommend long sleeves, long pants, sun hat, and covered shoes (encountering poison ivy is possible). Recommended for ages 13+. Please bring a refillable water bottle, your enthusiasm, and muscle for a wonderful day outdoors.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Pear Orchard Pavillion, I Love My Park Day is an annual event that brings together thousands of volunteers to enhance and celebrate New York's amazing parkland. Join your friends, family and neighbors and sign up today to volunteer at your favorite state park or site. Registration required. Register here: www.ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Join us in our effort to beautify the Walkway Over the Hudson! Attendees young and old are welcome to participate. Participants will be weeding, pruning, mulching, and watering our beautification areas on either side of the Walkway. Perfect for all who like to see the fruits of their labor blossom throughout the year. Thanks to our friends at the Millbrook and Dutchess/Orange Garden Clubs we will also have native pollinator plants for planting! Additional projects including trash clean up and painting may be offered as needed.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
Caves & Karst
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day at Little Stony Point
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve
Little Stony Point Citizens Association is a proud participant in I Love My Park Day. Help make this Hudson River Coast Line the most pristine and welcoming in the lower Hudson Valley. We will be planting trees, picking up litter on the beaches and doing trail maintenance around Little Stony Point. T-shirts will be available to volunteers. Ideal event for teens, families, corporate volunteers and scout groups. If you are bringing a large group please let us know at info@Littlestonypoint.org --Thank you! FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
Caves & Karst
Saturday, May 3, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day at Bennington Battlefield
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site
Join other volunteers to beautify the battlefield. Choose from a variety of projects. Participants will gather in the lower parking area for tools and directions. Options include, but are not limited to, gardening and trail work. Bring your own gloves and a lunch if you plan to picnic afterward. First time volunteers welcome! Contact David Pitlyk at 518-860-9094 for additional details or register online at www.ptny.org/ilovemypark.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center
Help us beautify our park and get ready for the summer season! Volunteer opportunities include tree planting, preparing garden beds, planting flowers, cleaning up trails, picking up sticks and spreading woodchips on playgrounds. I Love My Park Day is an annual state-wide community service event. For more information, please visit this site: https://ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
Kids Birding
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Join us for an introduction to birding with special guest Matt Kelly. We will learn about birding and then go on a short 1-mile walk near the Welcome Center. This program has 2 separate sessions: one for Adults and one for kids. Each program has separate registration. You can register at 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 523-3900

Come help with an outdoor spring clean-up: volunteers will help with gardening projects. Come help as you are able! Pizza provided for our helpers. Call 518-523-3900 to register
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lake Taghkanic State Park
Come show your park some love! I Love My Park Day is BACK at Lake Taghkanic on Saturday May 3rd! Come on out and help us clean up our pollinator garden, help plant some flowers around the park or help us with some shoreline cleanup! Event starts at 10am!
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
14th Annual I Love My Park Day: Trail Work on Mossy Glen Footpath at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
For this project, volunteers will be working with New York-New Jersey Trail Conference members and Park Preserve staff to help improve sections of Mossy Glen Footpath in various wet areas. Volunteers will help improve drainage, move gravel, define widening sections of trail, and more. Some tasks will be physically demanding and may involve carrying, lifting, and bending as well as using hand tools. This program is appropriate for children over the age of 13 years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 years old. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. For more information, please call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752. Pre-registration is required by visiting: www.ptny.org/ilovemypark.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
14th Annual I Love My Park Day at Minnewaska and Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
This event is part of more than 100 cleanup, improvement and beautification events happening statewide. I Love My Park Day is an exciting statewide event to improve and enhance New York's State Parks and historic sites and bring visibility to the entire state park system and its needs. Volunteers will clean up park lands and beaches, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species and work on various site improvement projects. Specific events will be listed shortly. Call the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752 or the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989 for more information.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
14th Annual I Love My Park Day: Trail Work on the South Gully Footpath at Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Join Sam's Point staff for this project and show some love to the South Gully Footpath, a section of the Long Path and the Shawangunk Ridge Trail. We will be fixing a wet portion of this trail by creating drainage, and setting stepping stones. Once this work is completed, we will add trail markers to ensure that hikers stay on the trail. Volunteers should bring water, snacks, lunch, and garden gloves. This program is appropriate for children 15 years of age and older, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 years old. Meet at the Sam's Point Area. For more information, please call the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration is required by visiting: www.ptny.org/ilovemypark.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
14th Annual I Love My Park Day: Waking Up the Pollinator Garden at Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Spring is here and our garden is flourishing! The bees are buzzing, the butterflies are fluttering, and the flowers are blooming. For this project, come help Sam's Point staff to beautify and maintain our native plant garden, located in front of the Visitor Center. Once the garden is complete, we will head out onto the trails to remove invasive plant species. This program is appropriate for children over the age of five years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 years old. Meet at the Sam's Point Area. For more information, please call the Sam's Point Visitor Center at 845-647-7989. Pre-registration is required by visiting: www.ptny.org/ilovemypark.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join us on May 3 to clean and beautify parks and public lands all across the state–from Montauk to Massena. Volunteering helps preserve the environment, foster community pride, and support the long-term sustainability of New York's green spaces. Check-in is at 9:30 am, the event starts at 10 and lunch begins around 12:30. Registration is required on the events page: https://reg.resport.io/s/step1.jsp?r=6350488557584384.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join us on May 3 to clean and beautify parks and public lands all across the state–from Montauk to Massena. Volunteering helps preserve the environment, foster community pride, and support the long-term sustainability of New York's green spaces. Check-in is at 9:30 am, the event starts at 10 and lunch begins around 12:30. Registration is required on the events page: https://reg.resport.io/s/step1.jsp?r=6350488557584384.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
Ossining Weir Tour
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history: the engineering, the people and its impact! Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave. (Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk/parking lots nearby). Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=307. 10:00 AM, Location: Ossining, Free, Ages: All Ages.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
The Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct is hosting three I Love My Park Day events in collaboration with Parks & Trails NY on the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail, all on May 3rd with the rain date of May 4th. The three locations are: Croton-on-Hudson, Irvington, and Yonkers. They are all designed to tend the Aqueduct Trail and all will involve removal of invasive species to make room for native plants, and will also include trash removal. Registration is recommended and is now live; volunteers can register for their chosen event via the website of the Friends of the OCA using this easily accessible link: https://aqueduct.org/ILMPD.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
During this statewide volunteer event for NYS parks and historic sites, Staatsburgh seeks up to 25 volunteers to assist the site with some land scaping and grounds tasks, to prepare the site for the full warm-weather season. We will be weeding and mulching around the mansion, and gathering branches and debris in areas of the park. Volunteers receive event T shirts (while supplies last); a pizza lunch and complimentary mansion tour is offered by the Friends of Mills at Staatsburgh. People interested in registering for Staatsburgh's event can sign up at https://www.ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
PMH & Historical Games at Healthy Kids Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Philipse Manor Hall will be bringing Historical Games to the YMCA of Yonkers Healthy Kids Day at JFK Marina in Yonkers. Come visit the PMH booth to try your hand at all kinds of historical games, plus visit other booths, enjoy rides, music, face painting, and more! (No Story Time this month.) Learn more at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
The REAL Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era
Saturday, May 3, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
This tour highlights the real-life characters and themes at Staatsburgh that parallel Downton Abbey and HBO's The Gilded Age. Led by a costumed interpreter, the tour shows how the Mills family and their servants conducted a busy weekend of high society entertaining, comparing Staatsburgh to what viewers saw on TV. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Bring your work gloves and water bottles as we support our Park. While we love Taconic State Park every day, we invite folks to join us in beautifying our Park. Participate in our landscaping, gardening, clean up projects and more on the day of. Registration not required but is encouraged. Scan the QR code or go to the below website to register today. https://reg.resport.io/s/step1.jsp?r=5276705629405184.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
“No Mercy for Traitors” – A Dramatic Performance
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
In April of 1777 over 30 local Loyalists were captured and detained at Fort Montgomery where they were put on trial for their lives. Using actual testimony from the court martial, witness a dramatic recreation of this harrowing event by actors Sean Grady and Gary Petagine from Historical Drama. Involving a colorful cast of characters including NY's first governor and "a mysterious one eyed, five-foot ten inch, British officer" this program promises intrigue, and will provide insight to the complexity of the Revolution in the Hudson Valley.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
Drop-in Animal Care Series
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Come join an educator as we go over how we feed our animals in the welcome center! Meet our turtles, snakes and lizards! These are drop-in programs and require no pre-registration, simply come in the Welcome Center and go to the classroom. No registration is needed.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join us for a day of stewardship, service, and fun at Olana State Historic Site and help make sure Frederic Church's artist-designed landscape is ready for another great season! This state-wide event brings together OLANA Volunteers, The Olana Partnership's Staff, and our New York State Parks Team to help get our public lands and Frederic Church's vision ready for the Spring.1:30-2:30 PM – FREE Special Landscape Tours and ActivitiesKick off your day with optional free tours about the park's history or the plants and landscape at Olana. Join activities designed for the whole family.2:30-4:00 PM – Volunteer Projects Led by Olana Staff From 2:30-4:00 PM, join fellow volunteers to get Olana State Historic Site ready for the spring season. Sign up for activities will be available on a first come, first serve basis day-of.Available projects may include: Park Cleanup & trash removal, Planting Flowers at Cosy Cottage, Indoor Classroom Cleanup at the Wagon HouseIf you have any questions, please reach out to education@olana.org.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 May
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 May
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, May 3, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 04 May
Steps2Cure NF
Sunday, May 4, 2025
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
Steps2Cure NF is a series of community fundraising walks dedicated to raising awareness and support for those affected by neurofibromatosis (NF). These events bring together individuals, families, and teams in a shared mission to fund research, support programs, and advocacy efforts that make a difference in the lives of people living with NF. With each step, participants help move closer to a world where NF no longer impacts lives.
Registration: Not required
Sun 04 May
Hudson Valley Marathon at Walkway Over the Hudson
Sunday, May 4, 2025 05:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Alpha Win is proud to present the Hudson Valley Marathon at the Walkway Over the Hudson! With a breathtaking run over the Hudson River, you'll get to see beautiful views of the scenic and historic area from the Catskills all the way to the Hudson Highlands. Just a short walk from the Metro North train station in Poughkeepsie, the Hudson Valley Marathon is the perfect weekend getaway, and now a Boston Marathon qualifier! For complete information, visit HudsonValleyMarathon.com.
Registration: Not required
Sun 04 May
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Sunday, May 4, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staatsburgh State Historic Site and the surrounding Mills-Norrie State Park possess a great variety of environments in close proximity, an ideal setting for birding. Experienced birders will enjoy a walk through several interesting environments, inexperienced birders will find encouragement and a helping hand, and newbies will be able to discuss equipment, apps, and techniques. We will also be on the lookout for the many wildflowers that bloom in the park. Volunteer walk leader David Lund has been birding Mills-Norrie State Park daily for the last 35 years. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Croton Dam Hike
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Enjoy a free, easy, 2 miles/2 hours (total) loop hike north along the Aqueduct and atop the beautiful Croton Dam. The leader of the hike will discuss the history and construction of the Old Croton Aqueduct and the features of the Croton Dam, the trailhead of the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail. The Aqueduct was completed in 1842 to supply fresh water to a thirsty New York City. Note: Meet near the restrooms at the rear (south end) of the parking lot at Croton Gorge Park, Rte. 129, Cortlandt, NY. 10567, GPS Coordinates: 41°13′ 20.46" N -73°51′12.59" W. $10 parking fee/car from May - Labor Day (From Metro-North Hudson Line Croton-Harmon Train Station: 15-minute taxi.) Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=308. 10:00 AM, Location: Croton Dam, Free, but parking is $10, Ages: All Ages.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Wildflower Walk
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join botanist, Devon Cummings, for a leisurely walk around Swan Lake. Learn about the identification of Spring wildflowers! We'll catch some Spring ephemerals as well as early summer blooms. We'll also talk about using iNaturalist and Seek, contributing to the scientific community. Please be aware this is a 1.11 mile walk, mostly flat surface. Max: 12people. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle. Please register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Journaling Around Thacher Nature Center
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:30 AM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Both a field study and classroom activity, this class introduces students to the various ways to journal your environment. All materials are provided and you will go home with a journal, technical pencil, and eraser plus suggested videos to strengthen your drawing. Other materials such as watercolor pencils, water brushes, and inks will be available to use during the class. $30 cash per person. Bring bagged lunch. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this Sunday morning Hatha yoga series at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site! The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Learn more and register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Journaling Around Thacher Nature Center
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:30 AM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Both a field study and classroom activity, this class introduces students to the various ways to journal your environment. All materials are provided and you will go home with a journal, technical pencil, and eraser plus suggested videos to strengthen your drawing. Other materials such as watercolor pencils, water brushes, and inks will be available to use during the class. $30 cash per person. Bring bagged lunch. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Waterfowl Talk
Sunday, May 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join a nature center educator to learn about ducks and geese you may see in New York State. We will discuss the 10 most common waterfowl in Saratoga County, general diets and behavior, identification tips, and how to support your local waterfowl. Open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Waterfowl Talk
Sunday, May 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join a nature center educator to learn about ducks and geese you may see in New York State. We will discuss the 10 most common waterfowl in Saratoga County, general diets and behavior, identification tips, and how to support your local waterfowl. Open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Clearing Iroquoia: Author Talk with Travis M. Bowman & Matthew A. Zembo
Sunday, May 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Join authors Travis M. Bowman---the head of museum collections for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation's Bureau of Historic Sites--and Matthew A. Zembo---associate professor of history and military history at Hudson Valley Community College and instructor of American history at Bard Early College---for a talk about their new book, Clearing Iroquoia: New York's Land Grab in the 1779 Campaigns of the American Revolution .In 1778, George Washington, Philip Schuyler, army officers, and New York officials began planning invasions against Iroquoia, the homeland of the Haudenosaunee and several other allied Indigenous nations. Bowman and Zembo's Clearing Iroquoia offers a fresh perspective on the Clinton-Sullivan campaign and hard truths about of the dispossession of the Haudenosaunee homeland and American colonialism.
Registration: Not required
Sun 04 May
Wildflower Walk
Sunday, May 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. All ages welcome, but best for 8+, Learn about and observe our early bloomers on this easy .75-mile hike. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Trail Steward Meeting
Sunday, May 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

A meeting to introduce the trail steward program to newcomers. The duties of a trail steward include walking the trails of Moreau Lake State Park to identify and report maintenance needs, light trail maintenance including cutting back branches with supplied hand saws and loppers and hanging trail signs when necessary. This meeting will provide crucial information on what to look for on the trails. Established trail stewards are welcome to come, but it is not mandatory. This meeting is free. For questions call the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Trail Steward Meeting
Sunday, May 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

A meeting to introduce the trail steward program to newcomers. The duties of a trail steward include walking the trails of Moreau Lake State Park to identify and report maintenance needs, light trail maintenance including cutting back branches with supplied hand saws and loppers and hanging trail signs when necessary. This meeting will provide crucial information on what to look for on the trails. Established trail stewards are welcome to come, but it is not mandatory. This meeting is free. For questions call the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Quiller Queens: A Floral Quilling and Card Making Workshop
Sunday, May 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Quilling is the art of creating designs using rolled, shaped, and glued paper. Just in time for Mother's Day, this 90-minute, instructor-led workshop will have you creating beautiful, floral filigree designs and cards fit for a queen. All materials, tools, and instruction are included. Light refreshments of tea and cookies will be served. Tickets: https://staatsburghquilling.eventbrite.com. Cost: $13 for Friends of Mills at Staatsburgh members and $15 for non-members.
Registration: Required
Sun 04 May
Wildflower Walk
Sunday, May 4, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. All ages welcome, but best for 8+, Learn about and observe our early bloomers on this easy .75-mile hike. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Mon 05 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Monday, May 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

This is a nature-themed children's story time where we'll read fun, educational books that spark curiosity about the world around us. Designed for our younger friends, each session includes interactive reading with added facts and discussion from the educator. Stories will highlight wildlife, the seasons, conservation, and more, all geared towards inspiring young naturalists. If we are able, we can go on a short walk to apply our new knowledge. Blankets and stuffies welcome! Free and geared toward ages 6+ or if you're naturalist can listen to a book being read by an educator. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 05 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Monday, May 5, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

This is a nature-themed children's story time where we'll read fun, educational books that spark curiosity about the world around us. Designed for our younger friends, each session includes interactive reading with added facts and discussion from the educator. Stories will highlight wildlife, the seasons, conservation, and more, all geared towards inspiring young naturalists. If we are able, we can go on a short walk to apply our new knowledge. Blankets and stuffies welcome! Free and geared toward ages 6+ or if you're naturalist can listen to a book being read by an educator. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 05 May
The Aqueduct in Central Park Walk
Monday, May 5, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Uncover hidden clues to the Aqueduct in Central Park and discover links between the Aqueduct's presence and the park's design. Meet in front of the Central Park Tennis House in Central Park. From the southeast corner of 96th St. and Central Park West, walk east in the park until you see the tennis courts on your left. Walk around the tennis courts to the tennis house. (Locate the tennis house on Google Maps.) We will end the walk at Central Park West and W. 81st Street. Public restrooms are available at the beginning of the walk. For this 90-minute walk, wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Walk will be cancelled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=312. 1:00 PM, Location: Central Park Tennis House, Free, Ages: All Ages
Registration: Required
Mon 05 May
Discover the Water Cycle
Monday, May 5, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

This is an interactive educational program on the water cycle, geared toward curious learners age 6+. We'll explore how water moves through our environment using visual demonstrations and hands-on activities. This program is using Project WET curriculum. This program takes place indoors. Free and limited to 15 participants. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 05 May
Discover the Water Cycle
Monday, May 5, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

This is an interactive educational program on the water cycle, geared toward curious learners age 6+. We'll explore how water moves through our environment using visual demonstrations and hands-on activities. This program is using Project WET curriculum. This program takes place indoors. Free and limited to 15 participants. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Tue 06 May
Lecture with Richard Brookhiser on Glorious Lessons: John Trumbull, Painter of the American Revolution Hosted by Friends of John Jay Homestead
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Meet at Bedford Playhouse. John Trumbull saw the American Revolution firsthand, including being shot at and jailed as a spy. He was seen by his contemporaries as a painter, but he thought of himself as a historian, wanting "to preserve and diffuse the memory of the noblest series of actions which have ever presented themselves in the history of man." He knew John Jay well, having served as his secretary during the negotiations of the Jay Treaty, and he painted the only portrait in the Homestead's collection that Jay actually sat for (the rest are copies). Brookhiser is author also of several renowned biographies of Founders — Marshall, Madison, Washington, Morris, Lincoln too — and has written and published widely, including serving as a senior editor at National Review. He was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2008 by President GeorgeW Bush. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://johnjayhomestead.org/events-calendar/lecture-with-richard-brookhiser/.
Registration: Required
Wed 07 May
Beginner Birding at Big Bend
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 08:30 AM - 09:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Calling all beginner birders! Bring your binoculars if you have them and we will check out what birds are around this time of year at Big Bend. This will be a short start-and-stop hike. We will meet at the park office and caravan to Big Bend. This is free and geared toward ages 13+. Please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Wed 07 May
Beginner Birding at Big Bend
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 08:30 AM - 09:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Calling all beginner birders! Bring your binoculars if you have them and we will check out what birds are around this time of year at Big Bend. This will be a short start-and-stop hike. We will meet at the park office and caravan to Big Bend. This is free and geared toward ages 13+. Please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Wed 07 May
Swan Lake Roll & Stroll
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
This 1.1 mile (1.8 km) hike presents the many vistas offered by Swan Lake. The trail's packed gravel can be readily traversed by traditional mobility devices although it will not be a smooth ride. All-terrain type mobility devices with mountain bike tires will be at home. The Preserve has two all-terrain mobility devices available, if reserved ahead of time. Hike will depart from the Visitor Center courtyard at 10:00 am.
Registration: Not required
Thu 08 May
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Thursday, May 8, 2025 05:00 AM - 07:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents and experience the "dawn chorus" during the peek breeding song with an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. Rain or shine except in extreme weather, in which case you will receive a cancellation email 2 hours before scheduled walk. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Thu 08 May
Syracuse University Crown Point Archaeological Field-School
Thursday, May 8, 2025 07:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Crown Point State Historic Site
The historic site will host the second-annual Syracuse University Crown Point Archaeological Field school between May 8th and May 22nd. Come visit the historic site and stop by the excavation site to learn more about science of archaeology and see an active archaeological dig. Regular field school hours are 7 AM to 1 PM, Monday-Saturday. Hours may vary depending on weather and other circumstances.
Registration: Not required
Thu 08 May
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, May 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Hop Field, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 08 May
Drop-in Animal Care Series
Thursday, May 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Come join an educator as we go over how we feed our animals in the welcome center! Meet our turtles, snakes and lizards! These are drop-in programs and require no pre-registration, simply come in the Welcome Center and go to the classroom. No registration is needed.
Registration: Not required
Thu 08 May
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, May 8, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Hop Field, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 08 May
Minnewaska Homeschoolers: Bush Babies
Thursday, May 8, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, in welcoming Minnewaska State Park Preserve's newest inhabitants this Spring - baby coyotes, porcupines, black bears, and white-tailed deer! We will learn about the common characteristics of these babies, their developmental processes, and their habitats. We will decorate party hats at the Nature Center to celebrate the birth of the new residents and take an approximately two-mile hike to the Meadows, via Upper Awosting Carriage Road, to hunt for animal tracks. This program is recommended for children ages eight to eleven, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome to join. This program is open to all students learning from home accompanied by a parent or legal guardian over the age of 18. The total number of participants for this program is limited to 20 individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling Minnewaska at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 08 May
GET TO KNOW PINKSTER PRESENTATION with LAVADA NAHON
Thursday, May 8, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
New York State Bureau of Historic Sites Lead Interpreter of African American History, Lavada Nahon, will discuss the history of Pinkster in the Hudson Valley and its evolution as a celebration of African diasporic culture, followed by a Q & A session. This is the first in a series of free Get to Know Pinkster programs in May, in partnership with Howe Library at 105 Schuyler Street in Albany.
Registration: Not required
Thu 08 May
Peony Celebration Gala
Thursday, May 8, 2025 06:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
The Peony is a fun, community-based cocktail reception, held in the Visitor Center courtyard. If you haven't attended, you should join us just to see the amazing tree peony garden in bloom! A fundraiser for the Friends and our projects in the Preserve, the evening features a fine art exhibit and a silent auction of floral centerpieces designed and donated by local garden clubs. Tickets: $150-300. Registration required with Friends of Rockefeller State Park Preserve.
Registration: Required
Fri 09 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 9, 2025 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during May. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Not required
Fri 09 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 9, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 09 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 9, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 09 May
Walkway Connections (For Kids): Native Plants & Pollinators
Friday, May 9, 2025 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Come roll up your sleeves and get grounded with the Vassar College Environmental Cooperative on Friday, May 9 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the East Gate Plaza in Poughkeepsie! Learn how you can take action to support pollinators like butterflies and bees, right in your own backyard. Participants will learn all about native plants, decorate their own pot, and receive a seedling to take home (while supplies last). Walkway Connections events are free to attend. No RSVP required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 09 May
Walkway At Night: Lights Across The Hudson
Friday, May 9, 2025 07:00 PM - 09:30 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation invites the community to join us for Lights Across the Hudson, a luminary event celebrating those we have lost. Join us for this spectacular tribute on Friday, May 9 from 7-9:30 p.m. at Walkway Over the Hudson, which will shine brightly as thousands of glowing luminaries light the way in memory of loved ones. Featuring music, food, and inspirational readings. This event is FREE and open to all. Whether you're honoring a loved one or simply looking to be a part of this community remembrance, everyone is welcome to attend and share in the spirit of togetherness.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Ulster County Spring Census: Big Day Bird Count Outing in the Former Awosting Reserve at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 10, 2025 08:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Park Preserve Educator, Nick Martin, for a birding outing – for World Migratory Bird Day – on the Awosting Reserve Access Road, a woods road in the southern part of Minnewaska. During this outing, we will be looking and listening for the arrival of migratory birds and year-round birds as we walk. The distance and pace of the hike will depend on the presence of birds and may total up to three miles or as little as a half a mile. Distractions by other natural curiosities, such as plants, are welcomed and encouraged. This route has continuous uphill sections of crushed stone and soil, which some may find challenging, but the return trip will be all downhill. All participants should wear appropriate footwear with good traction and bring sufficient food and water to sustain themselves for the duration of the outing. Participants are also encouraged to bring binoculars if they have them and wear bug spray. Meet at the Aumick Road parking area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Birding at the Fort
Saturday, May 10, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Join Trailside Museums and Zoo, Zookeeper Deidre Wentzel for a walk during peak migration through the grounds of the Fort. Learn how to ID both migratory and year-round birds. The fort traditionally holds a nice diversity of native birds including warblers. Bring Binoculars and Water! Suitable for Ages 12 and Up.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, May 10, 2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Join us on World Migratory Bird Day! The theme this year is Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities. We will begin the program with a short talk on how to make our homes and cities more bird friendly. Afterwards we will separate to log bird species we can find within the park. This program runs in 2 sessions: 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm. Each program has separate registration. You can register at 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Pocantico River Roll & Stroll
Saturday, May 10, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
A more challenging 1.2 mile (1.9 km) hike along a portion of the Pocantico River, includes the energizing sounds and view of our cascade. Trails vary from packed soil to gravel and will have more up hills than our Swan Lake hike. Can be readily traversed by traditional mobility devices although it will not be a smooth ride. All-terrain type mobility devices with mountain bike tires will be at home. The Preserve has two all-terrain mobility devices available, if reserved ahead of time. Assistance will be available if desired. WE WILL MEET AT 10:00 AM, ABOUT .5 mi (.8 km) NORTH OF THE INTERSECTION OF WEBBER AVE. AND SLEEPY HOLLOW ROAD (25 Sleepy Hollow Rd. on your GPS). Turn off the road when you see an individual with a reflective vest and Roll & Stroll sign.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Spring Wildflower Hike
Saturday, May 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Mine Kill State Park
(518) 827-6111

Join us for a beautiful spring hike where we look for the first blooms of the season, enjoy rushing waterfalls, and other signs of spring. Learn a little about flower identification and spring ephemerals along the way. This hike will be approximately 2 miles with periodic stops and is considered moderate. Trails are typically muddy in spring, please wear appropriate footwear. Meet at the Falls Overlook parking area. In the event of downpours/bad weather, we will postpone or cancel. Email minekillsp@parks.ny.gov or call (518) 827-6111 to register.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Divided Loyalties - Revolutionary War on the Aqueduct: Irvington
Saturday, May 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
The Old Croton Aqueduct between Irvington and South Tarrytown crosses several colonial tenant farms impacted by the Revolutionary War. Walk and learn how the war divided neighbors and families into patriots or loyalists and everything in between. Discuss their lives in the dangerous, war-torn contested ground of Westchester County and how it shaped our area following its conclusion. This free, two-hour tour is offered in partnership with Revolutionary Westchester 250, the Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park, and Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct and will cover about 4 miles. Tour starts at the Mercy College parking lot next to the Smith Ball Field and will proceed north along the trail. This walk may be rescheduled due to bad weather. To register, visit https://aqueduct.org/events. 10:00 AM, Location: Bleachers next to OCA and Smith Field, Mercy College, Dobbs Ferry, Free, Ages: All Ages.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Guided Landscape Walk of Staatsburgh’s Grounds: “What You See and What You Don’t See”
Saturday, May 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
A guided walk through the estate's grounds that explores how the landscape was designed to reflect the luxurious lifestyle of Staatsburgh's owners, while deliberately hiding the turn-of-the-century technology and labor that made the estate run. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
A Day for Birds
Saturday, May 10, 2025 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Join us for a day in the Park with bird activities, crafts, education programs and a LIVE raptor show at 2pm. On this spring World Migratory Bird Day come learn about the I Bird NY Challenge, make a feathered friend craft, or chat with our park educator about how you can help birds. Check out our social media or call the Park Office for details on when activities are happening throughout the day.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Harvesting History Family Workshop: Seed Paper
Saturday, May 10, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Have you ever wondered how paper is made? Join Harvesting History educators in making "Seed Paper" from scratch! Seed paper can be used as fancy paper for writing artful letters and scrapbooking or it can be planted in the ground and act as a great starting plant for your growing garden!Just as gardening is a wonderful activity for all ages to participate in, this program is for everyone of all ages and skill levels.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 10, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Pinkster Jubilee
Saturday, May 10, 2025 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Celebrate the Afro-Dutch holiday of Pinkster, a festival of spring, family, culture, and resistance with live music, dance, games, crafts, food, vendors, history, & more! Free for everyone. Pinkster is the Dutch name for Pentecost, a religious holiday and celebration of spring where people took time to travel and visit family. In the New Netherland Colony, Pinkster was transformed into a unique Afro-Dutch celebration - a week of temporary freedom for enslaved people. Able to travel, earn money, and gather in groups, Pinkster allowed enslaved people to take a break from their endless work, see separated family members, preserve and pass on culture to the next generation, and resist enslavement. Celebrate African culture in America and New York's unique history! See full schedule and learn more at https://www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events/pinkster-jubilee-2025.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 10, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
World Migratory Bird Day
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Join us on World Migratory Bird Day! The theme this year is Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities. We will begin the program with a short talk on how to make our homes and cities more bird friendly. Afterwards we will separate to log bird species we can find within the park. This program runs in 2 sessions: 9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm. Each program has separate registration. You can register at 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Needle Felting: Spring Landscape
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join us at the nature center to create a beautiful spring landscape from wool. Maybe even give it to a mom in your life for Mother's Day! Materials will be provided. Geared toward 13+. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Needle Felting: Spring Landscape
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join us at the nature center to create a beautiful spring landscape from wool. Maybe even give it to a mom in your life for Mother's Day! Materials will be provided. Geared toward 13+. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Timeless Blooms Art Exhibit Gallery Reception
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
"7 Artists Capture Spring In Timeless Blooms" by our new Gallery Curator, Lisa D'Amico. The Art Gallery at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve welcomes the arrival of spring with 'Timeless Blooms', a captivating exhibition that honors the annual bloom of the preserve's Japanese Tree Peony Garden. Each artist brings their unique perspective to the exhibit, offering interpretations of floral beauty through a variety of artistic styles and mediums. Their works encapsulate the ephemeral nature of flowers while emphasizing their timeless allure. Visitors to Timeless Blooms will experience a collection of paintings and photography that immerses the viewers in the vivid colors, delicate forms, and dynamic compositions that celebrate the essence of spring.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Flights of Fancy Birdhouse Art Auction
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
The Art Gallery at the Rockefeller State Park Preserve is delighted to announce Flights of Fancy, a unique art auction that celebrates the intersection of art and nature. Thirty-two accomplished artists have transformed simple wooden birdhouses into beautiful works of art, drawing inspiration from the Preserve's landscapes and wildlife. Coordinated by our gallery curator, Lisa D'Amico PhD, these one-of-a-kind creations will be showcased during a reception on Saturday, May 10th, and will be available for purchase. All proceeds will support necessary repairs and improvements to the gallery, ensuring it remains a community space for artistic and cultural engagement. Please visit the online art auction here: https://www.32auctions.com/rockefellergallery. Email the curator at rockefellergallery@gmail.com or visit the gallery's Instagram and Facebook accounts @rockefellergallery.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, May 10, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
John Brown Day
Saturday, May 10, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Our friends group, John Brown Lives! will conduct their annual Spirit of Freedom Awards honoring three individuals who have made significant contributions to civil rights and environmental justice. The free ceremony at John Brown Farm will include awards and music under our big tent. A 5pm reception ($) follows at the Olympic Jumping Complex. For details, email info@ohnbrownlives.org
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
The REAL Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era
Saturday, May 10, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
This tour highlights the real-life characters and themes at Staatsburgh that parallel Downton Abbey and HBO's The Gilded Age. Led by a costumed interpreter, the tour shows how the Mills family and their servants conducted a busy weekend of high society entertaining, comparing Staatsburgh to what viewers saw on TV. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Learn about the Lichens of the Shawangunk Mountains at Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 10, 2025 until Sunday, May 11, 2025 02:30 PM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Join lichen photographer and Department of Environmental Conservation Steward, John Franklin, for a walk and talk on lichens, those intrepid little organisms that we see growing on trees and rocks throughout the Park Preserve. Prior to the hike, John will share his collection of amazing, close-up, photographs of lichens and actual samples of the colorful lichens found here. We will walk up to two miles, stopping to discuss lichens along the way. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration for this program is not required, however, reservations to get into Sam's Point on weekends are required. You can reserve a parking spot through Reserve America New York: https://bit.ly/3uPj21L. For questions regarding this program and/or its parking requirements, please email Rebecca Howe-Parisio at Rebecca.Howe@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Not required
Sat 10 May
Child and Family Craft Program: Koinobori/Japanese Carp Windsocks
Saturday, May 10, 2025 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
A Japanese tradition, the flying of carp or koi shaped kites are used to honor children on Children's Day in early May. Families fly kites as a symbol of their wishes for their children. A group of carp kites can be arranged in a certain way to symbolize the family. For this program, each member of the family is encouraged to decorate their own carp windsock. All materials and instruction will be provided. This program will take place outdoors, weather permitting, with alternate indoor space if needed. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Cost: $5 per kite. Tickets: https://FOMAS.eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 May
Full Moon Hike
Saturday, May 10, 2025 08:15 PM - 09:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Come experience the park in the dark! Join us on May 10th for a guided hike under the Flower Moon. We'll be meeting at the Grafton Lakes Welcome Center at 8:15pm and departing soon afterwards. This hike is open to ages 10+ and is free, but donations are appreciated. Headlamps will be provided, but please be sure to wear hiking shoes and bring water and bug spray! Registration is mandatory, as we have limited spots to available to ensure a safe and positive experience. Please register ahead of time by calling 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sun 11 May
250th Anniversary of the Capture of Crown Point
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
Crown Point kicks off the site's commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution on Sunday, May 11, 2025! On May 11, 1775, Seth Warner led a group of Green Mountain Boys to capture Crown Point, only three weeks after the American Revolution began at Lexington and Concord. This early victory secured cannons and artillery for the revolutionary cause and helped establish American control of Lake Champlain early in the war. On Sunday, May 11, 2025, Crown Point will mark the anniversary of this crucial victory, with an encampment of Seth Warner's Regiment representing the Green Mountain Boys and the opening of new exhibits in the historic site museum. The new exhibits include the interactive Revisit the Revolution kiosk, which highlights themes, stories, and locations associated with Revolutionary War. The day will include performances by 18th Century musicians and a focus tour about Crown Point in the American Revolution. Local historical organizations will also be on site to talk about ways to commemorate the American Revolution in the years to come.
Registration: Not required
Sun 11 May
Hike to the White Cliffs of Millbrook Mountain at Minnewaska
Sunday, May 11, 2025 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for this modestly challenging, five-mile round-trip hike along the Millbrook Mountain Footpath and Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road. Stunning, panoramic views of the Wallkill Valley and the Catskills are abundant from the top of the white cliffs of Millbrook Mountain. The footpath section of this outing traverses through forests, over a stream and exposed rock slabs, with sustained downhill and uphill sections. Some participants may find this uneven terrain challenging. The other half of this loop hike, which is on the meandering Millbrook Mountain and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads, is less strenuous, offering scenic views of the steep-sided Palmaghatt Ravine below and distant views of New Jersey. Participants should bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 11 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 11, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this Sunday morning Hatha yoga series at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site! The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Learn more and register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sun 11 May
Home Sweet Comb: Building Bee Hotels
Sunday, May 11, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Help mom pollinate the garden this Mother's Day! This program focuses on spring pollinators and the vital role they play in our ecosystems. We will explore the different types of pollinators found in the park, their relationships with native plants, and how to support pollinator populations at home. As part of the program, participants will build their own bee hotel to take home and provide habitat for solitary native bees. Free and geared toward ages 6+, limited to 20 participants. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 11 May
Home Sweet Comb: Building Bee Hotels
Sunday, May 11, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Help mom pollinate the garden this Mother's Day! This program focuses on spring pollinators and the vital role they play in our ecosystems. We will explore the different types of pollinators found in the park, their relationships with native plants, and how to support pollinator populations at home. As part of the program, participants will build their own bee hotel to take home and provide habitat for solitary native bees. Free and geared toward ages 6+, limited to 20 participants. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 11 May
The REAL Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era
Sunday, May 11, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
This tour highlights the real-life characters and themes at Staatsburgh that parallel Downton Abbey and HBO's The Gilded Age. Led by a costumed interpreter, the tour shows how the Mills family and their servants conducted a busy weekend of high society entertaining, comparing Staatsburgh to what viewers saw on TV. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Mon 12 May
Full Moon Hike at Big
Monday, May 12, 2025 08:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join a park educator on a beginner hike and if the clouds cooperate, we'll get to enjoy the splendor of the full "Flower Moon" rising above the mountains! This hike is free, is family friendly and well-behaved dogs on a 6 foot or shorter leash are welcome. This hike will not go the full 3.5 miles, we will be going closer to 2.5 miles on flat terrain. Wear the appropriate clothing for muddy conditions. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511 the earlier the better as this is a popular program and it fills up quickly.
Registration: Required
Mon 12 May
Full Moon Hike at Big
Monday, May 12, 2025 08:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join a park educator on a beginner hike and if the clouds cooperate, we'll get to enjoy the splendor of the full "Flower Moon" rising above the mountains! This hike is free, is family friendly and well-behaved dogs on a 6 foot or shorter leash are welcome. This hike will not go the full 3.5 miles, we will be going closer to 2.5 miles on flat terrain. Wear the appropriate clothing for muddy conditions. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511 the earlier the better as this is a popular program and it fills up quickly.
Registration: Required
Mon 12 May
Full Moon Hike: “Flower Moon”
Monday, May 12, 2025 08:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Tickets available April 19 at 10 am, Experience the Preserve after dark! Join Shayla, Hailey, and Dave for a 4-mile hike on carriage roads lit by moonlight. We walk at a brisk pace and there will be hills; some hiking experience is recommended. Leashed dogs are welcome. Meet in the Visitor Center courtyard. Please bring water, a flashlight or headlamp, and wear comfortable closed-toed shoes. IMPORTANT: We leave promptly at scheduled times. This hike takes place after the park has closed; latecomers will not be able to join after the group has departed. In the event of rain or snow, the hike will be canceled; you will be notified at least 2 hours in advance. Photo courtesy of Kim Fendrich Max: 40 people. Cost: $4 Register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Tue 13 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 13 May
Postural Therapy: Living Comfortably
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Start your day with movement! Get energized in this virtual session with postural therapist, Joey Zimet, and learn exercises to improve posture and function. The class will incorporate unique standing, sitting, and floor exercises that are gentle and easily adapted to fit your needs. These methods are well-studied and based upon neuroscience, biomechanics, the myofascial system, and other variables. Treat yourself to some maintenance and self-care! Registered participants will receive a Zoom link to join. Cost: FREE. Registration required. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Tue 13 May
Tuesday Trek: Out to Kempton’s Ledge and back along the Cliffs at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abby Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for a morning stroll to check out the cliffside views of the Palmaghatt Ravine from Kempton's Ledge, a vista on top of the cliffs over this scenic ravine. From here, we'll return to Lake Minnewaska, following the carriage road around from west to east, until we encounter the Beacon Hill Footpath. This lovely trail, which does include hills and some tricky footing, snakes along the cliff edge looking east towards New Paltz. The total distance for this walk is approximately six miles. Please bring enough water and food to sustain you and dress for the season, wearing boots with good traction. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 13 May
FRIENDS OF SCHUYLER MANSION ANNUAL MEETING
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
The board will elect and install new officers, followed by a presentation and reception. Saratoga Historian Sean Kelleher will present Henry Knox's Winter Gamble: Cannons, Courage, and a Crucial Victory. Call the museum or visit friendsofschuylermansion.org/membership for membership information.
Registration: Required
Tue 13 May
25th Annual Frederic Church Awards
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 06:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
The Olana Partnership established the Frederic Church Award to honor individuals who, through their vision, commitment and grasp of creative trends, make extraordinary contributions to American art and culture. Learn More.
Registration: Not required
Wed 14 May
Outing for Volunteers!
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Calling all volunteers, or those interested in volunteering! We will be having a potluck to celebrate the start of the volunteering season. Meet new friends, or reconnect with previous volunteer buddies. This is a great time to meet staff and discover opportunities in the park. Call 518-279-1155 to learn more.
Registration: Required
Wed 14 May
Lecture: “The Great Plot: Burning Manhattan”
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
In May, 1741, two enslaved men, Kofi and Qwaku, were tried by the New York Supreme Court. Both men were accused of "wickedly, voluntarily, feloniously and maliciously conspiring, combining, and confederating...with divers other Negroes, to kill and murder inhabitants of this city..." We may be more familiar with other large scale slave insurrections such as Nat Turner's in Virginia, or the Stono Rebellion in South Carolina, or the Haitian Revolution, or the events surrounding the Amistad. However, decades before the American Revolution, New York City was the epicenter of two rebellions. Join historian and Philipse Manor Hall's Site Director, Michael Lord as he discusses the Great Plot of 1741 and how the City's enslaved community was able to plan and coordinate such a large and dangerous conspiracy. This program is free, but registration is required. Learn more and register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Thu 15 May
THIRD THURSDAY – Spring Honey Tasting and Pollinator Talk
Thursday, May 15, 2025 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Get a taste of spring! Join beekeeper Chris Layman of Fox Farm Apiary for a free honey tasting and discussion on local pollinators. Discover the fascinating world of pollinators, including the bees in Olana's own orchard. This program is FREE and takes place at the Frederic Church Center for Art & Landscape. Email education@olana.org to learn more.
Registration: Not required
Thu 15 May
THIRD THURSDAY – Bollywood Dancing Workshop and Performance
Thursday, May 15, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Experience the energy of Bollywood dancing at Olana State Historic Site with instructor, Arobi Hanif! Learn moves to trendy and iconic Bollywood songs during this fun, beginner-friendly outdoor class at Olana and stick around for a special performance on the East Lawn outside the historic house. FREE; outside the historic house. For ages 12 and up; space is limited. Email education@olana.org to learn more.
Registration: Not required
Thu 15 May
Sunset Hike at Rockwood Hall
Thursday, May 15, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join us for a 3-mile hike and witness the spectacular view of the sun setting over the Hudson and the Tappan Zee Bridge. Leashed dogs are welcome. Please bring water to drink and wear comfortable shoes. This hike is at Rockwood Hall, DO NOT go to the main entrance. The parking lot is on Kendal Way off route 117, just after the intersection of Phelps and Regeneron. If the lot is full, you may park in the Phelps garage (free). Gather at the kiosk at the top of the hill across the street from the parking lot. In case of bad weather, the hike will be canceled; you will be notified at least 2 hours in advance. Max: 40 people. Cost: $4. Please register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Fri 16 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 16, 2025 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during May. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Not required
Fri 16 May
Spring Forest Bathing at Minnewaska
Friday, May 16, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Immerse yourself in the beautiful forest at Minnewaska on this guided walk led by Jane Dobson with Mind the Forest. The wellness practice of Forest Bathing is the perfect antidote to the fatigue and stress many of us feel as a result of our technology-laden and busy lives. On this approximately half-mile walk, we will slow down and directly experience the world through our senses. We'll rekindle curiosity and let go of our to-do lists. As we mindfully connect with the natural world, our perspective shifts, opening us to awe and wonder, and deepening our sense of connection. This wellness practice continues to grow across the globe as science demonstrates the health benefits of Forest Bathing, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, focus and sleep. Join us for one or all sessions of this five-part spring series as we use mindfulness to explore themes of sensory anesthesia, species loneliness, and our relationship with time. This program is open to participants aged 16 and older, with minors accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 16 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 16, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 16 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 16, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 16 May
Dobbs Ferry Library Storytime
Friday, May 16, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Join the Old Croton Aqueduct and the Dobbs Ferry Public Library for our monthly toddler storytime! Stop by the Keeper's House to read about a diverse range of trail topics before taking part in a small craft. Afterwards, we encourage you to take a stroll along the trail and enjoy the morning! 10:30 AM, Location: OCA Keeper's House, 15 Walnut Street, Dobbs Ferry, Free, Ages: Toddler
Registration: Not required
Fri 16 May
Oh-Possum My Opossum
Friday, May 16, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Did you know Virginia Opossums are the only native marsupial in North America? Join a nature center educator to learn the ins and outs of these crazy critters. Free and open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Fri 16 May
Oh-Possum My Opossum
Friday, May 16, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Did you know Virginia Opossums are the only native marsupial in North America? Join a nature center educator to learn the ins and outs of these crazy critters. Free and open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Alan Devoe Bird Club Spring Migration Bird Walk
Saturday, May 17, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Olana State Historic Site
Get your binoculars ready for this special spring migration bird walk at Olana State Historic Site! Join the Alan Devoe Bird Club and The Olana Partnership on an exploration of Olana's artist-designed landscape and learn more about visiting birds and the species that call this region home during the peak of spring migration. Open to birders of all levels. This program will take place in the landscape along Olana's historic carriage roads. FREE. Advanced registration required. For more information, please contact education@olana.org or call (518) 567-2170. Register.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Caves & Karst
Saturday, May 17, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Hike to Echo Rock and through the Meadows at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 17, 2025 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for an approximately four-mile hike on five historic carriage roads and one footpath. Starting from the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, we will hike a short section of the Lake Minnewaska Carriage Road to reach the Upper Awosting Carriage Road, which we'll follow until we intersect the Meadows Footpath. Then, we'll meander through sections of the former Lake Minnewaska resort's apple orchard and golf course, until we intersect Castle Point Carriage Road. We'll continue west on this carriage road for a short while, taking the connector trail down to Hamilton Point Carriage Road. From here, we will continue until we arrive at Echo Rock, a cliffside, scenic vista that offers an expansive view over the Palmaghatt Ravine. We will return by heading back on the Hamilton Point, Millbrook Mountain, and Lake Minnewaska Carriage Roads, circling the east side of the Lake to return to our starting point. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Caves & Karst
Saturday, May 17, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Native Plant Sale
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
At the Pear Orchard Pavilion near the Visitor Center, SATURDAY ONLY. Stop by to see what native perennials, shrubs, and trees with beautiful flowers are for sale by the Friends of Thacher and Wild Ones! Native plants can fill difficult areas and bring gorgeous color throughout the year. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to assist and answer questions. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
18th Century Games and Toys
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Guest Presenter Tom Hunt will guide children and families through popular toys and games of the Colonial Period including whirly-gigs, ball & cup, hoop & stick, the game of goose, nine pins, bilbo catchers, stilts, nine-men's-Morris, and more! Suitable for children ages 6 and older.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
SPCA Dog Walk and Pet Fair
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
Join us for the BEST dog event in Westchester County! The SPCA Dog Walk and Pet Fair takes place on Saturday, May 17th from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at FDR State Park in Yorktown Heights
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
Crochet Flower Program
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Have you ever wanted a flower that would never wilt? Join an educator as we make crochet flowers. All materials will be provided, but bringing a crochet hook (5-6mm) is suggested. Experience crocheting is required as crochet flowers are an intermediate level activity. Registration is required due to limited availability, you can register by calling 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

The capital region environmental educators are hosting a variety of wildflower hikes at their parks for the month of May! Join an educator on a free hike to see our spring wildflowers blooming. This is free and for all ages. Meet at the park office and we will caravan together to Big Bend. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

The capital region environmental educators are hosting a variety of wildflower hikes at their parks for the month of May! Join an educator on a free hike to see our spring wildflowers blooming. This is free and for all ages. Meet at the park office and we will caravan together to Big Bend. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Ossining Weir Tour
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history: the engineering, the people and its impact! Free, easy, 2-hour tour. Meet at the front (upper level/south side) of the Joseph Caputo Center, which is located at 95 Broadway, Ossining, NY 10562, just west of Rte. 9/Highland Ave. at the junction of Croton Ave. (Rte. 133 (from Metro-North Ossining Train Station by taxi or 15-minute uphill walk/parking lots nearby). Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=309. 10:00 AM, Location: Ossining, Free, Ages: All Ages
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Guided Landscape Walk of Staatsburgh’s Grounds: “What You See and What You Don’t See”
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
A guided walk through the estate's grounds that explores how the landscape was designed to reflect the luxurious lifestyle of Staatsburgh's owners, while deliberately hiding the turn-of-the-century technology and labor that made the estate run. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Native Plant Sale
Saturday, May 17, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
At the Pear Orchard Pavilion near the Visitor Center, SATURDAY ONLY. Stop by to see what native perennials, shrubs, and trees with beautiful flowers are for sale by the Friends of Thacher and Wild Ones! Native plants can fill difficult areas and bring gorgeous color throughout the year. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to assist and answer questions. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
Yonkers Arts Weekend at PMH
Saturday, May 17, 2025 until Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us as we celebrate Yonkers Arts Weekend with special walking tours, architectural history tours of the manor hall, games, and art and craft programs! Full details and registration information at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Blooming Botanist Hike
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

The first Hike in Grafton Lake State Park's wildflower series 'Blooming botanists' the adventure starts here with first steps and exciting surprises as we venture out together to find flowers and enjoy a beautiful day. Look forward to drawing and identifying flowers as we go. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Create and Cook: Family Cooking & Art Workshop
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Get creative in the kitchen and art studio at Olana State Historic Site! Join The Sylvia Center Chefs and The Olana Partnership educators for a fun, family-friendly program focused on cooking food and making art inspired by Olana's landscape and history. Try new foods and test new art materials together during this FREE family program! This class focuses on making a Senegalese mango salad bursting with herbs, cherry tomatoes, and golden mango and creating colorful art and food. For families with children 18 and under (children must be accompanied by an adult). This is the first in a series of three classes – register for one or all three! This program is FREE (suggested donation $12). Registration includes art-making supplies and all ingredients to make lunch. Advance registration required. For more information, please contact education@olana.org or call (518) 567-2170. Register.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
18th Century Growing Season
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Senate House State Historic Site will be hosting its annual 18th Century Growing Season event! This free event allows visitors to experience all things that grow in a hands-on way! Join us onsite in learning about what it was like to grow things and produce food in the 18th century. Watch us plant our 18th century inspired garden, learn about sheep shearing and food demonstrations. The 3rd Ulster Militia will be demonstrating camp-life in the 18th century. We will also have crafts and more for visitors of all ages. This family friendly event is free and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
Slavery, Segregation & Staatsburgh: From Black Service to White Servants
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
In 1810, there were nine Black people enslaved on the Staatsburgh estate. In 1910, there were no recorded Black employees working inside Staatsburgh – with only one documented Black resident in the entire hamlet. What happened? Join Staatsburgh staff for a conversation about this transition from a Black presence at Staatsburgh during the early 19th century to an apparent absence during the Gilded Age. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: free.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
GET TO KNOW PINKSTER PROGRAMS
Saturday, May 17, 2025 11:30 AM - 01:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
11:30 am to 12 pm: Pinkster Parade Storytime (young children) Local author Shakeema Funchess will read her book- Parading with Pride: Rediscovering the Pinkster Festival- for growing readers, followed by a coloring activity. 12 to 1 pm: Paper Beading Workshop (all ages) In celebration of African diasporic culture, Schuyler Mansion staff will lead a paper beading workshop, appropriate for all ages and families. All materials provided by the museum for this take-home craft. Registration Recommended: Visit albany.librarycalendar.com/event/get-know-pinkster-pinkster-parade-book-reading-paper-beading-41666 to register.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Family Tour: A Closer Look
Saturday, May 17, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Experience learning, looking closely, and conversation as a family during this series of special museum gallery tours at Olana State Historic Site. Each month, The Olana Partnership educators will lead an exploration of two to three works of art on the second floor galleries through family-friendly dialogue and other hands-on activities. After your tour, extend your day at OLANA and head down to the Wagon House Education Center for a free drop-in program, Art Making in the Afternoon from 1-4 PM. Designed for families with children ages 3 and up. $15 adults; children under 12 are free. Advanced registration required. Please contact education@olana.org to learn more. Register.
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Artmaking in the Afternoon
Saturday, May 17, 2025 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Inspired by your time at Olana or looking for family-friendly fun? Participate in free, drop-in artmaking in the Wagon House Education Center from 1-4 PM and learn more about Frederic Church's artist-designed home and studio on the Hudson. This drop-in artmaking program is open to all ages and skill levels; all materials and warm beverages (coffee, tea, and hot chocolate) provided. FREE. No advanced registration required. Contact education@olana.org or call (518) 751-6938 for more info.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, May 17, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, May 17, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
The Livingston’s Landscape Walking Tour: Uncovering the relationship the Livingstons had with the land and those living on it.
Saturday, May 17, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Meet at the Visitor Center, Free. Join us at Clermont State Historic Site for a guided landscape walking tour. On this tour we will look back through generations of the Livingston family and explore how their role as landowners shaped the land and local communities. From the questionable land purchases from Indigenous tribes to enslaved men and tenant farmers tilling the soil, to the Livingston's own gentleman farmers, the relationship with the land and those who worked it changed many times over the past 300 years. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. In the event of severe weather this tour will be postponed.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
Drop-in Animal Care Series
Saturday, May 17, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Come join an educator as we go over how we feed our animals in the welcome center! Meet our turtles, snakes and lizards! These are drop-in programs and require no pre-registration, simply come in the Welcome Center and go to the classroom. No registration is needed.
Registration: Not required
Sat 17 May
A Life in Service
Saturday, May 17, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
It took a small army to run this 79-room Gilded Age estate. See the mansion through the servants' eyes, as they rose before dawn and toile duntil after midnight. The tour—led by a costumed guide—will include visiting the partially restored servants' hall. The hall is a striking artifact of servant life and work, featuring the servants' dining room, the footmen's bedrooms, and the butler's office. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sat 17 May
Pride In The Sky
Saturday, May 17, 2025 04:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
The Friends of the Walkway nonprofit organization, in partnership with Big Gay Hudson Valley, will host the second annual Pride In The Sky in Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park on Saturday, May 17 from 6-10 p.m. Kick off Pride season by lighting up the Walkway in rainbow. Music, dancing, community tables, a pet parade, and more. Free to attend and open to all. For complete details, visit BigGayHudsonValley.com.
Registration: Not required
Sun 18 May
Lupus Awareness Fundraiser & Walk
Sunday, May 18, 2025
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
TheNetWorks is hosting a Lupus Walk and fundraiser to bring more awareness to the disease.
Registration: Not required
Sun 18 May
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Sunday, May 18, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Staatsburgh State Historic Site and the surrounding Mills-Norrie State Park possess a great variety of environments in close proximity, an ideal setting for birding. Experienced birders will enjoy a walk through several interesting environments, inexperienced birders will find encouragement and a helping hand, and newbies will be able to discuss equipment, apps, and techniques. We will also be on the lookout for the many wildflowers that bloom in the park. Volunteer walk leader David Lund has been birding Mills-Norrie State Park daily for the last 35 years. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
“Fourteen Years with LH PRISM, 14 Invasives: Canadian Thistle” Workshop
Sunday, May 18, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
This year represents a 14-year mark and important cornerstone regarding JHC's work on environmental conservation. We are celebrating this important milestone by setting a new goal with our valuable partners, LH Prism. "Fourteen years, fourteen invasives" will focus on targeting 14 invasive species through management projects that will be built into 14 workshops in the JHC's programming, as part of our Native Protection Series. Director of Horticulture Lucia Maestro will be leading this hands-on practice workshop series designed to understand the importance of native species protection, through invasive species education and control. Invasive species like multiflora rose, wineberry, mugwort, Japanese knotweed, porcelain berry and Japanese honeysuckle will be targeted and removed by hand in several areas to protect other native species; learn how to properly identify and remove them. Bring long pants, sunscreen and bug spray, water and snacks. Work gloves will be provided. Please be aware that poison ivy, ticks and other insects may be present in the area as we will be working off-path. Open to young adults, adults. In the event of rain this workshop may be cancelled or rescheduled. Please email Lucia Maestro (hortdirector.jhc@gmail.com) for more information!
Registration: Not required
Sun 18 May
Monthly Hiking Challenge
Sunday, May 18, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join the monthly hiking challenge where we will explore the wide variety of trails at Moreau Lake State Park, if you make it to all the hikes you will get a prize! This month we will be doing our beautiful Mud Pond trail that is about 2.5 miles long with elevation gain/loss of about 155 feet. The trails will be muddy so please wear the appropriate attire for the weather with water-resistant hiking shoes, and trekking poles if you need them. Bring a snack and plenty of water. As always, we will meet at the park office and caravan to the trailhead. This is a free hike and for ages 13+. We have a limit of 25 people, please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
Monthly Hiking Challenge
Sunday, May 18, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join the monthly hiking challenge where we will explore the wide variety of trails at Moreau Lake State Park, if you make it to all the hikes you will get a prize! This month we will be doing our beautiful Mud Pond trail that is about 2.5 miles long with elevation gain/loss of about 155 feet. The trails will be muddy so please wear the appropriate attire for the weather with water-resistant hiking shoes, and trekking poles if you need them. Bring a snack and plenty of water. As always, we will meet at the park office and caravan to the trailhead. This is a free hike and for ages 13+. We have a limit of 25 people, please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
Drop-in Program: Live Birds of Prey at Minnewaska
Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Annie Mardiney, wildlife rehabilitator from Wild Mountain Birds, for an up-close and personal look at some of the raptors common to the Shawangunk Ridge. Live education birds may include red-tailed hawk, broad-winged hawk, American kestrel, barred owl, screech owl and great horned owl. Stop by the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center to meet these amazing and beautiful animals in person. Pre-registration is NOT required.
Registration: Not required
Sun 18 May
La Hora del Cuento Bilingüe/Bilingual Story Hour
Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Understanding of Spanish or English not necessary. Learn what words mean in either language and read new books with Project Growing Minds! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this Sunday morning Hatha yoga series at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site! The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Learn more and register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
La Hora del Cuento Bilingüe/Bilingual Story Hour
Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center. Understanding of Spanish or English not necessary. Learn what words mean in either language and read new books with Project Growing Minds! Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
The Art of Fly Casting
Sunday, May 18, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

This is a small group fly casting lesson focused on the fundamentals of fly-fishing technique. Participants will practice basic casts and line handling in an open outdoor space. Depending on conditions, we may enter the water for casting practice. Please bring waders if you have them; otherwise, dress appropriately for being on the sandy beach. Please bring your own fly rod, as practice rods are limited. Free and geared toward ages 6+, limited to 5 participants. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
The Art of Fly Casting
Sunday, May 18, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

This is a small group fly casting lesson focused on the fundamentals of fly-fishing technique. Participants will practice basic casts and line handling in an open outdoor space. Depending on conditions, we may enter the water for casting practice. Please bring waders if you have them; otherwise, dress appropriately for being on the sandy beach. Please bring your own fly rod, as practice rods are limited. Free and geared toward ages 6+, limited to 5 participants. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Sunday, May 18, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sun 18 May
Walkway Connections: Meet Sojourner Truth
Sunday, May 18, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Angela Henry performs a portrayal of Sojourner Truth. As she brings to life this abolitionist and fierce proponent of women's rights, Ms. Henry, in costume and as Sojourner Truth, draws on the speeches and correspondence of Truth to help us understand why Smithsonian magazine named her one of the "100 Most Significant Americans of All Time." This Walkway Connections event takes place at the Ulster Welcome Center (87 Haviland Road, Highland) on Sunday, May 18 from 2-3 p.m. It is suitable for guests for all ages.
Registration: Not required
Mon 19 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Monday, May 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

This is a nature-themed children's story time where we'll read fun, educational books that spark curiosity about the world around us. Designed for our younger friends, each session includes interactive reading with added facts and discussion from the educator. Stories will highlight wildlife, the seasons, conservation, and more, all geared towards inspiring young naturalists. If we are able, we can go on a short walk to apply our new knowledge. Blankets and stuffies welcome! Free and geared toward ages 6+ or if you're naturalist can listen to a book being read by an educator. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 19 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Monday, May 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

This is a nature-themed children's story time where we'll read fun, educational books that spark curiosity about the world around us. Designed for our younger friends, each session includes interactive reading with added facts and discussion from the educator. Stories will highlight wildlife, the seasons, conservation, and more, all geared towards inspiring young naturalists. If we are able, we can go on a short walk to apply our new knowledge. Blankets and stuffies welcome! Free and geared toward ages 6+ or if you're naturalist can listen to a book being read by an educator. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Tue 20 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Not required
Tue 20 May
Spring Mushroom Walk
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join Lindsey Jerome, Senior Ecological Monitoring Coordinator at Stone Barns, for a fascinating fungus walk through the woods! Discover the hidden world of mushrooms and fungi, uncover their secrets, and learn about their vital role in the ecosystem. Boots or sneakers required, bug spray recommended. The walk will leave promptly at 12:00 from the Visitor Center courtyard. Max: 20 people. Cost: $4.Please register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Tue 20 May
Annual Meeting of Friends of John Jay Homestead
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Members are invited to join Friends of John Jay Homestead for a year in review and look ahead at the exciting year to come. Guest speaker TBA. Space is limited, please RSVP to friends@johnjayhomestead.org.
Registration: Required
Thu 22 May
Syracuse University Crown Point Archaeological Field-School
Thursday, May 22, 2025 07:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Crown Point State Historic Site
The historic site will host the second-annual Syracuse University Crown Point Archaeological Field school between May 8th and May 22nd. Come visit the historic site and stop by the excavation site to learn more about science of archaeology and see an active archaeological dig. Regular field school hours are 7 AM to 1 PM, Monday-Saturday. Hours may vary depending on weather and other circumstances.
Registration: Not required
Thu 22 May
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, May 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Nature Center, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 22 May
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, May 22, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meets at the Nature Center, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 23 May
Community Archaeology Program
Friday, May 23, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Fri 23 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 23, 2025 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during May. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Not required
Fri 23 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 23, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 23 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 23, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 23 May
Field Guide Friday: Spring Flowers at Sam’s Point
Friday, May 23, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Dust off your old, field identification guides and join Becca Howe-Parisio, Environmental Educator, on a hike to learn how to use it. On this five-mile, moderate adventure, we will search for wildflowers along the Loop Road and Indian Rock Footpath, while using a field guide to identify different flowers growing in the Park Preserve. Taking the time to learn plants using field guides reinforces your knowledge of the unique characteristics of that plant. This leaves a more durable memory than the quick impression made when using apps on technology. Do not fret if you don't own a field guide, there will be field guides available to borrow. Field Guide Friday will be a monthly program, focusing on different topics as the seasons change. This program is suited for anyone who is old enough to read and is interested in learning how to use a book to identify plants, insects, and more. Participants must bring water and snacks and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Sam's Point Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by signing up via Eventbrite.
Registration: Required
Fri 23 May
Wiggly Watercolors
Friday, May 23, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join us at the nature center for some post-hike painting! We will sit on the deck and paint whatever our little heart's desire! Free and geared toward ages 0-5. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Fri 23 May
Wiggly Watercolors
Friday, May 23, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join us at the nature center for some post-hike painting! We will sit on the deck and paint whatever our little heart's desire! Free and geared toward ages 0-5. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Fri 23 May
Sunset Stories on the Beach
Friday, May 23, 2025 07:15 PM - 08:15 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Bring a chair or a blanket and gather on the beach at Thompson's Lake Campground to enjoy s'mores and storytelling. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 23 May
Sunset Stories on the Beach
Friday, May 23, 2025 07:15 PM - 08:15 PM
Thacher State Park
Bring a chair or a blanket and gather on the beach at Thompson's Lake Campground to enjoy s'mores and storytelling. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 23 May
Sunset Stories on the Beach
Friday, May 23, 2025 07:15 PM - 08:15 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Bring a chair or a blanket and gather on the beach at Thompson's Lake Campground to enjoy s'mores and storytelling. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 23 May
Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association Monthly Star Party
Friday, May 23, 2025 08:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Lake Taghkanic State Park
The Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association hosts a monthly stargazing party in the West Beach parking lot. Bring your own telescopes and binoculars or use those provided by our members. You will be asked to provide your license plate number and make/model car, so park management and police have a record of who will be in park after hours. More info at https://www.spy-hill.net/myers/astro/ltsp/. Registration: RSVP is required at least one day beforehand.
Registration: Required
Fri 23 May
Star Party
Friday, May 23, 2025 08:30 PM - 09:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Calling all night owls! The Albany Area Amateur Astronomers will have telescopes to give you a tour of the night sky during this free program held at the Deerfield Pavilion. No preregistration required. Enter via main entrance and follow signs to program-- first left off main entrance road. Please drive slowly in the park at night. No charge.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Community Archaeology Program
Saturday, May 24, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Saturday, May 24, 2025 07:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents and experience the "dawn chorus" during the peek breeding song with an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. Rain or shine except in extreme weather, in which case you will receive a cancellation email 2 hours before scheduled walk. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Wawarsing Turnpike, Jenny Lane, and Lower Awosting Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 24, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for a hike on some of the lesser-travelled trails at Minnewaska during this approximately five-mile outing. Leaving from the Lower Parking Area, we'll cross over Route 44/55 and hike the Wawarsing Turnpike Footpath to the west until it intersects Jenny Lane Footpath. Crossing over Route 44/55 again, we'll follow this trail until it intersects Blueberry Run Footpath. From here, we'll hike a short section of this trail to reach Lower Awosting Carriage Road, which will take us back to our starting point. While scenic views are limited on this outing, it traverses beautiful sections of forest, through stands of evergreen mountain laurel shrubs, across rock slabs with twisted pitch pine trees, and across two clear, mountain streams. This outing includes a few sustained uphill and downhill sections and two stream crossings that may be challenging for some. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Drop-in Animal Care Series
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Come join an educator as we go over how we feed our animals in the welcome center! Meet our turtles, snakes and lizards! These are drop-in programs and require no pre-registration, simply come in the Welcome Center and go to the classroom. No registration is needed.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Lenoir Nature Preserve to Untermyer Gardens Walk
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Join us for a 3 hour/3 mile walk along the Northwest section of Yonkers! We'll start at the Lenoir Nature Preserve before heading south from the Preserve for one mile along the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail to Untermyer Gardens. Learn the history of the Old Croton Aqueduct along the way before we tour the exquisitely restored Untermyer Gardens, once among the most famous gardens in the world, eventually returning to the Lenoir Nature Preserve. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/event/?id=311. 10:00 AM, Location: Lenoir Preserve, Yonkers, Free, Ages: All Ages
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
History of Rockwood Hall
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join Rockwood docent, David Teich, on an adventure into the past as we explore the remains of Rockwood Hall and its rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Former estate of William A. Rockefeller Jr., this site boasts scenic views overlooking the Hudson, lush forests, and remnants of 19th century luxuries. Leashed dogs are welcome. The hike is about 2 miles roundtrip. This event is at Rockwood Hall, DO NOT go to the main entrance. Max: 40 people. Cost: $4. Please register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Staatsburg Village Walking Tour
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
This 90-minute walk in the village of Staatsburg will explore the estate's close relationship with the nearby village and its connection to the Mills family. A guide will discuss historic buildings and highlight hidden locations in the village that demonstrate Staatsburg's vibrant past and the lasting legacy of Ruth and Ogden Mills beyond the estate walls. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Yonkers Waterfront Walking Tour
Saturday, May 24, 2025 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
(914) 965-4027

Why was Philipse Manor Hall built where it was? Why did the Munsee have a village in downtown Yonkers for thousands of years? How did the Yonkers waterfront change over time? Learn the answers to these questions and more as you explore the daylighted Saw Mill River and Yonkers' Hudson River waterfront. $6 for adults, $3 for seniors and students. Tickets include museum admission. To register, email philipsemanorhall@parks.ny.gov or call 914-965-4027.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 24, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
18th Century Wool Spinning and Dyeing
Saturday, May 24, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Learn to card wool and spin a sample of knitting yarn! Learn about natural dyeing in the Colonial Era. Program suitable for all ages. Program is Outdoors, Hands-On and Family Friendly.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Slavery, Segregation & Staatsburgh: From Black Service to White Servants
Saturday, May 24, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
In 1810, there were nine Black people enslaved on the Staatsburgh estate. In 1910, there were no recorded Black employees working inside Staatsburgh – with only one documented Black resident in the entire hamlet. What happened? Join Staatsburgh staff for a conversation about this transition from a Black presence at Staatsburgh during the early 19th century to an apparent absence during the Gilded Age. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: free.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 24, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Live Birds of Prey
Saturday, May 24, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Stop by the Visitor Center where wildlife rehabilitators will introduce you to live birds of prey. Binoculars will be available for visitors to borrow. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Live Birds of Prey
Saturday, May 24, 2025 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Stop by the Visitor Center where wildlife rehabilitators will introduce you to live birds of prey. Binoculars will be available for visitors to borrow. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market
Saturday, May 24, 2025 until Monday, May 26, 2025 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
The Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market brings a curated selection of the Hudson Valley's finest producers – farms, distilleries, breweries, wineries, restaurants, artists, artisans, and more – to its new location in Waryas Park in Poughkeepsie on Saturday, May 24, Sunday, May 25, and Monday, May 26 from 12-5 p.m. Just as in past years, more than 190 vendors will exhibit their wares for purchase, with many agribusinesses offering free samples or tastings. For complete information, visit walkway.org/mayfest. General admission to Mayfest is $5, with entry valid for any day. Admission includes full access to all vendors, samplings of wine, beer, and spirits from more than 30 area purveyors, a full day of live music and specialty performances, art installations, games and activities for kids, and much more. Walkway members and children under 12 are free. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Walkway nonprofit organization. To learn more about Walkway membership and to secure your complimentary Mayfest tickets, visit join.walkway.org.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Waking Up Wildflowers – EnviroEd Program
Saturday, May 24, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Visitor Center, 129 Schoharie Street. Join site staff for a walk along the old canal towpath to seek out and "wake up" wildflowers growing along our trails. See if you can find and identify some of these spring flowers. Free and open to all ages.
Registration: Not required
Sat 24 May
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, May 24, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, May 24, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Fairy House Workshop
Saturday, May 24, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

It's the Spring Fairy house workshop! It is now time for more Fairies to settle out on the trails, and we are looking for folks to help build them some homes! Take it home after you're done. This program is open to all ages. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
A Life in Service
Saturday, May 24, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
It took a small army to run this 79-room Gilded Age estate. See the mansion through the servants' eyes, as they rose before dawn and toile duntil after midnight. The tour—led by a costumed guide—will include visiting the partially restored servants' hall. The hall is a striking artifact of servant life and work, featuring the servants' dining room, the footmen's bedrooms, and the butler's office. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sat 24 May
Native Turtle Talk
Saturday, May 24, 2025 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Join us to celebrate World Turtle Day! We'll talk about some of our native turtles, what makes turtles special, and even meet some of our ambassador animals! This program is open to all ages. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
Sun 25 May
Community Archaeology Program
Sunday, May 25, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sun 25 May
The Shorter and More Scenic Route to Gertrude’s Nose at Minnewaska
Sunday, May 25, 2025 09:30 AM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, and Abby Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for an adventurous, six-mile round-trip hike to Gertrude's Nose and back along the same route. This footpath, which traverses an escarpment edge, offers one of the most expansive views in Minnewaska. From our start at Lake Minnewaska, this route will follow Millbrook Mountain Carriage Road to Gertrude's Nose Footpath, which offers broad views of the Wallkill Valley, Taconic Mountains and beyond. This modestly challenging hike includes a long set of steep, rock stairs, as well as a few hills and some tricky footing. Participants must bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sun 25 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 25, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this Sunday morning Hatha yoga series at Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site! The beautiful sunlit Gothic Chamber is the perfect place for a morning yoga class. This open level class is for everyone - from beginners to long-time practitioners. Within the structure of the class and the instructor's skillful guidelines, you will work at your own pace and level, and modifications will be offered. You will leave having worked your body, calmed your mind and opened your heart. Learn more and register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Registration: Required
Sun 25 May
Wonders of Water
Sunday, May 25, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Ever wonder what is just under the surface? Why is the Ore Pit so cold and clear? What calls the water home? Can water be sticky? Get your answers to all of this and more while we explore the wonders of the Ore Pit with Taconic State Park Educator Haley. We'll get to see some of the critters that call the Park's water home and learn about their lives. Check with the office for other activities during the weekend.
Registration: Not required
Sun 25 May
Tales of the Titanic - Special Theme Tour
Sunday, May 25, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 113th anniversary of the sinking by embarking on this special 90-minute tour of the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a guide in period attire points out remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sun 25 May
Memorial Day Sunset Flag Changing Ceremony
Sunday, May 25, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
The American Legion Post 739 organize and present monthly Flag Changing Ceremonies on the Walkway to honor our region's veterans and their service to our country. These events are open to all who wish to attend. The most special flag changing ceremony takes place on Sunday, May 25 in honor of Memorial Day. Join veterans affairs leaders and local VFW members for a moving sunset ceremony that also includes a four-gun salute, the playing of Taps, local artists performing God Bless America, and a carnation toss into the Hudson River. This special sunset ceremony begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. and lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Registration: Not required
Mon 26 May
Community Archaeology Program
Monday, May 26, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Monday, May 26, 2025 07:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents and experience the "dawn chorus" during the peek breeding song with an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. Rain or shine except in extreme weather, in which case you will receive a cancellation email 2 hours before scheduled walk. Ages 8+. Max: 25 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. NYS Residents over 62 park for free on weekdays. Please register at: sawmillriveraudubon.org/register-trips/.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Moreau Lake Kayak
Monday, May 26, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Join an educator on a peaceful morning paddle around Moreau Lake. You can bring your own kayak, or we have limited kayak rentals and life jackets available for free and are first come, first served. This program is for people aged 18 and older if you need to borrow a kayak or 13+ if you have your own kayak. Limited to 10 participants. Please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Moreau Lake Kayak
Monday, May 26, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Join an educator on a peaceful morning paddle around Moreau Lake. You can bring your own kayak, or we have limited kayak rentals and life jackets available for free and are first come, first served. This program is for people aged 18 and older if you need to borrow a kayak or 13+ if you have your own kayak. Limited to 10 participants. Please register in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Intro to Kayaking
Monday, May 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

All skill levels are welcome on a guided kayak tour of Long Pond! Paddle through nature and learn about local wildlife. Registration is required. Kayak, paddles, and safety equipment will be provided. For ages 16+, those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Call 518-279-1155 to register.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Staatsburg Village Walking Tour
Monday, May 26, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
This 90-minute walk in the village of Staatsburg will explore the estate's close relationship with the nearby village and its connection to the Mills family. A guide will discuss historic buildings and highlight hidden locations in the village that demonstrate Staatsburg's vibrant past and the lasting legacy of Ruth and Ogden Mills beyond the estate walls. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
Upcycled Crafts at Minnewaska
Monday, May 26, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Bring your family and join Abigail Hedler, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, to make creative, upcycled crafts. We'll provide the supplies for you to make nature journals and collages from recycled paper materials, and painted ornaments from dried, slices of branches. Bring your inspiration and ideas and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of crafting! Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Nature Center. This is a drop-in program and pre-registration is NOT required.
Registration: Not required
Mon 26 May
The Bees are Back
Monday, May 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

This is an educational program focused on honeybees! We will discuss honeybee biology, hive components, pollination, seasonal care, and the basics of setting up and maintaining a small apiary. This is the beginning of a small honeybee series based on Moreau's apiaries. No bee's will be involved in this program and will be held indoors or at the pavilion if the weather is accommodating. Free and geared toward ages 10+, but all are welcome. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
The Bees are Back
Monday, May 26, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

This is an educational program focused on honeybees! We will discuss honeybee biology, hive components, pollination, seasonal care, and the basics of setting up and maintaining a small apiary. This is the beginning of a small honeybee series based on Moreau's apiaries. No bee's will be involved in this program and will be held indoors or at the pavilion if the weather is accommodating. Free and geared toward ages 10+, but all are welcome. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 26 May
New Windsor Cantonment Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 26, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site
An 18th century funeral ceremony to honor our nation's fallen veterans at the site cemetery. Then President Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. A military demonstration follows. Admission is free. Call (845) 562-7141 ext. 22 for more information. New Windsor Cantonment 374 Temple Hill Road New Windsor, New York 12553New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site is one of 35 historic sites within the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and one of 40 facilities administered by the Palisades Interstate Park Commission in New York and New Jersey. For further information please call (845) 562-7141 ext. 22, visit the New York State Parks website at: www.parks.ny.gov or find us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/newwindsorcantonment.
Registration: Not required
Tue 27 May
Community Archaeology Program
Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Tue 27 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Designed for both birding enthusiasts and those just looking to learn the basics, this weekly series will offer outings led by Nick Martin, Park Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars and water, and wear hiking shoes or boots. Outing destinations will be determined the day of the program. Poor weather conditions will trigger a program cancellation. Participants will meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. Participants MUST arrive prior to the start of the program, but no earlier than 7:30 am. The Park Preserve gates will be locked at 8:00 am. Late arrivals will NOT be allowed in the Park Preserve. The total number of participants for this program is limited to twenty-five individuals. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska entrance. For questions, please call 845-255-0752 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov. This program is set up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Registration: Required
Tue 27 May
Tuesday Trek: Rainbow Falls and Scenic Views Bike Ride at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a somewhat challenging, eight-mile-long bike ride and one-mile-long hike to Rainbow Falls. Our route will follow Upper Awosting Carriage Road, which gradually rises in elevation through a shaded, mature forest. Crossing a bridge over a babbling brook, we'll get distant views of Rainbow Falls, before we reach the trailhead for Rainbow Falls Footpath. We'll park our bikes, locking them here, while we walk through the Huntington Ravine to see Rainbow Falls up close. We'll return on the same route, making an approximately one-mile scenic detour before getting back on our bikes. We'll continue riding until we reach Lake Awosting Carriage Road. From here, we'll pedal uphill until we reach first Castle Point Carriage Road and then, shortly after, Hamilton Point Carriage Road, one of the most scenic routes in the Park Preserve. Along the way, we'll stop to admire all the beautiful scenic views. This route, which follows gravel-surfaced carriage roads, does include some challenging hills and participants should be prepared to maintain a modest pace in order to finish on time. Participants must bring all their own gear, including a bike or pedal-assist e-bike, a helmet, food and water. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 27 May
Dressing the Revolutionary Lady
Tuesday, May 27, 2025 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Meet at Enders House, Schoharie Street. Join us as Caitlin Sheldon discusses and demonstrates the design and clothing style of a refined lady in the American Revolutionary period. Sheldon is a Saratoga Springs Public Library librarian and historical costumer who draws inspiration from the past. The self-taught costumer uses historical images of people from the past to fuel the ornate outfits she recreates. This passion has led to research that provides a deeper understanding of trends in fashion. This program will be preceded by a short Friends of Schoharie Crossing meeting. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.
Registration: Not required
Wed 28 May
Community Archaeology Program
Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Wed 28 May
FREE CONCERTS: Callie Mackenzie
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Callie Mackenzie is a Kingston, NY based social change worker, musician and multidisciplinary artist. Living at the intersections of art & social justice, she uses the practice of creating art as medicine and works to create liberatory and joyful spaces for growth and healing rooted in love. Armed with a guitar, she brings the audience on a smooth, soulful and sometimes funky journey of deep feelings about oppression, freedom, love, heartbreak, and mental health.
Registration: Not required
Thu 29 May
Community Archaeology Program
Thursday, May 29, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Thu 29 May
Mandala Yoga Thursdays
Thursday, May 29, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Taconic State Park - Copake Falls Area
Join us for a morning of mindful yoga in the beautiful outdoors guided by Gina of Mandala Yoga and Arts. These sessions are for all interested, from enthusiasts to those just starting their yoga experience. We will have a limited number of mats available for use, so we encourage folks to bring their own. Water bottles are encouraged. Call the park office with any questions. Future Dates: June 12 & 26, July 10
Registration: Not required
Thu 29 May
Drop-in Animal Care Series
Thursday, May 29, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
Come join an educator as we go over how we feed our animals in the welcome center! Meet our turtles, snakes and lizards! These are drop-in programs and require no pre-registration, simply come in the Welcome Center and go to the classroom. No registration is needed.
Registration: Not required
Thu 29 May
FREE CONCERTS: Storm King Skyline
Thursday, May 29, 2025 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Storm King Skyline, Kevin & Carol Becker, Rich Keyes, Ken & Linda Sheehan. Start with deep roots in traditional folk music, add musical versatility, mix in both historical and contemporary themes, all seasoned with a healthy dose of good-natured humor, then enjoy a performance by Storm King Skyline. Storm King Skyline has developed a unique sound that combines breathtaking vocals, instrumental dexterity, and a synergy that comes only from an intimate knowledge of each other's talents. Their repertoire ranges from historical ballads to songs of social significance and from traditional folk songs to the original songs of the band members. Storm King Skyline has an easy manner and relaxed stage presence which encourages audience participation and contributes to their entertaining performances.
Registration: Not required
Fri 30 May
Community Archaeology Program
Friday, May 30, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Fri 30 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 30, 2025 08:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, Minnewaska Park Preserve Educator, for bird walks starting at the Gardiner Library, every Friday during May. During this program, we will take an approximately one mile walk on the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and wander through Majestic Park, which can be muddy and wet, especially after a rainfall. Participants are encouraged to wear waterproof boots or shoes, bring binoculars, and a birding field guide, or field guide installed into a smart device. Interested participants are welcome to attend one or all of these programs. Meet at the Gardiner Library, in the Lower Parking Area. No pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact the Gardiner Library directly at 845-255-1255 or email Nicholas.Martin@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Not required
Fri 30 May
Sensory Stroll: Awaken Your Senses
Friday, May 30, 2025 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Awaken your senses as you slow down and tune in to nature in this embodied experience with Linda Parker. You'll be amazed at what you notice when you focus on one sense at a time. Meet in the Visitor Center courtyard. Dress comfortably and bring water to drink. In case of bad weather, the program may be canceled or postponed; you will be notified via email by 5 pm the day before. Max: 15 people. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle; NYS residents over 62 park free on weekdays. Please register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Fri 30 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 30, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 30 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 30, 2025 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Wiggly Wanderers is a casual and fun program that is offered to walking toddlers, carriable babies and their caregivers. This is a beginner's hike/wander series with not too much distance for toddlers who are ready to move and caregivers who are willing and able to baby wear and/or carry their toddler if their legs get too tired. Strollers will not work for these programs. We meet at the nature center parking lot. This program is free and does not require registration.
Registration: Not required
Fri 30 May
Movies on the Trail: Inside Out 2
Friday, May 30, 2025 08:30 PM - 10:30 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Movies on the Trail series kicks off this year with Inside Out 2! All of Riley's familiar emotions are back to tackle on more adolescent problems, including new teams, new friends and new feelings. Will Joy be able to keep Riley positive during all the changes? Will the new emotions help or hurt Riley as she faces her challenges? All movies are shown on the east lawn of the Keeper's house and is free of charge! Patrons are encouraged to bring their own refreshments and a chair or blanket to lay on.8:30pm-10:30pm, Location: Keepers House, Dobbs Ferry, Free, Ages: All Ages.
Registration: Not required
Sat 31 May
Community Archaeology Program
Saturday, May 31, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Black Birders Event
Saturday, May 31, 2025
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Free and no prior birding experience required. Explore John Brown Farm, hear from Black birding experts, experience history, connect with nature, and build community while bird watching. Registration encouraged, not required. Find more details and register through nnya.org by navigating to their GABC page Sponsored by the Adirondack Diversity Initiative, Northern New York Audubon (NNYA), John Brown Lives!, and the office of NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
NAMI - Step into Hope! NAMI Mid-Hudson Walk for Mental Health 2025!
Saturday, May 31, 2025 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
NAMI Mid-Hudson is hosting a walk across the Walkway Over the Hudson to recognize May as Mental Health Awareness Month and to provide information about local mental health resources. This year, we are excited to bring together individuals, families, and organizations to raise awareness, foster community support, and promote mental wellness. Each May, NAMI Mid-Hudson joins the national movement to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for a more equitable mental health system. Mental Health is an essential part of overall well-being, and through this walk, we encourage open conversations about mental health while connecting people with valuable resources. Join us as we walk to support mental health for all! Let's take this step together- because there is no physical health without mental health.
Registration: Not required
Sat 31 May
Caves & Karst
Saturday, May 31, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Caves & Karst
Saturday, May 31, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration encouraged: Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Learn about the Lichens of the Shawangunk Mountains at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
(845) 255-0752

Join lichen photographer and Department of Environmental Conservation Steward, John Franklin, for a walk and talk on lichens, those amazing little organisms that we see growing on trees and rocks throughout the Park Preserve. We will walk up to two miles on carriage roads, stopping to discuss lichens along the way. This program is recommended for adults and children over the age of 12. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Please bring binoculars, a hand loupe, or a magnifying glass, if possible, to aid you in close-up observations of the lichens. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Plein Air Painting
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Experience nature through painting! Learn the watercolor technique under the guidance of award-winning artist, Anne Johann, as you absorb the beauty of the landscape before you. You may bring your own supplies if you have them; if not, supplies will be provided. Cost: $8. Max: 10 people. Please register at: RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Staatsburg Village Walking Tour
Saturday, May 31, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
This 90-minute walk in the village of Staatsburg will explore the estate's close relationship with the nearby village and its connection to the Mills family. A guide will discuss historic buildings and highlight hidden locations in the village that demonstrate Staatsburg's vibrant past and the lasting legacy of Ruth and Ogden Mills beyond the estate walls. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 31, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, May 31, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required: Call 518-872-0800
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
(Flower) Pressing Matters
Saturday, May 31, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

Have you ever seen a blossom so pretty you'd like to keep it forever? Us too! Join us at the nature center for guided flower pressing and some craft ideas for our flattened flowers. Open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
(Flower) Pressing Matters
Saturday, May 31, 2025 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

Have you ever seen a blossom so pretty you'd like to keep it forever? Us too! Join us at the nature center for guided flower pressing and some craft ideas for our flattened flowers. Open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Beaks and Bills
Saturday, May 31, 2025 12:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Hop Field Warming Hut Ages 8+, Why do birds have different shaped beaks? Borrow a pair of binoculars from the Nature Center or bring your own and learn about the many specialized beaks and bills in Thacher Park's wetlands! Join an educator on a 1.5-mile hike into a wetland habitat to learn about the stork-ly different birds that call Thacher Park home. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Beaks and Bills
Saturday, May 31, 2025 12:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Hop Field Warming Hut Ages 8+, Why do birds have different shaped beaks? Borrow a pair of binoculars from the Nature Center or bring your own and learn about the many specialized beaks and bills in Thacher Park's wetlands! Join an educator on a 1.5-mile hike into a wetland habitat to learn about the stork-ly different birds that call Thacher Park home. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
GET TO KNOW PINKSTER: Exploring Rhythms of the Diaspora
Saturday, May 31, 2025 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Musician, educator, and cultural practitioner Jordan Taylor-Hill will lead a hands-on drumming workshop exploring West African and Caribbean diasporic music. Participants are encouraged (but not required) to bring their own percussive instruments (drums, shakers, etc.). An adult chaperone is required- this is not a drop-off event. Space is limited. Registration Recommended: Visit albany.librarycalendar.com/event/get-know-pinkster-exploring-rhythms-diaspora-42381 to register After the program, join us back at Schuyler Mansion to help decorate a recreated Pinkster shelter!
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, May 31, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 31 May
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, May 31, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 31 May
A Life in Service
Saturday, May 31, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
It took a small army to run this 79-room Gilded Age estate. See the mansion through the servants' eyes, as they rose before dawn and toile duntil after midnight. The tour—led by a costumed guide—will include visiting the partially restored servants' hall. The hall is a striking artifact of servant life and work, featuring the servants' dining room, the footmen's bedrooms, and the butler's office. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free
Registration: Required
Sat 31 May
On the Farm
Saturday, May 31, 2025 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Friends of John Jay Homestead invite you to join us for an intimate evening under the stars at Purdy's Farmer & the Fish (100 Titicus Road, North Salem, NY). Guests will enjoy a strolling cocktail hour and farm tour through the greenhouse and terrace gardens, before sitting down to a curated four course farm-to-table tasting menu on the farm terrace overlooking the fields. Learn more and purchase tickets at https://johnjayhomestead.org/events-calendar/on-the-farm-2025/.
Registration: Required
Sun 01 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Sunday, June 1, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sun 01 Jun
Science of Rainbows
Sunday, June 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
(518) 793-0511

What is a rainbow? Why do they appear? How long do they stretch? (Spoiler: they don't actually have a length) Join a nature center employee to uncover the scientific secrets of rainbows! Open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Sun 01 Jun
Science of Rainbows
Sunday, June 1, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
(518) 793-0511

What is a rainbow? Why do they appear? How long do they stretch? (Spoiler: they don't actually have a length) Join a nature center employee to uncover the scientific secrets of rainbows! Open to all ages. Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511.
Registration: Required
Mon 02 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Monday, June 2, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Tue 03 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Tuesday, June 3, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Wed 04 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Wednesday, June 4, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Thu 05 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Thursday, June 5, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Thu 05 Jun
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, June 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meets at Hop Field, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 05 Jun
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, June 5, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meets at Hop Field, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 06 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Friday, June 6, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Summer craft series: Paper Collage
Saturday, June 7, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Wood Joinery in Early America
Saturday, June 7, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Master woodworker Erik Paul will present the craft of wood joinery. In an era when nails were expensive, joining wood without iron fasteners became an art. Paul will demonstrate how different types of joints, moldings, and flooring were made in early America. Learn about the electricity-free tools and techniques joiners used to construct the structures of Fort Montgomery.
Registration: Not required
Sat 07 Jun
PINKSTER
Saturday, June 7, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
This celebration of African diasporic culture features performances by The Pinkster Players, Troy Samba, Indigenous reenactor Jennifer Lee, a drum workshop led by Jordan-Taylor Hill, Operation Unite, Image Quilt led by Omonike Akinyemi, Donald Hyman, and more! All are invited to partake in participatory dance, live music, drumming, crafts, games, vendors, and Open House (self-guided) tours of the mansion. Food available for purchase by Allie B's Cozy Kitchen. Event will be held rain or shine.
Registration: Not required
Sat 07 Jun
Summer craft series: Paper Collage
Saturday, June 7, 2025 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, June 7, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, June 7, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Summer craft series: Paper Collage
Saturday, June 7, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Summer craft series: Paper Collage
Saturday, June 7, 2025 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Hike for Hope Luminary Walk
Saturday, June 7, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Join us for a sunset luminary walk to help create a culture that's smart about mental health. Suicide prevention starts with everyday heroes like you. Money raised goes to critical research, education programs, advocacy, and support for those affected by suicide. Check-in and pre-hike activities begin at 7:00pm. Step-off for a sunset Luminary hike on the escarpment begins at 8:30pm. Visit afsp.org/crconstruction to register and for more information.
Registration: Required
Sat 07 Jun
Hike for Hope Luminary Walk
Saturday, June 7, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Join us for a sunset luminary walk to help create a culture that's smart about mental health. Suicide prevention starts with everyday heroes like you. Money raised goes to critical research, education programs, advocacy, and support for those affected by suicide. Check-in and pre-hike activities begin at 7:00pm. Step-off for a sunset Luminary hike on the escarpment begins at 8:30pm. Visit afsp.org/crconstruction to register and for more information.
Registration: Required
Sun 08 Jun
Community Archaeology Program
Sunday, June 8, 2025
Crown Point State Historic Site
(518) 597-4666

Crown Point State Historic Site is seeking volunteers to assist with an archaeological excavation on the site grounds. Volunteers will be excavating earthen mounds that remain from a previous project conducted in the 1960s. The mounds contain soil removed from areas around the 18th century fortifications and were never processed or sifted for artifacts. Participants can expect to dig through, sift, and process material culture and artifacts left behind by the soldiers and civilians who lived at Crown Point in the mid-1700s. No previous archaeological experience is necessary. Volunteers will be trained in archaeological techniques on-site and can expect a moderate amount of physical labor including digging, lifting, and carrying. Interested volunteers can contact the historic site at (518) 597-4666.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Caves & Karst
Saturday, June 14, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Caves & Karst
Saturday, June 14, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Revolutionary Era Blacksmithing
Saturday, June 14, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
During the American Revolution blacksmiths played an important role supplying iron implements vital to the construction of military works like Fort Montgomery. Local master blacksmith Tom Hunt will use 18th century tools and methods to fabricate items such as those used here in 1777!
Registration: Not required
Sat 14 Jun
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, June 14, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, June 14, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Path Through History Weekend/Hike of the Month
Saturday, June 14, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
(518) 806-9719

Heaven Hill Walk. Come join us on a free Hike through History, a 1.4-mile walking tour on neighboring Heaven Hill and learn about its connections to John Brown and other local history (Easy) We will meet at the traffic circle at John Brown Farm at 1pm and drive to Heaven Hill Trails area on Bear Cub Lane. Registration requested, call or text 518-806-9719
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, June 14, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 14 Jun
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, June 14, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 14 Jun
Full Moon Firefly Stroll
Saturday, June 14, 2025 08:45 PM - 10:15 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center. Fireflies light up our meadows on summer nights! Join us for a stroll to learn about and experience the magic of these bioluminescent beetles underneath a nearly-full moon. Sturdy shoes and flashlights recommended. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 14 Jun
Full Moon Firefly Stroll
Saturday, June 14, 2025 08:45 PM - 10:15 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center. Fireflies light up our meadows on summer nights! Join us for a stroll to learn about and experience the magic of these bioluminescent beetles underneath a nearly-full moon. Sturdy shoes and flashlights recommended. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 19 Jun
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, June 19, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meets at Nature Center, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Thu 19 Jun
Knee-High Naturalists
Thursday, June 19, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meets at Nature Center, Explore the outdoors with our Knee-High Naturalists series! Best suited for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. Each session will explore a different theme - activities may include crafts, games, storybook readings, or a kid-friendly nature walk. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 20 Jun
Summer Solstice Sound Bath
Friday, June 20, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Join Carols of the Heart on the longest day of the year! This deep listening experience of meditation and sound that invites you on an inner journey connecting your body, heart and mind. Bring a yoga mat, eye mask, blanket and anything else need to make you feel comfortable during this 1-hour program. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 20 Jun
Summer Solstice Sound Bath
Friday, June 20, 2025 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Join Carols of the Heart on the longest day of the year! This deep listening experience of meditation and sound that invites you on an inner journey connecting your body, heart and mind. Bring a yoga mat, eye mask, blanket and anything else need to make you feel comfortable during this 1-hour program. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 20 Jun
Summer Solstice Sound Bath
Friday, June 20, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Join Carols of the Heart on the longest day of the year! This deep listening experience of meditation and sound that invites you on an inner journey connecting your body, heart and mind. Bring a yoga mat, eye mask, blanket and anything else need to make you feel comfortable during this 1-hour program. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 20 Jun
Summer Solstice Sound Bath
Friday, June 20, 2025 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Join Carols of the Heart on the longest day of the year! This deep listening experience of meditation and sound that invites you on an inner journey connecting your body, heart and mind. Bring a yoga mat, eye mask, blanket and anything else need to make you feel comfortable during this 1-hour program. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Jun
Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 21, 2025
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
FREE, open to the public celebration at John Brown Farm with speakers, music, art, and children's activities and games. There will be a barbecue ($) by Papa Duke's! Come join the celebration which follows an Underground Railroad sites driving tour by the North Star UGRR Museum (register with them for the driving tour only)
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
Summer Solstice Sun Prints
Saturday, June 21, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Happy Summer Solstice! Stop by the Visitor Center to create a masterpiece using Sun Print paper and different items found in nature. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
Summer Solstice Sun Prints
Saturday, June 21, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Happy Summer Solstice! Stop by the Visitor Center to create a masterpiece using Sun Print paper and different items found in nature. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
“Liss: Slave, Servant, Spy”
Saturday, June 21, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
In Honor of Juneteenth, performers Jim and Karla Keyes will bring to life the story of Liss, a woman enslaved by the Townsend family, whose son Robert became George Washington's lead spy in Manhattan during the Revolutionary War. Evidence suggests that Liss may have been a secret agent for the famous Culper spy ring. This dramatic storytelling will shed light on Liss' little-known story, expanding the spotlight on African American contributions to the War effort.
Registration: Not required
Sat 21 Jun
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, June 21, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Jun
Overlooking the Geology
Saturday, June 21, 2025 01:30 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Weather permitting, meet at the Thacher Park Overlook, where on a clear day at least four different landscape regions are visible. Learn how and when they formed and about the many different rock types of which they are made. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Fri 27 Jun
Sunset Stories on the Beach
Friday, June 27, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Bring a chair or a blanket and gather on the beach at Thompsons Lake Campground to enjoy s'mores and storytelling. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 27 Jun
Sunset Stories on the Beach
Friday, June 27, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Bring a chair or a blanket and gather on the beach at Thompsons Lake Campground to enjoy s'mores and storytelling. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 27 Jun
Sunset Stories on the Beach
Friday, June 27, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Bring a chair or a blanket and gather on the beach at Thompson's Lake Campground to enjoy s'mores and storytelling. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 28 Jun
Caves & Karst
Saturday, June 28, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
Caves & Karst
Saturday, June 28, 2025 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Visitor Center, Participants will come to understand the development of Thacher Park's unique landscapes and the terms associated with them. We will observe the limestone layers and the resurging underground streams, and visit the active sinkhole and other unique areas. Each participant is expected to follow the group leader in their own vehicle as we caravan to the different sites. Registration recommended. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, June 28, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
Let Freedom Ring
Saturday, June 28, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site
Participate onsite in commemorating American Independence at Senate House! There will famous American music and an independence ceremony featuring readings of important speeches on American independence. This family friendly event is free and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Sat 28 Jun
Pitch In for Parks! Volunteer Day
Saturday, June 28, 2025 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center, Ages 12 and up, Don't we all love Thacher State Park? This volunteer program is a great way to give back to the park and become an ecological steward. This series of volunteer days will alternate between vegetation management of introduced species and trail work. We will use hand tools; please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and appropriate close-toed work shoes. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 28 Jun
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, June 28, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Sat 28 Jun
Drop-in Geology & Fossil Table
Saturday, June 28, 2025 01:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Visitor Center, Drop in anytime between 1:30pm-3:30pm to visit the fossil table and learn about local geology with educator Mike Nardacci. No registration required.
Registration: Not required
Fri 04 Jul
Independence Day at Fort Montgomery!
Friday, July 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Join us for a special Independence Day celebration at Fort Montgomery! Witness the ROAR and THUNDER at the Grand Battery when the fort's 6-pounder cannon "Ana" is fired at NOON! 18th century medical presentations, musket-firing demonstrations, and site tours will take place throughout the day.
Registration: Not required
Fri 04 Jul
INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Friday, July 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Enjoy an early American July 4th celebration on the grounds of Schuyler Mansion! Exhibits commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War, 18th century games and performers, demonstrations, reenactors, Open House (self-guided) tours, crafts, and ice cream will be free of charge to commemorate the holiday. Event will be held rain or shine.
Registration: Not required
Sun 06 Jul
HENRY KNOX BOOK DRIVE for Schuyler Mansion’s New Little Library
Sunday, July 6, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
In commemoration of Revolutionary War patriot Henry Knox's early life as a bookseller, please drop off gently used books during open hours in July to support the new Little Library.
Registration: Not required
Sat 12 Jul
Hike of the month: The Potato Field Loop
Saturday, July 12, 2025 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
A free walking tour past our historic gardens and ascent of ~150 ft to the edge of the fields on the loop; approximately 2 miles total distance. (Moderate) Registration requested, call or text 518-806-9719
Registration: Not required
Sun 13 Jul
HENRY KNOX BOOK DRIVE for Schuyler Mansion’s New Little Library
Sunday, July 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
In commemoration of Revolutionary War patriot Henry Knox's early life as a bookseller, please drop off gently used books during open hours in July to support the new Little Library.
Registration: Not required
Sat 19 Jul
Summerfest
Saturday, July 19, 2025 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Mine Kill State Park
(518) 827-6111

Join us at the Mine Kill Pool Complex for a free family fun-filled festival! Check out handmade artisans, vendors, and food trucks. Enjoy carnival games, hayrides, face painting, dunk tank, pool games, and more! Accessibility information: changing rooms, showers, and restrooms are ADA compliant. Handicap Parking is available. The pool deck is concrete with no step changes. Vendors will be along sidewalks. A pool lift is available to assist access to the main pool. Please call with any questions about accessibility (518)827-6111.
Registration: Required
Sat 19 Jul
The Bronze Men: the 369th Infantry Regiment in World War I
Saturday, July 19, 2025 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
National Purple Heart Hall of Honor
The Hall of Honor will show the PBS documentary about the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-black regiment that served during World War I. The regiment, originally the 15th New York National Guard served for 191 in combat, longer than any other American unit during the War. Surviving members were interviewed during the 1970's and tell their stories in this documentary.
Registration: Not required
Sun 20 Jul
HENRY KNOX BOOK DRIVE for Schuyler Mansion’s New Little Library
Sunday, July 20, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
In commemoration of Revolutionary War patriot Henry Knox's early life as a bookseller, please drop off gently used books during open hours in July to support the new Little Library.
Registration: Not required
Tue 22 Jul
CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 until Thursday, July 24, 2025 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
(518) 434-0834

This 3-day historical fiction writing workshop for young writers includes a special tour of Schuyler Mansion and hands-on activities. Participants will leave with a typed storybook. Call the museum to register: 518-434-0834.
Registration: Required
Sun 27 Jul
HENRY KNOX BOOK DRIVE for Schuyler Mansion’s New Little Library
Sunday, July 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
In commemoration of Revolutionary War patriot Henry Knox's early life as a bookseller, please drop off gently used books during open hours in July to support the new Little Library.
Registration: Not required
Sat 02 Aug
A DAY FOR BOOKLOVERS!
Saturday, August 2, 2025 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
(518) 434-0834

Join us in celebrating Revolutionary War Patriot Henry Knox's early life as a bookseller! 11 am to 12 pm: RED Bookshelf Author Reading & Activity (free, families) The RED Bookshelf will host a reading and activity for youngsters. 3 to 4 pm: Bookmaking Workshop (free, ages 10 to adult, registration recommended) Design your own book! Join us for a bookbinding and personalized bookplate workshop. Call the museum to register: 518-434-0834 For more information about New York State's 250th American Revolution Commemoration, visit www.iloveny.com/things-to-do/path-through-history/america-250/
Registration: Required
Sat 09 Aug
Civil War Encampment Weekend
Saturday, August 9, 2025 until Monday, August 11, 2025
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Soldier re-enactors, demonstrations, sutler. Free family-friendly, and open to the public.
Registration: Not required
Fri 15 Aug
Bat Bonanza!
Friday, August 15, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Bring a flashlight and join educators from Trailside Museums & Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park for a free family-friendly educational program about Bats! Learn about the fascinating nocturnal lives of local bats, use our bat detector to identify bats as they fly overhead, and have some nighttime fun with bat-themed crafts and games! Participants will meet in front of the Bear Mountain Inn. Registration is Required To register visit our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/trailside-museums-zoo-104671439831. For more information, email TrailsideEducation@parks.ny.gov
Registration: Required
Sat 16 Aug
Adirondack Family Book Festival
Saturday, August 16, 2025 09:30 AM - 04:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Sponsored by the Lake Placid Public Library, John Brown Lives, The Bookstore Plus, and the Office of Parks. Free family fun: participate in sessions with children's book authors and illustrators, engage in fun activities, meet and speak with your favorite authors and learn about your favorite books.
Registration: Not required
Fri 29 Aug
Legends of the Hudson Valley: A Night Walk
Friday, August 29, 2025 07:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Trailside Museums And Zoo at Bear Mountain State Park
Bring a flashlight and join a Trailside Museums and Zoo educator for a sundown walk around Hessian Lake at Bear Mountain State Park! Learn about the Hudson Valley's local folktales and legends during this saunter under the stars! Participants will meet Trailside Zoo's staff in front of the Bear Mountain Inn. Registration is required for this program Registration is Required To register visit our Eventbrite page: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/trailside-museums-zoo-104671439831. For more information, email TrailsideEducation@parks.ny.gov.
Registration: Required
Sun 07 Sep
3rd New Jersey Garrison Day
Sunday, September 7, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Witness a day of tactical demonstrations, drill, camp life and cooking at Fort Montgomery! The 3rd New Jersey Regiment, Captain Bloomfield's Company is a living history group dedicated to historical authenticity. This activity-filled day with the Greys promises an exciting, authentic glimpse of Continental soldering and camp follower life during the American Revolution.
Registration: Not required
Sat 20 Sep
SCHUYLER MANSION CLOSED FOR SPECIAL EVENT at Crailo
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Join us at Crailo State Historic Site in Rensselaer for Harvest Faire, an old-fashioned agricultural festival, 11 am to 4 pm. Enjoy historical reenactors, 17th and 18th century music, vendors, Indigenous and colonial demonstrations, along with games, activities, and Open House (self-guided) tours. Free, family friendly, and open to the public. Visit Crailo's website: https://parks.ny.gov/historic-sites/30/details.aspx.
Registration: Not required
Sat 20 Sep
“Loyalty and Zeal, Algonkians of the Revolution” by Drew Shuptar-Rayvis
Saturday, September 20, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Presenter Drew Shuptar-Rayvis, cultural ambassador of the Pocomoke Nation will provide a compelling and fascinating first-person, Northeast Woodland, Native American portrayal. This program will present the contributions, struggles and sacrifices made by Algonkian peoples during the War of American Independence. Visitors will learn about the material culture of Algonkian people during the Revolution and discover the complex political paths of patriotism, toryism and neutrality that shaped the history of many Algonkian and Iroquoian people in order to preserve their ways of life.
Registration: Not required
Sat 27 Sep
An Archaeological Walking Tour of Fort Montgomery!
Saturday, September 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
(845) 446-2134

What have we learned from the extensive archaeology done at Fort Montgomery? What have recent metal detector surveys revealed? Come for a unique tour of one of the Hudson Valley's most dramatic battle sites and find out! On this Ramble we'll highlight what the Fort's more intriguing artifacts and features tell us about the battle and what life at the Fort was like. Registration Required: Please Call 845-446-2134 to Register.
Registration: Required
Sat 27 Sep
RAMBLE WALKING TOUR: UNCOVERING ALBANY’S BEAVER CREEK
Saturday, September 27, 2025 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
(518) 434-0834

Join City Historian, Anthony Opalka, and a representative from the city's water department for an encore presentation of a walk/talk of Albany's Beaver Creek. While construction on Lincoln Park is underway and the original path of Beaver Creek has been daylighted to some extent, this is the perfect time to discuss the use of Beaver Creek in the 17th and 18th centuries and to discuss the evolution of the city and its effects on waterways. We will follow the original path of Beaver Creek and discuss how it has been redirected by humans over time. The talk begins at Schuyler Mansion, in the Visitors Center. Space is limited. Call the museum to register: 518-434-0834.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 Oct
Twin Forts Day
Saturday, October 4, 2025 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Join the Fort Montgomery Battle Site Association as they commemorate the 248th anniversary of the battle for Forts Montgomery and Clinton and bring to life the people who lived here through camp life demonstrations and children's activities.
Registration: Not required
Fri 24 Oct
Haunted Hike
Friday, October 24, 2025 05:30 PM - 08:30 PM
Mine Kill State Park
(518) 827-6111

Join us if you dare! Take a haunted hike and try your chances with what goes bump in the night. Free admission! Family friendly hour from 5pm-6pm, after 6pm our haunted hike is not suitable for children under 8. The trail will begin at our midlevel pavilion picnic area. Accessibility information: The trail is approximately 1 mile but has some rough trail bottom and sections of steep terrain. The paved loop above the pavilion will be decorated as well. Bathrooms are ADA compliant, and our pavilion is connected to the paved path with no obstacles. Please call with any questions about accessibility (518)827-6111.
Registration: Required
Sun 07 Dec
CANdlelight Walk
Sunday, December 7, 2025 05:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Mine Kill State Park
(518) 827-6111

Bring the whole family to enjoy a winter stroll for a good cause! In addition to a candlelit loop, there will be warm beverages, a winter craft, and holiday tunes. Free admission but a donation of canned food items for our statewide food drive strongly encouraged! Event will be held at our mid-level pavilion picnic area Accessibility information: The lit trail will be approximately 0.4 miles and is entirely paved with small inclines. There are benches along the path. Portable bathrooms will be ADA Handicap accessible. Our pavilion is connected to the paved path with no obstacles. Please call with any questions about accessibility (518)827-6111.
Registration: Required
Sun 14 Dec
250th ANNIVERSARY of KNOX’s NOBLE TRAIN of ARTILLERY
Sunday, December 14, 2025 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Living historians will reenact the Albany portion of Henry Knox's Noble Wagon Train from Ticonderoga to Boston at the dawn of the American Revolution. Visitors are invited to witness Philip Schuyler's role in the journey, and to explore an Open House tour of the mansion and several exhibits commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. This event is part of a larger Knox Trail 250 simulation of the historic journey, which includes dozens of towns from New York to Massachusetts. The next stop will be Crailo State Historic Site in Rensselaer, on January 3. Call the museum for details.
Registration: Not required
Sat 03 Jan
“SALUTATIONS OF THE SEASON!”: TWELFTH NIGHT at SCHUYLER MANSION
Saturday, January 3, 2026 03:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Revel in 18th century holiday traditions at Schuyler Mansion, with live music, an Open House, traditional fare, bonfires, wassail toasts & more. Then cross the river where the celebration continues at Crailo! No advanced registration is available. Tickets must be purchased at the Visitors Center the evening of the event. Combo Admission: $8 Adults / $7 Seniors & Students / $2 Children 12 and under Single-Site Admission: $7 Adults / $6 Seniors & Students / $1 Children 12 and under
Registration: Not required