Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

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Wed 06 Nov
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: Mosses, Mushrooms, and Lichen
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
With the last of the trees shedding their leaves, late autumn begins to feel like a time of grayness and death. However, not everything gets the memo. Join Josh Grosse, Student Conservation Association/Americorps Environmental Educator, as we dive into the exceptional world of mosses, lichens, and mushrooms. We will discuss the role of each organism in the ecosystem, and why their rebellious greenness and growth persists into the cold months. Our discussion will be followed by an appreciation walk, where we will look at examples of each and make close observations using magnifying glasses. This program is recommended for children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome. 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 19 Oct
3rd Saturday Guided Battlefield Walk
Saturday, October 19, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
2:00 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month from May to October (3:30 p.m. on Sep 21st), a costumed interpreter will lead a guided walk around the Battlefield explaining the plan and execution of the American assault on the British garrison, highlighting the design and defense strategy of the fort and the bold idea for the attack.
Sat 19 Oct
The Burning of Kingston
Saturday, October 19, 2024
Senate House State Historic Site

Stop by Senate House on Saturday during the weekend-long, community-wide commemoration of the burning of Kingston. That day site will be hosting reenactors, a talk, tours, and more. For full event program and more information as it becomes available, please visit www.burningofkingston.com 
Thu 17 Oct
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: Fall Foliage
Thursday, October 17, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
As autumn is ushered in, Minnewaska's green landscape becomes peppered with flecks of red, yellow, and orange. Excellent views of the surrounding valleys are matched by equally amazing educational opportunities. We will start this lesson in the Visitor Center, where each student will use a leaf press booklet to create their own identification guide. We'll use this tool as we take a two-to-three-mile hike along one of the Park Preserve's many carriage roads. We will make friends with trees, getting to know them by touch, smell, and sight. We'll also hear their story about how they grew from seed to adult, before giving them a big hug. We will also play some leaf matching games to try out our identification skills! This program is recommended for children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome. 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 12 Oct
Daring Revolutionary Women – Real & Legend
Saturday, October 12, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
History has many stories about male heroics in the Revolution, but few instances mentioned in which female courage was displayed. This illustrated lecture by Site Interpreter Susan Overgard will highlight a few of the American and British women that performed brave deeds for their side, while also dispelling a few legends that sprung up after the war. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Oct
Richard Butler – A Life of Military Service
Saturday, October 5, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
This illustrated lecture by Site Interpreter Connor Price tells the story of one of the officers General Anthony Wayne relied on during the Battle of Stony Point. He entrusted Pennsylvanian Colonel Richard Butler to lead the northern column during the assault. Find out more about one of the men who bravely fought here. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 05 Oct
Fall Foliage Walk
Saturday, October 5, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Enjoy the fall colors and incredible views of the Hudson Valley on this guided hike. 
Sat 05 Oct
Fall Foliage Walk
Saturday, October 5, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Enjoy the fall colors and incredible views of the Hudson Valley on this guided hike. 
Sat 05 Oct
1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours
Saturday, October 5, 2024 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October, the first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. A lighthouse 4th Order Fresnel lens is available to view in the museum's Lighthouse Gallery along with a fog bell and other artifacts. Please note: no access to the upper level is permitted.
Sat 05 Oct
Twin Forts Day
Saturday, October 5, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Join the Fort Montgomery Battle Site Association as they commemorate the 246th 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.
Sun 29 Sep
18th Century Autumnfest
Sunday, September 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site

Experience some key autumn activities from the 18th century and enjoy the season! There will be demonstrations of blacksmithing, meat smoking, candle dipping, pressing apples, and more. There will also be live performances of juggling, fire spitting, and unicycling!
Sat 28 Sep
In Their Own Words, The Battle for Fort Clinton!
Saturday, September 28, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Come for a unique, walking tour of one of the Hudson Valley's most dramatic battle sites! Using firsthand accounts and archaeological data, this tour will chart the flow of the battle of the Twin Forts starting at Bear Mtn and ending up at Fort Clinton (today site of Trailside Museums and Zoo) focusing on the intense fighting that happened in and around Fort Clinton on the day of the battle. Registration Required: Call (845) 446-2134 to Register or for More Information.
Registration: Required
Sat 21 Sep
3rd Saturday Guided Battlefield Walk
Saturday, September 21, 2024 03:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
2:00 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month from May to October (3:30 p.m. on Sep 21st), a costumed interpreter will lead a guided walk around the Battlefield explaining the plan and execution of the American assault on the British garrison, highlighting the design and defense strategy of the fort and the bold idea for the attack.
Sat 21 Sep
The Trial of Major Andre
Saturday, September 21, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Join Gary Petagine and Sean Grady as they act out the Court Martial of Major John Andre, who had been captured in Tarrytown with the plans for West Point in his boot. Transferred to Tappan, NY, his trial took place at the Dutch Reformed Church. Hear historical details of the tribunal of one of the Revolution's most notorious spies. Please arrive early to secure a seat for this popular performance. Audience seating begins at 1:45 p.m.
Sat 21 Sep
Hawks Overhead!
Saturday, September 21, 2024 12:30 PM - 04:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Thacher Park is a prime spot for viewing a variety of fall-migrating raptors. Stop by the Hawk Watch table to borrow a pair of binoculars and view these birds of prey. N
Sat 21 Sep
Hawks Overhead!
Saturday, September 21, 2024 12:30 PM - 04:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Thacher Park is a prime spot for viewing a variety of fall-migrating raptors. Stop by the Hawk Watch table to borrow a pair of binoculars and view these birds of prey. N
Sat 21 Sep
Keeping it Fresh! Colonial Food Preservation
Saturday, September 21, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Learn what it was like to prepare for winter in the 18th and 19th centuries! From pickling to drying to salting and smoking, presenter Tom Hunt will discuss and demonstrate many of the techniques used in early American food preservation.
Sat 14 Sep
Spencer’s Additional Regiment Encampment
Saturday, September 14, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Raised as an auxiliary force for Washington's Continental Army, the reenactors in Spencer's Additional Regiment will conduct camp activities while explaining the unit's start in New Jersey and how they followed the army. Spencer's Regiment also garrisoned Stony Point in 1780 and was present during the Arnold/Andre West Point affair.
Sun 08 Sep
New Jersey Garrison Day
Sunday, September 8, 2024 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.
Sat 07 Sep
Tales of the Hudson Valley
Saturday, September 7, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Master storyteller Jonathan Kruk will delight audiences of all ages with stories focusing on the legends and lore of the Hudson Valley while accompanied by musician Steve Kelman. Jonathan's tales both entertain and give insight about our local heritage. Audience seating begins at 1:45 p.m.
Sat 07 Sep
Fossil Hunting
Saturday, September 7, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Search for real fossils while enjoying amazing views from the Escarpment Trail! This family-friendly program travels 0.5 miles over easy terrain. Note: Fossils may not be removed from the park. 
Sat 07 Sep
Fossil Hunting
Saturday, September 7, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Search for real fossils while enjoying amazing views from the Escarpment Trail! This family-friendly program travels 0.5 miles over easy terrain. Note: Fossils may not be removed from the park. 
Sat 07 Sep
1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours
Saturday, September 7, 2024 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October, the first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. A lighthouse 4th Order Fresnel lens is available to view in the museum's Lighthouse Gallery along with a fog bell and other artifacts. Please note: no access to the upper level is permitted.
Thu 05 Sep
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: Eyes to the Sky: Raptors and Vultures
Thursday, September 5, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Many birds call Minnewaska home, including impressive birds of prey and fascinating scavengers. In this homeschool program, we will observe these important animals both up close and from afar. We will discuss their roles in the ecosystem, from carnivores at the top of the food chain to the vulture's equally valuable job as nature's cleanup crew. After our lesson, we will walk up to a beautiful view on the east side of Lake Minnewaska, where we will play a game and look for large groups of migrating hawks and soaring vultures using binoculars. This program is recommended for children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome. 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 Aug
Daring Revolutionary Women – Real & Legend
Saturday, August 31, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
History has many stories about male heroics in the Revolution, but few instances mentioned in which female courage was displayed. This illustrated lecture by Site Interpreter Susan Overgard will highlight a few of the American and British women that performed brave deeds for their side, while also dispelling a few legends that sprung up after the war. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Thu 29 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, August 29, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 27 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, August 27, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 24 Aug
Plant Monoprints
Saturday, August 24, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Combine the techniques of printmaking, painting, and drawing media to create a unique work of art using plant materials with artist Diane Steele
Registration: Required
Sat 24 Aug
The New York Campaign: 1776
Saturday, August 24, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
248 years ago, the British Army conquered the New York City area in a sweeping campaign with a handful of hair-raising battles, testing out the Continental Army for the first time. Site Historian Michael J. F. Sheehan will present a lecture with maps and illustrations on this gripping and dangerous year of the American Revolution, when the cause was almost lost. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 24 Aug
Plant Monoprints
Saturday, August 24, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Combine the techniques of printmaking, painting, and drawing media to create a unique work of art using plant materials with artist Diane Steele
Registration: Required
Sat 24 Aug
Critters in the Creek
Saturday, August 24, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Drop by this table to take a closer look at the diverse organisms that make their home in our creek! Borrow a net and magnifying glass to see how many creatures you can find! All ages 
Sat 24 Aug
Critters in the Creek
Saturday, August 24, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Drop by this table to take a closer look at the diverse organisms that make their home in our creek! Borrow a net and magnifying glass to see how many creatures you can find! All ages 
Sat 24 Aug
Plant Monoprints
Saturday, August 24, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Combine the techniques of printmaking, painting, and drawing media to create a unique work of art using plant materials with artist Diane Steele
Registration: Required
Sat 24 Aug
Plant Monoprints
Saturday, August 24, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Combine the techniques of printmaking, painting, and drawing media to create a unique work of art using plant materials with artist Diane Steele
Registration: Required
Thu 22 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, August 22, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 20 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, August 20, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 17 Aug
3rd Saturday Guided Battlefield Walk
Saturday, August 17, 2024 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
2:00 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month from May to October (3:30 p.m. on Sep 21st), a costumed interpreter will lead a guided walk around the Battlefield explaining the plan and execution of the American assault on the British garrison, highlighting the design and defense strategy of the fort and the bold idea for the attack.
Sat 17 Aug
Adirondack Family Book Festival
Saturday, August 17, 2024 09:30 AM - 04:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
The Adirondack Family Book Festival brings together beloved children's and YA authors and illustrators to meet their readers of all ages, read aloud, and talk about their work. Hands-on art making and discovery are also planned. The event is free and open to all. Join us for a celebration of community, diversity, and storytelling in the beautiful Adirondack mountains! adirondackfamilybookfestival.wordpress.com.
Thu 15 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, August 15, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 13 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, August 13, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 10 Aug
The World of Rebecca Franks
Saturday, August 10, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Site Interpreter Joanne Stein-Kohler has studied the Jewish experience in America in the years leading up to and after the American Revolution, through the lens of Rebecca Franks, the "Jewish Belle" of Philadelphia who married a British officer captured at Stony Point. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 10 Aug
Meet a Reptile
Saturday, August 10, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Stop by this table to learn about the amazing world of reptiles by meeting ours up close! Great for adults and kids alike.
Sat 10 Aug
Meet a Reptile
Saturday, August 10, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Stop by this table to learn about the amazing world of reptiles by meeting ours up close! Great for adults and kids alike.
Fri 09 Aug
Civil War Encampment
Friday, August 9, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:30 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Interact with Civil War Re-enactors and see what life was like for Civil War Soldiers.
Thu 08 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, August 8, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Thu 08 Aug
Schuyler Mansion Creative Writing Workshop
Thursday, August 8, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Participants explore the mansion, 18th century inhabitants and then develop characters In their own 18th century story. For children 8-13 years old. $5 per child. Pre registration is required.
Registration: Required
Wed 07 Aug
Schuyler Mansion Creative Writing Workshop
Wednesday, August 7, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Participants explore the mansion, 18th century inhabitants and then develop characters In their own 18th century story. For children 8-13 years old. $5 per child. Pre registration is required.
Registration: Required
Tue 06 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 06 Aug
Schuyler Mansion Creative Writing Workshop
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Participants explore the mansion, 18th century inhabitants and then develop characters In their own 18th century story. For children 8-13 years old. $5 per child. Pre registration is required.
Registration: Required
Sat 03 Aug
1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours
Saturday, August 3, 2024 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October, the first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. A lighthouse 4th Order Fresnel lens is available to view in the museum's Lighthouse Gallery along with a fog bell and other artifacts. Please note: no access to the upper level is permitted.
Thu 01 Aug
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, August 1, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 30 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, July 30, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 27 Jul
Rock Mandalas
Saturday, July 27, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Mandalas represent harmony, unity, and balance. Join artist Diane Steele for this hands-on rock painting program. 
Registration: Required
Sat 27 Jul
Rock Mandalas
Saturday, July 27, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Mandalas represent harmony, unity, and balance. Join artist Diane Steele for this hands-on rock painting program. 
Registration: Required
Sat 27 Jul
Rock Mandalas
Saturday, July 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Mandalas represent harmony, unity, and balance. Join artist Diane Steele for this hands-on rock painting program. 
Registration: Required
Sat 27 Jul
Rock Mandalas
Saturday, July 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Mandalas represent harmony, unity, and balance. Join artist Diane Steele for this hands-on rock painting program. 
Registration: Required
Thu 25 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, July 25, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 23 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, July 23, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 20 Jul
3rd Saturday Guided Battlefield Walk
Saturday, July 20, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
2:00 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month from May to October (3:30 p.m. on Sep 21st), a costumed interpreter will lead a guided walk around the Battlefield explaining the plan and execution of the American assault on the British garrison, highlighting the design and defense strategy of the fort and the bold idea for the attack.
Thu 18 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, July 18, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 16 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, July 16, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 13 Jul
The Battle of Stony Point
Saturday, July 13, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Presented by our Site Historian, this illustrated lecture will describe the incredible Battle of Stony Point, fought at midnight on July 16, 1779. General Anthony Wayne's Corps of Light Infantry stormed and captured the British fort at Stony Point with just the point of their bayonets. Learn more about this amazing battle of the American Revolution. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 13 Jul
Fossil Hunting
Saturday, July 13, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Search for real fossils while enjoying amazing views from the Escarpment Trail! This family-friendly program travels 0.5 miles over easy terrain. Note: Fossils may not be removed from the park. N
Sat 13 Jul
Fossil Hunting
Saturday, July 13, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Search for real fossils while enjoying amazing views from the Escarpment Trail! This family-friendly program travels 0.5 miles over easy terrain. Note: Fossils may not be removed from the park. N
Sat 13 Jul
245th Anniversary of the Battle of Stony Point
Saturday, July 13, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Come celebrate the Anniversary of the Battle of Stony Point! Reenactors from multiple groups will be on hand including the 2nd NY Regiment, Lamb's Artillery, and Spencer's Regiment. Artillery and musket demonstrations are held throughout the day. Visit with the soldiers and ladies to learn about life during the American Revolution.
Thu 11 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, July 11, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 09 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, July 9, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sun 07 Jul
The Declaration of Independence
Sunday, July 7, 2024 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
1:30 p.m. Lecture: The Development of the Declaration. 2:45 p.m. Reading of the Declaration of Independence by a costumed interpreter.
Sat 06 Jul
The Declaration of Independence
Saturday, July 6, 2024 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
1:30 p.m. Lecture: The Development of the Declaration. 2:45 p.m. Reading of the Declaration of Independence by a costumed interpreter.
Sat 06 Jul
1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours
Saturday, July 6, 2024 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October, the first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. A lighthouse 4th Order Fresnel lens is available to view in the museum's Lighthouse Gallery along with a fog bell and other artifacts. Please note: no access to the upper level is permitted.
Fri 05 Jul
Unveiling of “Beacon of Hope”: Statue of Harriet Tubman
Friday, July 5, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
The Celebration organized by Friends Group John Brown Lives!, and Lake Placid Public Library, with John Brown Farm, will include a presentation by children's book author and illustrator team Lesa Cline-Ransome and James Ransome! Their book "Before She Was Harriet" will be installed as a STORYWALK® by Lake Placid Public Library, and there will be activities geared for young visitors.
Thu 04 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, July 4, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Thu 04 Jul
Independence Day!
Thursday, July 4, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Free family event highlighting the country's independence in the 18th century Entertainment, crafts, demonstrations, ice cream, games and reenactors. The mansion will feature an open house.
Tue 02 Jul
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, July 2, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 29 Jun
Pollinator Quilling Craft
Saturday, June 29, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Quilling is an art form using strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs. Join artist Diane Steele for this handson quilling craft celebrating pollinators.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Jun
Pollinator Quilling Craft
Saturday, June 29, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Quilling is an art form using strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs. Join artist Diane Steele for this handson quilling craft celebrating pollinators.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Jun
“No Mercy for Traitors” – A Dramatic Performance
Saturday, June 29, 2024 01:00 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.
Sat 29 Jun
Pollinator Quilling Craft
Saturday, June 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Quilling is an art form using strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs. Join artist Diane Steele for this handson quilling craft celebrating pollinators.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Jun
Let Freedom Ring
Saturday, June 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site

Participate in commemorating American Independence at Senate House! There will be famous American music, and an Independence Ceremony featuring readings of important speeches on American Independence. 
Sat 29 Jun
Pollinator Quilling Craft
Saturday, June 29, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Quilling is an art form using strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs. Join artist Diane Steele for this handson quilling craft celebrating pollinators.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Jun
Pollinator Discovery Walk
Saturday, June 29, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Bees, butterflies, beetles, and birds! Join us for a walk in the Nature Center meadows as we discover incredible relationships between animals and plants that support our ecosystems and sustain our food systems.
Registration: Required
Sat 29 Jun
Pollinator Discovery Walk
Saturday, June 29, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Bees, butterflies, beetles, and birds! Join us for a walk in the Nature Center meadows as we discover incredible relationships between animals and plants that support our ecosystems and sustain our food systems.
Registration: Required
Fri 28 Jun
The Smokey Bear Reading Challenge Kick-Off
Friday, June 28, 2024 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Come meet Smokey Bear, Live and In Person! A number of organizations will be present to help kids achieve their badges, which are part of the summer's challenge.
Thu 27 Jun
Putman Porch Music
Thursday, June 27, 2024 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us for another great year of Putman Porch Music at Yankee Hill Lock! We welcome musicians and listeners to Yankee Hill Lock for this canawler experience!  An Americana Folk and Roots Music style jam session on the porch of the old Putman Canal Store happens each Thursday in June. Come play some fiddle, guitar, banjo, sing, or whatever instrument you may bring, to this lively time along the historic Erie Canal! Meet at Yankee Hill Lock, Queen Anne Rd.
Thu 27 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, June 27, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 25 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sun 23 Jun
Time-Traveling 2 Lecture: 60 million years of history, John Boyd Thacher State Park
Sunday, June 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Join Dr. Chuck Ver Straeten of the New York State Museum on this timetraveling hike extending from the Indian Ladder Trail to the highest point in the park. It will build on the previous day's talk, visiting some less known parts of the park, on and off trail. The hike will be fairly strenuous, rising from 1000 to 1750 feet, and last about 3 hours.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Jun
Time-Traveling 2 Lecture: 60 million years of history, John Boyd Thacher State Park
Sunday, June 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Join Dr. Chuck Ver Straeten of the New York State Museum on this timetraveling hike extending from the Indian Ladder Trail to the highest point in the park. It will build on the previous day's talk, visiting some less known parts of the park, on and off trail. The hike will be fairly strenuous, rising from 1000 to 1750 feet, and last about 3 hours.
Registration: Required
Sun 23 Jun
Drop-in Summer Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, June 23, 2024 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Thacher Nature Center

Celebrate the first Sunday of summer by stopping by the Nature Center between 9am and 3pm to pick up a scavenger hunt. Bring the completed scavenger hunt back to the Nature Center for a prize! 
Sun 23 Jun
Drop-in Summer Scavenger Hunt
Sunday, June 23, 2024 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Thacher Nature Center

Celebrate the first Sunday of summer by stopping by the Nature Center between 9am and 3pm to pick up a scavenger hunt. Bring the completed scavenger hunt back to the Nature Center for a prize! 
Sat 22 Jun
The World of Rebecca Franks
Saturday, June 22, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Site Interpreter Joanne Stein-Kohler has studied the Jewish experience in America in the years leading up to and after the American Revolution, through the lens of Rebecca Franks, the "Jewish Belle" of Philadelphia who married a British officer captured at Stony Point. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Sat 22 Jun
Colonial Flax Processing and Dyeing
Saturday, June 22, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Using antique tools, discover how flax was processed into linen thread in the Colonial era. Try your hand at the flax break, scutching knife, heckles, and spinning wheel! This program is Free, Family Friendly and has a hands-on component!
Sat 22 Jun
Juneteenth Celebration and Barbecue
Saturday, June 22, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Barbecue by Papa Duke's Famous North Country BBQ, free admission to grounds, barbecue $8 per person, fun for families.
Sat 22 Jun
Time-Traveling 1 Lecture: 60 million years of history, John Boyd Thacher State Park
Saturday, June 22, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

The rocks of Thacher Park record a long history of shallow seas, extinct marine life, volcanism and mountain building in New England, and much more. Explore this history between 450 to 390 million years ago with Dr. Chuck Ver Straeten, of the New York State Museum. This talk is followed on Sunday by a hike to see that long and deep history, long before the dinosaurs. 
Registration: Required
Sat 22 Jun
Time-Traveling 1 Lecture: 60 million years of history, John Boyd Thacher State Park
Saturday, June 22, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

The rocks of Thacher Park record a long history of shallow seas, extinct marine life, volcanism and mountain building in New England, and much more. Explore this history between 450 to 390 million years ago with Dr. Chuck Ver Straeten, of the New York State Museum. This talk is followed on Sunday by a hike to see that long and deep history, long before the dinosaurs. 
Registration: Required
Thu 20 Jun
Putman Porch Music
Thursday, June 20, 2024 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us for another great year of Putman Porch Music at Yankee Hill Lock! We welcome musicians and listeners to Yankee Hill Lock for this canawler experience!  An Americana Folk and Roots Music style jam session on the porch of the old Putman Canal Store happens each Thursday in June. Come play some fiddle, guitar, banjo, sing, or whatever instrument you may bring, to this lively time along the historic Erie Canal! Meet at Yankee Hill Lock, Queen Anne Rd.
Thu 20 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, June 20, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Thu 20 Jun
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: June Bloom
Thursday, June 20, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
As flowers begin blooming around Minnewaska, we will take a meandering walk through the Lake Minnewaska area to identify different flora and discuss biodiversity at the Park Preserve. Students will get a chance to engage almost all of their senses as we discuss the anatomy of the flower, their role in the ecosystem, and the importance of pollination and preservation. A fun art activity will be offered throughout our hike to further immerse students in this beautiful and educational experience. This program is recommended for children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome. 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 18 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sun 16 Jun
Schoharie Creek Aqueduct Tour – Path Through History Weekend
Sunday, June 16, 2024 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Come visit for one of these tours at Schoharie Crossing during New York States Path Through History Weekend. We will offer a short tour at 10am and another at 1pm that explores the history of the Schoharie Creek Aqueduct. This tour will allow patrons to access the towpath of the remnants of this historic canal feature. These are free tours thanks to the generous support of the Friends of Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. Meet at Aqueduct Boat Launch, Hartley Lane.
Sun 16 Jun
Schoharie Creek Aqueduct Tour – Path Through History Weekend
Sunday, June 16, 2024 10:00 AM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Come visit for one of these tours at Schoharie Crossing during New York States Path Through History Weekend. We will offer a short tour at 10am and another at 1pm that explores the history of the Schoharie Creek Aqueduct. This tour will allow patrons to access the towpath of the remnants of this historic canal feature. These are free tours thanks to the generous support of the Friends of Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. Meet at Aqueduct Boat Launch, Hartley Lane.
Sat 15 Jun
Richard Butler – A Life of Military Service
Saturday, June 15, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
This illustrated lecture by Site Interpreter Connor Price tells the story of one of the officers General Anthony Wayne relied on during the Battle of Stony Point. He entrusted Pennsylvanian Colonel Richard Butler to lead the northern column during the assault. Find out more about one of the men who bravely fought here. Seating is limited, please call 845-786-2521 for a reservation.
Registration: Required
Sat 15 Jun
3rd Saturday Guided Battlefield Walk
Saturday, June 15, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
2:00 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month from May to October (3:30 p.m. on Sep 21st), a costumed interpreter will lead a guided walk around the Battlefield explaining the plan and execution of the American assault on the British garrison, highlighting the design and defense strategy of the fort and the bold idea for the attack.
Sat 15 Jun
History & Hearsay Tour – Path Through History Weekend
Saturday, June 15, 2024 01:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Come visit for one of these tours at Schoharie Crossing during New York States Path Through History Weekend. We will offer a short tour at 10am and another at 1pm that explores some of the strange history from along the canal near the Visitor Center & Museum. These are free tours thanks to the generous support of the Friends of Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. Meet at Visitor Center, Schoharie Street.
Sat 15 Jun
Make Your Own Fossil
Saturday, June 15, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Visitor Center

Drop by this table to learn how Thacher Park's fossils formed over 420 million years ago and make your own to take home! All ages. 
Sat 15 Jun
Make Your Own Fossil
Saturday, June 15, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Visitor Center

Drop by this table to learn how Thacher Park's fossils formed over 420 million years ago and make your own to take home! All ages. 
Sat 15 Jun
Colonial Crossroads – A Concert!
Saturday, June 15, 2024 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Discover the vibrant intersection of African and European music in Colonial New York! This interactive musical performance will feature instruments of African origin played in Early America. This fun and family-friendly musical presentation will also illustrate the storytelling prowess of the griot, a key figure in African culture who masterfully recounted village tales accompanied by musical instruments.
Sat 15 Jun
History & Hearsay Tour – Path Through History Weekend
Saturday, June 15, 2024 10:00 AM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Come visit for one of these tours at Schoharie Crossing during New York States Path Through History Weekend. We will offer a short tour at 10am and another at 1pm that explores some of the strange history from along the canal near the Visitor Center & Museum. These are free tours thanks to the generous support of the Friends of Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site. Meet at Visitor Center, Schoharie Street.
Thu 13 Jun
Putman Porch Music
Thursday, June 13, 2024 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us for another great year of Putman Porch Music at Yankee Hill Lock! We welcome musicians and listeners to Yankee Hill Lock for this canawler experience!  An Americana Folk and Roots Music style jam session on the porch of the old Putman Canal Store happens each Thursday in June. Come play some fiddle, guitar, banjo, sing, or whatever instrument you may bring, to this lively time along the historic Erie Canal! Meet at Yankee Hill Lock, Queen Anne Rd.
Thu 13 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, June 13, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 11 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sat 08 Jun
New Moon Hike
Saturday, June 8, 2024 08:45 PM - 10:45 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Old Stage Road Trailhead 

Take a hike on the High Point Trail to learn about the importance of darkness for amphibians, birds, and other animals! We'll travel two miles round-trip over moderate terrain on one of the darkest nights of the year. 

Ages 13+. Headlamp or flashlight recommended. 
Registration: Required
Sat 08 Jun
New Moon Hike
Saturday, June 8, 2024 08:45 PM - 10:45 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Old Stage Road Trailhead 

Take a hike on the High Point Trail to learn about the importance of darkness for amphibians, birds, and other animals! We'll travel two miles round-trip over moderate terrain on one of the darkest nights of the year. 

Ages 13+. Headlamp or flashlight recommended. 
Registration: Required
Thu 06 Jun
Putman Porch Music
Thursday, June 6, 2024 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us for another great year of Putman Porch Music at Yankee Hill Lock! We welcome musicians and listeners to Yankee Hill Lock for this canawler experience!  An Americana Folk and Roots Music style jam session on the porch of the old Putman Canal Store happens each Thursday in June. Come play some fiddle, guitar, banjo, sing, or whatever instrument you may bring, to this lively time along the historic Erie Canal! Meet at Yankee Hill Lock, Queen Anne Rd.
Thu 06 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, June 6, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 04 Jun
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Sun 02 Jun
Painting Outside the Lines
Sunday, June 2, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center 

Explore unique approaches in the use of mats to extend and enhance your paintings. A 5 x 7" painting will be completed in this two hour workshop with professional artist Diane Steele. $20 per person, cash payable at the time of the program. All skill levels. Ages 18+. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sun 02 Jun
Painting Outside the Lines
Sunday, June 2, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
(518) 872-0800

Meet at the Nature Center 

Explore unique approaches in the use of mats to extend and enhance your paintings. A 5 x 7" painting will be completed in this two hour workshop with professional artist Diane Steele. $20 per person, cash payable at the time of the program. All skill levels. Ages 18+. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800.
Registration: Required
Sat 01 Jun
Birds of Prey
Saturday, June 1, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Stop by the Visitor Center where wildlife rehabilitator Kelly Martin will introduce you to live hawks, owls, and falcons. Binoculars will be available for visitors to borrow. 
Sat 01 Jun
Birds of Prey
Saturday, June 1, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Stop by the Visitor Center where wildlife rehabilitator Kelly Martin will introduce you to live hawks, owls, and falcons. Binoculars will be available for visitors to borrow. 
Sat 01 Jun
1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours
Saturday, June 1, 2024 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October, the first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. A lighthouse 4th Order Fresnel lens is available to view in the museum's Lighthouse Gallery along with a fog bell and other artifacts. Please note: no access to the upper level is permitted.
Sat 01 Jun
Wood Joinery in Early America
Saturday, June 1, 2024 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.
Sat 01 Jun
On the Farm Dinner
Saturday, June 1, 2024
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Friends of John Jay Homestead invite you to their annual On the Farm Dinner on Saturday, June 1. Guests will enjoy seasonal cocktails and farm fresh hors d'oevres before sitting down to dinner under the stars at one of Bedford's oldest farms. Purdy's Farmer and the Fish will cater the evening; dinner will be served family style with live music. Rain date of June 2nd. Purchase tickets now at http://johnjayhomestead.org/events-calendar/on-the-farm-2024/.
Fri 31 May
Star Party
Friday, May 31, 2024 08:30 PM - 11:45 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. Enter via the main entrance and follow signs to the program-- first left off the main entrance road. Please drive slowly in the park at night. 

All ages. 
Free program. No registration
Following Saturday is the Rain Date.
Fri 31 May
Movies on the Trail: Kung Fu Panda
Friday, May 31, 2024 08:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Movies on the Trail series kicks off with the rise of the dragon warrior in Kung Fu Panda! Sometimes, all it takes is faith and hard work to make anything possible. Follow Po on a journey of self-discovery and transformation from noodle master to kung fu master! 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.
Fri 31 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 31, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 31 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 31, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 31 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 31, 2024 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, 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 Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. 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.
Thu 30 May
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Thursday, May 30, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Thu 30 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, May 30, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Wed 29 May
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society: Dawn Chorus
Wednesday, May 29, 2024 05:30 AM - 07:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents! Join an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society on a bird walk around the Preserve. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. 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/.
Tue 28 May
FREE CONCERTS Walkway West (Highland side)
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Back for our 3rd season, Twilight Music in the Parks brings Hudson Valley musicians every Tuesday and Thursday nights with Hudson Valley Folk Guild beginning May 28. Bring friends, family and lawn chairs for a fun, musical evening.
Tue 28 May
Tuesday Trek: The Short and Scenic Route to Gertrude’s Nose at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 09:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an adventurous, six-mile hike to Gertrude's Nose and back on 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 steep rock staircase, 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
Tue 28 May
Beginner Bird Walk
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 08:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Calling all beginner birders. Join us on a guided hike to search for birds! Feel free to bring binoculars. The hike will be a start and stop walk for less than two miles. Class fees waved with food donations. Please Reserve your spot at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge missions: For the Birds Go birdwatching at any of our state parks and historic sites. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 28 May
Beginner Bird Walk
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 08:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Calling all beginner birders. Join us on a guided hike to search for birds! Feel free to bring binoculars. The hike will be a start and stop walk for less than two miles. Class fees waved with food donations. Please Reserve your spot at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge missions: For the Birds Go birdwatching at any of our state parks and historic sites. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 28 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 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 Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, 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. 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.
Mon 27 May
Memorial Day Sunset Flag Changing Ceremony
Monday, May 27, 2024 07:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Ulster Welcome Center Plaza (Highland)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 27 in honor of Memorial Day. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger join with 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.
Mon 27 May
New Windsor Cantonment Memorial Day Ceremony
Monday, May 27, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site

Staff in 18th century dress perform a funeral ceremony to honor our nation's veterans at the site cemetery. The vigil at the coffin of Colonel Francis Barber begins at 1:30 PM. 
Mon 27 May
Weekly Guided Kayak Tours
Monday, May 27, 2024 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$10

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 27 May
Weaponry in the Battle of Bennington
Monday, May 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site
Join interpreter David Pitlyk on the hilltop for an informal discussion of artillery, shoulder arms and edged weapons. Musketry demonstrations performed upon request. Free, no RSVP necessary.
Mon 27 May
Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market
Monday, May 27, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson West (Highland) Entrance, 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 the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and west approach to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. More than 180 vendors will exhibit their wares for purchase, with many agribusinesses offering free samples or tastings. Tickets cost $5 per day. Walkway members receive complimentary admission. For complete information; walkway.org/mayfest.
Mon 27 May
Weekly Guided Kayak Tours
Monday, May 27, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$10
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 27 May
Tree Identification Hike on the Beacon Hill Loop at Minnewaska
Monday, May 27, 2024 09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a casual hike along the Beacon Hill hiking loop to learn some of our more common trees. This approximately three-mile loop hike features easy walking carriage roads as well as a cliff-edge trail with lovely views of the Wallkill Valley and Catskill Mountains. 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 26 May
Mansion Tours (closed holidays)
Sunday, May 26, 2024 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Travel back in time as you experience the 1838 Jay Mansion! Our docent-led tours share the stories of the many eras of the Jay Mansion and give you a behind-the-scenes look at our extensive restoration process. No reservation necessary. Please visit our website or email Meredith Slater: mslater.jhc@gmail.com.
Sun 26 May
The REAL Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era
Sunday, May 26, 2024 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
Sun 26 May
Secret Messages
Sunday, May 26, 2024 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Children of all ages are invited to try their hand at deciphering secret messages like those used by General Washington's spy network.
Sun 26 May
Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market
Sunday, May 26, 2024 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson West (Highland) Entrance, 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 the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and west approach to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. More than 180 vendors will exhibit their wares for purchase, with many agribusinesses offering free samples or tastings. Tickets cost $5 per day. Walkway members receive complimentary admission. For complete information; walkway.org/mayfest.
Sun 26 May
Reptile Profile
Sunday, May 26, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an educator in the nature center to meet our resident reptiles! We at Moreau take care of six New York native turtles and two snakes that cannot be released into the wild and are wonderful little educators. Learn about their exciting lives, what they like to eat, and what they use for shell-ter at the Nature Center. This program is for all ages. The cost is $5 for adults, $1 for children (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 26 May
Reptile Profile
Sunday, May 26, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an educator in the nature center to meet our resident reptiles! We at Moreau take care of six New York native turtles and two snakes that cannot be released into the wild and are wonderful little educators. Learn about their exciting lives, what they like to eat, and what they use for shell-ter at the Nature Center. This program is for all ages. The cost is $5 for adults, $1 for children (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 26 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 26, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this new 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. Open to all levels and abilities! All proceeds benefit the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall. Register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sun 26 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, May 26, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Sun 26 May
History of Rockwood Hall
Sunday, May 26, 2024 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. Max: 40 people. Cost: $4. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Sun 26 May
Two Views Across the Ravine at Minnewaska
Sunday, May 26, 2024 09:30 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for a moderate, three-and-a-half-mile-long hike to Kempton Ledge and Patterson's Pellet, two cliff-edge views on either side of the Palmaghatt Ravine. Beginning from the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, we'll follow Lake Minnewaska, Castle Point, Hamilton Point and Millbrook Mountain Carriage Roads on an approximately five-mile-long walk. Our first stop will be at Kempton Ledge, where we'll see the Hudson River as well as Storm King and Breakneck Mountains in the distance. We'll also enjoy glorious views of the untouched forest in the Palmaghatt Ravine, bursting into its spring green of new leaves. Then, we'll walk to Patterson's Pellet, where the stone tower at High Point State Park in New Jersey can be seen on the horizon when the skies are clear. 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 26 May
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Sunday, May 26, 2024 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 26 May
Beginner Bird Walk
Sunday, May 26, 2024 08:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
Calling all beginner birders. Join us on a guided hike to search for birds! Feel free to bring binoculars. The hike will be a start and stop walk for less than two miles. Class fees waved with food donations. Please Reserve your spot at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge missions: For the Birds Go birdwatching at any of our state parks and historic sites. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 26 May
Beginner Bird Walk
Sunday, May 26, 2024 08:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Calling all beginner birders. Join us on a guided hike to search for birds! Feel free to bring binoculars. The hike will be a start and stop walk for less than two miles. Class fees waved with food donations. Please Reserve your spot at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge missions: For the Birds Go birdwatching at any of our state parks and historic sites. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sat 25 May
Planting with Pollinators in Mind: A Guided Walk through Olana’s Legacy Landscape A Digging Deeper Program with the Garden Conservancy
Saturday, May 25, 2024 03:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Over the course of forty years, the artist Frederic Church worked to create, build, and design Olana's 250-acre landscape. With over 5 miles of carriage roads, scenic views, a man-made lake, and native plantings, the site is both a living landscape painting and a vibrant and diverse ecosystem for native pollinators. Join The Olana Partnership, master gardener and environmental educator Nordica Holochuck, and beekeeper Chris Layman from Fox Farm Apiary for a special walk and workshop to learn more about how to create pathways for pollinators in your own garden inspired by the legacy of Church's garden design at Olana. Register at OLANA.org.
Sat 25 May
Clermont Grounds and Gardens Tour
Saturday, May 25, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Join us for a springtime tour of Clermont's formal gardens. Walk with one of our experienced tour guides and learn the history of the land. From woods to farmland to manicured lawns, Clermont's landscape has changed with each generation. This tour includes gentle inclines on uneven surfaces. Please wear comfortable footwear and dress for the weather. Please note: The cost of the event is $5 per person, please be prepared to pay at the door. Space is limited. Visitors must register in advance at bookeo.com/Clermont. Rain date: Saturday May 25, 2024.
Registration: Required
Sat 25 May
Tales of the Titanic
Saturday, May 25, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 112th anniversary of the sinking by touring the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a costumed interpreter points out the remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 25 May
Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market
Saturday, May 25, 2024 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson West (Highland) Entrance, 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 the Hudson Valley Rail Trail and west approach to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. More than 180 vendors will exhibit their wares for purchase, with many agribusinesses offering free samples or tastings. Tickets cost $5 per day. Walkway members receive complimentary admission. For complete information; walkway.org/mayfest.
Sat 25 May
Earth Friendly Camping
Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Drop in to learn tips and tricks to stay ethical in the outdoors! We will teach you how to pre-plan for a more environmentally friendly camping trip! This program is free and does not require registration, but you can call for any questions at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Leave No Trace Learn the seven Leave No Trace principles and apply them on your next visit to a state park or historic site. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Sat 25 May
Earth Friendly Camping
Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Drop in to learn tips and tricks to stay ethical in the outdoors! We will teach you how to pre-plan for a more environmentally friendly camping trip! This program is free and does not require registration, but you can call for any questions at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Leave No Trace Learn the seven Leave No Trace principles and apply them on your next visit to a state park or historic site. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Sat 25 May
18th Century Growing Season
Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Senate House State Historic Site

Join us in learning about what it as like to grow things and produce food in the 18th century. Watch us plant our 18th century inspired garden, see bee-keeping, sheep shearing, and food preservation. Includes crafts for visitors of all ages. 
Sat 25 May
A Closer Look: A Curator-Guided Exploration of the Hidden & Hard-to-See
Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
In this special 90-minute tour, Staatsburgh's curator, Maria Reynolds, will focus on a selection of objects that are not easily seen on tour, or which tell a special story. This version of the tour will focus on all things France including the French objects, furniture, and architecture in the house. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 25 May
Secret Messages
Saturday, May 25, 2024 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Children of all ages are invited to try their hand at deciphering secret messages like those used by General Washington's spy network.
Sat 25 May
Yonkers Waterfront Walking Tour
Saturday, May 25, 2024 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
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. Register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sat 25 May
Life in The Village and Hunting Camp, 1680-1770 by Drew Shuptar-Rayvis
Saturday, May 25, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Enter the Algonkian family through traditional roles and the customs of kinship and marriage. Decode the intertwined processes of captivity, adoption, and assimilation into a tribe for both Europeans and other Native Americans, with the trade and daily items of the period. Experience Algonkian hospitality with a traditionally prepared meal: brass kettles for boiling soups and making tea, wood splints for roasting fish and meat over coals, ash cakes cooked in coals and more!
Sat 25 May
Fly Fishing Workshop Series
Saturday, May 25, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Learn the basics of fly fishing and leave with the skills and confidence to get out on the water in this four-part workshop series led by expert, Len Savanella. Sessions 1 and 2 will cover the vocabulary and history of fly fishing, gear, casting, and fly tying. Sessions 3 and 4 will cover ecology and best practices and will take place in the stream so you can put your newfound skills to the test! Equipment will be provided but if you have your own, please bring it. Recommendations for gear and literary resources will be provided. Cost: $50; registration includes all four classes in the series. Max: 10 people. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 25 May
Staatsburg Village Walking Tour
Saturday, May 25, 2024 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 25 May
Search for Spring Flowers along Mossy Glen Footpath, Jenny Lane, and Lower Awosting Carriage Road at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 25, 2024 09:30 AM - 01:30 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Nick Martin, Park Educator, for an approximately five-mile hike along three footpaths and one carriage road, as we search for signs that spring has arrived in the Shawangunk Mountains. Starting from the Lower Parking Area, participants will hike along a very short section of carriage road before following Mossy Glen Footpath. In spring, this footpath can feature purple and painted trillium. Along the way, we will pass in and out of different forest types, hike along open rock slabs next to the Peter's Kill stream, and hike through dense stands of rhododendron. At the end of Mossy Glen Footpath, we will follow Blueberry Run Footpath across a wooden footbridge and follow it until it ends at Jenny Lane Footpath. From here, we will hike west on Jenny Lane Footpath until it ends along Lower Awosting Carriage Road, by the Fly Brook. From here, we will continue back to our starting location by walking on the Lower Awosting Carriage Road, which is easy-going. On our return trip, we will search for other spring wildflowers, such as violets, bluets, and fringed polygala. Meet in the Lower Parking Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Sat 25 May
Farm Market
Saturday, May 25, 2024 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
The 2024 Farm Market season begins at John Jay Homestead on Saturday, May 4. This weekly outdoor, certified market provides the finest New York-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood, breads, specialty items and more on a historic farm setting. Every Saturday, from May through October, customers can expect to find certified organic and biodynamic produce, ethically-raised, organic meat and eggs, as well as a wide variety of artisan food items with dozens of weekly vendors.Farm Market is open from 9:30am to 2:00pm for the general public, while members of Friends of John Jay Homestead are offered the Members Only First Pick from 9:00am to 9:30am.
Sat 25 May
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Saturday, May 25, 2024 07:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents! Join an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society on a bird walk around the Preserve. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. 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/.
Sat 25 May
From Badge of Military Merit to Purple Heart
Saturday, May 25, 2024 02:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Enjoy a presentation about the first award for enlisted soldiers, and how it became the Purple Heart that we know today.
Fri 24 May
Full Moon Hike
Friday, May 24, 2024 07:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$5
Step outside at night in the park! Join us for this full moon program as we hike through the park and talk about all things nighttime like nocturnal animals and what goes on outside while we sleep. We will be listening for nighttime animals, so being able to be quiet and listen is very important! Because of this, this program is recommended for ages 9+ to ensure everyone has a good experience. Please register ahead for this program by calling 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Fri 24 May
Drop-in Play Time
Friday, May 24, 2024 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Nature Center. 

For children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. The nature center offers many self-guided opportunities for little hands to explore! Dig for fossils in the kinetic sand table, build a beaver dam in the stream table, or roast a pretend marshmallow on the plush campfire with some new friends. We are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm. 
Fri 24 May
Drop-in Play Time
Friday, May 24, 2024 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Nature Center. 

For children ages 0-5 and their caregivers. The nature center offers many self-guided opportunities for little hands to explore! Dig for fossils in the kinetic sand table, build a beaver dam in the stream table, or roast a pretend marshmallow on the plush campfire with some new friends. We are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00am-4:00pm. 
Fri 24 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 24, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 24 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 24, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 24 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 24, 2024 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, 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 Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. 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.
Thu 23 May
Sound Healing
Thursday, May 23, 2024 05:30 PM - 06:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join Dayna Gralla for a therapeutic and restorative sound healing experience. Envelop yourself in the sounds of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and a variety of soothing instruments as you allow your mind to drift from an active state to a relaxed and meditative state. Ages 10+. Max: 20 per session. Cost: $8. Parking: $6 per vehicle until 4:30 pm. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events. Tickets available on April 22 at 10 am.
Thu 23 May
S’morefest ’24
Thursday, May 23, 2024 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Come celebrate the start of summer with the staff of the OCA around the bonfire at the Keeper's House! Get to meet the workers who maintain the trail and hear about the different projects, jobs and initiatives being done across our 26 miles. Enjoy playing some of the best games from the 1800's and learn about the 180-year history of the Aqueduct all while making yourself some delicious S'mores!!
Thu 23 May
Sound Healing
Thursday, May 23, 2024 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join Dayna Gralla for a therapeutic and restorative sound healing experience. Envelop yourself in the sounds of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and a variety of soothing instruments as you allow your mind to drift from an active state to a relaxed and meditative state. Ages 10+. Max: 20 per session. Cost: $8. Parking: $6 per vehicle until 4:30 pm. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events. Tickets available on April 22 at 10 am.
Thu 23 May
Weekly Guided Hikes
Thursday, May 23, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park

Every Thursday, enjoy a guided group hike led by one of our Environmental Educators. With over twenty-five miles of trails within Grafton Lakes State Park, we will be hiking a new route each week. The guided hikes will be a mix of easy, moderate, or challenging depending on each weeks planned route. We strongly encourage participants bring water, snacks, sturdy footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather. There is no cost for our weekly guided hikes, however registration is required. Please call 518-279-1155 to register or for further information.  
Registration: Required
Thu 23 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, May 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Thu 23 May
Tree Identification Walk
Thursday, May 23, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join conservation steward, Devyani Mishra, for a leisurely stroll to learn about trees and how to identify them. The hike will be short with frequent stops for discussion. Leashed dogs are welcome. Max: 15 people. Cost: $4. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Wed 22 May
Full Moon Hike: “Flower Moon”
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 08:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
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. Max: 40 people. Cost: $4. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events. Tickets available on April 22 at 10 am.
Wed 22 May
Yoga At The Walkway
Wednesday, May 22, 2024 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson – Ulster Welcome Center Plaza (Highland), All are invited to enjoy an hour-long yoga and meditation session adjacent to Walkway Over the Hudson at the Ulster Welcome Center Plaza in Highland (87 Haviland Road) from 4-5 p.m. Led by Stephany Conte of Mars & Moon LLC, this event is free to attend and open to all skill levels and abilities. No RSVP required. Wear appropriate clothing, and feel free to bring your own yoga mat. For questions, contact Denise Murtagh at 845-834-2867.
Tue 21 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Geared toward children aged 2-5, (siblings welcome) Knee-high Naturalist is a fun introduction to nature. We meet in the Nature Center where we begin by reading a book or two and then take a short walk together outdoors, keeping our eyes open for animal tracks, shells, feathers, and other signs of the natural world around us. Dress for the weather. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Wildlife Tracks Look for signs of wildlife in a state park such as tracks in the mud or the snow. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 21 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Geared toward children aged 2-5, (siblings welcome) Knee-high Naturalist is a fun introduction to nature. We meet in the Nature Center where we begin by reading a book or two and then take a short walk together outdoors, keeping our eyes open for animal tracks, shells, feathers, and other signs of the natural world around us. Dress for the weather. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Wildlife Tracks Look for signs of wildlife in a state park such as tracks in the mud or the snow. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 21 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 21, 2024 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 Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, 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. 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.
Mon 20 May
Weekly Guided Kayak Tours
Monday, May 20, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$10
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 20 May
Secret Life of Snakes
Monday, May 20, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Come to the Nature Center to learn about our resident snakes. Some people have misconceptions around snakes but we will put those concerns and myths to rest while talking about all the cool things snakes offer the world. After the class we will go for a short walk and see if we can find any snakes out in the wild. (hike will be weather permitting). This program requires 24 advance sign up and will cost $1 per child. Please call 518-793-0511 to reserve your spot. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Mon 20 May
Secret Life of Snakes
Monday, May 20, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Come to the Nature Center to learn about our resident snakes. Some people have misconceptions around snakes but we will put those concerns and myths to rest while talking about all the cool things snakes offer the world. After the class we will go for a short walk and see if we can find any snakes out in the wild. (hike will be weather permitting). This program requires 24 advance sign up and will cost $1 per child. Please call 518-793-0511 to reserve your spot. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 19 May
Mansion Tours (closed holidays)
Sunday, May 19, 2024 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Travel back in time as you experience the 1838 Jay Mansion! Our docent-led tours share the stories of the many eras of the Jay Mansion and give you a behind-the-scenes look at our extensive restoration process. No reservation necessary. Please visit our website or email Meredith Slater: mslater.jhc@gmail.com.
Sun 19 May
The REAL Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era
Sunday, May 19, 2024 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
Sun 19 May
“Who weighs how much?”
Sunday, May 19, 2024 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
This program is new and will include a little meet and greet with each animal in the nature center. Afterwards we will work together to guess the weight of each animal and put them in order according of our guesses. We will use some weighted items to help us make guesses and have some fun in the process. This program is ideal for kids 7+ but siblings are welcome to join. This program requires 24 advance sign up and will cost $1 per child. Please call 518-793-0511 to reserve your spot. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 19 May
“Who weighs how much?”
Sunday, May 19, 2024 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
This program is new and will include a little meet and greet with each animal in the nature center. Afterwards we will work together to guess the weight of each animal and put them in order according of our guesses. We will use some weighted items to help us make guesses and have some fun in the process. This program is ideal for kids 7+ but siblings are welcome to join. This program requires 24 advance sign up and will cost $1 per child. Please call 518-793-0511 to reserve your spot. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 19 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 19, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this new 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. Open to all levels and abilities! All proceeds benefit the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall. Register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sun 19 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, May 19, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Sun 19 May
Drop-in Program: Live Birds of Prey at Minnewaska
Sunday, May 19, 2024 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.
Sun 19 May
C.A.S.T for Kids
Sunday, May 19, 2024 09:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Take to the water with C.A.S.T. for an unforgettable morning of fishing! This event is designed to provide children with disabilities, ages 6-18, the opportunity to enjoy a quality outdoor recreational experience through the sport of fishing. All abilities can be accommodated. You can expect 2 hours of fishing, a delicious lunch, and an awards celebration where your child will receive a personalized plaque. They will also leave equipped with their own rod and tackle box so they're prepared for their next fishing adventure! Cost: FREE. Space is limited, registration required: castforkids.org/event/swanlake.
Registration: Required
Sun 19 May
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Sunday, May 19, 2024 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 19 May
Pinkster: Joy is an Act of Resistance
Sunday, May 19, 2024
Senate House State Historic Site

The Pinkster Sunday Festival returns to Senate House! Pinkster is the oldest African-American holiday in the U.S., a Dutch Pentecost tradition transformed into a joyous African celebration. Produced by Transart Inc. in cooperation with Senate House State Historic Site, the Pinkster Festival includes music, dance, history, food, crafts, vendors and more. For more information on Pinkster, please visit www.transartinc.org/pinkster
Sat 18 May
A Closer Look: A Curator-Guided Exploration of the Hidden & Hard-to-See
Saturday, May 18, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
In this special 90-minute tour, Staatsburgh's curator, Maria Reynolds, will focus on a selection of objects that are not easily seen on tour, or which tell a special story. This version of the tour will focus on all things France including the French objects, furniture, and architecture in the house. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS, Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
3rd Saturday Guided Battlefield Walk
Saturday, May 18, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
2:00 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month from May to October (3:30 p.m. on Sep 21st), a costumed interpreter will lead a guided walk around the Battlefield explaining the plan and execution of the American assault on the British garrison, highlighting the design and defense strategy of the fort and the bold idea for the attack.
Sat 18 May
Artmaking in the Afternoon
Saturday, May 18, 2024 01:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Inspired by your time at Olana? Join The Olana Partnership educators for hands-on artmaking using professional materials and a series of prompts to get your creativity flowing. Drop-in program; FREE. All materials provided. Located in the Wagon House Education Center.
Sat 18 May
Camping 101
Saturday, May 18, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$3
Want to camp out under the stars this summer, but don't know where to start? This program will cover everything from what gear you'll need and what to wear to meal-prepping tips and guidance on finding a campsite. If you want to learn more about camping in anticipation for a future trip, you're in the right place. This program will be led by Andy Bonelli, Grafton Lakes State Park Environmental Educator and New York State Licensed Outdoor Guide. This program is for all ages (18 and under must have an adult. Please call 518-279-1155 to register or for further information.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Create and Cook: Family Cooking & Art Workshop
Saturday, May 18, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Explore your creativity in the kitchen and art studio during this program led by The Sylvia Center Chefs and The Olana Partnership educators! In this class, we will make a delicious pasta salad inspired by scrumptious seasonal vegetables, explore Olana State Historic Site's historic kitchen garden, and draw new life and shapes in the meadow. This program is FREE (suggested donation $12) and advance registration is required. Registration includes all art-making supplies, a free lunch for each participant, and a voucher to participate in future cooking classes hosted by The Sylvia Center. Children 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. This is the first in a series of three classes – register for one or all three! For more information, please contact education@olana.org or call (518) 751-6938.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Community Day
Saturday, May 18, 2024 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Please join us for the Pocantico Center's second annual Community Day at the David Rockefeller Creative Arts Center. Preserve educator, Kim Fendrich, will have a display of rocks, minerals, and fossils from around the world, uncovering the mysteries of Earth's 4.5-billion-year history one sample at a time. The day will include family-friendly interactive performances, hands-on art and STEAM activities, bilingual story time, garden activities, face painting, an open artist's studio, and complimentary pizza and ice cream. Attendance is free; advance registration required at pocantico.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Pinkster!
Saturday, May 18, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site
Free family event highlighting Albany's historic Pinkster celebrations that focused on African Heritage Drum workshop, dancing, music, vendors, reenactors, crafts and food. The mansion will feature an open house.
Sat 18 May
Tales of the Titanic
Saturday, May 18, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 112th anniversary of the sinking by touring the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a costumed interpreter points out the remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Hoosick History & Heritage Fair
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site
Join the Friends of the Bennington Battlefield for the second annual Hoosick History & Heritage Fair at the Armory (80 Main Street, Hoosick Falls) and enjoy a free trolley ride to the battlefield where interpreters will be ready to share the history of the site. Events at the Armory will include a scavenger hunt, book swap, live birds of prey, guest speakers and BBQ lunch. Living historians will be on hand at the battlefield in period dress and will conduct periodic black powder demonstrations. There is no admission fee to visit either location.
Sat 18 May
Native Plant Sale
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Thacher Overlook SATURDAY ONLY. 

Native perennials, shrubs, and trees with beautiful flowers are for sale! Native plants can fill difficult areas and bring gorgeous color throughout the year. Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to assist and answer questions
Sat 18 May
Citizen Science and Wildlife Walk on Beacon Hill at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Josh Grosse, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps Environmental Educator, for a fun, educational twist to your average hike. We will investigate signs of wildlife along the Beacon Hill Carriage Road and Footpath, which often includes coyotes, porcupines, and vultures. As we walk, we will learn about the life cycles of some of our most notable plants and trees by investigating them for signs of new growth as seasonal changes appear. Beacon Hill Carriage Road and Footpath is considered a "phenology trail", which provides Minnewaska with valuable information about how climate change affects the "pheno" or "life" cycles of the plants, year to year. Come on this three-mile, picturesque hike, and learn about the many fascinating plants and animals that live here. 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 18 May
Drop-in Program: Celebrate Endangered Species at Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Sam's Point is home to an abundance of rare and endangered species. We will learn about what it means when an organism is considered endangered and the ways we can protect them. We will also discuss a few of the endangered species that live here at Sam's Point. 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.
Sat 18 May
Weir Tour
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
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). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=215.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Divided Loyalties - Revolutionary War on the Aqueduct Part 2
Saturday, May 18, 2024 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.
Sat 18 May
Fly Fishing Workshop Series
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Learn the basics of fly fishing and leave with the skills and confidence to get out on the water in this four-part workshop series led by expert, Len Savanella. Sessions 1 and 2 will cover the vocabulary and history of fly fishing, gear, casting, and fly tying. Sessions 3 and 4 will cover ecology and best practices and will take place in the stream so you can put your newfound skills to the test! Equipment will be provided but if you have your own, please bring it. Recommendations for gear and literary resources will be provided. Cost: $50; registration includes all four classes in the series. Max: 10 people. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Guided Hike: History Hidden in the Woods
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Have you ever wondered what some of the ruins within Mills-Norrie State Park might be? The beautiful park land was once the setting for grand Hudson Riverfront estates. This 90-minute guided hike will lead visitors through the park, exploring the history of three historic estates: from Staatsburgh's founding as a gentleman's farm in the 1700s to the development of The Point and Stonehurst estates in the 19th century. The hike is approximately 1.5 miles of uneven terrain, requiring study footwear. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Native Plant Sale
Saturday, May 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Thacher Overlook SATURDAY ONLY. 

Native perennials, shrubs, and trees with beautiful flowers are for sale! Native plants can fill difficult areas and bring gorgeous color throughout the year. Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to assist and answer questions
Sat 18 May
Farm Market
Saturday, May 18, 2024 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
The 2024 Farm Market season begins at John Jay Homestead on Saturday, May 4. This weekly outdoor, certified market provides the finest New York-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood, breads, specialty items and more on a historic farm setting. Every Saturday, from May through October, customers can expect to find certified organic and biodynamic produce, ethically-raised, organic meat and eggs, as well as a wide variety of artisan food items with dozens of weekly vendors.Farm Market is open from 9:30am to 2:00pm for the general public, while members of Friends of John Jay Homestead are offered the Members Only First Pick from 9:00am to 9:30am.
Sat 18 May
Family Hike
Saturday, May 18, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park
This program is meant for families with young kiddos. We will walk around the back pond and end at the playground...shhhhh don't tell the kids! This hike is not stoller accessible but baby wearing and carrying will be very welcome. This hike is for all the members of the family so don't leave older siblings or tiny babes behind! The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Wildlife Tracks Look for signs of wildlife in a state park such as tracks in the mud or the snow. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sat 18 May
Family Hike
Saturday, May 18, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
This program is meant for families with young kiddos. We will walk around the back pond and end at the playground...shhhhh don't tell the kids! This hike is not stoller accessible but baby wearing and carrying will be very welcome. This hike is for all the members of the family so don't leave older siblings or tiny babes behind! The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Wildlife Tracks Look for signs of wildlife in a state park such as tracks in the mud or the snow. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Fri 17 May
Pride In The Sky
Friday, May 17, 2024 06:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson – Either Entrance, The Friends of the Walkway nonprofit organization, in partnership with Big Gay Hudson Valley, will host Pride In The Sky, the first-ever nighttime LGBTQ+ pride celebration on Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park on Friday, May 17 from 6-10 p.m. Rain date is Saturday, May 18.Free Admission. For complete information and to register, visit BigGayHudsonValley.com.
Fri 17 May
Walkway Talks: Fire On The Bridge – 50 Years Later
Friday, May 17, 2024 02:30 PM - 03:30 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson – East Gate Plaza (Poughkeepsie), This "Fire on the Bridge" presentation looks at the origins of the Poughkeepsie-Highland Railroad Bridge and continues exploring its history until the fire of May 8th, 1974. We will venture to share the "Fire on the Bridge" experience through the eyes of some of the firefighters who attended the fire and locals who were at thescene. Without these historical events, perhaps we would not have our beautiful Walkway Over the Hudson. This event is free to attend and open to all.
Fri 17 May
Mindfulness Woods Walk at Minnewaska
Friday, May 17, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Begin your day with peace of mind when you join Jane Dobson with Mind the Forest for a meditative walk in the beautiful forest at Minnewaska. Guided by the Japanese practice of forest bathing, called Shinrin Yoku, Jane will lead you through a series of sensory experiences to bring awareness to the present moment, while observing the wonder of the natural world. The desired outcome is a calm mind and a sense of connection to nature and to ourselves. This forest bathing brings a host of mental and physical health benefits to us, including real and measurable reduction in our stress cortisol levels, reduced anxiety, improved mood, focus and sleep. This free program is open to participants over the age of 16 years old. Meet at the Peter's Kill Climbing Area, 5080 Rt 44/55, Gardiner, NY. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Fri 17 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 17, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 17 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 17, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 17 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 17, 2024 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, 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 Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. 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.
Thu 16 May
Third Thursday: Bollywood Dancing Workshop and Performance
Thursday, May 16, 2024 05:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Explore Bollywood dancing during a free class and performance with instructor, Arobi! 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. For ages 12 and up; space is limited. Email education@olana.org to learn more.Visit OLANA.org/ThirdThursday.
Thu 16 May
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: Forest Mysteries
Thursday, May 16, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska is no stranger to unique natural features. With its sparkling white cliffs, centuries-old, dwarf, pitch pines and huge boulders that appear to have fallen from the sky, you might wonder how the landscape came to be. Bring your homeschooled children for a chance to explore these mysteries and more. Park educators will teach concepts in the areas of geology, ecology, and natural history as we take a hike to explore these curiosities. This program is recommended for children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome, but please note that this program will involve hiking. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 16 May
Homeschoolers at Minnewaska: Forest Mysteries
Thursday, May 16, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Minnewaska is no stranger to unique natural features. With its sparkling white cliffs, centuries-old, dwarf, pitch pines and huge boulders that appear to have fallen from the sky, you might wonder how the landscape came to be. Bring your homeschooled children for a chance to explore these mysteries and more. Park educators will teach concepts in the areas of geology, ecology, and natural history as we take a hike to explore these curiosities. This program is recommended for children between the ages of seven to twelve years old, accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 years old. Well-behaved younger siblings are always welcome, but please note that this program will involve hiking. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Thu 16 May
Third Thursday: 3D Artbook Workshop
Thursday, May 16, 2024 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join artist Wennie Huang to make your own paper books using images from Olana. These 19th century 3D books were popular crafts that use layers of images to create the illusion of depth on a small scale. Make your own during this free, drop-in program at the Wagon House Education Center. Visit OLANA.org/ThirdThursday.
Thu 16 May
Weekly Guided Hikes
Thursday, May 16, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park

Every Thursday, enjoy a guided group hike led by one of our Environmental Educators. With over twenty-five miles of trails within Grafton Lakes State Park, we will be hiking a new route each week. The guided hikes will be a mix of easy, moderate, or challenging depending on each weeks planned route. We strongly encourage participants bring water, snacks, sturdy footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather. There is no cost for our weekly guided hikes, however registration is required. Please call 518-279-1155 to register or for further information.  
Registration: Required
Thu 16 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, May 16, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Thu 16 May
Weir Tour
Thursday, May 16, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
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). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=214.
Registration: Required
Wed 15 May
House Hunters: Cavity-Nesting Birds
Wednesday, May 15, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
The Preserve has been designated an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society; it is a critical habitat for breeding migratory birds, including cavity-nesting species. Become part of our stewardship team for the day and shadow naturalist, Josh DiPaola, as he performs nest inspections on a variety of breeding sites in the Rockwood Hall area. Gain insight into their unique ecology and learn what you can do to help protect these species in recognition of World Migratory Bird Day. Max: 20 people. Cost: $4. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Tue 14 May
Mud Pond Hike
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an Educator on an easy 2.1-mile hike from Nature Trail to Mud Pond. We might just see some beaver lodges. Bring plenty of water, snacks, waterproof shoes, bug spray and appropriate clothing for the weather. The cost for the hike is $5 (cash or check) Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 14 May
Mud Pond Hike
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an Educator on an easy 2.1-mile hike from Nature Trail to Mud Pond. We might just see some beaver lodges. Bring plenty of water, snacks, waterproof shoes, bug spray and appropriate clothing for the weather. The cost for the hike is $5 (cash or check) Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 14 May
Tuesday Trek: Two Views on the Peter’s Kill Loop Hike at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Laura Conner, Environmental Educator, for an approximately two-and-a-half-mile hike on the footpaths in the Peter's Kill Area. Starting from the Peter's Kill parking area, we'll make a loop out of the Red Loop, Bullwheel, High Peter's Kill, and Yellow Connector Footpaths. This hike, which features views of the Skytop firetower, Catskills Mountains and the surrounding Park Preserve, meanders through beautiful forests, near striking rock formations, and alongside the Peter's Kill stream. This outing includes some sustained uphill and downhill sections that may be challenging for some, along with a varied terrain of roots, rocks, and cliff edges. Meet at the Peter's Kill Area. Pre-registration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752.
Registration: Required
Tue 14 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 14, 2024 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 Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, 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. 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.
Mon 13 May
The Aqueduct in Central Park Walk
Monday, May 13, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 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 and end of the walk. For this two-hour walk, wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Walk will be cancelled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?id=213&reset=1.
Registration: Required
Mon 13 May
A-Z Hike
Monday, May 13, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an educator on a fun and easy hike to look for things in nature that start with each letter of the alphabet! We will be writing things down if they can or they can help point things out. Geared toward 3-10 year olds, but everyone is welcome! The cost is $1 per child (cash or check). Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge Missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Mon 13 May
A-Z Hike
Monday, May 13, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an educator on a fun and easy hike to look for things in nature that start with each letter of the alphabet! We will be writing things down if they can or they can help point things out. Geared toward 3-10 year olds, but everyone is welcome! The cost is $1 per child (cash or check). Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge Missions: Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Mon 13 May
Birdwatching with the Saw Mill River Audubon Society
Monday, May 13, 2024 07:00 AM - 09:00 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Get to know our feathered residents! Join an expert from the Saw Mill River Audubon Society on a bird walk around the Preserve. Great for all levels of birding experience, beginners welcome! Binocular loans available upon request. 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/.
Sun 12 May
Forest Sound Healing
Sunday, May 12, 2024 03:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
This Mother's Day, treat yourself or the special woman in your life to a unique restorative sound healing experience in the woods. Immerse yourselves in nature as the sounds of crystal singing bowls, chimes, and a variety of soothing instruments allow your minds to drift from an active state to a relaxed and meditative state. This special 75-minute session will take place at the Glacial Erratic, a 15-minute walk from the main parking lot. We encourage you to begin or end your journey at the Visitor Center courtyard to admire the beauty of the peony garden. Ages 10+. Max: 30 people. Cost: $8. Parking: $6 per vehicle. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events. Tickets available on April 22 at 10 am.
Sun 12 May
Mansion Tours (closed holidays)
Sunday, May 12, 2024 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Travel back in time as you experience the 1838 Jay Mansion! Our docent-led tours share the stories of the many eras of the Jay Mansion and give you a behind-the-scenes look at our extensive restoration process. No reservation necessary. Please visit our website or email Meredith Slater: mslater.jhc@gmail.com.
Sun 12 May
The REAL Gilded Age: America’s Elite in the Downton Abbey Era
Sunday, May 12, 2024 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
Sun 12 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 12, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this new 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. Open to all levels and abilities! All proceeds benefit the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall. Register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sun 12 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, May 12, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Sat 11 May
Pollinator Party
Saturday, May 11, 2024 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$4
What's all the buzz about? Join us to learn about bees and see the inner workings of a beehive! We will also be learning about other pollinators and making a pollinator-themed craft. This program is open to all, but it's recommended that participants be ages 6+ for the best experience. Please register ahead for this program by calling 518-279-1155.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
History of the Art Tour
Saturday, May 11, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Join Clermont's Educator, Emily Robinson, on a special art tour of the mansion. Focusing on key pieces in the museum's art collection and the people they belonged to. This is a great tour for those with an interest in art and a fascination with family stories. Please note: The cost of the event is $5 per person, please be prepared to pay at the door. Space is limited. Visitors must register in advance at bookeo.com/Clermont.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
John Brown Day Celebration
Saturday, May 11, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Our Friends Group, John Brown Lives! Friends of Freedom, will present Spirit of John Brown awards to Dexter Criss, Amy Godine, and The Fadden Family and Six Nations Iroquois Cultural Center. This event is free; tickets are required for the reception afterward. for information and tickets for the 5pm reception, please contact info@johnbrownlives.org
Sat 11 May
Tales of the Titanic
Saturday, May 11, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 112th anniversary of the sinking by touring the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a costumed interpreter points out the remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Guided Forest Bathing with Mother Earth
Saturday, May 11, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Get outside and show yourself and Mother Earth some love through a special guided walk inspired by After Glow: Frederic Church and the Landscape and Memory. Fru Molnar, trained and certified forest bathing guide, will lead the way through Olana's landscape, helping you connect with nature through a slow-paced, easeful sensory exploration. Based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku ("forest bathing"), this program will offer optional invitations to connect with nature and yourself. This program is part of Living through Landscape, a series of workshops that examine how new conceptions of life and death can be gained by spending time in our regional environment. REGISTER.
Sat 11 May
Line and Wash a Different Way
Saturday, May 11, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Practice watercolor techniques as you paint wildflowers with professional artist Diane Steele. $20 per person, cash payable at the time of the program. Meet at the Nature Center. All skill levels. Ages 18+. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
The OCA in the Bronx to the High Bridge
Saturday, May 11, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
The Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct and the Bronx County Historical Society are excited to co-sponsor a walk along the Aqueduct in the Bronx to the High Bridge. Our walk will begin at Jerome Ave. and Kingsbridge Road in front of the incredible Kingsbridge Armory – thought to be the largest armory in the world. Our route will continue along the Aqueduct, across the High Bridge and into Highbridge Park in Manhattan. We will talk about the history of the Bronx, some notable Bronxites of the past and how the Bronx has had an outsized influence on American culture. We will discuss the fascinating history of the High Bridge – the oldest surviving bridge in NYC. Meet at the northwest corner of Jerome Ave. and Kingsbridge Road at noon. Walk is a mostly level three miles and will end on the Manhattan side of the High Bridge at approximately 3:30PM. Public transportation is highly recommended. From Westchester: Metro-North to Marble Hill, MTA Bus Bx #9 to Jerome Ave. From NYC: IRT# 4 to Jerome Ave. Return transportation: MTA subway IRT #1 to Marble Hill Metro-North station. Walk leader will be available to meet attendees at Dobbs Ferry Metro-North for those who would like to travel together (time to be announced pending train schedule). Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=212.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Line and Wash a Different Way
Saturday, May 11, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thacher State Park
Practice watercolor techniques as you paint wildflowers with professional artist Diane Steele. $20 per person, cash payable at the time of the program. Meet at the Nature Center. All skill levels. Ages 18+. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Line and Wash a Different Way
Saturday, May 11, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Practice watercolor techniques as you paint wildflowers with professional artist Diane Steele. $20 per person, cash payable at the time of the program. Meet at the Nature Center. All skill levels. Ages 18+. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Foraging for Wild Food
Saturday, May 11, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 821-9372

Join the Rensselaer County Conservation Alliance to learn about foraging and edible plants. 

$10. Register by May 7th, call 518-821-9372.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Pinkster Festival
Saturday, May 11, 2024 11:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this FREE, family-friendly festival. Pinkster is the Dutch word for Pentecost. Pinkster is an Afro-Dutch celebration that started in the colony of New Netherland (now New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut). It is considered by many to be the first truly African-American holiday. Today, as in the past, we celebrate with music, dance, games, food, and drink. Schedule, directions, and more at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events/pinkster-festival-2024.
Sat 11 May
18th Century Living
Saturday, May 11, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
Flax Breaking & Spinning: Barbara Johns will demonstrate spinning as done in the 18th century. From flax breaking to drop spindles and spinning wheels, Barbara will explain how these spun fibers turned into sheets of cloth for clothing. Food Preservation: Historian Tom Hunt has displays of common foodstuffs and explains the various methods that people living in the 18th century used to preserve and enhance their food in the days before refrigeration.
Sat 11 May
THE 2024 NEWBURGH VOLUNTEER FAIR IS CALLING YOU!!!
Saturday, May 11, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site
Circle the date May 11th on your calendar. That's when the Newburgh Volunteer Fair will be taking place at Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site, 11am until 2pm. Find out how you can be a volunteer in a local community organization. You'll discover the different ways you can help support the local Newburgh community and its residents. The day focuses on raising awareness about the important work being done by non-profit organizations in the Newburgh community. Explore how you can connect with people to help. Their work would not be possible without the support of dedicated volunteers. In return, involvement in one of these organizations offers a chance to build useful skills, meet new people, and become more active in your community. All are invited to attend the Newburgh Volunteer Fair, visit the tables, ask questions firsthand and see if any of these organizations are a fit for you. Free admission will be offered to the Museum and to Washington's Headquarters' Hasbrouck House on May 11th, courtesy of the Friends of the State Historic Sites of the Hudson Highlands. When taking a tour you will learn about the important role Newburgh played during the War of Independence. The Newburgh Volunteer Fair is organized by Washington's Headquarters State Historic Site and the Newburgh Free Library. This event is weather permitting. For more information about the 2024 Newburgh Volunteer Fair contact Jennifer or Elyse @ 845-562-1195 or WHQSHS@parks.ny.gov.
Sat 11 May
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Celebrate spring on a walk around the Nature Center to search out wildflowers. There will be a 1 hour break between this walk and the Watercolor Wildflowers program; participants attending both programs are invited to bring their own lunch. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center.
Sat 11 May
Drop-In Program: Migratory Bird Day Celebration at Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Sam's Point Area
Come learn about the wonderful world of migratory birds in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day! This tabling event will provide information about what it means to be a migratory bird, what Migratory Bird Day is and which migratory birds we have here at the Park Preserve. Afterwards, you can keep an eye out for these cool little critters while you enjoy your hike. 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
Sat 11 May
The Buzz On Bugs
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an educator and an entomologist in exploring bug specimens that we collected from the night before. This program is for all ages,$5 per adult and $1 per child. Registration is required, please call the office 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
The Buzz On Bugs
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an educator and an entomologist in exploring bug specimens that we collected from the night before. This program is for all ages,$5 per adult and $1 per child. Registration is required, please call the office 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Fly Fishing Workshop Series
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Learn the basics of fly fishing and leave with the skills and confidence to get out on the water in this four-part workshop series led by expert, Len Savanella. Sessions 1 and 2 will cover the vocabulary and history of fly fishing, gear, casting, and fly tying. Sessions 3 and 4 will cover ecology and best practices and will take place in the stream so you can put your newfound skills to the test! Equipment will be provided but if you have your own, please bring it. Recommendations for gear and literary resources will be provided. Cost: $50; registration includes all four classes in the series. Max: 10 people. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 11 May
Staatsburg Village Walking Tour
Saturday, May 11, 2024 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 11 May
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thacher State Park
Celebrate spring on a walk around the Nature Center to search out wildflowers. There will be a 1 hour break between this walk and the Watercolor Wildflowers program; participants attending both programs are invited to bring their own lunch. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center.
Sat 11 May
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 11, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Thompson's Lake Campground - Thacher State Park
Celebrate spring on a walk around the Nature Center to search out wildflowers. There will be a 1 hour break between this walk and the Watercolor Wildflowers program; participants attending both programs are invited to bring their own lunch. Registration required. Call 518-872-0800. Meet at the Nature Center
Sat 11 May
Birding at the Fort
Saturday, May 11, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Join DEC Wildlife Technician Rachel Guerrieri 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.
Sat 11 May
Farm Market
Saturday, May 11, 2024 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
The 2024 Farm Market season begins at John Jay Homestead on Saturday, May 4. This weekly outdoor, certified market provides the finest New York-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood, breads, specialty items and more on a historic farm setting. Every Saturday, from May through October, customers can expect to find certified organic and biodynamic produce, ethically-raised, organic meat and eggs, as well as a wide variety of artisan food items with dozens of weekly vendors.Farm Market is open from 9:30am to 2:00pm for the general public, while members of Friends of John Jay Homestead are offered the Members Only First Pick from 9:00am to 9:30am.
Sat 11 May
Hike With Mike: Intro to Hiking
Saturday, May 11, 2024 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
If you're thinking of making hiking part of your life, the wide trails and varied vistas of the Rockefeller State Park Preserve are an ideal place to start, especially while the peony garden is in bloom! A discussion about what to wear, what to bring, using maps, and the varied terrain in the Preserve will increase your comfort when hiking in the future. A short family-friendly hike around Swan Lake will follow to see if any questions come to mind. Leashed dogs are welcome. Max: 20 people. Cost: FREE. Parking: $6 per vehicle. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Sat 11 May
Ulster County Spring Census: Big Day Bird Count Outing in the Former Awosting Reserve at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 11, 2024 08:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Join Park Preserve Educator, Nick Martin, for a birding outing 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 around three miles maximum 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 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 11 May
Lake trail clean-up, tree and pollinator garden planting
Saturday, May 11, 2024
Lake Taghkanic State Park
Join us for a day of trail restoration and clean up, or help us plant a native pollinator garden and trees to welcome visitors to the park and restore the native ecosystem. Bring sturdy shoes, hats, gloves, shovels, clippers and a smile. We'll provide drinks, snacks, sunscreen and more smiles. Sponsored by Gallatin CAC and Taghkanic CSC. RSVP@taghkanic.org
Fri 10 May
Tour of Bennington Battlefield
Friday, May 10, 2024 04:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site
Visitors will be led through the major points of interest in the first engagement of the battle. A mix of driving and walking is required. Free, no RSVP necessary. Group will form under the hilltop flagpole.
Fri 10 May
The Aqueduct in Central Park Walk
Friday, May 10, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 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 and end of the walk. For this two-hour walk, wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Walk will be cancelled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?id=211&reset=1.
Registration: Required
Fri 10 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 10, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 10 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 10, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 10 May
Sensory Hike: Rise and Shine!
Friday, May 10, 2024 09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Awaken your senses and tune in to nature in this embodied experience with Linda Parker. You'll be amazed at what you notice when you home in on one sense at a time. We'll begin in the Visitor Center courtyard surrounded by the scent and vivid colors of the Japanese tree peony garden in bloom before we set out on a short hike. Take this opportunity to quiet your mind and connect with the forest using this unique approach. Max: 15 people. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle; NYS residents over 62 park free on weekdays. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Fri 10 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 10, 2024 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, 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 Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. 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.
Thu 09 May
Peony Celebration
Thursday, May 9, 2024 06:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join us for a cocktail and buffet celebration in the Visitor Center courtyard amidst the spectacular Japanese tree peony garden in full bloom! A fundraiser for the Friends and our projects in the Preserve, the evening features a fine art exhibit and a flower show presented by local gardening clubs. Please register at: friendsrock.org/peony-celebration.
Thu 09 May
Weekly Guided Hikes
Thursday, May 9, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park

Every Thursday, enjoy a guided group hike led by one of our Environmental Educators. With over twenty-five miles of trails within Grafton Lakes State Park, we will be hiking a new route each week. The guided hikes will be a mix of easy, moderate, or challenging depending on each weeks planned route. We strongly encourage participants bring water, snacks, sturdy footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather. There is no cost for our weekly guided hikes, however registration is required. Please call 518-279-1155 to register or for further information.  
Registration: Required
Thu 09 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, May 9, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Thu 09 May
Homeschool Pop-Up: Butterflies and Moths
Thursday, May 9, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an educator at the nature center to talk about the life cycles of butterflies and moths, why they're important, and how they use their camouflage to stay safe. We will then use cut-outs of butterflies and color them to camouflage them around the nature center or outside! Geared toward ages 6+, siblings welcome. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check). Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge Missions: Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Thu 09 May
Homeschool Pop-Up: Butterflies and Moths
Thursday, May 9, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an educator at the nature center to talk about the life cycles of butterflies and moths, why they're important, and how they use their camouflage to stay safe. We will then use cut-outs of butterflies and color them to camouflage them around the nature center or outside! Geared toward ages 6+, siblings welcome. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check). Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Centennial Challenge Missions: Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Wed 08 May
Lecture: Opening the Way – New Research and Other Items in New York’s Black Colonial History
Wednesday, May 8, 2024 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Over the last few years there have been significant advancements in the research and sharing of information on the early years of the establishment of slavery in New York. Along with that work, there has also been a growing wave of information long held within archaeology that is now finding its way into the larger narrative, bringing the presence of African cultural traditions forward as never before. Join NYS Parks Interpreter of African American History Lavada Nahon for a highlights tour of this work as we move towards 2027 and the commemorating of both the legal end of slavery and the arrival of the first men enslaved in New Netherland/New York. This virtual program is free, but registration is required. Register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Tue 07 May
Lecture: Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Friends of John Jay Homestead present a lecture with The Hon. Stephen G. Breyer on his book Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism on Tuesday, May 7 at 6:30pm at Bedford Playhouse in Bedford, NY.Nominated by President Clinton, Justice Breyer served on the Supreme Court from 1994 until his retirement in 2022. He was preceded by Justice Harry Blackmun and succeeded by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson; he wrote 551 opinions during that 28-year career. Before the Supreme Court, he served on the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit (1980-1994) including four years as Chief Judge; before that he held many government positions, including assistant special prosecutor on the Watergate Special Prosecution Force. He is currently the Byrne Professor of Administrative Law and Process at Harvard Law School. Virtually all discussions of his career mention that he was an Eagle Scout.Purchase tickets for this event at http://johnjayhomestead.org/events-calendar/lecture-with-justice-breyer/.
Tue 07 May
Sunset Yoga at Rockwood
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 until Tuesday, May 28, 2024 06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Relieve stress and explore the connection between breath and movement with instructor, Shivani Singh, as the sun sets over the Hudson with views of the Tappan Zee bridge and NYC in the distance. Appropriate for all levels of experience, ages 18+. Cost: $6. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Tue 07 May
Restoring a Landscape Masterpiece: The Rediscovery of Frederic Church’s Olana
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 05:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Over the past decade, Thomas Woltz and his firm have led the renewal and restoration of Frederic Church's 250-acre designed landscape at Olana, a NY State Historic Site and National Historic Landmark. Woltz will focus on the vision within the award-winning Olana Strategic Landscape Design Plan, which includes the siting of the soon-to-be-completed Frederic Church Center for Art & Landscape. Tickets: $15 Members of The Olana Partnership and $25 Non-members. TICKETS.
Tue 07 May
Beaver Walk
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Did you know that MLSP is home to a thriving population of North America's largest rodent? We will walk along the Wetlands Walk and Mud Pond trails where we can view our beaver's dam and lodges while we learn all about how they live, love, and learn. This program is for people of all ages, it's an easy-moderate hike of about 2.5 miles. Pay $1 per child and $5 per adult (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 07 May
Beaver Walk
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Did you know that MLSP is home to a thriving population of North America's largest rodent? We will walk along the Wetlands Walk and Mud Pond trails where we can view our beaver's dam and lodges while we learn all about how they live, love, and learn. This program is for people of all ages, it's an easy-moderate hike of about 2.5 miles. Pay $1 per child and $5 per adult (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register in advance by calling 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 07 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Geared toward children aged 2-5, (siblings welcome) Knee-high Naturalist is a fun introduction to nature. We meet in the Nature Center where we begin by reading a book or two and then take a short walk together outdoors, keeping our eyes open for animal tracks, shells, feathers, and other signs of the natural world around us. Dress for the weather. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Wildlife Tracks Look for signs of wildlife in a state park such as tracks in the mud or the snow. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 07 May
Kneehigh Naturalist
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Geared toward children aged 2-5, (siblings welcome) Knee-high Naturalist is a fun introduction to nature. We meet in the Nature Center where we begin by reading a book or two and then take a short walk together outdoors, keeping our eyes open for animal tracks, shells, feathers, and other signs of the natural world around us. Dress for the weather. The cost is $1 per child (cash or check) at the office upon arrival. Please register at least 24 hours in advance at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Wildlife Tracks Look for signs of wildlife in a state park such as tracks in the mud or the snow. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Tue 07 May
Postural Therapy: Living Comfortably
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 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! Cost: FREE. Registered participants will receive a link to join. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Tue 07 May
Early Morning Birders at Minnewaska
Tuesday, May 7, 2024 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 Preserve Educator, or an experienced birding volunteer. Participants should bring binoculars, 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. 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.
Mon 06 May
The Aqueduct along Amsterdam Avenue Walk
Monday, May 6, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Most of the Old Croton Aqueduct in Manhattan ran under Amsterdam Avenue. Walk along this route and learn why that avenue was chosen, see vestiges of the aqueduct today, and immerse yourself in the historic and present-day activities of this part of Manhattan. Meet in front of the Highbridge Recreation Center at 173rd St. and Amsterdam Ave. We will end the walk in front of the gatehouse at 135th St. Public restrooms are available at the beginning and end of the walk. For this two-hour walk, wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The walk begins with the descent of a five-story staircase. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=210.
Registration: Required
Mon 06 May
Weekly Guided Kayak Tours
Monday, May 6, 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

$10

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 06 May
Shapes and Colors Hike
Monday, May 6, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an educator on a fun and easy hike to look for shapes and colors in nature. We'll talk about what we see and where we found it with the opportunity to write things down if they can. Geared toward 2-7 year olds, but everyone is welcome! The cost is $1 for children (cash or check) Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Mon 06 May
Shapes and Colors Hike
Monday, May 6, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an educator on a fun and easy hike to look for shapes and colors in nature. We'll talk about what we see and where we found it with the opportunity to write things down if they can. Geared toward 2-7 year olds, but everyone is welcome! The cost is $1 for children (cash or check) Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Take a Hike! Find a hike at a state park near you. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sun 05 May
Stargazing in the Preserve
Sunday, May 5, 2024 08:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Peer into the cosmos with Vinny Coulehan of the Rockland Astronomy Club. We'll use a telescope to observe galaxies, globular clusters, double star systems, and more! With the new moon on May 7, we should have relatively dark skies. Max: 20 people. Cost: $4. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Sun 05 May
Mansion Tours (closed holidays)
Sunday, May 5, 2024 02:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Travel back in time as you experience the 1838 Jay Mansion! Our docent-led tours share the stories of the many eras of the Jay Mansion and give you a behind-the-scenes look at our extensive restoration process. No reservation necessary. Please visit our website or email Meredith Slater: mslater.jhc@gmail.com.
Sun 05 May
The Buzz About Bees and Wasps
Sunday, May 5, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join D.J. Haverkamp of Bedford Honeybee Service, to learn all about bees and wasps and their important role in the environment. We'll discuss their life cycle, nesting behavior, and threats to their existence as we approach World Bee Day on May 20. View live honeybees in a glass-walled hive to get a peek behind-the-scenes, and observe other nests for comparison. This is a great introduction for anyone interested in bees, beekeeping, or protecting these precious pollinators. Max: 20 people. Cost: $4. Parking: $6 per vehicle. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Sun 05 May
Tales of the Titanic
Sunday, May 5, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 112th anniversary of the sinking by touring the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a costumed interpreter points out the remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sun 05 May
Intro to Orienteering
Sunday, May 5, 2024 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

Orienteering is the sport of field navigation, using a map and compass. Whether you're an experienced hiker, or just a family out for an active day in the park, orienteering helps you learn and improve your navigation skills in a fun and exciting way. This program will start indoors in a classroom setting, with an introduction to the sport of orienteering and how to properly use a map and compass. After the classroom portion, we will head out into the field where participants can use their skills to navigate between checkpoints, using whichever route they choose. Whoever reaches all of the checkpoints and makes it to the finish line first wins! Participants should come dressed comfortably for outdoor activities and wear boots or sturdy shoes. The class will run until approximately from 11:00am to 2:00pm. The Intro to Orienteering program will be led by Andy Bonelli, Grafton Lakes State Park Environmental Educator and New York State Licensed Outdoor Guide. This program is $3 and recommended for ages 10 to adult. Please call 518-279-1155 to register or for further information. Maps, Compasses, and other materials will be provided. No previous map and compass experience is required.
Registration: Required
Sun 05 May
Morning Hatha Yoga
Sunday, May 5, 2024 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Join us for this new 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. Open to all levels and abilities! All proceeds benefit the Friends of Philipse Manor Hall. Register at www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sun 05 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, May 5, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Sun 05 May
Trail Steward Meeting
Sunday, May 5, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
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 any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge: Take to the Trails Volunteer as a trail steward, talking to other hikers about Leave No Trace and how to best protect our parks. https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Sun 05 May
Trail Steward Meeting
Sunday, May 5, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
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 any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge: Take to the Trails Volunteer as a trail steward, talking to other hikers about Leave No Trace and how to best protect our parks. https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Sun 05 May
Yonkers Arts Weekend at Philipse Manor Hall
Sunday, May 5, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site joins in Yonkers Arts Weekend with free admission to the museum all day, plus free Waterfront Walking Tours at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and a free Cinco De Mayo Flower Making Workshop at 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by the City of Yonkers. For more details and the full schedule, visit www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sun 05 May
Birding Walk at Staatsburgh
Sunday, May 5, 2024 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 05 May
Hudson Valley Marathon at Walkway Over the Hudson
Sunday, May 5, 2024 05:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walkway Over the Hudson West (Highland) Entrance, 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 and to register, visit hudsonvalleymarathon.com.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day 2024
Saturday, May 4, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Bennington Battlefield State Historic Site
Join other volunteers to beautify the battlefield! Participants will gather in the lower parking area and split up from there. Volunteers may plant flowers (hand tools provided) or help clear trails. Bring a lunch if you plan to picnic afterward. Watch https://www.ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day for the link to register, coming soon.
Sat 04 May
What’s a museum? Kids Tour and Story Hour!
Saturday, May 4, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Clermont State Historic Site
Calling all curious kids! Clermont State Historic Site is offering a unique tour of the mansion for families with young children.Our tour will begin in the Visitor Center with a museum themed story time. After that, we'll take a special 30-minute first floor tour of the mansion. Children will see how people lived over 100 years ago, identify animals and objects, and practice museum etiquette. This event will run for about an hour and is best suited for children ages 4 to 8 years old.Please note: The cost of the event is $5 per person, please be prepared to pay at the door. This is a children's program; all children must be accompanied by an adult and all adults must be accompanied by a child. Space is limited. Visitors must register in advance at bookeo.com/Clermont.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
Fashion A Fish Cookie
Saturday, May 4, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park
(518) 279-1155

What makes a fish a fish? And is it better for a fish to look a certain way? Join us to learn about fish and why some fish look so different from others. Using this knowledge, we'll then decorate fish-shaped cookies to fashion our own fishes! 
This program is $3 and recommended for ages 3+. Please register ahead by calling 518-279-1155.  
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
Tales of the Titanic
Saturday, May 4, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Mark the 112th anniversary of the sinking by touring the home of Titanic ticket holders, Ogden and Ruth Mills. Hear tales of the Titanic's tragic voyage as a costumed interpreter points out the remarkable similarities between the Titanic's interiors and Staatsburgh's rooms. Cost: $12/Adults, $10/Seniors & Students, Children 12 & under are free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
I Love My Parks Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Olana State Historic Site
Join us for a day of stewardship and service 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. 1:30-2:30pm – FREE Special Tours: Kick off your day with optional free tours about Olana's history or how New York State's stewardship team manages invasive plants. Questions email: education@olana.org. 2:30-4:00pm - Volunteer Activities Led by Olana Staff: Join fellow volunteers to get Olana State Historic Site ready for the spring season. Sign up for activities by emailing lmiller@olana.org. Park Cleanup & trash removal, Removing Invasives, Planting Flowers at Cosy Cottage, Indoor Classroom Cleanup at the Wagon House Clean-up.
Sat 04 May
Into the Weeds: How to Garden Like a Forager
Saturday, May 4, 2024 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Join us as Tama Matsuoka Wong returns to JHC to share her newest book, Into the Weeds: How to Garden Like a Forager. Tama empowers budding and experienced gardeners alike to embrace a gentler, less rigid and more sustainable approach to tending the land. Please visit our website for more information.
Sat 04 May
1st Saturday Lighthouse Visiting Hours
Saturday, May 4, 2024 11:30 AM - 02:30 PM
Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from May to October, the first floor of the Lighthouse will be open and staffed with a costumed interpreter to talk about its history. A lighthouse 4th Order Fresnel lens is available to view in the museum's Lighthouse Gallery along with a fog bell and other artifacts. Please note: no access to the upper level is permitted.
Sat 04 May
Colonial Candle Making
Saturday, May 4, 2024 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
Join Living History Presenter Tom Hunt for Colonial Candle Making! Learn about different types of candles and illumination from the colonial time period. Participants will leave with a beeswax candle (while supplies last).
Sat 04 May
Living History: Algonkian Life
Saturday, May 4, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
Join us on Saturday, May 4th, for a hands-on presentation about Algonkian life in the Northeast during the 18th Century with Drew Shuptar-Rayvis (Pekatawas MakataweU "Black Corn"). Drew will take us on a journey that will examine changes in Algonkian life during the early-1700s, including daily living, customs of war, adoption/captivity, alliances, and friendships and marriages between Natives, Europeans and Africans. He will also bring several traditional items and artifacts to examine.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
John Brown Farm State Historic Site
Please come help with spring clean-up and garden prep! Interested volunteers may call the office for more information.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Mills Norrie State Park (Margaret Lewis Norrie)
Join the Calvert Vaux Preservation Alliance for "I Love My Park Day" on Saturday, May 4 and help us clean up and beautify the area around Hoyt House and Hoyt bridge approaches at Mills-Norrie State Park. All ages welcome, appropriate for ages 13 and up. Meet at the 4-way intersection at Mills, follow signs for parking. Bring bug spray, sunblock, gloves and clippers/pruners. To RSVP: ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day.
Sat 04 May
Trail Work on Mossy Glen Footpath at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 4, 2024 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 04 May
13th Annual I Love My Park Day at Minnewaska
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
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.
Sat 04 May
13th Annual I Love My Park Day at Sam’s Point
Saturday, May 4, 2024 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.
Sat 04 May
Trail Work on the South Gully Footpath at the Sam’s Point Area of Minnewaska
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 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 the trail work is completed, we will add trail blazes 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 04 May
Waking Up the Pollinator Garden at the Sam’s Point Area of Minnewaska
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00 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 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join Parks & Trails New York – and thousands of volunteers across the state – on Saturday, May 4 in celebrating and enhancing New York's parks, historic sites, greenway trails and other public lands. I Love My Park Day--the largest single-day volunteer event in NYS--presents a perfect opportunity to clean up our favorite parks and shorelines, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species, and work on various site improvement projects--all which help to prepare our iconic state park system and public lands for the start of the season. If you have questions about hosting an I Love My Park Day event or volunteering at this year's event, please contact us at ilovemypark@ptny.org We hope you'll join us to celebrate NY State Park's Centennial Celebration with our biggest I Love My Park Day event yet!   NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Lend us a Hand! Join a volunteer event at any of our parks and historic sites! https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join Parks & Trails New York – and thousands of volunteers across the state – on Saturday, May 4 in celebrating and enhancing New York's parks, historic sites, greenway trails and other public lands. I Love My Park Day--the largest single-day volunteer event in NYS--presents a perfect opportunity to clean up our favorite parks and shorelines, plant trees and gardens, restore trails and wildlife habitat, remove invasive species, and work on various site improvement projects--all which help to prepare our iconic state park system and public lands for the start of the season. If you have questions about hosting an I Love My Park Day event or volunteering at this year's event, please contact us at ilovemypark@ptny.org We hope you'll join us to celebrate NY State Park's Centennial Celebration with our biggest I Love My Park Day event yet!   NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Lend us a Hand! Join a volunteer event at any of our parks and historic sites! https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
I Love My Parks Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
The Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct are hosting four I Love My Park Day events in collaboration with Parks & Trails NY on the Aqueduct Trail, all on May 4th with rain dates of May 5th. The four locations are: Croton-on-Hudson, Northern Irvington, Central 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 in addition will include trash removal. The Irvington groups will also do some restoration planting with native plants and the Croton one will include restoration of an historic stone wall, as is traditional for this site. Registration is recommended and is now live so 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 04 May
Weir Tour
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
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). After a brief walk, descend into the Weir in Ossining and explore the original 1842 brick water tunnel and learn its history. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=209.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
Yonkers Arts Weekend at Philipse Manor Hall
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site joins in Yonkers Arts Weekend with free admission to the museum all day, plus free Waterfront Walking Tours at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and free Historical Games from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sponsored by the City of Yonkers. For more details and the full schedule, visit www.philipsemanorhall.com/programs-and-events.
Sat 04 May
Fly Fishing Workshop Series
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Learn the basics of fly fishing and leave with the skills and confidence to get out on the water in this four-part workshop series led by expert, Len Savanella. Sessions 1 and 2 will cover the vocabulary and history of fly fishing, gear, casting, and fly tying. Sessions 3 and 4 will cover ecology and best practices and will take place in the stream so you can put your newfound skills to the test! Equipment will be provided but if you have your own, please bring it. Recommendations for gear and literary resources will be provided. Cost: $50; registration includes all four classes in the series. Max: 10 people. RockefellerStateParkPreserve.org/events.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
Guided Hike: History Hidden in the Woods
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Have you ever wondered what some of the ruins within Mills-Norrie State Park might be? The beautiful park land was once the setting for grand Hudson Riverfront estates. This 90-minute guided hike will lead visitors through the park, exploring the history of three historic estates: from Staatsburgh's founding as a gentleman's farm in the 1700s to the development of The Point and Stonehurst estates in the 19th century. The hike is approximately 1.5 miles of uneven terrain, requiring study footwear. Cost: free. Reservations required: https://Bookeo.com/StaatsburghSHS.
Registration: Required
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Staatsburgh State Historic Site
Volunteer to help with an outdoor project in the mansion's beautiful historic landscape. Lunch will be provided for volunteers, courtesy of The Friends of Mills at Staatsburgh For ages 13 and up. For more information call (845) 889-8851; to register: www.ptny.org/ilovemypark, Cost: free.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Meet at the Pear Orchard Pavilion 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.

Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day at Hubbard Lodge
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Fahnestock State Park (Clarence Fahnestock)
Meet at the patio overlooking the Hubbard Lodge Butterfly Garden at 2920 US RT. 9 in Cold Spring to clean up and prepare for replanting the native perennial beds. Bring garden forks, rakes, hoes and spades. Wear long sleeves, sun hat, garden gloves and sturdy work boots. Appropriate for ages 13 and up.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day at Little Stony Point
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 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 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. FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Show Mother Nature some love and spend the day outside! JHC is pleased to be a returning participant in New York State's Annual I Love My Park Day. Volunteer your time working in our historic gardens or help out in the meadows. All ages welcome. Please visit our website to learn more and sign up for this FREE event.
Sat 04 May
Farm Market
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
The 2024 Farm Market season begins at John Jay Homestead on Saturday, May 4. This weekly outdoor, certified market provides the finest New York-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood, breads, specialty items and more on a historic farm setting. Every Saturday, from May through October, customers can expect to find certified organic and biodynamic produce, ethically-raised, organic meat and eggs, as well as a wide variety of artisan food items with dozens of weekly vendors.Farm Market is open from 9:30am to 2:00pm for the general public, while members of Friends of John Jay Homestead are offered the Members Only First Pick from 9:00am to 9:30am.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Rockefeller State Park Preserve
Join Preserve staff and the Friends as we give back to our beloved park and build up our community in this state-wide day of volunteering! Become part of the team and take this opportunity to celebrate and enhance a place that holds fond memories for all of us. Free t-shirts and snacks will be available first come, first served at check-in. All ages are welcome. Project location and details will be announced in April, stay tuned! Please register at: friendsrock.org/i-love-my-park-day.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day 2024
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
Join us to show your love during the 2024 I Love My Park Day! at Schoharie Crossing! Across New York State People are showing their love of Parks & Historic Sites by volunteering their time to work on special projects, trail work, gardening, and more! We're lining up some flower planting and other gardening tasks to help spruce up near the Visitor Center. * Contact SchoharieCrossing@parks.ny.gov for registration information.* We strongly suggest you wear sturdy water-resistant footwear, bring work gloves and dress for the weather. Volunteer registration opens early April, sign up at: https://www.ptny.org/events/i-love-my-park-day.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day at Hubbard Lodge
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Taconic Outdoor Education Center
Meet at the patio overlooking the Hubbard Lodge Butterfly Garden at 2920 US RT. 9 in Cold Spring to clean up and prepare for replanting the native perennial beds. Bring garden forks, rakes, hoes and spades. Wear long sleeves, sun hat, garden gloves and sturdy work boots. Appropriate for ages 13 and up.
Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Thacher State Park
Meet at the Pear Orchard Pavilion 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.

Sat 04 May
I Love My Park Day
Saturday, May 4, 2024 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
On I Love My Park Day – Saturday, May 4 – folks from around the community are invited to volunteer in Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park and make a difference! Our friends with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation are seeking help with general beautification around the Walkway. All are welcome.
Sat 04 May
Alan Devoe Bird Club Spring Migration Bird Walk
Saturday, May 4, 2024 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. FREE, advanced registration required. This program will meet outside the Olana Wagon House Education Center. For more information, contact education@olana.org.
Registration: Required
Fri 03 May
Star Party
Friday, May 3, 2024 08:00 PM - 11:45 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. Enter via the main entrance and follow signs to the program-- first left off the main entrance road. Please drive slowly in the park at night. 

 All ages. Free program. No registration

Following Saturday is the Rain Date.
Fri 03 May
Mid-Hudson Astronomical Association Monthly Star Party
Friday, May 3, 2024 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.meetup.com/mhastro/events/275468188/. Registration: RSVP is required at least one day beforehand.
Registration: Required
Fri 03 May
The Aqueduct along Amsterdam Avenue Walk
Friday, May 3, 2024 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park
Most of the Old Croton Aqueduct in Manhattan ran under Amsterdam Avenue. Walk along this route and learn why that avenue was chosen, see vestiges of the aqueduct today, and immerse yourself in the historic and present-day activities of this part of Manhattan. Meet in front of the Highbridge Recreation Center at 173rd St. and Amsterdam Ave. We will end the walk in front of the gatehouse at 135th St. Public restrooms are available at the beginning and end of the walk. For this two-hour walk, wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The walk begins with the descent of a five-story staircase. Walk may be rescheduled if weather does not cooperate. Required: pre-registration: https://aqueduct.org/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=208.
Registration: Required
Fri 03 May
Mindfulness Woods Walk at Minnewaska
Friday, May 3, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Begin your day with peace of mind when you join Jane Dobson with Mind the Forest for a meditative walk in the beautiful forest at Minnewaska. Guided by the Japanese practice of forest bathing, called Shinrin Yoku, Jane will lead you through a series of sensory experiences to bring awareness to the present moment, while observing the wonder of the natural world. The desired outcome is a calm mind and a sense of connection to nature and to ourselves. This forest bathing brings a host of mental and physical health benefits to us, including real and measurable reduction in our stress cortisol levels, reduced anxiety, improved mood, focus and sleep. This free program is open to participants over the age of 16 years old. 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 03 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 3, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 03 May
Wiggly Wanderers
Friday, May 3, 2024 09:30 AM - 11:00 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 will be a beginner's hike/wander series 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. We will not plan too much distance walking and we will rely on teachable moments to carry us through these experiences. Strollers will not work for these programs. While you do not need to attend each week, we will continue to build our toddlers hiking skills as well as their caregivers' confidence taking the children into the woods to explore. This event does not have sign ups, please come if you can. We meet at the nature center parking lot. $1 per child. For any questions call 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge mission: Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Fri 03 May
Birding at the Gardiner Library
Friday, May 3, 2024 08:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Minnewaska State Park Preserve
Are you interested in birds or birdwatching? Join Nick Martin, 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 Friday programs. The total number of participants for this program is limited to fifteen individuals. 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.
Thu 02 May
Moreau Lake State Park Kayak Program
Thursday, May 2, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an ACA certified instructor on a very lovely and learner friendly paddle around Moreau Lake. This Kayak trip will not only allow for some beginner paddling with some tips and tricks you will also be on the water with one of the parks environmental educators. The educator will be sure to use all the teachable moments that mother nature offers to share some of the lesser-known secrets of Moreau lakes animal friends-. This program has limited spaces, please call to reserve your spot by calling 518-793-0511. This program is $5 per person, $15 per person needs to rent a kayak. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Seasonal Beauty Visit the same place in a state park or historic for all four seasons of the year. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Thu 02 May
Moreau Lake State Park Kayak Program
Thursday, May 2, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an ACA certified instructor on a very lovely and learner friendly paddle around Moreau Lake. This Kayak trip will not only allow for some beginner paddling with some tips and tricks you will also be on the water with one of the parks environmental educators. The educator will be sure to use all the teachable moments that mother nature offers to share some of the lesser-known secrets of Moreau lakes animal friends-. This program has limited spaces, please call to reserve your spot by calling 518-793-0511. This program is $5 per person, $15 per person needs to rent a kayak. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Seasonal Beauty Visit the same place in a state park or historic for all four seasons of the year. Go Green: Bring your re-usable water bottle on a hike or walk at one of our state parks or historic sites. Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Thu 02 May
Weekly Guided Hikes
Thursday, May 2, 2024 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Grafton Lakes State Park

Every Thursday, enjoy a guided group hike led by one of our Environmental Educators. With over twenty-five miles of trails within Grafton Lakes State Park, we will be hiking a new route each week. The guided hikes will be a mix of easy, moderate, or challenging depending on each weeks planned route. We strongly encourage participants bring water, snacks, sturdy footwear, appropriate clothing for the weather. There is no cost for our weekly guided hikes, however registration is required. Please call 518-279-1155 to register or for further information.  
Registration: Required
Thu 02 May
Garden Workshops and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, May 2, 2024 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Thu 02 May
Homeschool Pop-Up-Whose Nest Is That
Thursday, May 2, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park
Join an educator at the nature center to play a matching game of whose nest belongs to who. From birds, to mice, to squirrels and even fish, all sorts of animals make nests, and we will try it out too! We are encouraging homeschool groups to attend, but it is open to the public. Geared toward ages 6+, siblings welcome. The cost is 1$ per child (cash or check). Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Thu 02 May
Homeschool Pop-Up-Whose Nest Is That
Thursday, May 2, 2024 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Moreau Lake State Park Nature Center
Join an educator at the nature center to play a matching game of whose nest belongs to who. From birds, to mice, to squirrels and even fish, all sorts of animals make nests, and we will try it out too! We are encouraging homeschool groups to attend, but it is open to the public. Geared toward ages 6+, siblings welcome. The cost is 1$ per child (cash or check). Please reserve your spot in advance by calling the office at 518-793-0511. NYS Parks Centennial Challenge missions: Nature Center Knowledge Attend a nature center program. Engage in Education Attend an environmental education program at a state park. https://www.parks.ny.gov/100/challenge/.
Registration: Required
Wed 01 May
Visitor Center & Museum Opening Day 2024
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site
The Visitor Center and Museum at Schoharie Crossing opens for the 2024 Visitor Season! Come explore this historic site and our Pathway to Empire Exhibit. We'll be open at the VC this season: Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Sunday's 1pm to 5pm. The site grounds are open from sunrise to sunset every day of the year. Meet at Visitor Center, Schoharie Street.