(WNY News Now) – New York – The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) is marking the New York State Parks Centennial with numerous events and activities, including the 20th anniversary of the Bethpage Airshow at Jones Beach State Park.
“The summer season is here and it’s time to enjoy New York’s great outdoors with friends and family at state parks, beaches, or campgrounds,” Governor Hochul announced. “We are excited to celebrate the Centennial of the New York State Parks system this year, while working to improve and attract more visitors to these one-of-a-kind destinations for the next century.”
The Bethpage Airshow, held on Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26, celebrated its 20th anniversary and the 95th anniversary of Jones Beach State Park. The event featured family-friendly programs and activities that honored the nation’s armed services.
Randy Simons, Commissioner Pro Tempore of the OPRHP, highlighted the historical significance and recreational opportunities offered by state parks and historic sites. “For 100 years, State Parks and Historic Sites have offered summer visitors unique recreational and educational opportunities, and this year is extra special. Whether this year marks your first visit or an annual tradition, there’s a full calendar of things to do and see from the South Fork of Long Island to the Southern Tier to the St. Lawrence River, and all points in between.”
The OPRHP has planned several Centennial programs across the state:
- June 1: Crailo State Historic Site 100th Anniversary Celebration (Rensselaer)
- June 22: Long Island State Park Celebration at Heckscher State Park (East Islip)
- June 29: “Bash at the Beach” at Hamlin Beach State Park (Hamlin)
- July 20: NY State Parks Legacy Celebration at Letchworth State Park (Castile)
- July 27-28: North American War of 1812 Grand Tactical at Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site (Sackets Harbor)
- August 4: Jones Beach 95th Anniversary Celebration (Wantagh)
- August 10: Heckscher State Park Celebration (East Islip)
- August 16: Allegany State Park Beach Party (Salamanca)
- August 17: Montauk Point State Park Celebration (Montauk)
- August 21-September 2: NY State Parks at the NY State Fair (Syracuse)
- August 31: Labor Day Celebration at Darien Lakes State Park (Darien Center)
- September 22: Centennial Family Fun Ride at Beaver Island State Park (Grand Island)
- October 5: Connetquot River State Park Preserve Celebration (Oakdale)
- October 6: Shirley Chisholm State Park Festival (Brooklyn)
- October 9-10: International Spa Heritage Conference at Saratoga Spa State Park (Saratoga Springs)
- December 7: “Faces of Riverbank” Photography Exhibit Opening at Danny Farrell Riverbank State Park (Manhattan)
These events aim to engage visitors with the diverse activities that New York State parks and historic sites offer, highlighting the state’s commitment to public lands and historic preservation.
Campsites are open this weekend at state parks, with limited reservations available through Reserve America. Swimming opportunities are also available at selected sites.
The Centennial Challenge encourages participation in activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming, offering a chance to earn a commemorative sticker and enter a contest to win Centennial merchandise and other prizes.
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