Kid-friendly

We are all familiar with the main events at the CNY Maple Festival; pancake eating contest, maple museum tours, the Maple Queen Parade, wagon rides, talent show, helicopter flights and Sugar Shack demos. As wonderful as that all is, the Maple Fest is full of oft-overlooked gems. Let this Marathon local dish out the insider scoop. Below is a list of 5 not to be missed Maple Fest favorites. Maple…

Although spring might be playing peek-a-boo, this year in Cortland County, Easter is just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Let us help you organize your holiday! From Easter bonnets, baskets, brunches, and hunts, we have your guide to all things Easter.  WHERE TO FILL YOUR BASKET If you're looking to create an unforgettable easter basket, we know just the spots! Hop on over to Cortland County to…

If the thought of visiting an art gallery brings to mind standing in front of stodgy old paintings with your hands in your pockets while quietly murmuring contemplations, think again.  The Dowd Gallery has turned art on its ear with the recent installation of the (re)Play Exhibit.  David B. Smith's collection of textiles, objects, installations and sculptures encourages the viewer to interact,…

It's that time again. Before we know it, the new year will be upon us. Take a moment to slow down and make some memories that, with any luck, will become traditions for years to come. We've compiled a list of a few of our favorite holiday events happening in Cortland County. For a complete list, please visit our event page. Oh no! Did we miss your favorite Cortland County event? E-mail us at…

The days are warm, and the nights are crisp. Autumn is the perfect time of year to soak up the last balmy days of the season. Treat yourself to a little leaf peeping this weekend on your way to enjoy some of Cortland County's favorite fall traditions. Whether you are looking to shop till you drop, sample some brews, or indulge in a little friendly competition, we've got you covered.  HOPS & SWAPS…

Every October since 1996, Downtown Cortland has been transformed into a vibrant, outdoor fall festival when The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest arrives in Historic Courthouse Park.  The two-day event has been one of the county's most highly-anticipated fall celebrations, a family-friendly experience that has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike.  After a two-year hiatus, the festival…

The Marathon 1890 Union Fair celebrates the American family and is dedicated to the preservation of families and the things they do together. Life in a small town best exemplifies what America is all about. Communities filled with pride and spirit give young people a safe environment in which to grow. Featuring baked goods, vendors, quilt and garden displays, a raffle and auction, the annual event…

The Cortland County Historical Society has created a new, interactive children's exhibit! The grand opening of Then & Now Children's Room is August 27, from 1-3 pm at The Suggett House Museum (25 Homer Ave, Cortland). The Then & Now Children's room emulates an old-fashioned town, with a general store, barn, and cabin in the woods. Hands-on activities and historically accurate reproductions…

If small town charm had a flavor, it could certainly be found in these quaint countryside markets. Shelves brimming with fresh baked goods, perfectly ripe produce, glittering jars of jams and honey, and coolers stuffed full of locally raised meats and dairy. If you're looking to pack the perfect picnic basket, find all the fixings for your next cookout, or simply seeking an excuse for a lovely…

Porches will become stages, lawns will become venues, and strangers will become friends at the 7th annual Cortland Porchefest! WHENSunday, August 21 (noon-5 pm) WHEREThe Van Hoesen Neighborhood. WHAT TO EXPECTThe streets of Van Hoesen, Chestnut, Harrison, Joy, and Hamlin will be taken over by some front porch pickin, neighborhood singin' good times.  Local community members will lend their…

For four days, the town of Cortland will be filled with Huskies, but not the kind attached to a sled. Truck buffs, regional history enthusiasts, and festival-goers come in hoards to the 22nd Annual Brockway Truck Show, August 11-14, for the sights and sounds of the Brockway Motor Truck Co. legacy.  A majority of the show's events will take place at the Central New York Living History Center,…

Join the Cortland Arts Connect at their Art, Music, Food & Wine Festival in historic downtown Cortland for a day of music, shopping, tasting, and creating. Keep reading for more details. WHEN Saturday, August 6, 10 a.m. -5 p.m. WHERE McNeil Building Parking LotDowntown Cortland, NY   WHAT TO EXPECT Cortland Arts of Main will host 28 fantastic artists, with a wide variety of wares…

Summer isn't over yet, Cortland County! The midway point of summer is here, but that doesn’t mean the fun stops!  From summer concerts to sampling the finest NYS craft beverages, Huskies on parade to browsing hand-crafted goodies, there’s no reason to leave the county if you’re looking for a good time. Check out these four events that will make your summer super memorable!…

Summer always brings back childhood memories of melting ice cream cones, fishing poles, camping trips, parades, and adventures in the sun. It's not too late to recapture those carefree days. We have just the itinerary, whether you're young or young at heart, to create lasting summer memories, you'll treasure for years to come. LODGING Book your stay at the Yellow Lantern Kampground for the…

The Warbirds will take to the skies over Cortland this Saturday, which can only mean one thing! It's time for the 12th Annual Cortland Airfest which celebrates flight in a variety of ways. Gear up for a high-flying day of history, plane rides, firetrucks and good eats. Keep reading to know what to expect at the Cortland Airfest. WHEN Saturday, July 23 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. WHERE The Cortland…

Get ready to shop till you drop! The 41st Annual Holiday in Homer is back for another year in the Village of Homer. Guests will be treated to 125 plus vendors, live entertainment for all ages, horse-drawn wagon rides, quilt shows a library book sale and so much more. Don't forget to tag @experiencecortland with your festival snapshots for a chance to be featured. Keep reading for more details.…

School is officially out which means summer is upon us - and so is vacation season! Cortland County offers locals and those beyond so many events for families, kids, and outdoor enthusiasts that it can be hard to know where to start. We'll be showcasing county happenings each month to keep you up-to-date and in the know - check out these exciting events happening this July that you don't want to…

Barns, cows, carnival rides, and deep-fried fun are expected at this year's local junior fair! Locals and visitors alike will be able to enjoy the tastes, smells, and thrills that come with the county fair, as the 2022 edition of the Cortland County Jr. Fair begins its five-day run Tuesday, July 5, at the Cortland County Fairgrounds. The fair is hosting a slate of livestock shows, pageant queens,…

Is there any better way to celebrate the return of summer than with live music under the big blue sky? We think not! Grab your cooler and strap on your dancing shoes, Cortland County has an outdoor summer concert lineup not to be missed!  Be sure to check out our full events calendar here. Please note, event dates are subject to change or cancellation. Visit individual event pages for the most…