Spring Break Nature Camp
Explore nature at the Canal Landing Museum! Each day will focus on a topic related to nature.
ANIMALS - Find out who else lives around us!
PLANTS - Observe the natural world, make nature prints, and plant a sunflower!
NATURAL DISASTERS - Create a tornado vortex and build a structure fit to survive an earthquake!
SURVIVAL - Learn life saving skills and build a mini shelter!
SUN, MOON, & SKY - Decorate moon phase cookies and create your own constellation!
CONSERVATION - Find out why it's important to protect the environment we call home
Learn from CLCBM staff, volunteers and outdoor experts including our local Boy Scout Troop!
Explorers will need to wear/bring weather appropriate attire and a lunch.
"Policing the Erie Canal"
This presentation, delivered by retired Onondaga County Sheriff’s Lt. Jon Anderson, focuses on law enforcement issues surrounding the storied Erie Canal. Topics include 19th century policing equipment, the character of policing of the era, the urban red light canal districts, the legacy of the orphaned canal boys and the unique challenge for law enforcement with the canal’s role in the Underground Railroad.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Donations to the museum are greatly appreciated.
Saturdays: Junior Ranger Program
Starting in April, the last Saturday of each month is your chance to become a Junior Ranger!
Kids can visit the museum and ask for a Junior Ranger booklet filled with fun, hands-on activities to explore and learn. Once all activities are completed, simply show your work to a staff member to earn an official Junior Ranger badge.
Come learn, explore, and earn your badge—one adventure at a time!
Dates:
April 25
May 30
June 27
July 25
August 29
Kids Activity: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt
Self-Guided Nature & History Scavenger Hunt
Date: May 9, 2026
Get ready to explore, observe, and discover! Kids and families are invited to take part in a fun, self-guided scavenger hunt through the museum and along the towpath.
Pick up your scavenger hunt list and set off on an adventure to find and identify unique items by drawing them or snapping photos. Inside the museum, search for objects that tell stories of the past, from tools and living spaces to interesting artifacts and colors. Then head outside to the towpath to explore nature—look for shapes, patterns, animal habitats, and reflections in the water.
This activity encourages creativity, curiosity, and a closer look at both history and the natural world.
No registration required—just stop by and start your adventure!
Boat Float n' Folk Festival
Join us for this year's Boat Float n' Folk Festival to be held Saturday, June 13th from 8:00am-3:00pm! Shuttle service available ($8.00/person) to launch points. This year's festival will be even bigger and better with music, family activities, food trucks, guided tours and more! Paddler tickets are $10/person (shuttle tickets are separate) and admission to the festival is FREE for everyone!
Shuttle service (all leave from CLCBM)
7:00am - Shuttle leaves for Cedar Bay launch
8:00am - Shuttle leaves for Manlius Center launch
10:00am - Shuttle leaves for Poolsbrook
Festival opens to non-paddlers at 11:00am!
Art Show
Join us for an afternoon celebrating creativity, community, and local talent at our Art Show! Explore artwork from talented students, local artists, and ARC Oneida-Lewis artists.
When: March 21
Where: Visitor Center at CLCBM
Time: 12:00-3:00pm
Admission is free, Donations are accepted
Live music provided by Tim Nekritz
Enjoy light refreshments from CafeLemonLLC, available for purchase
"Freedom Fighters: Civil Resistance and the fight against slavery in Antebellum Syracuse"
Freedom Fighters: Civil Resistance and the fight against slavery in Antebellum Syracuse: This presentation examines the work of a small but dedicated group of abolitionists in Syracuse New York, led by Rev. Samuel May and Rev. Jermain Loguen. Loguen, a man who escaped his own enslavement in Tennessee and settled in Syracuse in 1841, became one of the era's most successful and well-known Station Masters on the UGRR. These men and their compatriots helped make Syracuse a center for abolitionist activity and organization and were primary participants in of the era's most significant acts of civil disobedience, the Jerry Rescue, in October 1851. Additionally, the talk will place the efforts of local reformers in the larger national context of the growing sectional controversies over slavery, which ultimately resulted in the Civil War in 1861.
Presented by Robert Searing, Onondaga Historical Association, Curator of History
Parents Night Out
Enjoy a night out for last minute shopping, a dinner date, or even just go put your feet up while we take care of the kids! We will have numerous activities for all ages in attendance, snacks, beverages, and more! Just $10 for 4 hours. December 20th from 4-6pm. Ages 5-16.
All children need to have a ticket as well as having a liability waiver completed prior to the event.
Purchase tickets at: https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/94888-december-parents-night-out
Complete the waiver at: https://forms.gle/4w9qji9yVZy984G48
Lights on the Landing
Come and experience the Chittenago Landing Canal Boat Museum like you have never seen it before! Our Opening Night we will have a food truck, kids activities and even a visit from Santa himself! Tickets are only $5 so get them while they are available.
After our opening night, we will also open the museum from 4-7pm on Monday's and Tuesday's for the rest of the month. Tickets are $5 for that as well.
Proof of purchase is needed for entry (email of purchase) or you can purchase tickets at our front desk the day of the event.
Purchase Tickets at:
https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/94870-lights-on-the-landing
Turkey Trot at the Landing Benefiting the Chittenango and Town of Sullivan Food Cupboards
Start your holiday with movement, gratitude, and giving! Before the big meal, toss your turkey in the oven, grab a canned good for donation, and join us at the canal for a fun run or walk. It’s a great way to feel energized, enjoy the season, and support neighbors in need. This is a FREE event, but we do ask that you get a free ticket at https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/92552-turkey-trot-at-the-landing
Event Details:
What: 5K Run/Walk or 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk
Pre Thanksgiving Drive Thru Dinner
Don't wait for Thanksgiving! Let Smoked Incorporated and the museum prepare a smoke turkey dinner for you and your family to pick up via Drive Thru. For only $20 you get
Hand Sliced Smoked Turkey
Smoked Gravy
Mashed Potatoes & Corn
Bacon Braised Brussel Sprouts
Cornbread Dressing
Cranberry Relish
Cornbread
***Each ticket represents 1 dinner with the above items included. Pre-Order only. Pick up will be between 5 and 7pm on November 14th at the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.
Orders must be placed by November 7th. Order at https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/93078-pre-thanksgiving-dinner
Proceeds to benefit the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.
Freedom Fighters: Civil Resistance and the fight against slavery in Antebellum Syracuse
Freedom Fighters: Civil Resistance and the fight against slavery in Antebellum Syracuse: This presentation examines the work of a small but dedicated group of abolitionists in Syracuse New York, led by Rev. Samuel May and Rev. Jermain Loguen. Loguen, a man who escaped his own enslavement in Tennessee and settled in Syracuse in 1841, became one of the era's most successful and well-known Station Masters on the UGRR. These men and their compatriots helped make Syracuse a center for abolitionist activity and organization and were primary participants in of the era's most significant acts of civil disobedience, the Jerry Rescue, in October 1851. Additionally, the talk will place the efforts of local reformers in the larger national context of the growing sectional controversies over slavery, which ultimately resulted in the Civil War in 1861.
Robert Searing, Onondaga Historical Association, Curator of History
$10 General Admission can be purchased at https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/93328-freedom-fighters-civil-resistance-and-the-fight-against-slavery-in-antebellum-syracuse-with-robert-searing
Museum Members and Students are FREE. Please call the museum to reserve free tickets
Psychic Gallery Reading with Erica Lynn Geller
Join us for an evening of connection and insight as internationally recognized psychic medium Erica Lynn Geller returns to the Erie Canal Boat Museum for a Gallery Reading. During this special event, Erica will deliver messages of hope, healing, and guidance as she connects attendees with loved ones who have passed.
Each session is a unique experience filled with compassion, laughter, and meaningful moments shared among guests. While not everyone is guaranteed a personal reading, many find comfort and inspiration through the messages shared with the group.
Seating is limited and tickets need to be purchased in advance.
Purchase tickets at: https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/92992-psychic-gallery-reading-with-erica-lynn-geller
Walrath Sawmill Case
Join us for a deep dive into the historical significance and legal precedence set by the Walrath V Redfield case 1829-1864. This case is still cited in cases regarding eminent domain vs riparian rights.
This is a FREE event and open to the public.
Using Pre Photography Media to Document the Lateral Canal
Join us in discussing the inspiration of paintings from historical maps of the Chittenango Lateral Canal, 1820-1855.
This is a free event and open to the public.
Erie Canal Bicentennial Birthday Celebration
🎉 Erie Canal Bicentennial Birthday Celebration – October 26, 12–4 PM
Join us at Chittenango Landing for a day of music, food, family fun, and history as we celebrate the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Erie Canal! Enjoy live performances, food trucks, blacksmith demos, kids’ activities, and more. Admission is free—come be part of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration!
Get your tickets for this free event at https://chittenangolanding.networkforgood.com/events/92339-erie-canal-200th-birthday-celebration
Adirondack Pack Baskets
The Adirondack Pack Basket is one of the most recognized objects associated with the Adirondacks. This will be a two day event of weaving your utilitarian pack. By request Linda Scherz is back! With over 34 years of teaching experience, Linda will teach you how to weave your own Adirondack Pack. Her packs are patterned from traditional Adirondack Pack Baskets.
Students weave a plain weave base with the pre-cut spokes. Then learn to continuous weave the sides of the basket; level the top, cut and tuck, add a handmade oak handle, and complete the rim. Lastly, add an adjustable webbing or leather harness for carrying. This class will be fun for all weavers. Adirondack Basketry owner and instructor Linda Scherz will demonstrate, teach you weaving techniques and guide you while you weave your basket. Students will be using a drawknife with shave horse and other sharp tools.
Instructor will bring all materials to make the basket and tools students will need during workshop
Students should wear comfortable clothing.
Baskets will not be stained during class.
Materials Fee varies with size of pack.
Harness choice needs to be made two weeks prior to workshop to allow time for making
Webbing color options will be what is in stock at time of workshop.
Two Day Workshop Fee: $80.00 per person
Register at: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/adirondack-pack-baskets-class
Pack Dimensions and materials cost:
Mountaineer Pack:
9"x12"x20"H with leather $185.00, with webbing $150.00
Sightseer Pack:
8.5"x11"x16"H with leather $170.00, with webbing $125.00
Hiker Pack:
6"x9"x14"H with leather $110.00, with webbing $95.00
Seneca Chief Bus Trip to Rome
Welcome the Seneca Chief to Rome! Come be part of the Erie Canal's Bicentennial and the Voyage of the Erie Canal Boat Seneca Chief on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025. The replica of the Seneca Chief will leave Buffalo on Wednesday morning September 24th, 2025, embarking on its Bicentennial Voyage, commemorating Governor DeWitt Clinton's historic 1825 journey from Buffalo to New York Harbor.
After a stop in Sylvan Beach on October 7th the Seneca Chief will arrive in Rome on October 8th at Bellamy Harbor Park, where live music and an opportunity to visit the boat will be available.
To inquire about carpooling options please call the museum at 315-687-3801
A Paranormal Evening with Chris DiCesare the "Ghost Boy of Geneseo".
The Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum and Syracuse Paranormal presents "A Paranormal Evening with Chris DiCesare the "Ghost Boy of Geneseo".
Chris DiCesare is the author of the upcoming book "The Ghost Boy of Erie Hall" and has appeared on the SyFy Channel's "School Spirits", the Travel Channel, Coast to Coast AM and is the star of a brand-new documentary miniseries due out in October on one of the world's largest streaming services!
Join us October 4th to hear Chris' incredible story including a post-lecture meet and greet and paranormal investigation of the Canal Boat Museum (Tier 2 ticket only).
Due to space restrictions, there will be a maximum of 50 total tickets available.
Click the link for more information and to purchase tickets: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/a-paranormal-evening-with-chris-dicesare
Become an Erie Canalway Junior Ranger
This event welcomes all children accompanied by their parent or guardian
Scavenger Hunt Challenge
This event is welcome to all children accompanied by their parent or guardian.
Travelling Morrice Dancers
Morris dancing is a very old English country tradition. Since 1976, the members of the American Travelling Morrice, from as near as Syracuse and Binghamton and as far as California and England, have traveled to hundreds of communities to demonstrate colorful Morris dances.
The group will be traveling around our area so their start time is approximate. If you want to make sure you catch them, be at Chittenango Landing at 11:30 am.
Stories Out On The Town, with Cazenovia Public Library
This event begins at 10:30 AM with a short session of songs and stories geared toward young children and their families. The program typically lasts about 20–30 minutes, after which families are welcome to stay and explore the area on their own. It’s a fun and relaxed way to encourage early literacy while connecting families with the outdoors/local sites.
Bring a picnic if you'd like - Chittenango Landing has tables inside and out.
Cycle the Erie at Chittenango Landing
Cycle the Erie - with around 500 bicycles - will make a pit stop at Chittenango Landing! Come greet the riders, enjoy the museum, and meet our volunteers to tell you about the history of this special place along the Erie Canal. https://www.ptny.org/cycle-the-erie-canal/annual-bike-tour
Dinner and a Movie
Spend an evening with Abigail Martin, local biologist, as she talks about her experiences in the Pantanel of Brazil over the past 12 years.
A buffet dinner will be available along with drinks by Seneca Brew Pub & Erie Canal Brew Pub.
Dinner will be followed by the Premier of “Rise of the Jaguars” A 90-minute award winning movie.
Reserve now/ limited seating
Tickets will be $20
The movie will take place upstairs in the General Store at the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum. Individuals will be required to walk upstairs.
Boat Float 'n Folk Festival
The Boat Float ‘n Folk Festival is a family-friendly event for paddlers and non-paddlers, with folk music, blacksmiths, woodworkers, food and beverage trucks, a petting zoo, and… BUBBLES!
RESCHEDULED: Chittenango Landing Dry Dock Ownership
Tony Shea presents the results of his extensive research about Chittenango Landing’s ownership, from 1825 through 1972.
Volunteer Potluck
Just a little get together for everyone who would like to volunteer this year. Upcoming events, jobs that need doing, all to be discussed at our get together. Drop us a note, or call if you can attend.
Policing on the Erie Canal
Presenter: Jonathan Anderson
As the historian for the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, Jon will deliver a presentation focusing on crime on the Erie Canal. The topic includes the urban red-light districts, various crimes and law enforcement issues associated with the canal era. Subjects discussed include the Sabbatarian movement, canal laws, juvenile canal boys and the underground railroad. Q&A will follow his presentation.
There is no fee for this event but a donation is very much appreciated.
Central New York Erie Canal Museums Bicentennial Event Showcase
Each of the Central New York Erie Canal Museums and other historic sites throughout Central New York will present a showcase of planned events, services, and opportunities at their respective sites and what they will be offering during the 2025 Bicentennial year. Presentations will be made by Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum, the Erie Canal Museum, Canastota Canal Town Museum, Camillus Canal Park, Canal Society of New York State, Oneida Community Mansion House, Rome Waterways and Trails, Parks & Trails New York, Erie Canal Heritage Corridor, Chittenango Creekwalk and the Old Erie Canal Community Working Group.
Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum is pleased to be hosting this event at the Visitor’s Center. Please click the link below to register:
Talk About Painting with Historical Painter Robert Reed
Bob Reed will give a fascinating talk about his historical paintings and the Erie Canal boat models at the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum Visitor Center. The paintings he will be talking about are on the musuem walls, plus a new one he will be bringing.
This event is FREE but donations are appreciated
