8 Things to Do This Labor Day Weekend
Labor Day Weekend is a well-deserved break for those of us adjusting to the busyness of the new semester. With classes off on Monday, there is plenty of time to explore everything Binghamton and the surrounding area has to offer! As a senior at Binghamton, I am always interested in revisiting annual events for nostalgia or finding one of the bountiful new experiences in the Southern Tier and beyond. Here are eight things to do this weekend based on my research and prior experience.
Make a trip to The NYS fair!
The New York State Fair is ongoing in Syracuse, with tons of events spattered all throughout Labor Day weekend. There is a large variety of experiences, shows and food — the best that New York has to offer. Concert events include performances from rapper JID, The Fray and Rochester’s prized local band Joywave.
Take a beautiful walk and support conservation
Ross Park Zoo hosts “Illumination Conservation”, a one-mile lantern-lit walk through the zoo in support of various animal and environmental conservation groups. Sunday is Dino Night, with a themed scavenger hunt and merchandise!
Enjoy a historic moment at the Rumble Ponies game!
The Binghamton Rumble Ponies will be playing three games against the Harrisburg Senators this weekend! On Friday, there will be a commemorative game for Bud Fowler, one of the first black professional baseball players alongside Jackie Robinson. The Harriet Tubman Center for Freedom and Equity will be unveiling a new marker in his honor on the Downtown Binghamton Freedom Trail. Stick around for fireworks after the games!
Come get a tour or a tarot reading!
The Phelps Mansion Museum is holding First Friday events, including Trolley Tours through downtown Binghamton! Come to the free admission 19th century scavenger hunt and events at the mansion itself. They also offer mediums and tarot card readings. Come learn about some Binghamton history in a fun and exciting way!
Check out the arts scene in downtown Binghamton!
The Broome County Arts Council will be hosting a number of shows and displays from local artists in Downtown Binghamton on their annual First Friday Art Walk! On my first Art Walk a few years back, I was amazed at the diversity of artists and displays. It is a good time to wander, grab food, and enjoy the beauty and innovation of local artists!
Enjoy fresh, local produce!
Looking for a local option for fresh food, or just a fun experience? Come explore the Broome County Regional Farmers Market this Saturday! This is an easy way to support local vendors and eat fresh, delicious food.
Come support local music artists!
For something more low-key than the State Fair, check out the George F. Johnson Memorial Library’s summer concert series. They are capping it off with a performance from Matthew Beach! So far, I have never regretted going to see a local Binghamton artist perform.
Stay on campus for cheap, quality entertainment!
Spend one dollar at Lecture Hall to hear performances from all ten of Binghamton’s a capella groups and our very own improv comedy group! Despite my initial dislike of a capella, I am always entertained by the Dollar Show and find it an inspiring start to the semester.
Stephen Folkerts is an intern for the Office of Public Media and Relations, and a senior majoring in English. He hopes to work in ministry and publishing. In his spare time, he enjoys jazz drumming, poetry and basketball.
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