Chenango County

Spring into Chenango County

AUDREY ROBINSON, DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & TOURISM AT COMMERCE CHENANGO

Simon and Garfunkel used springtime to describe the beginning of the life cycle: “Look around / Grass is high / Fields are ripe / It’s the springtime of my life.”

In Chenango County, like the rest of Central New York, we all look forward to the change of each season, and after the long, cold winter, spring is an unparalleled favorite. The flowers popping up, the birds chirping, and the sun shining to bring us longer days.

What makes us different? The outstanding beauty of our trails, the area lakes and streams, our small-town rural charm, the numerous parks, and most of all, the chance for relaxation.

Let’s not forget the holiday that depicts the very essence of spring—Easter. Daffodils are popping up, and Peter Cottontail is hopping down the bunny trail with colored eggs, Easter baskets, and new Easter clothes. Having new clothes for Easter is deeply rooted in European customs and

led to the same practice here in America. Wearing a brand new outfit for Easter Sunday has become one of the most commonly celebrated traditions for families. In my family, my outfit always included black leather shoes and short white gloves, and boy, did I think I was something!

Chenango County is known for its safe, family-friendly environment. It’s time to have an Easter Egg Hunt or picnic in one of the local parks or throw a fishing rod in one of our 235 miles of trout streams or 115 miles of warm water rivers and many ponds and lakes, perfect for floating down in a canoe or kayak.

What also makes us different is our well-known festival season!

First up is the DEC South Otselic Fishing Heritage Event. In its 13th year, this special oneday community-wide event is located along the scenic Otselic River. Fish hatchery tours, fishing clinics, demonstrations, antiques, food, and a tour through the iconic Gladding Braided Products that has been around since 1816.

Next is the world’s longest

single-day flat-water marathon canoe race, aptly named the General Clinton Canoe Regatta. Past entrants for the 70-mile endurance race have included world-class athletes from all over the U.S. and Canada, who compete for over $25,000 in cash and prizes.

Adding to the start of the festival season is the Rolling Antiquers Annual Antique Auto show and the exciting action at the Unadilla Valley Sports Center in New Berlin.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention one of our major outdoor attractions that are open all year round from dawn to dusk— Rogers Environmental Education Center. Along with the many hiking trails, other facilities include a bird cabin, a Visitor Center with interactive exhibits, and a picnic area. There is no charge, but contributions are encouraged.

Whether you are here for a short visit or are considering a relocation to our area, we welcome you warmly. For ‘Everything Chenango,’ go to our website— www.visitchenango.com, or call 607-334-1400 to get your free visitors guide.