Unique and Fun Labor Day Activities for the Plattsburgh, New York Area

The Battle of Plattsburgh, NY, fought on the shores of Lake Champlain during the war of 1812, tends to be the star of Labor Day weekend in the area. If you are a history buff, these three days may seem custom-made for you! Don't worry, for those less inclined toward historical reenactments, there are plenty of other fun things to do.

On Saturday, September 3 at Noon is the Dewey's Tavern Memorial, hosted at Dewey's Tavern, Route 276 in Champlain (Map). The troops quartered here during the war, and was the site of many important war conferences.

Sunday, September 4 from 1:00pm-5:00pm brings the Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration Local Band Revue to Clinton Community College (Map). The lineup includes Back Porch Band at 1:00 p.m., Charlie Stone & Split Rock at 2:30 p.m., and Lita Kelly & Joan Crane at 4:00 p.m..

On Monday, September 5, there will be a trail re-enactment to remember the soldiers who marched from and through several towns to the main battle site. The march will begin at 11:45am at Beekmantown School (Map) and march to Culver Hill for a memorial at 1:00pm, then on to the Halsey's Corners Memorial at 3:00pm near the corner of Beekman St. and Boynton Ave in Plattsburgh. All of these activities are free.

Battle of Plattsburgh events conclude with a lecture by Patrick Fitzsimmons at Trinity Episcopal Church in Plattsburgh (Map) about the Battle and how it has affected the area.

Saturday, September 3 is RACE DAY at Airborne Speedway in Plattsburgh (Map)! Grandstands Open at 4:00pm, Kid's rides open at 5:30pm, and post-time is at 6:00pm. Adult Admission is $12.00, Kids 12 and Under Free. This information is subject to change, so check Airbornes' website before you make plans.

One of the Summer's best free attractions in Plattsburgh is the Farmers and Crafters Market on Durkee Street (Map). It's open September 3rd from 9:00am to 2:00pm and offers a great selection of local produce, foods, and crafts.

Finally, if you're looking for a relaxing weekend on the beach, the Plattsburgh Municipal Beach is open from September 3 to September 6. This beautiful fresh water beach is complete with picnic tables and grills, concession stands, bathrooms, a nature trail, and showers, and open from 11:00am to 7:00pm.

Hiking, cycling, sailing and golf are also popular pastimes in the Plattsburgh/Lake Champlain area! For tourism information, check out the resources below.