Watkins Glen Promotions, Inc.

Watkins Glen Promotions, Inc. is a dynamic 501(c)(3) non-profit organization led by a dedicated board of volunteers committed to fostering community vitality through the curation and management of exceptional FREE special events in Schuyler County. Our mission is to celebrate the region's natural beauty, ignite local creativity, and unite the community, while driving tourism, stimulating the economy, and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

 

Our Signature Festivals for 2026:

1. Watkins Glen Corvette Festival: Thunder at the Glen:

Join us for the second year of this festival celebrating the birthplace of the Corvette Concept. A meet & greet, cocktail hour, and downtown car show are all aspects of this fun weekend set for May. 

 

2. The Waterfront Festival and Cardboard Boat Regatta:

Celebrate the beauty of our lakeside community at the Waterfront Festival and Cardboard Boat Regatta. This exciting event showcases our close connection to Seneca Lake and features the whimsical Cardboard Boat Regatta, where creative minds craft boats out of cardboard and put them to the test on the water. It's a day of fun, laughter, and unity by the water's edge.

3. Odessa Community Day:

 Celebrate all things local at this festival located in downtown Odessa, NY. Live music, vendors, free children's activities, and more await you in this charming village in Schuyler County.

4. The Grand Prix Festival:

Rev up your engines and step back in time with the Grand Prix Festival. This festival pays tribute to Watkins Glen's rich racing heritage, as we host classic car displays, vintage racing demonstrations, and Old Course laps through our historic streets. It's a thrilling celebration of our automotive history and the high-speed spirit that defines our town.

 

5. The Falls Harvest Festival:

As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, join us for the Falls Harvest Festival, where we embrace the beauty of autumn. With local artisans, delicious food, and live entertainment, this event celebrates the bountiful harvest season and brings the community together for a day of warmth and camaraderie.

 

6. Watkins Glen Village Christmas:

Capture the magic of the holiday season at Watkins Glen Village Christmas. Our festive decorations, holiday music, and visits from Santa Claus transform our village into a winter wonderland. This enchanting event spreads holiday cheer, unites families, and creates cherished memories for all.

 

Our commitment to hosting these SIX major festivals goes beyond the surface. We recognize the significant impact they have on our community. By attracting visitors to our charming village through these festivals, we not only boost tourism but bring life into the local economy. The festivals and gatherings we organize generate excitement, buzz, and a renewed sense of enthusiasm among both locals and visitors.

Furthering our reach, our organization also operates a retail storefront operation that uses it’s profits to extend funds for the festivals and enrich the quality further.

One of our proudest achievements is the power of these festivals to unite our village. The sense of togetherness that arises from these gatherings is truly extraordinary. With the support of our hundreds of dedicated volunteers, we ensure that each year's festivals are a resounding success, leaving lasting memories and strengthening the bonds of our community.

All of our festivals depend on support and sponsorship from local businesses and individuals, as well as the local volunteers who donate their time and abilities to pull these large-scale events off without a hitch.

At Watkins Glen Promotions, Inc., we're more than an organization; we're the pulse of our community. Join us as we continue to build a brighter, more vibrant Schuyler County.