Genesee Country Village & Museum (GCV&M) opened its 50th anniversary season earlier this month with new exhibits, expanded programming, and a full calendar of events designed to give visitors something new to experience all season long.
In 2026, as the United States marks its 250th anniversary, GCV&M celebrates a milestone of its own. The Museum’s 50th anniversary season commemorates a half-century as a living history destination dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of the 19th-century Genesee Valley region. Special celebrations and events—including several $5 admission days—will mark the occasion throughout the season.
Since opening its doors in 1976 with just 35 historic buildings, the Museum has become the largest living history Museum in New York and the third largest in the country, now featuring 68 historic structures, the John L. Wehle Gallery, a Nature Center, and robust year-round programs that bring history, art, and nature to life for visitors of all ages.
“We’re thrilled to be celebrating our 50th season with the community,” said Becky Wehle, president and CEO. “As the largest living history Museum in New York and the third largest in the United States–right in Rochester’s backyard–we’re proud of what has been built here over the past 50 years. There is an incredible depth of experiences here that many people are still discovering, and we invite everyone to come out and be part of this milestone season.”
New this season, GCV&M is opening a natural playground between the Great Meadow and the Genesee Country Nature Center, offering a space for children to play while connecting to the Museum’s broader nature programming. Visitors can also meet the two newest working farm animals, heritage breed Randall Lineback oxen, “Tom” and “Abe,” who will join the Museum family in June.
A Year of Celebration
The 2026 season features new exhibits, expanded programming, and a full slate of events and commemorative activities. Highlights include (*indicates special opportunities to celebrate the 50th):
- Friday, May 22: 50th Anniversary Day! ($5 Admission) *
Celebrate 50 years with $5 admission for all, extended evening hours, special tours, and of course, birthday cake! - Friday, May 29: History on Tap
Craft beer lovers can savor tastings and see a working 19th-century brewery. Live music, food, craft beer, wine, cider, and GCV&M’s own historical brews. - Saturday & Sunday, June 14-15: Celtic Faire
Celtic traditions, bagpipes, Highland games, Irish dancing, traditional foods, and more. - Saturday, July 4: Independence Day*
Patriotic fun, immersive experiences, and good old-fashioned revelry. - Saturday, July 11: Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) Concert *
A special summer evening RPO performance on the Great Meadow, featuring a variety of pieces recognizing the 250th anniversary of the United States. - Saturday, July 25: Centennial Expo*
Commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the United States and learn how America celebrated its first 100 years. - Saturday, September 19: The Whirl Fundraiser*
A special evening of celebration and preserving the history, art, and nature of our region.
Kids Free Days
Kids 12 and under receive free admission to the Museum on the following dates: Thursday, June 19 (Juneteenth); Saturday, July 4 (Independence Day); Thursdays in August; and Monday, October 12 (Indigenous Peoples’ Day).
Share Your Memories
Genesee Country Village & Museum invites friends, past visitors, volunteers, and community partners to share memories and stories from their experiences at the Museum by filling out the form at https://forms.gle/zfsu9rUui3sxJdvL8. Submitted photos, videos, voice memos, and written recollections will be showcased across the Museum’s social channels and promotional materials throughout the year.
Planning a visit
The Museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. through September 6, with reduced days/hours of operation throughout September, October, November, and December. Visit http://www.gcv.org to explore upcoming events. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance and save.
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