With the winter officially behind us, it’s time to look forward to the season of growth and optimism—spring! The days are longer, the weather is warmer and the smiles are brighter as we exit the chilly tundra for greener pastures. But before we get to May flowers, we’ll have to pass through a few April showers.

Truthbomb: A little rain never hurt anyone. And while you may not be dancing in it, the wet stuff gives a great excuse for hunkering down in the cozy comfort of the great indoors. Not sure where to start? That’s what we’re here for.

Check out these 16 rainy-day activities to enjoy in the Finger Lakes.

Every February, Americans honor the contributions and achievements of African-American culture during Black History Month. The overwhelming response and support of what started as a weeklong celebration in 1926 helped expand the event to an entire month 50 years later when President Gerald Ford beckoned the country to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

Roses are red. 
Violets are blue. 
2019  
IS THE YEAR FOR YOU!  

It's time to ring in the New Year - the Finger Lakes way! From ice skating and skiing to live music and fireworks, find your FLX New Year's celebration, as we prepare to ring in 2019! 

Thanksgiving and Black Friday and Cyber Monday—oh, my! Each year, the fourth weekend in November kicks off the start of the holiday season, and here at Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, we want to be sure you’re ready. 

Think you need to be a pro photographer with lots of gear to capture awesome memories of your travels? Not today! Following these simple steps with your smartphone to help improve your personal photo library and gain followers. Although I am a professional photographer, I use my phone all the time for personal photos and social media. These are just some of my best tips for photographing on the go!

As most New Yorkers know, our state has a rich and storied history—from the 13 colonies to a state with one of the country’s largest populations. A couple of times a year, New York likes to celebrate that history through its Path Through History weekends.

But what does Path Through History mean, exactly? 

The summer months bring sunny-skied vacations, long laughing nights and rambling road trips, but when it’s time to hunker down and gather ‘round the dinner table, there’s no better place to grab ingredients for a fresh meal than a local Finger Lakes farmers market.

Often viewed as a great alternative to eating out, farmers markets provide a venue for farmers to sell directly to consumers, which translates to the freshest fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses in town. Need some arugula for that salad? Check. Some cheddar for Mom’s mac and cheese that you traveled hours for? No problem. How about some juicy strawberries for an afternoon snack? The farmers market has you covered.

It’s here!

After a year of planning and constructing, the Finger Lakes Welcome Center in Geneva is open to the public. And let’s just say—it’s worth the wait. 

The Finger Lakes isn’t only a beautiful place to make new memories with your loved ones. It’s also an area filled with nostalgic bliss—a place to share deep-rooted memories with the people you care about most. And historically speaking, the older generation tends to be responsible for carrying family legacies and holding the keys to a past long ago, but never forgotten. There’s a lot to learn from them to be sure, and many experiences to pass on and share together. But who says memories can’t be passed from kids to adults, too?