Events for September 16, 2026

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Autumn Glow Lantern Festival

Visitors will step into the dazzling wonderland of light and color as hundreds of artisan-made lanterns, each made of hand-painted silk cloth draped over a frame filled with LED lights, bring creatures inspired by Chinese legends and myths to life. Each unique piece holds a story of its own that will be told to visitors to help contextualize their experience even more. The festival will also showcase a high-energy acrobatic show featuring the award-winning Zigong Acrobatic Troupe. From gravity-defying stunts to the mesmerizing art of face-changing, this is entertainment guests won't forget. The circus group has traveled the world and will perform incredible showstopping acts including juggling, balancing, face-changing and more. Guests can also enjoy light swings, see-saws, tunnels, and food and drink options on-site. The Festival is open Thursdays to Sundays, August 27, 2026 – November 1, 2026. Each night is open from 6:30 p.m. - 10 p.m., with the last entry at 9 p.m. Tickets are ONLY available at the official Autumn Glow Website found here.

America250 Book Club: “Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution”

For our next America250 Book Club, we will read Espionage and Enslavement in the Revolution: The True Story of Robert Townsend and Elizabeth by Claire Bellerjeau and Tiffany Yecke Brooks. The book focuses on the story of Elizabeth (Liss), an enslaved woman who became entangled with the vast spy network operating in wartime New York. She crosses paths with many important figures from this era, including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and John André. Elizabeth's journey brings a new perspective to America's founding – that of an enslaved Black woman seeking personal liberty in a country fighting for its own. This program is only open to members of SCHS. To register and receive more information, including a list of meeting dates and the first reading assignment, please email Madeline at programs@schenectadyhistorical.org.