Old Fort Niagara to celebrate 300 years of history with 'epic' 2026 anniversary season

Old Fort Niagara Press Release & Graphic

In 2026, one of North America’s most storied landmarks will hit a monumental milestone. Old Fort Niagara is proud to announce a year-long celebration marking the 300th anniversary of the iconic French Castle in Youngstown.

Built in 1726, the French Castle is the oldest building in the entire Great Lakes Basin. For three centuries, it has stood guard over the mouth of the Niagara River as a silent witness to the birth of nations, serving as a military stronghold, a bustling trading post, and a vital meeting ground for European and Native American cultures. Garrisoned over the years by French, British and American soldiers, the building was restored during the 1920s and today stands as a popular destination for both local residents and travelers from throughout the world.

Old Fort Niagara file photos by Wayne Peters.

••••••••

“This isn’t just a birthday for a building; it’s a celebration of three centuries of frontier history,” said Robert Emerson, executive director of Old Fort Niagara. “From its construction by French artisans to its role in the American Revolution, the French Castle remains the heart of our site. Whether you haven’t visited us in while, or maybe never have, this is the year to join us as we bring this history to life like never before.”

2026 milestone events include:

•April 25: History symposium – National experts descend on Fort Niagara to uncover the secrets of the 18th-century New York frontier.

•June 6: The arrival and rededication – A dramatic maritime recreation of the arrival of French engineer Gaspard-Joseph Chaussegros DeLéry and his artisans and workers who built the French Castle. The day features a high-profile rededication ceremony with dignitaries from the U.S. and France, building trades demonstrations, a grand parade of regimental flags and military pageantry of the era.

•Aug. 1: USA 250th and Niagara County celebration – In a historic double-anniversary, the Fort will host the official Niagara County USA 250th celebration. This massive event features a two-day Revolutionary War Encampment, special tours, live musical entertainment, and an immersive “after dark” experience.

Old Fort Niagara file photos by Wayne Peters.

••••••••

In addition to the special 300th anniversary events, visitors can also enjoy Fort Niagara’s signature large-scale reenactments, living history activities, and educational programs throughout the year.

For more information on the 300th anniversary schedule and to plan your visit, check out www.oldfortniagara.org.