2024 marks over 35 years of the CNY Watchfire at the fairgrounds

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — The time has come once again, the 2024 CNY Memorial Day Watchfire is just days away.

At dusk, on Sunday, May 26, you can watch as the pile of wood and worn flags in the Brown Parking Lot at the New York State Fairgrounds is lit.

The annual watchfire is a ceremony — held by the CNY Veterans Recognition Foundation — that honors those who have served our country.

Originally, the use of watchfires began with General George Washington, who would light bonfires along the ridge line of the Palisades to warn his soldiers of the movements of the British Army in the Hudson Valley. He finally used them to signal the ceasefire at the end of the Revolutionary War, says CNYVRF

Today, Syracuse’s watchfire presents the community with a chance to respectfully retire any unserviceable American Flags they have, in addition to honoring our veterans. The watchfire itself consists of the flags, and wood, that are collected days before the ceremony.

The New York State Fairgrounds encourages people to bring their own tattered, worn, or faded American Flags for respectful burning on the pyre.

“In the Central New York Community, for over 35 years the Watchfire event has drawn thousands of visitors including veteran organizations, veterans, and volunteers throughout CNY’s military and veteran community. Watchfire ’ 24 will be lit at dusk, with over 5,000 American flags expected to be appropriately retired in a spectacular and dignified fashion,” said the CNYWVRF’s website.

Flag drop-off locations

These are American Legion Post locationsl and are to be used as drop-offs prior to the event.

• Cicero – 5575 Legionnaire Drive, Cicero
• East Syracuse – 135 W Manlius Street, East Syracuse
• Valley – 110 Academy Street, Syracuse
• Skaneateles – 1 Wainwright Lane, Skaneateles

Admission is free. The watchfire’s hours are from 5 p.m. through 11 p.m., and there will be vendors for food and drinks.

The CNYVRF is in need of volunteers this year. They are looking for parking attendants, general assistance, flag sorters, and more.

Click here to volunteer.

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