Celebrate Theodore Roosevelt's Legacy During TR Weekend in Newcomb
Theodore Roosevelt, America’s 26th President.
Every September, the Adirondacks remember one of the most dramatic moments in American presidential history. During TR Weekend in Newcomb, New York, communities across the central Adirondacks come together for a three-day festival celebrating Theodore Roosevelt's extraordinary Night Ride to the Presidency through history programs, outdoor recreation, live entertainment, family activities, and community events.
In 2026, the celebration carries special significance as Newcomb commemorates the 125th anniversary of Theodore Roosevelt's historic journey from the slopes of Mount Marcy to the White House. Whether visitors come for Adirondack history, scenic hikes, wagon rides into Great Camp Santanoni, or simply a classic small-town festival, TR Weekend offers one of the Adirondacks' most distinctive September experiences.
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Why this anniversary matters.
On September 14, 1901, Theodore Roosevelt became the nation's 26th president—but the story began days earlier deep in the Adirondack wilderness.
TR loved camping, hunting and all the outdoor pursuits.
While climbing Mount Marcy, Roosevelt received word that President William McKinley's condition had taken a devastating turn following an assassination attempt.
Roosevelt hurried down the mountain before embarking on a legendary nighttime carriage ride through the Adirondacks to the North Creek train station, where he learned McKinley had died. Then he boarded a train to Buffalo to take the oath of office.
That remarkable journey forever linked the Adirondacks to American history, making Newcomb one of the few places where visitors can stand where a presidency quite literally began.
Listen: Theodore Roosevelt's Adirondack Night Ride (ADK Talks)
Before experiencing TR Weekend in Newcomb (or while driving there, listen to the remarkable true story behind Theodore Roosevelt's historic journey through the Adirondacks. In this episode of ADK Talks, we explore the circumstances that unfolded after Roosevelt received word on Mount Marcy that President William McKinley was dying—a chain of events that forever connected the Adirondacks to the American Presidency.
Whether planning a TR Weekend visit or exploring Theodore Roosevelt history in the Adirondacks year-round, this episode provides valuable context for one of New York's most remarkable historic journeys.
Adirondack history comes alive.
Rather than focusing on a single attraction, TR Weekend transforms Newcomb into a living history celebration.
One of the festival's signature events is an immersive reenactment of Theodore Roosevelt's swearing-in, featuring nationally recognized Roosevelt interpreter Joe Wiegand. Known for bringing the energetic president vividly to life, Wiegand doesn't simply recite history—he becomes Theodore Roosevelt, answering audience questions in character after the performance.
History enthusiasts can also hear conservation leader and author David Gibson discuss the Adirondack Park's conservation legacy, connecting Roosevelt's environmental vision with the region that helped shape it.
Historic Great Camp Santanoni near Newcomb.
Experience the Adirondacks the Roosevelt way.
Many of the weekend's most memorable experiences happen outdoors.
Visitors can reserve a horse-drawn wagon ride into the spectacular Great Camp Santanoni, explore the preserve through guided history walks, hike Goodnow Mountain with an interpreter, or join the Theodore Roosevelt Midnight Ride Bus Tour tracing Roosevelt's famous route from Newcomb to the North Creek Depot.
These experiences provide something many historical festivals cannot—a chance to stand in the very landscapes where history unfolded.
Listen: Inside Great Camp Santanoni in Newcomb (ADK Talks)
One of the signature experiences during TR Weekend is the opportunity to visit Great Camp Santanoni, one of the Adirondacks' grandest Great Camps. This ADK Talks episode offers an excellent introduction to the preserve's history, architecture, and preservation before stepping aboard the horse-drawn wagon or joining a guided tour during the festival.
Great Camp Santanoni is one of Newcomb's premier historic attractions and a highlight of TR Weekend, making this episode an ideal companion for visitors exploring Theodore Roosevelt history and Adirondack heritage.
More than a history festival.
While Roosevelt provides the inspiration, TR Weekend has all the ingredients of a classic Adirondack community celebration.
Families can browse the craft fair featuring Adirondack artisans, enjoy live music throughout the day, watch collegiate timber sports demonstrations, admire vintage automobiles, cheer on the Kids Fishing Derby, participate in the Friendly Feud game show, or fuel up with community breakfasts, dinners, bake sales, and local fundraising events supporting Newcomb Central School classes.
The result feels less like a museum program and more like an Adirondack hometown festival where history, recreation, and community naturally come together.
Joe Wiegand, esteemed Teddy Roosevelt reprisor, travels around the world educating audiences about TR’s legacy.
ADK Taste recommendation.
Plan to spend the entire Saturday in Newcomb. Begin with the craft fair and timber sports demonstrations, enjoy lunch in Overlook Park, then stay for the Theodore Roosevelt reenactment that evening. If reservations are available, don't miss the wagon ride into Great Camp Santanoni—it offers one of the most memorable ways to experience both Adirondack history and scenery during the weekend.
Planning an Adirondack getaway? ADK Taste rounds up the region's best festivals, hidden gems, restaurants, and experiences every week. Subscribe for free so you never miss what's happening around the Park.
Event details.
TR Weekend
Dates: September 11–13, 2026
Location: Throughout Newcomb, New York
Admission: Many activities are free. Some tours require advance reservations.
Visitors should check the official TR Weekend website and Facebook page for schedules, reservation information, and any event updates before traveling.
Frequently asked questions
What is TR Weekend in Newcomb?
TR Weekend is a three-day Adirondack festival celebrating Theodore Roosevelt's Night Ride to the Presidency through history programs, outdoor recreation, family activities, tours, and community events.
When is TR Weekend?
The 2026 celebration takes place September 11–13.
Where is Newcomb?
Newcomb is located in the central Adirondacks, about an hour from Lake Placid, Lake George, Old Forge, and the Lake Champlain region, making it an easy day trip or weekend destination.
Can visitors attend individual events?
Yes. Most activities welcome spectators, while some guided tours and wagon rides require advance reservations.
Do I need tickets?
Many events are free. Check the official website for reservation requirements and ticketed programs.
For more information about the 125th anniversary, visit the Teddy Roosevelt: Night Ride to the Presidency website and Facebook page.
Find the best places to eat, shop, stay and experience near Newcomb.
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