We’re Celebrating 175 Years with a Year of Events and Activities!
Oakwood Cemetery’s 175-year history is a testament to the rich heritage and enduring legacy of the Troy community.
Established in 1850, Oakwood is more than a final resting place—it is a historic landmark that tells the stories of generations who shaped the region. From prominent industrialists and civic leaders to everyday citizens, the cemetery serves as a chronicle of Troy’s past, preserving its cultural and architectural treasures.
For the community, Oakwood is a place of remembrance, reflection, and education. Its stunning landscapes, monuments, and mausoleums attract historians, genealogists, and visitors who seek to connect with history. The cemetery also serves as an outdoor museum, offering walking tours, events, and programs that celebrate its significance.
As we honor 175 years, we recognize Oakwood’s role in linking the past to the present, ensuring that the legacy of those who came before us continues to inspire future generations.
Open House at the Warren Chapel
April 26, 2025 | 9am-11am | $10pp | Warren Chapel Meetup | Christie Fronhofer
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/open-house-at-the-warren-chapel
Here is your chance to catch a rare glimpse inside this fascinating structure. The Warren Chapel, once the only privately owned property in the cemetery, opens its doors to visitors. Hear how generations of Warrens shaped the city of Troy from the Revolutionary War up until the 1990s. It contains one of the last remaining operating Meneely Bells in its beautiful bell tower.
Spring Bird Walk
May 3, 2025 | 8am-10:30am | $15pp | Flagpole Meetup |Heidi Klinowski
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/spring-bird-walk
All levels, including beginners, are welcome on this annual Rite of Spring. Led by experienced birder and Oakwood Volunteer Heidi Klinowski, we’ll look for colorful birds like Orioles and Bluebirds and keep an eye (and ear) out for exciting visitors like warblers, vultures, or even a Bald Eagle. Bring binoculars and wear sturdy shoes. A few loaner binoculars may be available.
Tea at the Earl
May 10, 2025 | 2pm-4pm| $25pp | Chapel Meetup | Hosted by the Friends of Oakwood Cemetery
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/tea-at-the-earl
Join us for tea in the exquisite Gardner Earl Chapel. Reserve a table in the gorgeous room while bathing in the rich jewel colors of the beautiful stained-glass windows. Enjoy tea or coffee and an assortment of delicious confections. A mini-history of the chapel will complete the day.
Stories from the Stones
May 17, 2025 | 4pm | $25pp | Flagpole Meetup | Bring a flashlight
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/stories-from-the-stones
Back by popular demand! This guided tour goes deep into Oakwood at twilight with the glow of a lantern to light the way. Guides will lead us on a one-mile walk to select gravesites. We will meet with costumed interpreters who will share their amazing stories. NOTE: This is not a “haunted” tour.
Memorial Day Ceremony and Flag-Laying
May 24, 2025 | 9am-10am | Free | Flagpole Meetup
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/stories-from-the-stones
Join Oakwood Cemetery and the Veterans of Lansingburgh for our annual wreath-laying ceremony, ringing of the Meneely Bell, and placement of flags at the Soldiers' Plot. Several community organizations will also be represented.
Family Night Concert on the Lawn
June 16, 2025 | 7pm-8pm | Free | Lawn in Front of Earl Chapel | Bring Chairs
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/family-night-concert-on-the-lawn
Bring the entire family and enjoy free pony rides and the music of the Colonie Town Band. Children will have the opportunity to conduct the band. Snacks will be available for purchase.
Twilight Cemetery Tour
July 31, 2025 | 6pm-9pm | $20pp | Flagpole Meetup | Heidi Klinowkski
Bring a flashlight. Wear sturdy shoes.
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/twilight-cemetery-tour
Discover the history and beauty of Oakwood as we amble through the darkening cemetery. We’ll visit the graves of a variety of our “residents” and learn how they lived and died. The grave of Uncle Sam, the Overlook at sunset, and a gushing waterfall are highlights. We may see or hear some of Oakwood’s wildlife too!
Family Mausoleums of Oakwood
August 16, 2025 | 9am-11:30am | $20pp | Flagpole Meetup
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/family-mausoleums-of-oakwood
Oakwood volunteers lead you on a combination walking/driving tour to several opulent mausoleums at Oakwood. They will share the stories of the wealthy families that rest here and a rare glimpse inside some of these beautiful memorials.
SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND EVENTS – October 16-19, 2025
Mark your calendars and plan to join us for a special weekend of events commemorating the 175th anniversary of Oakwood Cemetery. INFORMATION FOR ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND EVENTS WILL BE POSTED SHORTLY.
Evening at the Earl
October 16, 2025 | 5:30pm-8pm
Our annual fundraising gala returns for a special night honoring our anniversary. (Cocktail attire)
Victorian Tea & Lawn Party
October 18, 2025 | 11:30am-4pm
A traditional day of fun and games on the great lawn of the cemetery.
Live Music with the Dave Lambert Band
Trolley Rides
”Name the Gargoyle” Contest
Oakwood Cemetery Museum
Tours and Talks at the Earl
October 19, 2025 | Noon-4pm
Learn more about the history of this magnificent facility and its inhabitants.
Gardner Earl Memorial Chapel Tour
November 29, 2025 | 1:00pm-2:00pm | $15pp | Chapel Meetup | Heidi Klinowski
Children under 12 free. | Limited to 30 participants.
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/thanksgiving-weekend-gardner-earl-memorial-chapel-tour
Looking for something different to do on this holiday weekend? Join us for a tour of the breathtaking Gardner Earl Chapel. Hear the story of the young man who inspired this magnificent National Historic Landmark as you marvel at the Victorian grandeur of spectacular stained glass windows, marble mosaics, and stone carvings. You’ll have the option to peek into one of the old cremation retorts.
Winter Luminary Walk
November 29, 2025 | 4:30pm-7:00pm | $10pp | Earl Chapel Meetup | Friends of Oakwood Cemetery
https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/thanksgiving-weekend-winter-luminary-tour
Be enchanted by Oakwood under the stars in a winter wonderland. Stroll through a luminary-lit path to a hot chocolate and cookie stop at the beautiful Warren Chapel. This tour starts in the Earl Chapel where you can capture your evening at our photo area. This is a self-guided tour to enjoy at your own pace.
YEAR-LONG ACTIVITIES
Sound Meditation for Deep Relaxation in the Earl Chapel
Geralyn and Michael O’Reilly, certified Sound Meditation Practitioners, use sound as a vehicle to promote deep relaxation, offering many health benefits.
March 8 | 2pm-3pm
April 30 | 6pm-7pm
May 14 | 6pm-7pm
June 11 | 6pm-7pm
July 9 | 6pm-7pm
August 27 | 6pm-7pm
September 10 | 6pm-7pm
October 8 | 6pm-7pm
November 8 | 2pm-3pm
Offered by donation on site. Space is limited. Registration required at: https://www.emeraldmindbody.com/
Bring a mat, cushions, a blanket, or anything that makes you feel cozy as you immerse yourself in the deeply relaxing sounds from the Earl Chapel’s amazing acoustics.