Sasquatch Calling Festival makes return to Whitehall

WHITEHALL, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- Whitehall is not only known for being the birthplace of the U.S. Navy but also for celebrating a specific mythical being with large feet. The 2024 Sasquatch Calling Festival grows yearly, bringing bigfoot believers nationwide to the small upstate village.

The festival is on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Skenesborough Park. Participants can expect to hear from Sasquatch researchers who have created presentations for believers about the lore and historical presence of Sasquatch in the Whitehall area.

Over 125 vendors will set up shop in the park and sell various goods, including food, crafts, bounce houses, paranormal investigation groups, handmade items, and several types of Sasquatch merchandise. From noon to 5 p.m., a beer garden and live music from Swamp Frog will be located just past the Whitehall Volunteer Fire Department in Riverside Park by The Railyard Restaurant and Cigar Brothers Brewery.

The day finishes with the calling contest at 5 p.m. in the Skenesborough Park Amphitheater. Participants will bellow for Bigfoot and recognize the top three calls.

The festival is smoke-free, and adults must accompany all kids under 15. Pets are invited to participate in the festivities, provided they are leashed and cleaned up after.

Presentations

• 10 a.m.- Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Welcome Presentation
• 10:30 a.m.- Paul Bartholomew
• 11:15 a.m.- Steve Kulls
• Noon- Center Stage Dance Studio
• 12:45 p.m.- Bruce Hallenbeck
• 1:30 p.m.- Brian Gosselin
• 2:15 p.m. Mike Anne
• 3 p.m.- Emily Fleur
• 3:45 p.m.- Maya Wiskoski BOCES Presentation
• 4:15 p.m.- Presenter Panel Q&A
• 5 p.m.- Calling Contest

Festival Organizer and Whitehall native Barbara Spoor said she is excited for the festival to be bigger than ever. She also said the Sasquatch Calling Festival committee had several new volunteers.

"I am so grateful for the support so many people give this family-friendly event," Spoor said. "It's amazing to read comments online about families who travel miles and miles just to come to this event every year. It has become a cherished tradition for many and an amazing event for Whitehall."