We Love Crystal Lake Celebration
The We Love Crystal Lake celebration series addresses a critical need for safe, inclusive, nature-based gathering spaces in the City of Newburgh—especially for BIPOC, low-income, and immigrant residents who have limited access to green spaces. By activating Newburgh’s largest green space, the event promotes ecological awareness, food justice, outdoor recreation, and community connection. It strengthens local pride while advancing our ongoing stewardship and restoration of Crystal Lake, a vital natural resource at the heart of the city. The celebration fosters health, joy, and belonging while demonstrating how well-designed public programming can transform neglected spaces into vibrant community hubs.
Young photographer, Jordan Oates, captured portraits of people holding “Newburgh Sanctuary” fans, symbolizing the joy and energy of our new chapter.
This event series is intentionally designed to bring together residents of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels through free, multilingual, culturally resonant programming. Activities such as kayaking, salsa movement, nature-based art, shared food, and hands-on land stewardship appeal to diverse interests and break down social and economic barriers. Our outreach prioritizes neighbors surrounding Crystal Lake, youth from our apprenticeships, elders, immigrant families, and long-time residents. By offering everything at no cost—including food—we ensure full accessibility and create space where every community member feels welcomed, valued, and connected to the land.
History
Crystal Lake is a 109-acre green space currently owned by the City of Newburgh. Designating these lands as a park and nature preserve would more than double Newburgh’s parkland and bring long-overdue equity to the surrounding neighborhood, which is 71% Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). It is the only ward in the city without access to a true park and the recreational opportunities afforded by protected lands.
In the 1950s, Crystal Lake was a beloved community hub for swimming, sunbathing, sailing, ice fishing, hiking, and lakeside gatherings. However, decades of illegal dumping and neglect left the area abandoned and forgotten. Over the last six years, local volunteers and organizations have revitalized the space—removing debris, restoring trails, planting gardens, and launching community programs. These efforts have reignited interest in conservation, strengthened community stewardship, and raised awareness of Crystal Lake’s importance as a vital natural ecosystem in the region.
Be a Steward
A steward of Crystal Lake is any resident, business, or community-based organization that supports Crystal Lake’s permanent protection.
As a steward, you’ll:
Receive our newsletter with campaign updates
Get a We Love Crystal Lake sticker to show your support
Be invited to events and celebrations at Crystal Lake
Join a network of neighbors working to protect and uplift this space
In return, we ask you to:
Visit Crystal Lake often and share its beauty
Spread the word—by reposting social media, forwarding newsletters, or inviting friends and neighbors to events
Join Us!
Your support and dedication are invaluable. Together, we will make a difference—not just for today, but for generations to come.
👉 Become part of the We Love Crystal Lake Initiative by signing up here:
