Upstate New York To Host Major Festival For Twilight Zone Anniversary

Rod Serling was the host of The Twilight Zone and also wrote the episodes.

The Rod Serling Archive mentioned that Serling was born in Syracuse, NY and he moved with his family to Binghamton, NY. They also explained that Serling served in the military before going to college in Ohio and later working in New York City.

Serling moved into television and freelance writing which was when the Twilight Zone was born. Twilight Zone fans still honor this iconic TV show and continue to watch their favorite episodes.

An Upstate New York Town Inspired A Fan Favorite, Twilight Zone Episode

Atlas Obscura shared information about Rod Serling and an episode that was inspired from his hometown.

"Walking Distance" was the Twilight Zone Episode that Rod Serling was inspired to create based on a gazebo and carousel. This episode aired in 1959 and was the fifth one.

Atlas Obscura shared that the gazebo and carousel in Binghamton, NY inspired Serling to create the "Walking Distance" episode. I was excited to find out the location of this park and took a visit there.

Atlas Obscura also mentioned that 

"The setting of the story is based on a real carousel that has been in continuous operation since 1925 in Recreation Park in Binghamton, New York, where the visionary creator of the famous television series grew up."

Twilight Zone fans can visit the Recreation Park in Binghamton, NY to see history. There's a plaque in the middle of the gazebo that states, 

“Rod Serling, Creator of The Twilight Zone, “Walking Distance.”

Did You Know About The 4 New York State Towns Called Out In The Twilight Zone?

Recently, I watched the Twilight Zone marathon. During some of the episodes, I was excited to learn that many New York state towns were mentioned.

The Twilight Zone episode, The Arrival, says Buffalo, NY in it.

The Mirror Image episode, actors mention more New York state towns such as Cortland, NY where they are waiting for a bus tin a bus station. 

During the Midnight Sun episode, actors mentioned Ithaca, NY of where a painting was inspired by and Syracuse, NY of where a family is traveling to.

The Odyssey of Flight 33 mentions the New York World's Fair.

Twilight Zone fans will be able to attend a festival dedicated to Rod Serling and this iconic TV show.

Upstate New York To Host Major Festival For Twilight Zone Anniversary

SerlingFest 2024, A Serling Centennial will take place in Binghamton, NY where Rod Serling lived. This exciting festival will highlight the Twilight Zone and Rod Serling.

On September 13, 2024 from 6pm until 10pm, there will be a Rod Serling video marathon which will highlight rare shows along with the Twilight Zone.

On September 14, 2024 from 10am until 8pm, there will be author signings, readings, presentations, trivia contests and more. On September 15, 2024, there will be a statue dedication ceremony at Recreation Park in Binghamton, NY.

Tickets can be found on RodSerling.com and the proceeds from these events will go towards the Rod Serling Memorial Foundation.

A Serling Centennial will take place at the Forum Theatre in Binghamton, NY. Additional information can be found with the Rod Serling Memorial Foundation's website and social media platforms.

What is your favorite Twilight Zone episode? Will you attend SerlingFest 2024? Tell us more below.