Centennial Celebration

 Celebrate 100 Years of Sleeping Giant State Park!

Join us on Saturday, October 12, 2024, for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration marking the centennial of Sleeping Giant State Park—exactly 100 years to the day since this beloved landmark first opened its gates to the public!

The Sleeping Giant Park Association (SGPA), in cooperation with the State of Connecticut, is thrilled to host this community-wide event, honoring the rich history and vibrant future of the park. SGPA was founded in 1924 with a singular mission: to acquire land and create Sleeping Giant State Park. Over the past century, we’ve remained dedicated to this cause, continually seeking opportunities to expand and preserve this natural treasure for generations to come.

This celebration is not just a reflection on the past 100 years but also a look forward to the future of Sleeping Giant State Park. It’s a day to connect with nature, enjoy time with family and friends, and be a part of the legacy of conservation that SGPA has championed for the past century.

10:00 – 11:00am
Remarks and Honors

Hear from elected and appointed officials as they reflect on the park’s past, present, and future. Confirmed speakers include:

• Luis Arata, President, Sleeping Giant Park Association
• Brenda Greer, Vice Chairwoman, Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation
• Michelle Piper-Mitchell, Chairwoman, Golden Hill Paugussett Tribal Nation
• Mike Lambert, Bureau Chief, Outdoor Recreation, CT DEEP
• Jeremy Hall, Assistant Division Director of Operations, CT State Parks
• Josh Elliott, State Representative, CT’s 88th District
• Lauren Garrett, Mayor, Town of Hamden

11:00am – 4:00pm
Concurrent Activities and Programs

Guided Hikes: What better way to celebrate the park’s centennial than by hitting the trails. Three hikes of varying difficulties will be offered:

Sleeping Giant History & Info: Stop by the Sleeping Giant Park Association table for information about the park, its history, and ways to get involved.

Trading Post: Stock up with limited edition merchandise from Campus Customs, commemorating the park’s centennial. Proceeds will support SGPA’s ongoing efforts to protect and care for the park, so you can feel good and look good, too!

Beer Garden: Stop by the beer garden and enjoy a pint of Sleeping Giant Hazy Pale Ale, brewed in collaboration with Counterweight Brewing Company in honor of the Centennial.

Food Trucks: Grab a bite to eat from one of these local vendors: CT Chowder Co.’s Get Stuffed Food Truck, Caseus’s Crispy Melty Food Truck, and Moon Rock Cookies. All food trucks will be located in the parking area the pavilion, serving up tasty treats for hungry hikers and attendees.

Hamden Fire Department Demonstration (2pm): Head over to the quarry for a demonstration of high-angle rescue (rescue and rappel techniques for cliff-side emergencies) from the Hamden Fire Department.

Community Partner Tables: Learn more about other local organizations that care about Sleeping Giant State Park. Partner organizations will be set up at the pavilion with information and activities, perfect for visitors of all ages and interests.

Live Music: Enjoy live performances from the QU a capella group “Legends” and QU professor rock band, “Rhythm Doctors”

And More: Additional plans are in the works to make this a memorable and special day. We’ll continue to update this page as additional activities and programs are confirmed – stay tuned!

Important Parking Information: Parking will be available at Sleeping Giant State Park on a first-come-first-served basis, and we’ve partnered with Quinnipiac University to secure additional parking at their North Lots, free of charge. Signage and parking attendants will help you navigate upon your arrival.

Mark your calendars and join us for this historic event! Whether you’re a longtime supporter of the park or discovering it for the first time, there’s something for everyone.