Upstate New York To Get Iconic Twilight Zone Statue

Fans can soon visit a statue that will be on display in upstate New York.

The Twilight Zone was hosted by Rod Serling who wrote episodes for this TV series. Serling has ties to New York state since he was born in Syracuse, NY and moved to Binghamton, NY with his family.

"Walking Distance" was a Twilight Zone episode that aired in 1959.  Serling was inspired to create this based on a gazebo and carousel. Atlas Obscura shared that the gazebo and carousel in Binghamton, NY inspired Serling to create the "Walking Distance" episode.

Twilight Zone fans, like myself, have visited Recreation Park in Binghamton, NY to see a gazebo that inspired Serling to create a fan favorite episode.

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

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

When I visited, the carousel was not operating but maybe it does during a different time. Along with this gazebo, visitors will soon have the chance to see another piece of art on display for Serling.

A Rod Serling Statue Will Be Available For Fans To Visit In Upstate New York

The Rod Serling Memorial Foundation shared information about a Twilight Zone statue that will be in an upstate New York park.

They mentioned that this foundation raised over $47,000 to create a statue of Rod Serling. The Rod Serling Memorial Foundation explained that there will be additional funds to continue this creation but they are thankful for their supporters.

Fans can gather this summer to see the Rod Serling statue in Binghamton, NY.

How Was This Rod Serling Statue Created For Recreation Park In Binghamton, NY?

The Rod Serling Memorial Foundation explained that this iconic statue was created by Statues.com which is in Utah. They were also working with the City of Binghamton and the Parks Department for installment.

They chose a specific location for Serling's statue to be placed in Binghamton, NY. The Rod Serling Memorial Foundation mentioned,

"If there’s anywhere on the planet that this eternal effigy of Rod Serling truly belongs, it is nestled within Binghamton’s Recreation Park. "

They continued to explain,

"A fixture of Serling’s beloved childhood, Recreation Park is the setting that inspired Twilight Zone’s “Walking Distance” and so much more of his nostalgia-tinged work."

 

SEE MORE: Do You Know The 4 New York State Towns Called Out In The Twilight Zone?

When Will Twilight Zone Fans Be Able To Visit Rod Serling's Statue In Binghamton, NY?

The Rod Serling Memorial Foundation shared that the Rod Serling's statue will be available to be viewed for the first time at Recreation Park in Binghamton, NY this summer.

On the third day of SerlingFest 2024 in Binghamton, NY, fans can come together to celebrate the Twilight Zone with a Statue Dedication Ceremony.

They shared,

"We are all set to dedicate Rod’s statue - and formally gift it to the city of Binghamton - at noon on September 15. Got your tickets for SerlingFest yet?"

 

What Dates Will SerlingFest2024 Take Over Binghamton, NY?

A Serling Centennial, SerlingFest2024 will take place in Binghamton, NY where Serling lived and will highlight the Twilight Zone and 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.

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

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 SerlingFest2024 and see this statue? Tell us more below.