Women Inspired Events in Greater Syracuse

From empowering panel discussions and networking gatherings to art exhibits, performances, and history centered experiences, these events invite residents and visitors alike to learn, connect, and be inspired. Local organizations, cultural institutions, and community leaders come together to spotlight women entrepreneurs, artists, activists, educators, and changemakers who continue to leave their mark on Central New York.

Below, discover the many ways you can take part in Women’s History Month throughout Onondaga County.

Happy Birthday Matilda Joslyn Gage

Did you know Matilda Joslyn Gage was one of the earliest women’s rights activists in history and she lived right here in Onondaga County? Her story is one of many important stories in the region. Harriet Tubman, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, and Jikonsaseh among others all fiercely blazed a trail in the Finger Lakes Region.

On March 24 Matilda will be turning 200 this year, and to celebrate the Matilda Joslyn Gage home is throwing her party on Saturday March 21 from 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm. There will be a new exhibit by Gage Artist in Residence, Vanessa Johnson: Lifting As We Climb and a live music performance by Colleen Kattau. Tea, coffee, and chacutterie will be available throughout the day. In addition to the new exhibit spaces revealed, a live fundraising auction, brick fundraiser, and the release of the Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation Publishing House’s first book!

2026 CNY Women's Summit

Hosted by the CNY Women's Network, the 2026 CNY Women's Summit marks 5 years of impact, connection, and momentum. This year they will be diving into high-level programming led by industry experts designed to sharpen skills, expand influence, and reignite your purpose.

You can expect honest and impactful conversation with women who are shaping the future of business, leadership, and community. To build and better relationships that will go beyond the day and grow for years to come, and interact with small sessions and collaborative minds who all want to leave with actionable takeaways.

Be sure to get your 2026 CNY Women's Summit tickets today, the summit is expecting upwards of 500+ attendees this year.

F.I.R.E Festival

Female, Inspire, Rock, Empower Festival promotes women in all things. Sunday March 8 Middle Ages Brewery will be hosting this amazing event that will be welcoming a handful of female artists to the stage! Since it's inception in October 2022, this festival has grown to include more than 200 artists, musicians, vendors and dancers throughout Central New York and beyond. By filling rooms with female creators of all types, this festival hopes to inspire women - and all people - to do what they love.

This event will also benefit Vera House by raising funds, awareness and goods for the organization. 
*Vera House donations can be brought to the event. List of needed items are here: https://www.verahouse.org/wish-list-donation

Music artists will include: Karma Queen (acoustic), Isabella Destito, Mira Grimm, Triad Trio, Ashley Cox, Amanda Ashley, Kaylee Hale, Dani Rocca, Jessica Brown, Jess Novak, Chloe Danes, Sarah Blujus, Gina Holsopple and more.

There will be a dance segment from SpeakDanceCNY and Dancers North and two speakers: Niki Kaos and a representative from Vera House.

A Ladies night at the Landmark

Head downtown and grab drinks and dinner with your girls to see one of the many Landmark performances that will be happening through the month of March.

March 6: Maddox Batson Live!

March 7: Swan Lake

March 12: Dylan Scott - Till I can't, I will Tour

March 20 - 22: Book of Mormon

March 24: Bat Out of Hell - Musical

Whether you are attending a workshop, supporting a woman owned business, exploring a museum exhibit, or gathering with friends for a meaningful celebration, March offers opportunities to reflect on progress and look ahead with purpose. Each event contributes to a larger story, one rooted in equality, leadership, and community pride.