Hancock, NY Proudly Announces the Formation of the Western Catskills Visitors Association #WildWestWonder
HANCOCK, NY – Hancock is thrilled to announce the launch of the Western Catskills Visitors Association (WCVA) dba Wild West Wonder—a bold new initiative to unify marketing, tourism, and economic development efforts across the Upper Delaware River region. This regional marketing cooperative will bring together farmers markets, festivals, small businesses, artists, and municipalities to amplify the visibility and vitality of the Western Catskills—from Hancock to Callicoon, Roscoe to Deposit, and along the entire Scenic Byway corridor.
Official Website and Organization Launch: September 1, 2025
(WildWestWonder.com, launching August 30)
The Association is actively seeking support from the I LOVE NY and Market NY grant programs in 2027 to scale up its outreach, fund collaborative marketing campaigns, and deliver measurable economic impact throughout Delaware County and beyond.
If funded, the co-op will provide unified branding and promotion for:
The Hancock NY Farmers Market & Corridor-Wide Promotional Events
Signature Festival: The New Bluestone & Bluegrass Festival (August 2026)
Wall of Wonders - Murals at Bisbee Lumber & Supply (begins Aug 2025)
Bluestone Walk of Fame (village-wide sidewalk campaign)
New park developments and mural unveilings region-wide
The River, Road & Rail Art Trail expansion & management
A growing network of local businesses and visitor attractions
The Wild West Wonder Field Guide tourism booklet, covering 200+ miles (launching April 2026)
With a primary office in the Village of Hancock and a satellite location at the Callicoon Depot Upper Delaware Scenic Byway Visitor Center (opening 2026), Wild West Wonder is built for cross-county collaboration and deeply rooted events in the numerous communities it services.
"We’re proud to lead the way in bringing together multiple counties, more than 500k tourists and locals, and amazing projects that make our region unique," said Jerry Vernold, Supervisor of the Town of Hancock. "This co-op isn’t just about marketing—it’s about showing the state that we’re organized, committed, and ready to grow for the years ahead."
This announcement follows Hancock, NY’s recent recognition as the #1 Best Small Town in the USA by TimeOut New York. From scenic river views and historic downtowns to vibrant festivals, public art, and a welcoming community spirit, the Western Catskills truly stands out as a destination like no other.
To learn more, get involved, or support the campaign, visit:
WildWestWonder.com (Launching August 30)
Media Contact:
Richard H. Lowe, III
Director of Regional Economic Development | Western Catskills Visitors Association
director@wildwestwonder.com
