Along with New Year celebrations, there will be some birthdays and anniversaries to celebrate in 2009.

The Louisiana State Parks system is nearing the century mark with a yearlong celebration of its 75th anniversary this year, including a few special events hosted by St. Tammany Parish’s two state parks.

“For 75 years, Louisiana’s state parks have protected and celebrated the state’s cultural, historical and natural resources,” Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu, whose office oversees the state park system, said in a recent press release. “Millions of visitors have experienced our unique heritage, thanks to our parks and historic sites.” The celebration will begin with a 75th anniversary commemoration at the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site in St. Martinville Jan. 17. It will be followed with celebrations at Lake Bistineau State Park, Chicot State Park and Chemin-A-Haut State Park commemorating the Civilian Conservation Corps that developed and founded several state parks throughout the state.

One of the oldest, Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville, opened in 1938, will also host a celebration commemorating the CCC March 21.

Fairview State Park near Madisonville, along with Fontainebleau and some 35 parks statewide, will host a Day in the Park party June 6 with free admission and refreshments for all visitors. Visitors can also enjoy free entrance to many of the state parks during the celebratory events, Sharon Broussard with the state park system said.

The 75th anniversary bash will conclude with the opening of three new parks in late 2009 and early 2010: Bogue Chitto State Park near Franklinton, Palmetto Island State Park near Abbeville and Fort Randolph State Historic Site in Pineville.

Fairview State Park opened in 1963 and features the historic Otis House, originally built in the 1880s. Fontainebleau features the brick ruins of a sugar mill built in 1829 by Mandeville founder Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville.

For information go to www.crt.state.la.us/parks.