Autumn’s Enchanting Celebrations in the Empire State
As autumn arrives, New York transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of colors and sensory delights. The city and its surroundings offer an irresistible feast for the senses, with each corner showcasing the season’s splendor. Central Park and Prospect Park become vibrant wonderlands, their trees ablaze in hues of gold, red, and orange. Fort Tryon Park offers panoramic views of the Hudson River, framed by autumn’s rich palette.
Time for a Drive Outside The City and Join the Celebrations
While New York City dazzles with its urban foliage and vibrant markets, the true magic of fall unfolds as you venture beyond the city’s limits. Upstate New York, with its rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and charming small towns, offers a deeper immersion into the season’s splendor. The Hudson Valley, Catskills, and Adirondacks are particularly stunning during autumn, where forests blaze with crimson and gold, and crystal-clear lakes reflect the fiery colors of the trees.
A drive along the Hudson River is an unforgettable journey, with picturesque stops in towns like Beacon, Hudson, and Rhinebeck, where you can experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The Adirondacks beckon with their dramatic landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, from hiking to scenic train rides through the mountains. Meanwhile, the Finger Lakes region is enticed by its award-winning wineries and stunning vistas, making it an ideal destination for a fall getaway.
Fall festivals across the state bring the season to life, offering everything from pumpkin patches and apple picking to craft fairs and harvest celebrations. These events capture the essence of autumn in New York, each vibrant reflection of the local culture and community. Whether you’re savoring the crisp air at the Lake George Oktoberfest, exploring the Great Pumpkin Farm in Clarence, or marveling at the artistry of the Adirondack Balloon Festival, these festivals offer unforgettable experiences.
Here are 14 must-visit fall festivals across New York State that will make your autumn truly memorable:
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Venue: The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Location: Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 South Riverside Avenue, Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520
Dates: September 13 – November 17, 2024
Ticket Prices: Starting at $24 for earlier dates, up to $52 for prime slots closer to Halloween.
Attendees: Approximately 150,000
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, set against the historical backdrop of Van Cortlandt Manor, is an autumn spectacle like no other. Running from September 13 to November 17, 2024, this event transforms the riverside landscape into a dazzling display of over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins, each one a work of art. Last year’s Best Pumpkin Sculpture, a towering “Pumpkin Planetarium” by master carver Ray Villafane, will be joined by new creations competing for this year’s $5,000 prize. Attendees can meander through illuminated tunnels of pumpkins, marvel at synchronized light shows, and even encounter life-sized dinosaurs carved from gourds.
Beyond the pumpkins, the Blaze offers family-friendly activities, including spooky stories read by Jonathan Kruk, the Hudson Valley’s famed storyteller, and live music from local folk band The Moonshiners. For those seeking more seasonal fun, nearby attractions include the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery tours and the Legend of Sleepy Hollow performances at the Old Dutch Church. Produced by Historic Hudson Valley, a not-for-profit educational organization, the Blaze is not just a feast for the eyes but also supports preserving local history, making it a must-see event in New York’s fall festival lineup.
New York State Sheep & Wool Festival
Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY
October 19-20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 20,000
The New York State Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck is a wool lover’s paradise, set amidst the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley. From October 19-20, 2024, this beloved event showcases everything from sheep herding demonstrations to fiber art workshops, drawing fiber enthusiasts from across the country. The Dutchess County Fairgrounds come alive with over 300 vendors, including Briar Rose Fibers and Quince & Co., offering everything from cozy sweaters to vibrant hand-dyed yarns. Visitors can watch skilled shepherds and their dogs in action, attend talks by renowned authors like Clara Parkes, and enjoy farm-to-table dishes featuring Hudson Valley’s finest ingredients.
Don’t miss the livestock shows, where last year’s Best in Show went to Sugar Maple Farms for their exceptional Romney sheep. With the area’s charming inns and B&Bs filling up fast, consider booking your stay early. Live performances by local favorites like the Rhinebeck Choral Club add to the festive atmosphere, making the New York State Sheep & Wool Festival a must-attend for anyone passionate about fiber arts and farming.
Oktoberfest at Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain State Park, NY
Weekends, September 28 – October 20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 15,000 per weekend
Bear Mountain’s Oktoberfest offers an authentic Bavarian experience right in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Held on weekends from September 28 to October 20, 2024, this lively festival is a feast for the senses, blending traditional German cuisine with stunning autumn scenery. Visitors can savor bratwurst and sauerkraut from Bavarian Manor, sip on crisp lagers from Sloop Brewing Co., and indulge in warm, sugar-dusted cider donuts from Jones Farm. The festival grounds are filled with live performances by German folk bands like Die Schlauberger, encouraging everyone to join in the traditional dances.
Children will love the pumpkin decorating and face painting, while adults can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Hudson River from the scenic merry-go-round. The vibrant fall foliage creates the perfect backdrop for photos, making this event not just a celebration of Oktoberfest, but a full embrace of the Hudson Valley’s autumnal beauty. Be sure to pick up a souvenir stein or t-shirt to remember your festive day at Bear Mountain.
Harvest Fest at Bethel Woods
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, NY
Sundays, September 1 – October 6, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000 per Sunday
The Harvest Fest at Bethel Woods is a quintessential autumn experience, taking place at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock Festival. Running on Sundays from September 1 to October 6, 2024, this family-friendly event combines the best of local culture with the rich history of the Catskills. Visitors can explore a bustling marketplace featuring local farmers and artisans, like Apple Pond Farm and Catskill Provisions, offering fresh produce, honey, and handcrafted goods. Live music by artists such as Amy Helm and The Mammals fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for a fall day out.
For the little ones, activities like face painting, pumpkin decorating, and hayrides keep the fun going all day. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Museum at Bethel Woods, where you can delve into the legacy of Woodstock and the counterculture movement. With its blend of history, music, and autumnal charm, the Harvest Fest at Bethel Woods is a highlight of the Catskills’ fall calendar.
Cooperstown Harvest Festival
Downtown Cooperstown, NY
October 5-6, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 15,000
The Cooperstown Harvest Festival is a vibrant celebration of fall’s bounty in the picturesque village of Cooperstown. Set for October 5-6, 2024, this event transforms the streets of downtown into a lively market filled with local flavors and artisan crafts. Attendees can savor farm-fresh produce from Middlefield Orchard, enjoy warm apple cider donuts from Fly Creek Cider Mill, and sample homemade jams and jellies from Cooperstown Farmers’ Market. Artisan vendors like Handmade by Trees showcase unique creations, from handwoven scarves to rustic wooden furniture, perfect for early holiday shopping.
The festival also features cooking demonstrations by local chefs, including Melanie Cheng of Origins Cafe, who will share tips on preparing seasonal dishes. Live music from local bands like The Mopar Cams adds to the festive atmosphere, making this event a true celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage. For a complete experience, visitors can explore the nearby National Baseball Hall of Fame or take a scenic boat tour on Otsego Lake.
Adirondack Balloon Festival
Glens Falls and Queensbury, NY
September 19-22, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 50,000
The Adirondack Balloon Festival is a breathtaking celebration of color and flight, marking its 50th anniversary in 2024. Held from September 19-22, 2024, in Glens Falls and Queensbury, this event promises a magical experience as dozens of hot air balloons fill the skies above the Adirondack Mountains. Early risers can catch the spectacular mass ascension at sunrise, while evening launches offer a serene backdrop of glowing balloons against the sunset. The festival also includes the popular “Moon Glow” event, where tethered balloons light up the night sky, creating a truly enchanting scene.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy live music from bands like The Refrigerators and local folk favorites The Stony Creek Band. Food vendors, including Adirondack Pub & Brewery, serve up regional treats, while family-friendly activities like face painting and balloon rides ensure fun for all ages. With the fall foliage at its peak, the Adirondack Balloon Festival offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and high-flying adventure. Be sure to book accommodations early, as this event draws visitors from across the country.
Ellicottville Fall Festival
Ellicottville, NY
October 12-13, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 20,000
The Ellicottville Fall Festival, set in the charming village of Ellicottville, is Western New York’s most anticipated autumn event. From October 12-13, 2024, the town comes alive with vibrant foliage, arts and crafts, and a festive atmosphere that draws thousands of visitors. The 4-block arts and crafts show features unique handmade items from artisans like Lumiere Candleworks and Birch Bark Designs, while local eateries, including The Gin Mill and Ellicottville Brewing Company, serve up fall-inspired dishes and brews that capture the essence of the season.
For those looking to soak in the stunning autumn views, a ride on the Holiday Valley chairlift offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills ablaze in red, orange, and gold. Live music from bands like The Strangers and The Untouchables fills the air, adding to the celebratory mood. Fitness enthusiasts can participate in the festival’s popular 5K run, a scenic route that winds through the heart of Ellicottville’s picturesque landscape. With its perfect blend of art, music, and outdoor adventure, the Ellicottville Fall Festival is a must-visit for those seeking the full splendor of fall in Western New York.
Apple Harvest Festival
Ithaca Commons, Ithaca, NY
October 4-6, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 30,000
The Apple Harvest Festival in Ithaca is a beloved celebration of autumn and local agriculture, set in the vibrant Ithaca Commons. Taking place from October 4-6, 2024, this event showcases the best of the Finger Lakes region, from farm-fresh apples to artisanal crafts. Visitors can explore the bustling market, where vendors like Little Tree Orchards offer a variety of apple products, including freshly pressed cider and apple cider donuts, while Redbyrd Orchard Cider serves up hard ciders that capture the flavors of the season.
The festival also features a labyrinth of corn mazes and pumpkin patches perfect for family fun. Cooking demonstrations by local chefs, including Emma Frisch from Firelight Camps, highlight the use of seasonal ingredients in delicious dishes. Live music from acts like The Gunpoets and Stone Cold Miracle provides the perfect soundtrack to a day filled with fall festivities. Don’t miss the chance to participate in the apple pie eating contest, where last year’s champion will defend his title. The Apple Harvest Festival is a true celebration of Ithaca’s community spirit and the bounty of the Finger Lakes.
Saratoga Wine & Food Festival
Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Saratoga Springs, NY
September 13-14, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 5,000
The Saratoga Wine & Food Festival is an upscale culinary event that offers a weekend of indulgence at the beautiful Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). Scheduled for September 13-14, 2024, this festival brings together top chefs, fine wines, and luxury automobiles for an unforgettable experience. Attendees can enjoy grand wine tastings featuring selections from renowned vineyards like Wölffer Estate and Ravines Wine Cellars, while gourmet dishes are prepared by celebrated chefs such as David Burke and Marc Murphy.
The festival’s Concours d’Elegance showcases classic and exotic cars, adding a touch of glamour to the event. Live performances by jazz musicians like Bria Skonberg and The Hot Sardines create a sophisticated ambiance, perfect for sipping and savoring. This year’s grand raffle includes a chance to win a week-long stay at a Tuscan villa, complete with airfare for four. As SPAC’s biggest fundraiser, the Saratoga Wine & Food Festival supports arts education programs, making it a celebration of both culinary excellence and cultural enrichment.
Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest
Hunter Mountain, Catskills, NY
Weekends, September 28 – October 20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000 per weekend
Hunter Mountain’s Oktoberfest is a lively celebration of German culture set against the stunning autumn backdrop of the Catskills. Running on weekends from September 28 to October 20, 2024, this free event offers a perfect blend of traditional Bavarian festivities and local charm. Visitors can enjoy authentic German fare, including bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels, from vendors like Otto’s Market, while sampling craft beers from West Kill Brewing and Catskill Brewery.
The festival features live music from German bands like Die Lustigen Almdudler and Bavarian Brothers, who keep the crowd dancing with lively polka tunes. For a unique perspective on the fall foliage, take a ride on the Scenic SkyRide, offering breathtaking views of the Northern Catskills. Families will love the free craft activities and the popular doxie derby, a race of adorable dachshunds. With hiking trails, local vendors, and the beauty of Hunter Mountain’s fall landscape, Oktoberfest here is more than just a festival—it’s an immersive autumn experience.
Apple Festival at The Farmers’ Museum
The Farmers’ Museum, Cooperstown, NY
September 28-29, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 5,000
The Apple Festival at The Farmers’ Museum in Cooperstown is a delightful celebration of autumn’s bounty, taking place on September 28-29, 2024. Set against the historic backdrop of this living history museum, the festival offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience traditional apple harvesting techniques. The aroma of freshly pressed cider fills the air as artisans demonstrate the art of cider making using historic equipment.
Visitors can also indulge in a variety of apple-inspired treats, from warm apple pie to caramel apples, all made with local apples from Middlefield Orchard. Craft activities for kids, including apple-themed decorations and rustic crafts, are led by local artisans like Cooperstown Artisans Guild. As you explore the museum’s grounds, be sure to check out the engaging exhibits that highlight the region’s agricultural heritage. The Apple Festival at The Farmers’ Museum is a perfect blend of history, culture, and seasonal delights, making it a must-visit for anyone in Central New York.
Warwick Applefest
Warwick, NY
October 6, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 30,000
Warwick Applefest, held on October 6, 2024, is one of the Hudson Valley’s largest and most anticipated fall events, attracting over 30,000 visitors to the charming village of Warwick. The streets come alive with over 200 craft vendors offering unique wares, from hand-painted ceramics by Warwick Pottery to organic skincare products from Hudson Valley Naturals. Local orchards like Masker Orchards and Ochs Orchard provide an abundance of apple varieties, along with freshly pressed cider and warm apple donuts that are a must-try.
Live music performances on multiple stages keep the atmosphere lively, featuring acts like The Amish Outlaws and Emish. The festival also includes a large food court where visitors can enjoy everything from gourmet mac and cheese to BBQ, courtesy of local favorites like The Grange. With its blend of arts, music, and delicious food, Warwick Applefest offers a quintessential Hudson Valley experience that celebrates the best of the harvest season.
Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival
Clarence, NY
September 14 – October 31, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 75,000
The Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival in Clarence, NY, is Western New York’s premier autumn event, running from September 14 to October 31, 2024. This festival offers a month and a half of fall fun, attracting visitors with its vast pumpkin patch, corn maze, and a series of weekend events that include everything from scarecrow making to pie-eating contests. The highlight of the festival is the annual pumpkin weigh-off, where last year’s winner, Jared Schutt, presented a 2,200-pound gourd, and competitors vie for this year’s $5,000 grand prize.
In addition to the pumpkins, the festival features a wide range of food options, including pumpkin spice donuts and apple cider from Mayer Brothers Cider Mill. Families can enjoy hayrides, haunted houses, and the popular Boo Barn, while thrill-seekers may want to check out the zombie paintball experience. With its blend of family-friendly activities and festive fall atmosphere, the Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the harvest season in Western New York.
Letchworth Arts & Crafts Show
Village Park, Perry, NY
October 12-14, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 50,000
The Letchworth Arts & Crafts Show, held from October 12-14, 2024, at the Village Park in Perry, NY, is one of the nation’s top arts festivals and a beloved tradition in Western New York. With over 250 artisans displaying their work, this show offers everything from fine art paintings to handcrafted jewelry, each piece a testament to the region’s creative spirit. The festival, which relocated to Perry from Letchworth State Park, continues to draw large crowds who come to enjoy both the art and the stunning fall scenery of the Genesee Valley.
As you browse the booths, you’ll discover unique finds like woodwork from Hilltop Wood Creations and ceramics by East Hill Pottery. The event also features live demonstrations, where artisans like Brian Keith Fine Art showcase their techniques in real-time. Food vendors serve up seasonal favorites such as warm apple cider and kettle corn, making it easy to spend a day soaking in the artistic and autumnal ambiance. With its combination of high-quality crafts and picturesque surroundings, the Letchworth Arts & Crafts Show is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates art and nature.
