MomSkoop
Fall in New York delivers so much more than golden leaves and pumpkin spice—it’s the perfect season to pull the family together for fun, food, and festive vibes. From sweet apple harvests in the Hudson Valley to glowing jack-o’-lantern trails under crisp evening skies, the state is bursting with October events worth penciling into your calendar.
1. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Nightfall transforms the grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor into a spellbinding pumpkin wonderland. With more than 7,000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins glowing to an original soundtrack, the experience is as magical as it is family-friendly.
It’s the kind of place where both kids and parents can’t help but ooh and aah at the artistry—ghostly silhouettes, pumpkin-covered tunnels, and glowing bridges make it feel straight out of a fairy tale. Every corner is a new photo op waiting to happen.
Plan ahead and grab your tickets early, as dates sell out fast. Bundle up, bring some hot cocoa, and stroll through the sparkling pathways for an unforgettable fall night.
2. Peace, Love & Pumpkins
At the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, fall fun gets a groovy twist. This vibrant festival features glowing pumpkin art, live music, local bites, and an easygoing, family-friendly atmosphere that perfectly captures that Woodstock spirit.
It’s the ideal mix for parents who want to enjoy an evening outdoors without the chaos—just enough entertainment for kids and plenty of space to relax with a warm drink in hand.
Arrive before sunset to catch the gardens bathed in golden light, then stay as the pumpkins light up the night. It’s one of those rare events that feels both peaceful and electric all at once.
3. Warwick Applefest
Stepping into the village of Warwick during Applefest feels like walking into a Norman Rockwell painting—crisp air, cheerful crowds, and the sweet smell of cider donuts everywhere.
Families flock from all over for a day of live music, crafts, apple pies, and small-town charm. Kids can enjoy rides and games while parents shop for handmade goods or savor warm apple crisp under the trees.
Arrive early to beat the crowds, wear layers for shifting weather, and bring your appetite. This one-day festival is a fall tradition that captures the best of community spirit and harvest season joy.
4. LaFayette Apple Festival
Central New York shines during the LaFayette Apple Festival, a beloved weekend celebration that has everything from apple pancakes to live entertainment and artisan booths.
It’s the kind of festival that feels refreshingly local—friendly faces, big smiles, and the smell of cinnamon drifting through the air. Parents can browse the craft tents while kids enjoy games and treats that remind everyone why fall is so special.
Make a full weekend of it with a scenic foliage drive through the Finger Lakes region. End your day with a cozy dinner nearby and you’ll have the perfect family outing wrapped in autumn color.
5. Hilton Apple Fest
In the charming village of Hilton near Rochester, the Hilton Apple Fest brings together everything you love about small-town fall weekends—music, crafts, carnival rides, and delicious apple treats.
It’s a relaxed, easy-to-navigate festival that’s perfect for families with young kids. There’s plenty of space to explore without feeling overwhelmed, and you can enjoy live entertainment while sampling warm cider or local baked goods.
Capture golden-hour photos among the booths, let the kids burn off energy, and soak up the sweet, nostalgic atmosphere. It’s a no-stress fall favorite that never disappoints.
6. The Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival
Just outside Buffalo, The Great Pumpkin Farm goes all-out for the season. Expect corn mazes, pumpkin cannons, hayrides, and themed weekends that keep every visit fresh and fun.
This is the perfect stop for families who love hands-on adventures. Whether it’s jumping on hay bales, picking pumpkins, or tasting pumpkin spice everything, there’s something for every age to enjoy.
Go early in October for milder temperatures and smaller crowds. Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a sense of play—the memories (and photos) you’ll make here are priceless.
7. Lake George Village Oktoberfest
In the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake George turns into a Bavarian-style street fair every October. Picture live music, stein-hoisting contests, local vendors, and a lively crowd set against fiery mountain foliage.
It’s festive without being overwhelming, and families will love the blend of outdoor beauty and upbeat energy. Grab a pretzel, enjoy a bratwurst, and take in the crisp mountain air while the kids dance to the music.
Arrive midday for the best atmosphere, then stay for the lantern lighting as evening falls. It’s the perfect excuse to make a weekend getaway out of it.
8. Adirondack Brewery Oktoberfest Charity Block Party
This one-day block party in Lake George packs big fun into a single afternoon. With local bands, bratwurst, games, and craft beer, it’s a celebration that benefits local charities while keeping the community spirit strong.
Families are welcome, and the atmosphere stays friendly and upbeat throughout the day. You’ll find kids laughing over games while adults unwind to live music and enjoy the autumn scenery.
For the best experience, stop by early to catch the family-friendly hours, then linger for the evening energy as the music turns up and the lights glow across the street.
9. Hunter Mountain Oktoberfest
Set among the stunning Catskill Mountains, Hunter Mountain’s Oktoberfest takes fall festivities to new heights—literally. With scenic sky rides, live oompah bands, and mouthwatering German fare, it’s as picturesque as it is fun.
Families will love the fresh mountain air and endless photo ops among the fall foliage. Kids can ride the lift, explore the trails, and get their fill of funnel cakes and laughter.
Arrive early to enjoy the quieter morning hours, then settle in for an afternoon of music, dancing, and warm apple cider. It’s a festival that balances adventure and relaxation perfectly.
10. Windham Annual Autumn Affair
In the charming mountain town of Windham, the Autumn Affair transforms Main Street into a colorful celebration of music, food, and local artisans.
It’s a relaxed, easygoing event where families can browse booths, enjoy live entertainment, and sample homemade fall treats. Kids’ activities line the sidewalks, and the mountain backdrop makes it feel straight out of a postcard.
Stay through the late afternoon when the sunlight glows through the trees—it’s a magical end to a cozy fall day in the Catskills.
11. Flaming Leaves Festival
Lake Placid’s Flaming Leaves Festival combines vibrant autumn scenery with a touch of Olympic spirit. Held near the ski-jumping complex, it offers live music, local food, and front-row views of professional jumpers in action.
It’s a family-friendly event with plenty to see and do, whether you’re cheering on the athletes or just soaking in the mountain views. The kids will love the high-flying excitement while parents can unwind with great food and local vendors.
Pair the festival with a lakeside stroll or a scenic gondola ride, and you’ve got the perfect Adirondack autumn adventure.
12. New York State Sheep & Wool Festival
For a cozy, craft-centered weekend, the Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck is a true gem. The event draws artisans, farmers, and families together for two days of fiber-filled fun.
From sheep-shearing demos to handmade goods, it’s a charming celebration of creativity and community. Kids will love meeting the animals, while parents browse beautiful crafts and enjoy fresh farm fare.
It’s the perfect mix of rustic charm and artistic inspiration—ideal for a crisp October day spent meandering through barns and booths.
13. Saratoga Fall Festival
Downtown Saratoga Springs comes alive each October with pumpkins, costumes, and plenty of family fun. The Fall Festival transforms the streets into a playful celebration that both kids and adults can enjoy.
Little ones can join trick-or-treating, pumpkin rolling, and games while parents relax to live music and local food. Everything’s walkable, so it’s easy to take it all in without the stress of travel or crowds.
Plan your visit for late afternoon to catch the costume parade and glowing lights. It’s a hometown-style event that radiates charm and cheer.
14. Oyster Fest (The Oyster Bay Oyster Festival)
If you love seafood and fall festivals, Oyster Bay’s famous Oyster Festival is the perfect combo. Set along the waterfront, it’s packed with fresh oysters, live entertainment, amusement rides, and a lively boardwalk atmosphere.
The mix of ocean breeze and autumn air gives it a unique twist on typical harvest celebrations. Kids can enjoy games and carnival rides while parents savor fresh seafood and scenic coastal views.
Dress in layers, arrive early for parking, and stay until sunset to see the harbor sparkle under golden skies. It’s fall fun with a seaside flair.
15. NYC Village Halloween Parade
For pure spectacle, nothing beats the Village Halloween Parade in New York City. Thousands of costumed revelers, massive puppets, and live bands fill the streets in a one-of-a-kind celebration.
It’s a sensory overload in the best way—bright lights, wild costumes, and nonstop excitement. Older kids and teens will love the energy, while parents can appreciate the creativity and atmosphere.
Plan ahead for crowds, dress warmly, and find a good viewing spot early. It’s not your typical small-town festival, but it’s an unforgettable New York experience that wraps up October in dazzling style.