Our favorite season has finally arrived. Read about the many events going on this month, learn more than you ever wanted to know about apples and more.
Leaves, warm cider, donuts, sweaters, fire….
Capital Region Haunted Happenings
Haunted Mansion at Ten Broeck
October 25-26
Ghosts, goblins and ghouls take over the 207 year old Ten Broeck Mansion! Haunted tour, games, stories, refreshments and more. Ten Broeck Mansion, Albany. $4a/$2c. 436.9826.
26th Annual Halloween at Howe Caverns
October 24
This annual charity benefit takes visitors on a journey below the earth's surface into the great "haunted cave" filled with monsters and giggles. 2008 proceeds benefit the Schoharie County ARC. $10/a, $5/c. (Because this is a benefit, no coupons or discounts apply.)
New York State Capitol “Capitol Hauntings” Tours
Throughout October
Join the “ghost hunting” Capitol Tour Guides as they take you through the “hot spots” of the Capitol. Brave visitors will make their way to the exact spot where Samuel Abbott, the Capitol’s night watchman died in the Capitol fire of 1911. Then they will explore the legend of the “Secret Demon” near the Great Western Staircase. Find out which two US Presidents visited the Capitol after they died and learn about the state Assembly Chamber’s secret, hidden murals and the tormented artist who created them. This hour-long tour will have many spooky stops and offer lots of fascinating information. 473.7582. www.ogs.state.ny.us
New York State Museum Monster Mash and Bash
October 18–19 and October 25–26—Noon–4 pm
Children are invited to the Monster Mash and Bash. Enjoy face painting and take-home crafts, and wear costumes for the spirited holiday parade. All proceeds benefit the Museum’s after-school programs. $2/person plus enjoy the FREE Holiday Parade each day at 1–1:30pm.
New York State Museum
The Haunted Museum of Unnatural History
October 20-21, 27-28, 11am–5pm
October 31, 4pm–9pm
The un-natural rise again as the New York State Museum hosts its 6th annual festival of horror. Terror seizes all who visit the seven rooms of horror covering 6,000 square feet in the Haunted Museum of Un-natural History. The un-dead will guide visitors through exhibits such as: All Hallows Sleep, Gardeners Rage, Dead of the State, The Freezer, Outback Stabhouse, Fear Projection, 3-Ring Psychos and Black Whispers Returns. $6.00 Admission. All proceeds benefit the Museum's after-school programs for Albany City Youth. www.nysm.nysed.gov
New York State Museum
The Pumpkin Patch
October 20, 21, 27 and 28, noon–4pm
October 31, 4pm-8pm
Toddlers to 10-year-olds can enjoy a celebration of costumes, crafts and care—free fun at the New York State Museum’s 6th annual Halloween festival for kids. A walk-through maze takes visitors through a light-hearted Pumpkin Patch, a whimsical cornfield and pirate ships, leading to the Museum’s all new Kids Cove. At Kids Cove, visitors will enjoy face painting and Halloween crafts. Don’t forget to wear your costume for a spirited Halloween (weekends at noon) parade through the halls of the Museum! Ahoy, Matey! $2. Benefits the Museum's after-school programs for Albany City Youth. www.nysm.nysed.gov
Cherry Hill Mansion
Behind the Scenes Murder Investigation Tour
October Dates TBD
In 1827, a murder occurred at Cherry Hill, home of the prominent Van Rensselaer family. The crime aroused tremendous public interest and marked the last public hanging in the city of Albany. The event also touched upon some important issues of the day such as women's roles and legal rights, social class, punishment and the law, and slavery in New York. Join us for this two-hour tour which will include following the footsteps of the killer on the night of the murder and a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Cherry Hill household. Advance registration and payment are required. Tour size is limited. $18/a, $10/c.
Cemetery Tour
October 25
2nd Annual Halloween Flashlight Tour – Take a one-hour walk through the cemetery visiting such sites as a stone bench with the Medusa head, the grave of a Civil War general whose funeral was attended by President Grant and 10,000 mourners, and two gravestones inscribed with love poems. Because Oakwood’s roads are riddled with pot holes and ruts and because the tour will be conducted at night, this tour is not suitable for children under 5 or those with walking limitations. Wear sturdy shoes, bring flashlights and dress warmly. All persons under 19 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Adults $12, children 5-12 years $5. Meet at the bell just beyond the chapel, Oakwood Cemetery, Troy. For more info: 1.800.556.6273; www.oakwoodcemetery.org.
Albany Trolley's Ghost Hunting Tour
October 16, 23 and 30 – 7pm
You will experience the stories of the ghosts, hauntings and maybe even paranormal activity on this spooky tour. Murder at Cherry Hill, Death at Ten Broeck Mansion, the controversial death of "Legs" Diamond, fire at the New York State Capitol, and countless other souls that will forever roam the streets and buildings of Historic Downtown Albany; retelling these stories gives a voice to those spirits who would have otherwise been lost, left to roam, haunt, and bring chills to the residents of present day Albany. $20/a, $15/c
All about apples…
VARIETY FLAVOR BEST USE
Braeburn Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Sauces
Crispin Sweet Eating, Sauces, Baking
Cortland Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Sauces, Baking
Empire Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Baking
Fortune Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Sauces, Baking
Fuji Sweet Eating, Salads, Sauces
Gala Sweet Eating, Salads
Ginger Gold Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Sauces, Baking
Golden Delicious Sweet Eating, Salads, Sauces
Honeycrisp Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Sauces
Idared Sweet, Tart Sauces, Baking
Jonagold Sweet, Tart Eating, Salads, Sauces, Baking
Jonamac Sweet, Tart Eating, Sauces
Macoun Sweet Eating, Sauces
McIntosh Sweet, Tart Eating, Sauces
Northern Spy Tart Eating, Sauces, Baking
Paula Red Tart Eating, Sauces
Red Delicious Sweet Eating, Salads
Rome Tart Sauces, Baking
Twenty Ounce Tart Sauces, Baking
What’s the Best Apple Pie Apple?
Just like there are many opinions about the best chili ingredients, the best apple to use for a scrumptious apple pie is also a matter of personal opinion. No particular variety truly qualifies as the “best” pie apple but here are a few suggestions for pie success.
If you like a sweet pie, use Crispin, Golden Delicious, Jonagold or Winesap. In fact, you can reduce the amount of sugar if you use these sweet varieties. For a more tart pie with a strong apple flavor, try Cortland, Empire, Granny Smith, Idared, Northern Spy, Rhode Island Greening or Rome. Many people love the classic McIntosh pie but be sure to add thickener because the tender McIntosh flesh breaks down easily.
Classic Apple Pie
Ingredients:
6 cups New York State apples thinly sliced & peeled
¼ cup of sugar
2 tablespoons of flour
¾ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions: Use your favorite pie crust whether it’s a treasured family recipe or the quick and easy refrigerated pie crusts available in the supermarket. This recipe makes a two-crust pie in a 9-inch pan.
Heat oven to 425 degrees. Prepare pie crust and place crust in pie pan, pressing firmly against sides and bottom. Trim crust even with the pan edge. Combine all filling ingredients in a large bowl. Mix lightly. Fill pie crust and place second crust over filling. Wrap excess top crust under the bottom crust edge. Press edges together to seal and flute. Cut slits in top crust. Cover edge of crust with strips of foil for the first 25 minutes of baking. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Serves 8.
Apple Juice & Cider Ideas
• Brew tea with apple juice or cider instead of water for a tasty apple tea.
• Make a frozen treat by freezing apple juice or cider in freezer pop forms for at least two hours.
• Mix apple juice or cider with carbonated water or club soda for a sparkling thirst quencher.
• Make instant mulled cider by microwaving a mug of cider with a cinnamon stick and clove.
Applesauce ideas
• Bake with less fat and calories by substituting applesauce for oil on an equal basis. For example, substitute one cup of applesauce for one cup of oil.
• Make a nutritious frozen snack for kids. Pour applesauce into freezer pop forms and freeze for at least two hours. Mix in maple syrup, cinnamon, berries or granola for a tasty change of pace.
• Top waffles and pancakes with a layer of cinnamon applesauce and a spoonful of vanilla yogurt.
• Eat a guilt-free snack with applesauce – zero fat and zero cholesterol.
• Great for upset tummies! It’s part of the BRAT (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast) recommended by family doctors and pediatricians.
Hot Cider Wassail
Ingredients:
One-half gallon cider (8 cups)
2 cups orange juice
1 cup lemon juice
5 cups pineapple juice
1 teaspoon whole cloves
2 cinnamon sticks
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a simmer. Strain and serve hot in coffee cups or mugs.
About 20 servings.
Nutritional Analysis of One Apple
Calories 80
Carbohydrate (grams)18
Fat (grams)1
Fiber, Dietary (grams)5
Cholesterol (milligrams)0
Sodium (milligrams)0
Potassium (milligrams)170
Apple Assets
• Contains no fat, and contains no saturated fat—helps reduce risk of cancer.
• Contains no sodium—helps reduce risk or high blood pressure.
• Is an excellent source of fiber—helps reduce cholesterol and may help prevent certain types of cancer.
• Has only 80 calories.
• Contains no cholesterol.
• Contains no artificial colors or flavors.
Apple Cooking Tips
• Get an apple peeler, corer or slicer. The modern ones attach with suction right to your table or counter. It makes short work when preparing apples for applesauce, pies, crisps and other baked goods.
• Prevent the natural browning that occurs when apples are cut by dipping the cut fruit in a mild solution of water and lemon juice, or sprinkle it with fresh lemon juice.
• Apple cider and apple juice can be used interchangeably in any recipe.
Refrigerate in the crisper section! It’s that simple!
• Cool air maintains quality, juiciness and crispness. Apples stored at room temperature deteriorate ten times faster than refrigerated apples.
• Handle apples gently to prevent bruising.
• Store apples in a ventilated plastic bag away from foods with strong odors.
• Don’t store apples with broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, cucumbers, leafy greens, lettuce or spinach. Apples give off a gas that can damage these vegtables. This same gas will speed the ripening of bananas, kiwis, peaches, plums and pears. Place these fruits into a paper bag with an apple to ripen much quicker.
Skiing season isn’t here yet, but the lifts are running!
Enjoy the spectacular foliage from up high on a relaxing gondola ride! Breathe in the fresh mountain air with your family at one of the following ski-resorts
New York
Bristol Mountain
Weekends through October 26
(open Columbus Day) 12pm-4pm
Adults $9; children 3-12 and seniors $6;
under 2 free
585.374.6000; bristolmountain.com
Gore Mountain
Weekends through October 13
(Columbus Day) 10am-4pm
Adults $13; juniors 7-12 $7;
6 and under/ 70+ free.
518.251.2411; goremountain.com
Hunter Mountain
Weekends through October 12, 10am-5pm
Adults $8; juniors 7-12 $6; 6 and under free.
800.486.8376; huntermtn.com
Windham Mountain
October 11-13 only
Adults $8; juniors $6
800.754.9463; skiwindham.com
Whiteface
Friday – Sunday through October 19
(open Columbus Day) 10am-4pm
Adults $17; juniors/seniors $12
518.946.2223; whiteface.com
Massachusetts
Jiminy Peak Ski Area
Weekends through October 24
(open Columbus Day) 11am-6pm
Adults $9
413.738.5500; jiminypeak.com
Vermont
Killington
10am-4pm daily
Adults $15; juniors $10
802.422.3333; killington.com
Stowe Mountain Resort
10am-5pm daily through October 19
Adult $22; juniors $14; seniors $18
802.253.3000; stowe.com
Fall Events
Albany County
October 4-5
Capital District Apple Festival and Craft Fair – 150 crafters and artisans from the northeast selling a wide array of unique handmade crafts. Activities include a farmer’s market and bakery, car show, haunted house, children’s rides, wine tasting, cooking demonstrations by members of the American Culinary Federation and more. Adults $10; under 12 free. Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 10am-5pm. Altamont Fair Grounds, Altamont. For more info: 861.6515; www.altamontorchards.com.
October 7-9
Fall Northeast Art and Craft Show – Vendors and crafters will line the “main street” of the Empire State Plaza from the Capitol to the Cultural Education Center. 9am-3pm. Empire State Plaza, Albany. For more info: 786.1529.
October 16
Oktoberfest – Celebrate the harvest the old world way. Tasty German food and drink specialties, Big Wally on the accordion, arts and crafts vendors all in a festival atmosphere. Empire State Plaza, Albany. For more info: 473.0559.
October 18
Oktoberfest–Live music by Big Wally. 5pm-12am. German-American Club of Albany, 32 Cherry Street, Albany. For more info: 265.6102.
Columbia County
October 12
Autumn in Austerlitz – Early 19th century theme, games, crafts, exhibits, house tours, soup kitchen, children’s parade, quilt exhibit, silent auction and more; Austerlitz Historical Society, Austerlitz. 11am-4pm. For more info: 392.0062.
October 17-18, 24-25
Legends By Candlelight Spook Tours – Candlelight tours of the museum and grounds, ghost and spooks of the museum’s history. Clermont State Historic Site, Clermont. 6pm, 6:30pm, 7pm & 7:30pm. Reservations encouraged. For more info: 537.4240.
October 25
3rd Annual Pumpkin Walk on the Reservoir – Hayrides, vendors, live music, kid’s games, storytelling, Apple and Pumpkin Pie contest, Best Jack O’Lantern and Best Costume contests. 4pm-8pm. Philmont. For more info: 672.7647.
Greene County
October 4, 11
Oktoberfest I & II – Austrian and German-American bands, Schuhplattler dancers, lots of vendors, puppet shows, jugglers, magicians, horse petting zoo, and food and drink. Free arts and crafts and free pumpkins for the kids. Skyride weather permitting. Hunter Mountain Ski Bowl, Hunter. For more info: 1.800.486.8376; www.huntermtn.com.
October 4, 5
Pumpkin Festival at East Durham Craftland Farmers Market – A variety of crafts and farmer's products from the local area. Free admission and parking. 10am-3pm. Rain or shine under the pavilion. Michael J. Quill Irish Cultural & Sports Centre, East Durham. For more info: 722.8045; www.durhamcommunity.org.
October 5
Heritage Craft Fair – Exhibit and sale of traditional American crafts on the grounds of a 340-year old Dutch Farm. Free. Live music and wagon rides. 12pm-5pm. Bronck Museum. For more info: 731.6490; www.qchistory.org.
October 11
Fall Colors of Music Series – Catskill Mountain Chamber Orchestra. James Rem Memorial Concert. Afternoon concert for children: Prokofiev's children's classic Peter and the Wolf. The wolf, the duck and all the beloved characters, with narrator and orchestra. $10, children free. 3pm. Evening concert for adults, Mozart and Manno. Music director Robert Manno. $18. 8pm. Doctorow Center for the Arts, Hunter. For more info: 263.2063; www.catskillmtn.org.
October 11, 12
14th Annual Autumn Fair – Features a juried arts and crafts show with food and entertainment for all ages. 10am-4pm both days. Village of Windham, Windham. For more info: 734.3852; www.windhamchamber.org.
October 11, 12
15th Annual Apple Harvest Festival – Live music, entertainment, food, apple pie baking contest, crafters, scarecrow contest. $5; kids under 5 free. Free parking. 10am-6pm both days. Angelo Canna Park, Cairo. For more info: 622.9164; www.caironychamber.com.
October 11
Columbus Day Meatball Cook-off Roll-off and Eat-off Contest — Meatballs, music, sky-rides, face-painting, mountain biking, pumpkin toss, and craft vendors. 3pm-7pm.Windham Mountain, Windham. For more info: www.skiwindham.com.
October 18
2nd Annual 50-Mile Harvest Dinner – Chef Ric Orlando of New World Home Cooking is returning! $75 per person; $130 per couple. Benefits the programs of Cornell Cooperative Extension's Agroforestry Resource Center. Greene County Agroforestry Resource Center, Acra. For more info: 622.9820; email amt18@cornell.edu.
Otsego County
October 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 26, 27
Weekend Fall Foliage – 1pm. Charlotte Valley Railroad. For more info: 607.432.2429; www.lrhs.com.
October 12
Cider Festival at Fly Creek Cider Mill – Enjoy autumn's most flavorful beverage, cider, at the peak of Upstate NY’s spectacular fall foliage. Observe cider-making operations throughout the day using the Mill’s vintage equipment dating back to 1856. Sample our cider made without modern technology that provides a taste of NY’s water-powered past. Entertainment will be scheduled at a later date. For more info: www.flycreekcidermill.com.
October 17, 18, 24, 25
Things That Go Bump in the Night – Listen to stories of hauntings and ghostly happenings that occurred at The Farmers Museum and in and around the region, as you take a one-hour guided tour of the historic village by flashlight. Every half hour starting at 5pm. $7. Reservations required. For more info: 607.547.1450.
October 18, 24, 25
Haunted Halloween Trains – For more info: 607.432.2429; www.lrhs.com.
October 29
Pumpkin Glow – For more info: 607.547.9777; www.cooperstownart.com.
October 31
Cooperstown Chamber Annual Halloween Parade – Cooper Park to the Firehouse. For more info: 607.547.9983; www.cooperstownchamber.org.
Rensselaer County
October 25, 26
Ghosts of the Mansion – Ghosts of the Mansion's past tell their story – Souper Supper. 6pm-9pm. The Knickerbocker Mansion – Knickerbocker Road, Schaghticoke. For more info: 677.3807; www.knic.com.
October 26
Autumn Evening in the Garden Chef Extravaganza – Featuring top chefs from around our region led by Chef Larry Schepici from Tosca. 5pm. Tosca, Troy. For more info: 274.8685; info@cdcg.org.
October 30
Halloween Costume Party – The theme to this year’s “Evening at the Earl” gala fundraiser will once again be the popular Halloween Costume Party in a Crematory. Costumes are encouraged, but not required. If you so choose, designer masks may be purchased at the door. This adults-only event includes hors d’oeuvres, games, prizes and a silent auction. 5pm-7:30pm. Crematory, Oakwood Cemetery, Troy. For more info: specify “Halloween gala” and leave your name, address and phone number at 1.800.556.6273.
The Children’s Museum of Science and Technology
250 Jordon Road, Troy; 235.2120
Pre-registration is required. Free for CMOST Members, $2 for non-members plus admission to The Museum.
October 25
Pumpkin Science – Is there science in a pumpkin? Come and design your own experiments and see what’s going on inside your pumpkin! Ages 4+. 1pm.
October 26
Leaf Chromotography – Why Do Leaves Change Colors?: We’ll explore what makes a leaf green and just what happens to make them change into brilliant fall colors. Ages 8+. 1pm.
October 31
Creature Costumes – Have you ever wonder why some animals are spiky, some are spotted and some are very small? Animals come in all shapes in sizes for a variety of reason, but one of the primary reasons they all look so different has to do with camouflage. We will learn about the different ways that animals have developed to “blend in” with their environment, meet some of the animals in our collection and see if we can’t create a creature of our own that comes with its own special costume. Ages 3+. 3pm.
October 31
Get Buggy! – Meet the bugs of CMOST and learn the truth about each of these insects. All participants will also have the opportunity to create an insect craft to take home with them. Ages 3+. 11am.
October 31
Halloween Happening for Kids! – Kids in costume get in The Museum for FREE! 10am-5pm.
Saratoga County
October 3, 4, 17,18, 24, 25, 31
Ghost Walks in Saratoga – A 90-minute, mile-long tour of haunted village sites. 7pm. Adults $10; children 7-11 $5. Saratoga County Arts Center, Saratoga. For more info: 584.4132; www.masonwinfield.com.
October 11, 12
9th Annual Saratoga County Fiber Tour – This free, drive-it- yourself farm tour features five of Saratoga County's "Pride of New York" fiber producing farms. Showcasing some of the area’s most outstanding farms, the 9th annual fiber tour features llamas, alpacas, and sheep. Take a stroll and shop at the farm store and at any of the fiber farms' product displays. Hands-on experiences with the llamas, alpacas, and sheep is encouraged. 11am-4pm. Free. For more information and to get a tour brochure visit our website at www.saratogafarms.com call 885.8995.
October 25, 26
Saratoga Fall Festival – Pumpkin decorating, magic, music, face painting, pony rides and more. Saturday 10am-6pm; Sunday 11am-5pm. Downtown Saratoga Springs. For more info: 368.1860; www.saratogadowntown.com.
October 25
Halloween Program – Pale Horse, Pale Rider. Interactive activities for children. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bring a small pumpkin if participating in pumpkin decorating. 3pm-6pm. $3. National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga. For more info: 584.0400.
October 28
The Great Pumpkin Challenge – Great Pumpkin Challenge 5k & 10k & fun run course on paved roads within park. Restrooms available, chip timing. Check-in 7:30am-9am. 5k run/walk & 10k run 9:30am; Children’s Fun Run 10:30am. Awards immediately following each race. Entry fees: 5k run/walk $25. Children’s fun run $5 (12 & under) Runners who raise $50 or more in pledges will have entry fee waived. Saratoga Spa State Park, Columbia Pavillion. For more info: 587.0723.
Schenectady County
October 2
Local Farm Forum: – Part of Celebrating Schenectady’s Bounty, a month-long celebration of local food and Schenectady’s agricultural heritage. From September 13-October 18, Schenectady County and Roots & Wisdom are presenting events designed to promote locally-produced food and the agricultural community in Schenectady County. Join us for a discussion of local farming with area farmers. Panel members to be announced. Free. 12pm-1pm. McChesney Room, Schenectady County Library, Schenectady.
October 10, 17, 24, 31
Ghost Tours through the Stockade – Costumed guides from the Schenectady Heritage Area lead you through the historic Stockade neighborhood telling tales of ancient ghosts and long forgotten misdeeds of stockade residents. Tours leave every 30 minutes starting at 7pm. $10, includes a complimentary beverage at Clinton's Ditch. Reservations needed. Meet at Clinton's Ditch, Schenectady. For more info: 382.5128.
October 12
Fall Festival Craft Show – Crafts, hay maze, bouncy bounce, face painting, hay rides, pumpkin painting, crafts for kids, food, make your own scarecrow! Family fun for all! 10am-4pm. 2725 Mariaville Road, Schenectady. For more info: 381.4700.
October 18
Upper Union Street Harvest Fest – Farmers Market, free horse-drawn trolley, food, music, children’s activities, pumpkin decorating, seasonal photos and much more. 10am-3pm. Union St., Schenectady from Lakewood Ave. to Palmer Ave. For more info: www.upperunionbid.org.
October 18
Farm and Foliage Day – Pumpkins and scarecrows and hay rides, oh my! Celebrate the beautiful fall season with pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, hay ride and more. 11am-4pm. For more info: www.schenectadycounty.com.
Schoharie County
October 2
2nd Annual Esperance Elks Oktober Fest & Craft Fair – Esperance Elks Lodge 2507, Esperence. For more info: 895.2631.
October 4
2nd Annual Oktoberfest & Craft Fair – Annual Authentic German food & beer. Family fun including hay rides, pumpkin painting, face painting, games & more! Live entertainment. Outstanding crafters featuring handmade goods. Rain or shine. Covered pavilion and tents. The Esperance Elks Lodge.
October 3
Taste of the Harvest – Beer/wine tasting & silent auction. Schoharie Valley Farms, Schoharie. For more info: 254.0611.
October 8
Make Your Own Scarecrow–Kipp Hill Farm, Sloansville. For more info: 868.9737.
October 24
Halloween Owl Prowl – 7pm-8:30pm. Landis Arboretum, Esperance. For more info: 875.6935; www.landisarboretum.org.
October 25
First Annual Schoharie Pumpkin Festival – Village of Schoharie. For more info: 231.3528.
October 25
Halloween Event – New York Power Authority, North Blenheim. For more info: 800.724.0309; www.nypa.gov.
October 25
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow w/ The Puppetree of VT – Middleburgh Renaissance Council, Middleburgh. For more info: 827.8076.
October 25
Schoharie Scary Horror Film Festival – SUNY Cobleskill. For more info: www.scaryfilmfest.com.
October 31
Ghost Stories and Games – 1743 Palatine House Museum, Schoharie. For more info: 295.7585; scha@midtel.net.
Warren County
October 1-10; 18-26
Fall Foliage Trains – Enjoy the breathtaking Adirondack views as this scenic train winds along the upper reaches of the picturesque Hudson River. Upper Hudson River Railroad. Wed-Fri 2pm; Sat-Sun 10am & 2pm. Reservations needed. 3 Railroad Pl, North Creek. For more info: 251.5334; www.uhrr.com.
Month-long October
Historic Graveyard Walks – Dinner & Luncheon With the Dead – Nighttime walks through cemetery. Luncheon, dinner or gourmet dessert buffet at local restaurant. Call for complete information. Warrensburg Cemetary, Hudson Street, Warrensburg. For more info: 623.2207.
October 4-5
Adirondack Harvest Festival – Don’t miss wagon rides and apple-pressing demonstrations. Taste apple cider, paint pumpkins,and enjoy the beautiful fall colors. Adirondack Museum, Blue Mountain Lake. For more info: 352.7311.
October 4
Oktoberfest Cruise – German food & music. 11am-2pm. Lac du Saint Sacrament, Steel Pier, Beach Rd, Lake George. For more info: 668.5777; www.lakegeorgesteamboat.com.
October 4
Pumpkin Festival – Free pony rides, farm animals, Bubbles the Clown, free small pumpkins for kids & Farmer’s Market too! 9am-12pm. Free. South Street Pavilion, Glens Falls. For more info: 638.6301.
October 5
Adirondack Horsemans Halloween Gymkhana – Public welcome. Children’s age groups Pee Wee through adult. Registration 10am, Events begin 11am. $15 members/$20 non-members for all five events; $4 members/$5 non-members for single event; $10 Day lead line. Novice riders welcome. Warren County Fairgrounds, Warrensburg. For more info: 623.3757; 251.4023.
October 5
Legend of Sleepy Hollow – The Puppet People – Entertaining introduction of puppetry & classical music to children. 2pm, 3pm. Charles R Wood Theater, Glens Falls. For more info: 798.9663; www.woodtheater.org.
October 11
Downtown Harvest Walk – Farmers’ Market – Decorate pumpkins, sample cider, live music, South Street Pavilion Farmers’ Market. 8am-12pm; 10am-2pm. Free. Various locations downtown, Glens Falls. For more info: 615.0446.
October 11
Fun for Kids – Bounce house, Faces by Ferdinand & more! 11am-4pm. Free. Rogers’ Memorial Park, Bolton Landing. For more info: 644.3831; www.boltonchamber.com.
October 11, 12
Fall Farm Fest – Visit with goats & other critters, sugar houses, sugar bush, tour tree farm, demonstrations. 10am-4pm. Free. Pancake breakfast at Valley Road Maple Farm at 9am. Townwide. Thurman, Athol. For more info: 623.9718.
October 11, 12
Fall Fibre Festival – Hand spinning & weaving demonstrations, farm tours. 11am-4pm. Free. Gore Mountain Farm Alpacas, North Creek. For more info: 251.3040; www.goremountainfarm.com.
October 11-13
Columbus Day Weekend Trains – Enjoy scenic views as the train follows the Hudson River. Sat-Sun 10am, 1 & 4pm; Mon 10am & 1pm. Reservations. Upper Hudson River Railroad, North Creek. For more info: 251.5334; www.uhrr.com.
October 17, 18
Haunted Trail & Barns – Join us if you dare! Creep along the wetlands, be prepared for creatures lurking in the woods. Spooky fun inside the barns, this is an all-weather event. Tricks & treats, wear your costume! Fri 6-9pm; Sat 5-9pm; tot friendly 5pm-6pm. Up Yonda Farm Environmental Education Center, Bolton Landing. For more info: 644.9767; www.upyondafarm.com.
October 17-19
Adirondack Children’s Troupe Fall Musical – Fri-Sat 7pm, Sun 2pm. Charles R Wood Theater, Glens Falls. For more info: 798.9663; www.adirondackchildrenstroupe.org.
October 19
Autumn Leaves – Chronicle Book Fair – Authors, booksellers, publishers of Adirondack books, children’s books, local history, book talks, signings, children’s activities & more. 11am-4pm. Free. The Queensbury Hotel, Glens Falls. For more info: 792.1126; www.readthechronicle.com.
October 19
Halloween Pug Party & Parade – Pugs in costume on parade! Prizes for best costumes, several categories, contests for curliest tail, best wrinkles. Photography, raffles & food. Rte 8, Chestertown. For more info: 494.2758; www.unsertech.com/pugparade.
October 19
Lake George Brewers Oktoberfest – Local microbreweries, Oktoberfest beers, German music, special German menu, costumes welcome, Kazoo Parade, He-Man Keg Toss. 33 Canada St, Lake George. For more info: 668.0002; www.adkpub.com.
October 23
Downtown Trick or Treat – Candy for customers, all ages welcome! 5pm-7:30pm. Free. Various locations downtown, Glens Falls. For more info: 615.0446.