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2024 Fall Festivals & Events in the Albany, NY Area That You Don't Want to Miss

Find Out What's Happening During Fall 2024

As the leaves begin to change, local communities come alive with a vibrant array of fall celebrations. To help you plan the perfect season, we've put together a list of the must-attend fall festivals and events in the Albany, NY area for 2024.

Clifton Park Farm Fest

September 14 & 15, 2024

four kids posing near pumpkins

Get ready for fall fun at the Town of Clifton Park's annual Farm Fest, which runs from September 14th to 15th.

Join the community for a fantastic two-day event filled with entertaining activities like hayrides, delicious country food, apple picking, and much more, all hosted by local farms and businesses.

Admission is free, so be sure to take advantage of the self-guided tour!

Adirondack Balloon Festival

September 19 - 22, 2024

a balloon festival

Each year, thousands of area residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the annual Adirondack Balloon Festival, which is well worth the drive from Albany.

The event occurs in Queensbury and Glens Falls and showcases dozens of hot air balloons taking off simultaneously, creating a mesmerizing display of vibrant colors in the sky.

In addition, 2024 schedule highlights include live music, a craft fair hosted by ZONTA, food vendors, kids activities, and more.

Capital Apple & Wine Festival

September 28 & 29, 2024

people at an indoor wine tasting

The Capital Apple & Wine Festival is back for its 30th year! This family-friendly festival will host an array of new and returning exhibitors showcasing New York State wines, spirits, ciders, handmade crafts, specialty foods, and food trucks.

Take note, the festival is moving to a new location: the Columbia County Fairgrounds. It's worth the scenic 35-minute drive from Albany, so mark your calendars for September 28th and 29th, 2024.

New York State Hops and Harvest Festival

September 18, 2024

people watching concert outdoors at night

Don't miss the Empire State Plaza's annual New York State Hops and Harvest Festival. Prepare for a day filled with fantastic craft beer selections, live music, fascinating hops presentations, and fun fall activities. Admission is free!

Upper Madison Street Fair

September 29, 2024

people at a street fair

Join us in celebrating city living at its finest! The Upper Madison Street Fair is a premier annual event, so come up to Upper Madison Avenue in Albany for an afternoon of fun and entertainment.

The street will be bustling with various vendors featuring local arts and crafts, food, dancing and drumming, plein air painting, a silent auction, a used book sale, and activities for kids and adults in the Kids Zone.

Activities include art making, yoga, face painting, chess, and more.

Maple Ski Ridge Annual Fall Festival

October 12, 2024

orange pumpkins in a pile

Gather your loved ones for a delightful day at the Maple Ski Ridge Annual Fall Festival, a beloved community event filled with activities for everyone. Explore the classic car show, sway to the tunes of live music, and let the kids burn off energy in the bounce houses.

While you're there, we also recommend going on a relaxing hay ride or taking in the beautiful fall views with a scenic chairlift ride.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Weekend Backpack Partnership, which helps provide nutritious food to children in need in Schenectady County.

Troy ChowderFest

October 13, 2024

man at a chowder tasting booth
Photo Credit: Dave DeCrescente

Mark your calendar for the return of Troy ChowderFest on Sunday, October 13th, in downtown Troy! During ChowderFest, participating restaurants and businesses will serve out of their storefronts and offer $2 four-ounce samples.

Entertainment and craft vendors will also be located throughout the district. This is an all-ages free event, and families are invited o discover something new and support locals.

There is no up-front cost or presale ticket required to attend the event.

Table Hopping Mac-n-Cheese Bowl

October 19, 2024

mac-n-cheese

Cheesy goodness awaits at the 14th TimesUnion.com/Table Hopping Mac-n-Cheese Bowl, returning as an outdoor event on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in downtown Cohoes.

This mouthwatering event will showcase over 25 Mac-n-Cheese stations, each offering unique and delicious takes on this classic comfort food. Enjoy beer tastings and a lively atmosphere as you sample the best mac-n-cheese in the Capital Region.

Albany's Trick or Trot Pumpkin Run 5K

October 26, 2024

large group of people lining up for run on road

The newest addition to Albany's top fall events is the Trick or Trot Pumpkin Run 5K, which will be held on Saturday, October 26th. 

Participants are encouraged to dress in their best costumes for this fun 5K, traveling throughout downtown Albany and Washington Park.

Following the race, awards recognition and results posting will take place, featuring age-based divisional awards and prizes.

Albany Auto Show

November 1 - 3, 2024

indoor auto show

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to step inside a luxurious BMW or tackle rugged terrain in a Land Rover? Are you ready to buy a new vehicle but unsure what to get?

Attend the annual Albany Auto Show at the MVP Arena for an up-close look at the latest and greatest cars, trucks, SUVs, and more from over 25 manufacturers.

This three-day event is the perfect time to browse, ask questions, and determine the best new vehicle for you this year.

Veterans Day Events

November 11, 2024

american flags standing in the ground

Remember to honor your local heroes this Veterans Day, November 11, 2024, by attending one of the events in the Albany area.

You can participate in commemorative ceremonies or visit a historical site to pay your respects to those who have served.

Albany is home to several war memorials honoring and commemorating those who served our country, including the New York State Women Veterans Memorial, the NYS Vietnam Memorial, and the NYS Korean War Veterans Memorial in the Empire State Plaza’s Memorial Park.

Other memorials include the New York State Purple Heart Memorial on Madison Avenue and the World War II Memorial next to the New York State Museum.

Troy Turkey Trot

November 28, 2024

Register to run in the annual Troy Turkey Trot! The race started in 1916 with just six runners entering. Now, it's one of the country's largest and oldest turkey trots.

This exciting Thanksgiving morning event features a 5K run, a 10K run, a one-mile Turkey Walk, and the Grade School Mile. Register to run, lace up your sneakers, and join this proud tradition in the Capital Region!

Find even more fall events in the Capital Region >>

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woman smiling with flowers in background
Anna Gates Anna is a content marketing intern from Northville, NY, who is passionate about writing and storytelling. She loves spending time with her dogs, exploring local businesses, and enjoying outdoor activities like downhill skiing and running in the North Country!