Say farewell to summer and welcome autumn in September with exciting events in New York State. Celebrate the harvest, canals, food, wine, and much more. Soar above the Adirondacks in a hot air balloon or immerse yourself in a historic Italian street festival in New York City. And that’s not all – you can also witness America’s top projection arts festival, get great deals on Broadway tickets,  join one of the northeast’s premier motorcycle gatherings, and much more! Photo Credit: Rachel Dymond.

Commemorate Underground Railroad Month (Multiple Regions)

Credit: @crossedthedesertsbare on Instagram

Commemorate Underground Railroad Month, which is held every September, the month in which two of the most well-known freedom seekers and Underground Railroad operatives, Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, escaped from slavery. Explore New York’s Underground Railroad system from Brooklyn to Buffalo and everywhere in between. From The Harriet Tubman National Historic Park to the North Star Underground Railroad Museum to the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center to the John W. Jones Museum in Elmira, there are many ways to learn about New York State’s and New Yorkers’ roles in the Underground Railroad.

Celebrate New York State Grapes (Multiple Regions)

Dates vary

Immerse yourself in a celebration of grape-growing and harvesting while indulging in award-winning wines at the Westfield Grape and Wine Festival, happening at two locations in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region (September 19-20). Uncover unique treasures at the Westfield Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market (every Saturday in September), and explore the fascinating world of grapes at the Grape Discovery Center where you’ll learn about the art and science of grape cultivation, the rich history behind the region’s vineyards, and the intricate process of winemaking. Westfield; free admission. The Naples Grape Festival (September 27-28), often recognized as “The Best Festival in the Finger Lakes,” is deliciously fun time featuring everyone’s favorite World’s Greatest Grape Pie Contest and the ever-popular Brahm Moore Beverage Garden and Music Tent to keep you rocking and smiling all weekend long! Naples; free admission, parking is $5 per car.

Head Out to a Garlic Festival! (Multiple Regions)

Dates Vary

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Prepare your senses for a celebration of all things garlic! Tiptoe through sunflower fields, go pumpkin picking, get lost in the corn maze, go on a garlic scavenger hunt, learn all about garlic on the musical hayride, and enjoy garlicky goodness at the vendor market at Waterdrinker North Fork’s 23rd Annual Long Island Garlic Festival (September 13-14; Riverhead; $20). The Cuba Garlic Festival brings live music, cooking demos, garlic-inspired contests, pony rides, goat yoga, equestrian and K-9 demos, and more to Empire City Farms (September 21-22; Cuba; $8 at the gate (pre-sale tickets are $6); children 10 and under admitted free). Want to try some garlic ice cream or spicy garlic peanut butter? Make your way to the Hudson Valley Garlic Festival for gourmet garlic-infused foods, live music, cooking demos and lectures, fine art and craft vendors, and a children’s activities tent (September 27-28; Saugerties; $10/adults, $8/seniors, free for children under 12).

September 6-7

Photo Courtesy of Memorial Art Gallery

What began in 1957 with paintings strung on clotheslines is now a dynamic, open-air showcase featuring original artwork, live music, food trucks, hands-on art experiences, and free access to the Memorial Art Gallery’s world-class galleries. It’s the perfect way to explore Rochester’s thriving arts scene and spend a weekend immersed in creativity, with walkable access to neighborhood cafes, historic architecture, and other museums like the Eastman Museum and the Rochester Museum & Science Center. Rochester; $5 adults; children 12 and under free admission; MAG members free (for the number of visitors covered by their membership).

September 8-21

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From new takes on established classics to star-studded modern masterpieces, Broadway is the pinnacle of live theater. No visit to New York City is complete without experiencing the rousing entertainment available in midtown Manhattan’s theater district. During New York City Broadway Week, you can enjoy the best of Broadway with 2-for-1 tickets to participating shows. Choose from musical sensations, exquisitely staged dramas, critically acclaimed Tony Award winners, family-friendly productions, comedies, and celebrity spotlights. It’s a great time to experience world-class entertainment while saving big on the best of Broadway! New York City; various locations and prices.

September 5-6

Prepare to be amazed as LUMA transforms downtown Binghamton’s buildings into creative masterpieces with the use of powerful light projectors and 3D animation. As the projected light overpowers the city’s architecture, you’ll feel like you’re at a giant outdoor art gallery where the paintings tower over you six stories high! You’ll see City Hall transform into a gingerbread house and the courthouse become Stonehenge. Binghamton; free admission; a few features require tickets that you can buy online in advance.

September 6

For 20 years, the Albany Riverfront Jazz Festival has featured a wealth of jazz greats, critically acclaimed up-and-coming artists, and local favorites performing at the Jennings Landing Amphitheatre in Corning Preserve. This all-day concert features world-class music, great food, and beverages. The festival is perfect for all ages, and best of all, admission is free! Cap off the day by sticking around for fireworks at 8pm! Albany; free admission.

September 6-7

Credit: Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest

Indulge in a wine lover’s ideal weekend in the Hudson Valley when hundreds of wineries, cideries, distilleries, and breweries (along with some of the region’s best restaurants) come together at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. This annual event features hundreds of New York wines, more than 100 gourmet specialty foods, lifestyle vendors, food samples, and live entertainment. You’ll also enjoy cooking demos and seminars, and have the chance to meet and speak to winemakers from some of the state’s best wineries. Rhinebeck; various prices, beginning at $36.48 for tastings, and $11.59 for designated drivers. Please visit this link for more information.

September 9-20

Credit: @rochesterfringe on Instagram

Since its inaugural year in 2012, the Rochester Fringe Festival has become one of the fastest-growing and most-attended fringe festivals in the U.S., and the largest multi-arts festival in New York State. The 12-day, no-holds-barred festival draws more than 650,000 visitors from all over the world to downtown Rochester to be captivated by more than 4,500 multidisciplinary visual and performing arts events. On September 20, the festival holds its annual free Kids Day which will feature family-friendly activities like pumpkin painting, chalk art, and Disco Kids. Rochester; free and ticketed events.

September 9-14

Start revving your engines for one of the best motorcycle festivals in the Northeast! Featuring scenic motorcycle rides and games, bike-build offs, motocross stunts, spaghetti wrestling, and even fire breathing– Catskill Mountain Thunder is a guaranteed good time. From shopping the huge vendor expo to enjoying live entertainment with headliner Puddle of Mudd, this gathering truly offers something for everyone! East Durham; prices vary. 

September 11-21

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Get ready for the feast of all feasts with this iconic and historic street festival, dating back to 1926 and spanning 11 blocks of Manhattan’s Little Italy! At the Feast of San Gennaro, you’ll enjoy delicious food from some of the city’s best Italian restaurants, free concerts, the world-famous cannoli-eating competition, and vibrant parades, including the Grand Procession featuring marching bands, floats, and the statue of San Gennaro. New York City; free admission.

September 12-13

Groove to the blues on Old Falls Street in Niagara Falls as the Niagara Falls Blues Festival returns for its 16th edition. This year’s performers are Bruce Wojick & The Struggle, The Shaelyn Band, Spencer Mackenzie, Sauce Boss with Extra Sauce Travelling Gumbo Show, Dave Weld & The Imperial Flames, Wayne Baker Brooks, Tommy Z, and Kelley Hunt and The 5. In addition to the music, the fest will feature a variety of local food and drink vendors, all just steps away from the mighty Niagara Falls! Niagara Falls; free admission.

September 12-14

Join Newcomb in celebrating Theodore Roosevelt’s remarkable journey from the town’s High Peaks wilderness to the White House after President McKinley’s assassination in Buffalo. The weekend features a wide range of events for all ages, from outdoor activities and historical tours to crafts, music, free wagon rides, and delicious meals, bringing the community together to honor Roosevelt’s legacy and experience the beauty of Newcomb and the Adirondacks. Newcomb; free admission.

September 13-14

Take an extraordinary culinary adventure through the delicious flavors of Latin America! Latin Food Fest 2025, the largest Latin food festival in the US, is coming to Industry City in Brooklyn, for a weekend packed with bold flavors, electrifying rhythms, and unforgettable experiences. Featuring over 70 food vendors, four music stages, and immersive experiences like the Chancia Throwing Challenge and Abuela Squad’s Chisme y Cafecito, the festival offers a unique celebration for food lovers, music, dance, and art enthusiasts, and culture aficionados. This year’s musical acts include Mariachi Real de Mexico, Los Rakas, and Yasser Tejeda. Brooklyn; free RSVP, offering access to the 34th St. Market only (includes 40 food vendors, DJs, and art installations. Limited to 500 tickets per day); $15 Daytime Pass (valid for entry until 1:30 pm each day); $25 All Access Pass; $75 VIP Experience.

September 12-November 16

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Halloween lovers are getting ready for the Hudson Valley’s most electrifying fall event – the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze! Now in its 21st year and taking place at Van Cortlandt Manor, visitors will walk the immersive pumpkin trail on the grounds of the 18th-century estate and be amazed by thousands of hand-carved jack o’lanterns. Complete with an all-original soundtrack, synchronized lighting, and special effects, it’s a spectacle you must see to believe! Trick or treat yourself to exclusive souvenirs and local finds in the gift shop. Croton-on-Harmon; $32/adults, $31/seniors and young adults (18-25), $24/children.

September 13

Downtown Albany’s biggest all-day free music festival is back! Jam to live music from acclaimed local and international performers, find your zen at Yogapalooza, and grab a bite to eat from local vendors at this family-friendly festival just steps away from some of the city’s finest dining, retail, and entertainment venues. Albany; free admission; $8 event parking available in specific parking garages.

September 13

Rochester’s favorite cider celebration is back for its second year, as Radio Social presents an afternoon of crisp pours, bold flavors, and good vibes! Taste your way through New York’s finest ciders and discover new favorites to sip and shop while enjoying live music and food truck bites. Go VIP and enjoy early entry with first sips of everything before the crowds roll in, and further upgrade your experience with an optional curated cider and food pairing session, featuring delicious bites that highlight each cider’s unique profile. Rochester; VIP Early Access $44.52; General Admission – Early Bird $28.52; Designated Driver $7.18; General Admission $33.85; NY Cider Tasting & Cheese Pairing: Sessions 1 & 2 $23.18 each.

September 13-14

You’re invited to celebrate the rich traditions of Irish, Scottish, and Welsh cultures at the Niagara County Fairgrounds! Witness thrilling Highland Games featuring ancient strongman competitions like the caber toss and stone throw, and enjoy live music, dance performances, artisan vendors, and delicious Celtic cuisine. With its family-friendly atmosphere and immersive cultural experiences, this is a must-do for anyone looking to celebrate Celtic heritage, or simply enjoy a fun and active weekend. Lockport; children 12 & under free admission; prices for adults (13+) range from $18-$35. Online ticket purchases offer a slight discount and include a chance to win a prize at the door.

September 18-21

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Soar into September at the Adirondack Balloon Festival! The festival is one of the largest balloon events on the East Coast, drawing 100,000 people each year to witness amazing hot air balloon launches and flights. Balloon flights occur just after sunrise and close to sunset, and do not fly throughout the day. Queensbury and Glens Falls; free admission and general parking.

September 20

Credit: @adirondackharvest on Instagram

As the leaves change color and the air carries a hint of apple cider, the Adirondacks celebrate the bountiful arrival of harvest season. Discover a farmers’ market, food trucks, hands-on activities, local craft beer, live music, hiking along Champlain area trails, farm animals, horse-drawn wagon rides, a hula hoop performance and contest, a straw bale toss contest, stilt walking, presentations by 4-H groups, and more at the Essex County Fairgrounds. This year’s festival theme is “Seeds & Grains,” with workshops and demonstrations featuring connections to the world of seeds and grains. Westport; free admission.

September 21-22

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Ahoy! Presented by the East End Seaport Museum, celebrate Greenport’s maritime history with roving sea shanties, live music, children’s games, and craft and maritime demonstrations. You’ll also get to see kayak races, visiting ships, and the cardboard boat race, and sample wine, beer, and delicious foods. Be sure to check out the festive Merry Merfolk Parade on Saturday, where all are welcome to dress up as mermaids, pirates, and sea creatures! Greenport; free admission to the festival.

September 23-28

Long Island becomes a global stage for elite golf drama in September when Team USA and Team Europe tee off in the sport’s preeminent event – the Ryder Cup, hosted for the first time at the world-renowned Black Course at Bethpage State Park. Golf fans can expect fierce competition, historic rivalries, and electrifying moments across six unforgettable days. From fan zones and hospitality suites to interactive exhibits and food vendors, this is an immersive celebration of golf not to be missed! Farmingdale; various prices and packages.

September 25

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Don’t miss this milestone event at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum & Reichert Planetarium in celebration of the 75th anniversary of Rosamond and William K. Vanderbilt II’s gift of their mansion, estate, and museum to Suffolk County and the opening of the complex to the public on July 6, 1950. Enjoy cocktails and culinary tasting stations, live entertainment featuring the sophisticated sounds of Cole Porter and Frank Sinatra, dancing, and raffles! Centerport; prices starting at $250.

September 27

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Get a taste of Germany in Cape Vincent at the 17th annual Oktoberfest. You’ll enjoy an Autumn Farmers and Crafters Market, kids’ section, beer garden offering samples of authentic German beer, and tastings from a New York State winery. Revel in German music and dancing and dig into all your favorite Bavarian eats like pretzels, bratwurst, sauerkraut, braised red cabbage, German potato salad, and apple strudel served by the Cape Vincent Fire Department. Admission to the Beer & Wine Garden comes with a commemorative Oktoberfest mug and free samples from vendors. Cape Vincent; free admission.

September 27

Credit: Saratoga Bridges

Head to Saratoga Spa State Park for a great opportunity to get healthy while walking or running at a fun, family-friendly event celebrating the fall season. Be one of the first 1,200 participants and you’ll receive a moisture wicking long sleeve shirt with the event’s 25th Anniversary logo. The day will be filled with costume and pumpkin contests, prizes for overall winners and top runners in each age group, plus treats galore! Saratoga Springs; $25 through September 14; increases to $30 starting September 15. The Kids Fun Run is $10 per child. Registration ends September 23.

September 27

Spend a day on the Erie Canal celebrating this engineering marvel’s 200th birthday and the harvest season in the heart of historic Lockport. Try delicious food and drinks from local farms and food trucks while you learn about the unique history of the area at the Erie Canal Discovery Center and witness the original Flight of Five Locks in motion. There will be free activities for kids, live music all day long, and local brews at the Locktoberfest Beer Garden. It’s all happening on Lockport’s Canal Street. Lockport; free admission.

Worldwide Day of Play: Celebrating Dollhouse (Finger Lakes)

September 27

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Celebrate Worldwide Day of Play at The Strong National Museum of Play with a beloved plaything—the dollhouse! In honor of the museum’s latest exhibit, Dollhouses Unveiled, enjoy activities that explore dollhouses and doll play. Meet Kate Wiggs, daughter of the inventor of Polly Pocket, and learn the backstory of the popular toy. Use loose parts to furnish and decorate a cardboard dollhouse in the museum’s Play Lab, and let your imagination come to life in a life-size dollhouse. Rochester; Museum admission starts at $25.

September 27-28

Taking place at the Cobleskill Fairgrounds, the New York State Canine Expo features live demonstrations, competitions, workshops and keynote speaker sessions from canine behavior experts, and a chance to connect with top trainers, vendors, and fellow dog enthusiasts. There’s also food vendors and a kiddie area with free rides all day. Cobleskill; various prices from $22.58.

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