Finally, after weeks of waiting, fall has begun in the beautiful Adirondacks. While the colors of the leaves continue to change, many local communities are celebrating the change of seasons with all kinds of fun festivals and events. Check out some of the best you won’t want to miss this weekend!
Enjoy Fall Festivals & Entertainment
8th Annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival
Saturday, September 23 & Sunday, September 24
The moose is one of the most iconic and elusive animals in the Adirondack Park, and if you’ve ever dreamed of seeing one for yourself, now is the time. Participate in the annual Great Adirondack Moose Festival in Indian Lake for two days of special events, such as guided tours and hikes, games, contests, exhibitions, and more.
Adirondack Balloon Festival 2017
Thursday, September 21 – Sunday, September 24
The 45th Annual Adirondack Balloon Festival is taking place this weekend on the border of the Adirondacks in Queensbury and Glens Falls. Watch as hundreds of colorful hot air balloons take off and fill the sky! Admission to the balloon launches is free, so bring the whole family.
Friday, September 22 – Sunday, September 24
Enjoy food, music, and art at the newly-named ViewFest in Old Forge this weekend! Celebrate the change in seasons at this three-day festival, which will feature great live music performances, scrumptious food, and more entertainment at View Arts Center.
6th Annual Lake Placid Brewfest
Saturday, September 23
Interested in sampling beers from some of the country’s best brewers? If so, then Lake Placid’s annual Brewfest is the event for you. Brewfest will be held at the historic 1932 rink inside the Olympic Center in Lake Placid. Non-VIP admission will run from 4:00pm-8:00pm, and there will be both beer tasting and live music.
Saturday, September 23
Looking for a fun fall-themed event to take the family to this Saturday? Try Apple Fest at the Speculator Pavilion! Sponsored by the Historical Society of Lake Pleasant and Speculator, this festival will feature food, vendors, music, demonstrations, fun for the kids, and more.
Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival 2017
Saturday, September 23 & Sunday, September 24
Lace up your running shoes and prepare for the two-day Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival 2017 in Schroon Lake. The schedule of running events includes the Adirondack Marathon, Half-Marathon, Relays, 5K, 10K, and Children’s Fun Run.
Fun Activities & Outdoor Events
Friday, September 22 – Sunday, September 24
Go for guided paddles and drink great beer at the Canoe and Brew Fall Weekend at Timberlock Resort in Indian Lake. The beer tastings will be provided by Big Tupper Brewery. In addition, non-paddlers can instead enjoy the resort’s other offerings: hiking, boating, and relaxing by the water.
Saturday, September 23
Calling all bikers! Garnet Hill Lodge in North River will be hosting their first Garnet Hill Grit Mountain Bike Race this Saturday starting at 10:00am. The registration fee is just $25 per biker, and there will be two races to choose from on Garnet Hill’s beautiful trails (a 6-mile race and a 12-mile race).
Free Fishing Day in New York State
Saturday, September 23
This Saturday will be one of New York State’s Free Fishing Days. On this special day, anyone can fish the fresh waters of New York State without a fishing license. All other fishing regulations still apply.
Saturday, September 23
Head over to the Long Lake Town Beach in time for the Long Lake Boat Regatta on Saturday morning. Competitors will paddle down to the south end of the lake, and then return to Round Island in the north end. This fun yet competitive event has a $5,000 purse, and spectators are encouraged to attend.