Autumn Delights in Western New York
As the leaves change and the air cools, Western New York transforms into a vibrant hub of seasonal activities. The fall season brings not only breathtaking views but also a rich array of food and drink events that celebrate the region’s agricultural bounty. From cider tastings to harvest festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated events happening this September and October.
NY Cider Festival
The NY Cider Festival is a must-visit for cider lovers. Taking place on Saturday, September 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Radio Social, 20 Carlson Road, this event features 16 craft cideries from the Genesee Valley region. Attendees can enjoy tasting sessions, live music, local food trucks, and merchandise. A guided cheese pairing option is also available for an extra experience. General admission tickets start at $25, making it a great way to explore the local cider scene.
Casa Larga Vineyards’ Purple Foot Festival
Casa Larga Vineyards in Perinton will host its 29th Annual Purple Foot Festival on September 14 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event combines traditional grape stomping with new additions like a Bills vs. Jets watch party, a diaper dash, and an animal menagerie. Other highlights include vineyard wagon rides, winery tours, live music, wine tastings, and a kids zone. Presale adult tickets start at $20.37.
Farmhouse Table Midtown Café’s Hispanic Heritage Month Brunch Series
From September 14 to October 5, the Farmhouse Table Midtown Café in downtown Rochester will feature a four-week Sunday brunch series celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Organizer Edwin Agron will donate tips from all four Sundays to Rochester Hope on behalf of the Hispanic Heritage Committee. Each week will showcase culture, food, and music, highlighting local Hispanic artists and community partners.
Foodlink’s Festival of Food
Foodlink’s Festival of Food will take place on September 15 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Rochester Public Market. Visitors can enjoy live music while sampling dishes from local restaurants, wineries, breweries, distilleries, caterers, and more. Tickets are available in advance starting at $85 and are not sold at the door.
Rochester Night Market
The Rochester Night Market runs every other Tuesday at The Refinery, 18 Flint St., with dates including September 16 and 30, and October 14 and 28. This open-air event features over 50 vendors offering food and nonalcoholic beverages, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Rochester Public Market’s Oktoberfest Celebration
On September 19, the Rochester Public Market will host a family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration from 5 to 9 p.m. The event will feature food, beer, live music, cultural performances, and games, providing a taste of German traditions.
Rochester Public Market’s Food Truck Rodeo
The last food truck rodeo of the season will be held on September 24 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Rochester Public Market. Steve Grills and the Roadmasters will perform, and admission is free. Seating is limited, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs.
Fairport Oktoberfest
Fairport Oktoberfest will run from September 25 to 27 at the Fairport Junction Festival Site. The event offers German cuisine, beer, and a mix of traditional and rock music. Admission prices vary by time, with free entry until 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Genesee Country Village’s 19th-Century Meals
Genesee Country Village will host authentic 19th-century meals at Hosmer’s Inn on September 26 and 27. Guests will enjoy a seven-course dinner served family style, along with parlor games. Tickets are priced at $100 per person.
Three Brothers Wineries’ Fall Fest
Three Brothers Wineries and Estates in Geneva will hold its second annual Fall Fest on September 27 and 28. The event includes axe throwing, a stein holding competition, mechanical bull rides, line dancing, live music, and more. Additional activities include a gourmet waffle bar, food trucks, and local vendors.
Naples Grape Fest
Naples Grape Fest will be held on Main Street in Naples, Ontario County, from September 27 to 28. The festival features art, vendors, crafts, food, live music, and wine tasting. A grape pie contest will take place on September 27, and a beverage garden will showcase local wineries, craft brewers, and distillers.
Wayne County Apple Tasting Tour
Wayne County will celebrate its 28th annual Apple Tasting Tour from October 1 to 31. Families can enjoy apple picking, cider tastings, and orchard activities at farms across the region. An app or downloadable passport guides visitors through a self-guided tour of 11 orchards, cideries, and farm markets.
Hilton Apple Festival
The Hilton Apple Festival will take place on October 4 and 5, featuring live music, apple treats, an apple pie baking contest, auto shows, and activities for children. Admission is free, with parking available at Hilton High School.
Taste & See Fundraising Event
Taste & See, a milestone fundraising event for The Commissary, will be held on October 10 in The Sibley Building. The event will celebrate five years of Rochester’s first shared commercial kitchen and food business incubator. Attendees can meet local entrepreneurs, taste culinary creations, and enjoy live demos. Tickets are priced at $75 for general admission and $100 for VIP access.
