Well summer is coming to an end, meaning it’s time to make way for fuzzy sweaters and everything pumpkin spice. But whether or not you’re a fan of the cold weather, there are plenty of activities in and around the New York City area to keep you occupied this fall. From wine tours to chocolate festivals, there’s bound to be something on this list to make you want to bundle up and leave your fireplace!
1. Oktoberfest In Central Park
Taking place on September 16th, Oktoberfest will be held in Central Park and feature a fair share of German beer and food! Not only that, but there will be live bands and the National Masskrugstemmen Championship. Tickets are $31 for general admission (lederhosen optional).
2. San Gennaro Feast
Held between September 14th and the 24th, the 91st annual San Gennaro Feast will be taking over the streets of Little Italy. Enjoy live music and food demonstrations while supporting an event that donates money to local schools and churches. The good news is that most of the festival events are free of charge, unless otherwise noted on the website, www.sangennaro.org.
3. Cider Week
For those hard-cider lovers, make sure to take advantage of Cider Week between October 21st and 30th. Similar to the Restaurant Week concept, Cider Week is meant to increase the awareness of craft ciders by making them more widely available in nearby restaurants, bars, and retail stores. Visit www.ciderweeknyc.com for details on the events taking place over the course of the ten days.
4. Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
This event virtually speaks for itself. Join the countless other people that crowd Central Park West all the way down to 34th Street. Just make sure to get there early enough to get a good viewing spot!
5. New York Film Festival
From September 28th to October 15th, visit any of the venues that the Film Society of Lincoln Center has chosen to showcase the best in the business plus upcoming talent. Attend a movie screening or even a gala event. Stop by their website at www.filmlinc.org for more information on purchasing tickets!
6. North Fork Winery Tour
If you’re venturing out of the city, happen to live closer to the east end of Long Island, or just really like wine, don’t skip out on the North Fork Winery Tour. Round up a group of friends or family and take advantage of one of their many packages, including a party bus or limo. Hop from vineyard to vineyard and sample some of Long Island’s signature wines.
7. The Big Chocolate Show
Clear your calendar for October 6th, 7th, and 8th because the Terminal Warehouse is hosting the Big Chocolate Show. Come for chocolate tastings and countless other chocolate-related events! Tickets available at www.bigchocolateshow.com
8. Queens County Farm Museum
For those outdoorsy folk, you might be interested in something a little more off the beaten path. The Queens County Farm Museum has been around since 1697 and is still an operating farm. Filled with history, the museum offers the opportunity to explore a patch of farmland right in the middle of New York City.
9. Archtober
Continuing on the “off the beaten path” theme, Archtober might be one of the lesser-known events in New York. The entire month of October is known as “Architecture and Design Month” in the city. Do you love double hung windows? Do various types of moldings fascinate you? Then definitely check out cfa.aiany.org for more information on the exhibitions and events taking place throughout the month!
10. Open House New York Weekend
Held on October 14th and 15th, Open House New York Weekend allows public access to a slew of buildings, both industrial and residential, for tours, performances, and other events. Get a behind the scenes look at buildings throughout the five boroughs that would otherwise be closed off to the public. Visit www.ohny.org to find out more!
