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Don't Miss These 2024 Fall Festivals and Events In & Near Saratoga Springs

As the air turns crisp and the leaves change hue, we can look forward to the return of fall festivals and events in and near Saratoga Springs, NY. Whether you want to see the biggest pumpkins or watch hot air balloons fly into the sky, you can enjoy it all during fall!

Clifton Park Farm Fest

Dates: September 14 & 15, 2024

four kids sitting in front of pumpkins

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

This fantastic two-day event is 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

Dates: September 19 - 22, 2024

people at a hot air balloon festival

Each year, thousands of area residents and visitors eagerly anticipate the annual Adirondack Balloon Festival.

The event occurs north of Saratoga in nearby Queensbury and Glens Falls. It showcases dozens of hot air balloons taking off simultaneously, creating a mesmerizing display of vibrant colors in the sky. Come for the morning launches, or stick around for stunning nightglow displays.

Visitors can indulge in various food vendors and check out craft fairs, exhibitors, and kids' activities, ensuring an enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival

Dates: September 21 & 22, 2024

wool crafts on display

Visit the Washington County Fairgrounds in Greenwich to experience everything fiber and learn about the region's fiber arts industry.

The annual Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival showcases unique fiber arts and products. Highlights include wool, pottery, and paper crafts, festival foods, local craft beverages, demonstrations, and more.

Admission is $5.00 per person, and children under 13 can enter for free!

The Great Pumpkin Challenge

Date: September 28, 2024

people at the starting area of a race

Looking to get out and enjoy the cool fall air? The Great Pumpkin Challenge is an annual autumn race in Saratoga Springs, held at Saratoga Spa State Park. 

Run, walk, or roll in the 5K & 10K or Kids Fun Run. As a bonus, the first 1200 participants receive a moisture-wicking long-sleeve T-shirt.

The event includes costume and pumpkin contests, prizes for overall winners and top runners in each age group, and treats galore. Proceeds benefit Saratoga Bridges, a major nonprofit that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

So, lace up your running shoes and participate in the 24th Annual Great Pumpkin Challenge on September 28th!

Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest

Date: September 28, 2024

giant pumpkins

Remember to mark your calendar for the annual Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest! It's a treasured fall tradition in the community, and you won't want to miss the chance to admire the biggest pumpkins of the season.

Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest is a free, family-friendly event. The massive pumpkins begin arriving in the early morning, and the weigh-off starts at 11 a.m.

The Saratoga Farmers Market is next door on High Rock Avenue, and there will be food vendors and special exhibits celebrating the season.

Bring the whole family for a fun and free event to get everyone in the autumn spirit!

Saratoga Book Festival

Dates: October 5 - 6, 2024

a woman signing a paper alongside a book called 'Ebony Bear'

The Saratoga Book Festival is an annual celebration of books in downtown Saratoga Springs, aiming to foster a love of reading and promote literacy.

SBF brings together writers and readers each year for a weekend of engaging discussions, interviews, book talks, readings, workshops, and youth programs.

The festival showcases various genres, including contemporary fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, nonfiction, memoirs, and children’s literature.

Saratoga Showcase of Homes

Dates: October 5 - 6 & October 12 - 13, 2024

front view of a house

The Saratoga Showcase of Homes is another popular tradition during the fall season. 2024 marks the event's 28th year, and since its inception, it has raised over $1.5 million for local charities.

This event takes place over two weekends in October. Guests can enjoy a self-guided tour of the area's finest homes and vote for their favorites. It's an excellent opportunity to marvel at the homes' craftsmanship.

"The Way We Were" Car Show

Date: October 13, 2024

aerial view of a car show in a downtown street

One of Saratoga County's most significant car shows of the year is the annual "The Way We Were" Car Show in downtown Ballston Spa. Stroll down Front Street on October 13th and check out all the cool classic cars on display!

The event will also feature live music, food, merchandise vendors, and a Kids' Zone at Iron Spring Park.

Witch Walk and Dance 2024 in Saratoga Springs

Date: October 19, 2024

group of women dressed as witches for halloween event

Prepare for a night filled with cackles, dancing, and fun at the annual Witch Walk and Dance in Saratoga Springs. Hosted by Witch Walk SOSA, this spooktacular event welcomes attendees to dress in their best "witchy" attire and enjoy witch dances in various locations and drink specials at downtown Saratoga bars.

The Witch Walk and Dance raises funds for local animal organizations, and it's a great way to dress up for the Halloween season and spend a night out with friends.

Browse Witch Walk Must Haves

Saratoga DBA Presents the Annual Fall Festival

Date: October 26, 2024

kids doing pumpkin bowling on street

For 2024, the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association will host the Fall Festival on October 26th.

Look forward to various festivities and activities in downtown Saratoga, including a fall-themed Great Saratoga Pumpkin Hunt, which will take place over two weeks from October 15th to the 30th.

Halloween Season Events

four jack o lanterns in the darkness

Throughout October, the Saratoga area offers various thrilling and festive activities perfect for Halloween.

Take part in captivating witch walks and uncover the chilling tales of the area with ghost tours of Saratoga. Participate in creative and lively costume contests, pumpkin carving fun, haunted hayrides, and more!

October in Saratoga promises abundant hair-raising and spellbinding experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Veterans Day Events

Date: November 11, 2024

american flags by gravestones

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

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

Visit the Veterans Walk of Honor in Congress Park or the Saratoga Monument in Saratoga National Historic Park. You can also visit cemeteries such as Greenridge Cemetery, St. Peter’s Cemetery, or the New York State Military Museum.

Christopher Dailey Turkey Trot

Date: November 28, 2024

image of people running on street in a race

Before you dine on delicious food, get ready for an exciting Thanksgiving morning at the Christopher Dailey Turkey Trot! This 5K fundraiser begins in front of City Hall and ends on the Corner of Route 50 and North Broadway.

With no on-site registration, be sure to plan ahead for this road race and sign up early.

Discover even more fall events »

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About the Author: 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!