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Fall Is Fabulous in Saratoga: Celebrate the Season With These Can't-Miss Events

Step outside and breathe in the sweet smells of pumpkin spice and cider doughnuts - it's fall in Saratoga County! The season is a fabulous time to visit the area, whether you love colorful fall foliage, festivals, Halloween happenings, or traditional family activities. Have an amazing autumn in Saratoga by attending some of these upcoming top events.

Plan a Tour of the Clifton Park Area's Farms

One of the region's early fall events that families look forward to is the annual Clifton Park Farm Fest, which is scheduled for September 16 - 17, 2023. During this weekend event, the public is welcome to drive to the many working farms in the Clifton Park area for hayrides, country food, and other fall festivities. Admission is free, so round up the kids for a fun day trip.

Discover Who Has the Greatest Pumpkin of Them All This Fall

Come one, come all, to the great pumpkin weigh-off! Now in its 8th year, the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce, the Saratoga Springs City Center, and the Saratoga Farmers Market will host the Saratoga Giant PumpkinFest on September 23, 2023, at the Saratoga Springs City Center Parking Garage.

Giant pumpkin growers from throughout the Northeast have been busy growing their biggest pumpkins for the annual weigh-off and festival. This free autumn event is family friendly and will feature the weigh-off at 11:00am and food vendors and special exhibits next door at the Saratoga Farmers Market.

Fall in Love with Halfmoon's Harvest Festival

The Town of Halfmoon's annual Harvest Festival will offer activities for all ages on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Halfmoon Town Park. You can meet friendly animals at the pony rides and petting zoo areas, test your skills at pumpkin decorating, games, and rock climbing, shop at the vendors, and more.

The Harvest Festival runs from 12:00pm-4:00pm, so consider an early dinner after the event. There are a large number of dining options at Clifton Park Center (3 miles west of Halfmoon Town Park), and nearby, such as Caputo's Pizzeria Restaurant and Delmonico's Italian Steakhouse.

Face Your Darkest Fears at Double M Haunted Hayrides

For over 25 years, Double M Haunted Hayrides in Ballston Spa has been recognized as one of the Capital Region's top haunted hotspots. Featuring six terrifying attractions for the price of one, Double M Haunted Hayrides is the place to be during Halloween season. Go a ride through the dark woods, escape from the post-apocalyptic compound known as Brutality, and prepare to face your fears. Hayrides will be held on select days during fall 2023.

Take Your Taste Buds on a Culinary Trip Around the World

Saratoga boasts one of the region's best restaurant scenes, and on Saturday, October 7, 2023, you can go on an unforgettable food tasting experience at the Saratoga International Flavorfeast. Each year, Flavorfeast celebrates Saratoga's culinary diversity by welcoming visitors to sample international dishes from participating downtown Saratoga restaurants.

Stroll Through Time at "The Way We Were" Car Show

Calling all classic car enthusiasts! On Sunday, October 8, 2023, the Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association will present the 21st Annual "The Way We Were" Car Show in downtown Ballston Spa. Featuring hundreds of classic cars and trucks on display, this popular fall event is open to the public.

Head over to the Village of Ballston Spa and enjoy a stroll through time around the wide variety of vehicles. In addition to the cars and trucks lining Front Street, there will be food and merchandise vendors, a Kid's Zone near Old Iron Spring, and more. For even more history, browse the top-notch antiques at Daisy Dry Goods and Stone Soup Antiques Gallery in Ballston Spa.

Show Off Your Halloween Spirit at the Great Pumpkin Challenge

The 23rd annual Great Pumpkin Challenge 5K/10K will return to Saratoga Spa State Park on Saturday, September 30, 2023. Sign up for this seasonal race and have a blast running through one of Saratoga's most beautiful parks (especially during fall!). The Great Pumpkin Challenge begins and ends at the Columbia Pavilion, and funds raised will benefit Saratoga Bridges.

Enjoy New & Old Traditions at Saratoga's Fall Festival

kids in halloween costumes doing pumpkin bowling
Note: This photo is from a past Saratoga Fall Festival and does not reflect the 2022 event's activities.

Gather up the whole family and make your way to the Spa City for the Saratoga Springs Downtown Business Association's Annual Fall Festival! The fun-filled celebration is one of Saratoga County's most highly anticipated events of the season, as it brings together children and families for activities and entertainment in downtown Saratoga. The 2023 Fall Festival will be held on Saturday, October 21.

Cheer on the Rowers in the Head of the Fish Regatta

competitive rowers in boats
Photo Credit: SaratogaPhotographer.com

The Head of the Fish Regatta on Fish Creek in Saratoga is one of the country's largest annual regattas. You can't beat the excitement of cheering on rowers as they power their way to the finish line of this 3,200 meter long course. The 2023 Head of the Fish Regatta is scheduled for October 28 - 29, 2023.

Your next fall adventure in Saratoga awaits! Mark your calendar for an event that appeals to you, and get ready to have fun.

This article is sponsored by Saratoga County Tourism. Note: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or view of Saratoga County Tourism or its members.

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