2025 Fall Festivals & Events in the Albany, NY Area That You Don't Want to Miss
As the leaves begin to change, local communities come alive with a vibrant array of fall celebrations. To help you plan the perfect season, we’ve rounded up the must-attend fall festivals and events in the Albany, NY area!
What Are Some Fall Festivals in Albany, NY or Nearby?
The Capital Region is full of festive traditions each autumn. Some of the most popular fall festivals include the Adirondack Balloon Festival, the Capital Apple & Wine Festival, the Upper Madison Street Fair, and Troy ChowderFest.
These seasonal favorites bring together families, food lovers, and festival-goers from across Upstate New York.
Explore the full list below to find even more Albany area fall events happening in 2025.
Clifton Park Farm Fest
Get ready for fall fun at the Town of Clifton Park’s annual Farm Fest! This popular two-day celebration brings together hayrides, apple picking, country food, and more—all showcasing local farms and businesses.
Admission is free, and families can enjoy a self-guided tour throughout town, making it one of the most family-friendly fall festivals near Albany.
Adirondack Balloon Festival
Each year, thousands gather to witness dozens of hot air balloons lift off in a stunning display of color over Queensbury and Glens Falls.
The annual Adirondack Balloon Festival also features live music, a craft fair by ZONTA, food vendors, and kids’ activities. It’s one of the most iconic Capital Region fall festivals, drawing visitors from far beyond Albany.
Capital Apple & Wine Festival
Celebrating 31 years, this family-friendly festival brings together New York State wines, ciders, spirits, handmade crafts, specialty foods, and food trucks. Now held at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, just 35 minutes from Albany, it’s a scenic and flavorful way to enjoy the season.
New York State Hops and Harvest Festival
Held at Empire State Plaza, the free New York State Hops and Harvest Festival celebrates craft beer, live music, hops presentations, and fall-themed activities. It’s a great chance to sip, learn, and savor seasonal flavors.
Upper Madison Street Fair
Upper Madison Avenue in Albany transforms into a lively hub of art, yoga, dance, face painting, live music, plein air painting, a silent auction, a used book sale, and a Kids Zone full of activities.
It’s a community-focused festival that shows off the best of city living.
Maple Ski Ridge Annual Fall Festival
Gather at Maple Ski Ridge for a family-favorite fall experience featuring a classic car show, live music, bounce houses, hayrides, and scenic chairlift rides.
A portion of the proceeds benefits The Weekend Backpack Partnership, supporting schoolchildren in Schenectady County.
Troy ChowderFest
Downtown Troy comes alive with ChowderFest sampling as restaurants and local shops serve $2, four-ounce bowls of chowder.
Enjoy live entertainment and browse craft vendors while supporting local businesses. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome at this popular Capital Region food festival.
Table Hopping Mac-n-Cheese Bowl
Downtown Cohoes hosts the TimesUnion.com/Table Hopping Mac-n-Cheese Bowl, a cheesy favorite featuring more than two dozen creative mac-n-cheese stations paired with beer tastings. It’s a delicious way to celebrate fall comfort food in the Albany area.
Albany's Trick or Trot Pumpkin Run 5K
Dress up and hit the pavement in downtown Albany and Washington Park for a festive 5K run. Expect costume contests, divisional awards, prizes—and a celebration that’s as fun as it is spooky.
This Albany fall event is perfect for runners and families looking to enjoy the Halloween season.
Albany Auto Show
Dreaming of a new ride? The annual auto show at MVP Arena lets you explore the latest cars, trucks, and SUVs from over 25 manufacturers. This three-day event is the perfect time to browse, ask questions, and determine the best new vehicle for you this year.
Veterans Day Events
On Veterans Day, honor local heroes: Albany hosts ceremonies at sites like the New York State Women Veterans Memorial, Vietnam, and Korean War memorials at Empire State Plaza, and Purple Heart and WWII memorials along Madison Avenue.
You can participate in commemorative ceremonies or visit a historical site to pay your respects to those who have served.
Other memorials include the New York State Purple Heart Memorial on Madison Avenue and the World War II Memorial next to the New York State Museum.
Troy Turkey Trot
Register to run in the annual Troy Turkey Trot! The race started in 1916 with just six runners entering. Now, it's one of the country's largest and oldest turkey trots.
Celebrate Thanksgiving morning with one of the region’s oldest turkey trots. Choose from a 5K, a 10K, a school-aged mile, or a one-mile walk. Join this spirited tradition in downtown Troy!
When Do Fall Festivals Take Place in Albany, NY?
Most Albany area fall festivals and events take place from mid-September through late November.
Early fall favorites include the Adirondack Balloon Festival and Clifton Park Farm Fest, while October highlights range from Troy ChowderFest to Albany’s Pumpkin Run 5K.
Thanksgiving week wraps up the season with the Troy Turkey Trot. Be sure to check event websites for the latest updates and schedules!
Plan Your Perfect Fall in the Capital Region
Fall in the Albany area is about more than colorful leaves—it’s a season full of local flavor, vibrant festivals, and community traditions. Whether you’re sipping cider, watching hot-air balloons, cheering on runners, or sampling chowder downtown, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Find even more fall events >>
Explore Saratoga Springs fall festivals >>
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