The beginning of fall is right around the corner, and many of us in Albany and the Capital Region are excited for the new season. If you’re ready to kick off autumn early, then these 9 weekend festivals and events are for you!
The Weekend Is Full of Can’t-Miss Festivals
2019 Capital Region Apple & Wine Festival | Saturday, September 14 & Sunday, September 15
Whether you like wine, classic cars, arts and crafts, or fall fun, you should check out the 2019 Capital Region Apple & Wine Festival this weekend at the Altamont Fairgrounds. Now celebrating its 27th anniversary, this Albany area tradition is the perfect kick-off event to the autumn season!
10th Annual Harvest Fest | Saturday, September 14 & Sunday, September 15
Join Beekman 1802 in Sharon Springs for a Harvest Fest celebration. Highlights will include vendors, live demos, artisan meet-and-greets, food trucks, and more. Festival admission is free, although some special events will require a fee.
Shaker Heritage Society Craft Fair | Saturday, September 14 & Sunday, September 15
Stop by the Shaker Heritage Society this weekend and have fun at their 2019 Craft Fair. Over 75 artisans and vendors will be at the fair, and visitors can enjoy craft demonstrations, tours, family activities, food, and live music.
10th Annual PearlPalooza – Saturday, September 14
This Saturday, Pearl Street in downtown Albany will transform into an all-ages block party/music festival. The annual PearlPalooza is a highly anticipated event, and approximately 8-10,000 people are expected to attend.
Say Cheers to Amazing Food & Drinks
2019 Troy Restaurant Week | Happening Today Through Sunday, September 15
One of the most popular annual events in downtown Troy is the Troy Restaurant Week, which offers a wide selection of dining specials, dinner pairings, events, and more. Whether you’re a foodie or love a good deal, don’t miss out on this year’s Restaurant Week.
AFTER DARK: Pints and Puzzles | Friday, September 13
Looking for a fun way to spend your Friday? miSci in Schenectady is hosting AFTER DARK: Pints and Puzzles, a fun-filled evening of libation and scientific exploration for ages 21+. Solve riddles and puzzles, play games in the museum, and enjoy craft beers, wines, and ciders too.
America on Tap: Troy | Saturday, September 14

Head over to the River Street Field in Troy this Saturday and taste amazing craft brews at America on Tap: Troy. For this year’s event, you can sample over 120 releases from more than 65 of America’s best craft breweries.
3rd Annual Electric City Food Truck Fest | Saturday, September 14
Save your appetite for the 3rd Annual Electric City Food Truck Fest at Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady. Attendees can enjoy live music and food from over 12 local food trucks, and admission is free.
Niskayuna Food Truck Festival | Sunday, September 15
Chow down on delicious food at the 2nd Annual Niskayuna Food Truck Festival this Sunday. Hosted on Zenner Road in Niskayuna, the event will feature food trucks, music, vendors, kids activities, and a kickball tournament.