Festive Fall Weekend Planned Across Adirondacks with Oktoberfest and More

The Adirondack region gears up for a lively Columbus Day weekend, with multiple towns hosting a variety of festivals and events. Despite the cooling temperatures, the fall season in this area is far from over. Among the notable events are the Flaming Leaves Festival in Lake Placid, Oktoberfest in Lake George, and the Applefolkfest at Penfield Homestead Museum.

Lake George’s Oktoberfest and Fall Festival will take place from Friday to Sunday, October 11-13, transforming Canada Street into a Bavarian-style street fair. The celebration invites participants of all ages to enjoy a weekend filled with music, food, and festive activities. According to the event organizers, attendees should bring cash, as most vendors are cash-only. Free parking is available nearby, and well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome.

The Flaming Leaves Festival, scheduled for October 12 and 13 in Lake Placid, promises vibrant local color, live music, crafts, and various family-friendly activities. It coincides with the USA Nordic National Championships, featuring over 50 athletes from the US, Canada, and Norway. Young visitors can enjoy a spray leaf tie-dye session every morning and participate in playful games and crafts.

Music enthusiasts can look forward to performances such as the indie-rock concert by Syd Straw and Chris Kowanko at Lake Flower Landing in Saranac Lake, also on October 12. Straw, accompanied by guitarist Don Piper, will bring her eclectic and impressive music career to the Adirondacks for the first time.

John Brown Lives! celebrates its 25th anniversary with a two-day event starting on October 12 at John Brown Farm State Historic Site. Highlighting historical reflections, the celebration will include a book talk and signing by historian Tiya Miles. The weekend offers a chance to learn more about the nation’s history of slavery and its ongoing impacts.

Meanwhile, the Penfield Museum’s annual Applefolkfest returns on October 13, providing a family-friendly atmosphere with apple-themed activities. In Plattsburgh, Tim Collins, a renowned vibraphonist, will perform with German ensemble Quadro Nuevo on the same day. Their music, a fusion of jazz and world influences, will be showcased at the Strand Center for the Arts Theater.

Additionally, the Adirondack Loon Celebration on October 13 at Paul Smith’s College VIC offers a day dedicated to the iconic bird of the region, featuring guided paddles, a loon-calling contest, and educational talks aimed at raising awareness of loon conservation efforts.