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Category: Foliage

Events

7 Fun Fall Activities to Enjoy in Montgomery County

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Fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore Montgomery County, with vibrant foliage, cool breezes, and plenty of seasonal activities that celebrate the best of autumn. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of fun things to do this season. From apple picking to haunted trails, here’s your guide to the best fall activities Montgomery County has to offer!

1. Pick the Perfect Apple at Bellinger’s Orchard

Nothing says fall like a trip to the orchard, and Bellinger’s Orchard in Fultonville is the ideal spot for a classic apple-picking adventure. Wander through rows of apple trees as you fill your basket with crisp, fresh apples perfect for snacking, baking, or making cider. Make a day of it and enjoy the farm’s seasonal treats, including cider donuts and freshly pressed apple cider.

Location: 685 Argersinger Rd, Fultonville, NY 12072

2. Find the Best Pumpkin at Starlight Acres

Looking for the perfect pumpkin for your fall décor or jack-o’-lantern masterpiece? Starlight Acres in Palatine Bridge has a beautiful pumpkin patch where you can pick your own pumpkin. Whether you want a small one for baking or a giant one for carving, Starlight Acres has it all. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to enjoy the fall farm atmosphere with hayrides and scenic views.

Location: 239 Groff Road Palatine Bridge, NY 13428

3. Cheer on Your Favorite High School Football Team

Friday night lights are a fall tradition, and there’s no better way to experience community spirit than by cheering on your local high school football team. Amsterdam High School and Canajoharie High School are just a few of the schools with exciting games happening throughout the season. Bundle up, grab some hot chocolate, and enjoy the energy of the game as you root for your team.

4. Take a Scenic Drive Through Montgomery County’s Countryside

Montgomery County’s rolling hills and scenic backroads offer some of the best fall foliage views in the region. Take a leisurely drive along Route 5 or Route 30A for stunning views of vibrant autumn colors. Be sure to stop along the way at charming small towns, historic sites like Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site, and roadside stands offering local produce and cider.

5. Sip a Pint at Schwalbacher Brewing

After a day of fall fun, relax and enjoy a local brew at Schwalbacher Brewing in Amsterdam. This family-owned brewery offers a cozy atmosphere and a rotating selection of craft beers, including seasonal varieties perfect for the fall season. Whether you’re into stouts or sours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Pair your pint with a scenic view of the Mohawk River and settle in for a relaxing evening.

Location: 30 Main St, Amsterdam, NY 12010

6. Get Lost in the Corn Maze at Sand Flats Orchard

Challenge yourself and your friends to the ultimate fall activity: getting lost in the corn maze at Sand Flats Orchard in Fonda. This fun-filled adventure is perfect for all ages and provides a day of exploration and laughs as you navigate through the winding paths of corn stalks. Sand Flats also offers other fall favorites, like hayrides and fresh-baked goods, so plan to spend a whole afternoon here!

Location: 371 Martin Rd, Fonda, NY 12068

7. Visit the Haunted History Trail

For those who love a spooky thrill, Montgomery County is home to some of the most eerie spots on the Haunted History Trail of New York State. Start at the Old Montgomery County Courthouse, which dates back to 1772, and explore its haunted past. Then, venture out to Widow Susan Road in the town of Amsterdam where ghostly tales of unexplained sightings have been passed down through generations. Both locations offer a spine-tingling experience perfect for the Halloween season.

Location:  9 Park St., Fonda, NY 12068 and 179 Widow Susan Road, Amsterdam, NY 12010

Experience the Best of Fall in Montgomery County

Whether you’re apple picking at Bellinger’s Orchard, finding your way through the Sand Flats Orchard corn maze, or enjoying a scenic drive through the countryside, Montgomery County has an autumn adventure waiting for you. So, grab your flannel and get ready to make the most of this beautiful season in our charming corner of New York State!

Virtual Classes and Workshops

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The Landis Arboretum aims to foster appreciation and understanding of trees and other plants and their importance in our environment. The educational curriculum is a major component of the Arboretum’s program.  Events and workshops designed for elementary school classes as well as the general public focus on the flora and fauna of the Arboretum.  Associated activities are as wide-ranging as botanical drawing classes, garden and trail tours, astronomy nights, and bird- and owl- watching sessions. The Arboretum as a dynamic, outdoor classroom of hundreds of acres is reflected in its wide-ranging Calendar of Events.

Landis is currently offering a wide range of Virtual Classes and Workshops. Click here (opens in a new tab) to visit their website and click on Videos to access all Virtual Classes and Workshops.

Fall Foliage Report: September 30 – October 6

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I LOVE NY starts the “New York Fall Foliage Report” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November.  Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Reporting station:  Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site, Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend: 25%

Brilliance: Average

Predominating colors: Oranges and Yellows emerging, sumac reds starting to shine

Rating: We’re nearing midpoint but the colors are already beautiful along the Mohawk Valley

The leaves are continuing to change in Montgomery County.  While green is still predominant, Oranges and Yellows emerging, sumac reds starting to shine.

The weather has been beautiful, so get out while you can and enjoy all of the gorgeous views.

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events, and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337

Fall Foliage Report: September 23-29

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I LOVE NY starts the “New York Fall Foliage Report” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November.  Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Reporting station:  Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site, Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend: 10%

Brilliance: Dull

Predominating colors: Green with touches of dull yellows and oranges starting to emerge

Rating: Just beginning

The leaves are just beginning to change in Montgomery County.  While green is still predominant, there are touches of yellow and orange starting to emerge.

This weekend looks to be shaping up to be a gorgeous one. If you haven’t already, visit one of the local Orchard’s in the County. Sandflat’s Orchard and Conbeer’s in Fonda are both great options to take the family out on a nice fall day. Get out and enjoy the crisp air and spectacular views!

On Saturday, the Amsterdam Farmer’s Market will be hosting their Fall Festival from 10am-4pm at the Sanford Stud Farm with PrimoMobile DJs, food, vendors, fall décor, cider donuts and cider, yoga classes at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and the harvest princesses will be there between noon and 2:00 p.m. to take pictures with the children. Great family friendly event!

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events, and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337

Hit the Trail for the Canalway Challenge

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Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor invites New Yorkers to take part in the Canalway Challenge this fall, tracing history and tracking miles along New York’s canals and Canalway Trail. Part fitness challenge, part journey of discovery, the Canalway Challenge is free and registration is open to people of all ages and abilities. Participants set their own mileage goal and walk, run, cycle or paddle to achieve it.

Nearly 1,000 individuals, teams, and organizations have signed up for the Canalway Challenge in 2020, pledging to walk, run, cycle, and paddle 126,000 miles to date.
New this fall, participants are encouraged to take up a quest to discover great food and beverages, historic sites, parks, and communities and discover what’s Hot on the Trail while completing the Canalway Challenge.

“Hot on the Trail adds a new element of discovery to the Canalway Challenge, while also supporting small businesses and attractions that have suffered from reduced visitation during the coronavirus pandemic,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.“It’s a win-win for both visitors and for small businesses and attractions that have reopened with safety protocols in place.”

From now through the end of October, Hot on the Trail participants are encouraged to visit sites in nine categories–including food and beverage, museums and historic sites, nature preserves, state and national parks, canal structures, and communities. Participants who list their favorites sites in each category by the end of October will be entered to win a $50 gift card to the New York State Canal Store.

“The Canalway Challenge is another of countless opportunities – both on and off the water – for recreation and fun along New York State’s historic canalway, and I join the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor in encouraging all New Yorkers to enjoy all that we have to offer,” said Brian U. Stratton, Director of the New York State Canal Corporation. “Governor Andrew Cuomo is committed to supporting the heritage and future of New York’s historic canal system, with initiatives that feature local activities that combine some of the best of New York State’s historical sights and natural resources with recreational activities that help to support local businesses during this exceptionally difficult time.”

For information and sign up, visit: CanalwayChallenge.org

ABOUT THE ERIE CANALWAY
Nearly 200 years after its construction, the Erie Canal remains an iconic symbol of American ingenuity and determination. The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor works to preserve the Nation’s extraordinary canal heritage, promote the Corridor as a world-class tourism destination, and foster vibrant communities connected by more than 500 miles of waterway. It achieves its mission in partnership with the National Park Service, New York State agencies, non-profit organizations, local residents, and more than 200 communities across the full expanse of upstate New York.
www.eriecanalway.org (opens in a new tab)

Fall Foliage Report: October 23-29

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I LOVE NY started the “New York Fall Foliage Report (opens in a new tab) ” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November.  Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Photo Credit: Jenny Galough courtesy of Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site

Reporting station:  Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site (opens in a new tab) , Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend:  90%

Brilliance: Bright

Predominating colors: Oranges dominate, yellows and reds here and there

Rating: Past Peak

While the foliage is past peak, color is still holding. Wind and rain has knocked down the earlier changes but the last are emerging.

This week brings a variety of activities including Halloween, live music, and more!

The Landis Arboretum (opens in a new tab) is hosting Star Parties (opens in a new tab) on Saturday and Sunday. View the stars and planets in Landis’ dark skies with members of the Albany Area Amateur Astronomers. A variety of telescopes will be set up for viewing the heavens, revealing nebulae, star clusters, galaxies, double stars, planets, and other celestial objects. Guests of all ages are always welcome. Feel free to bring your own telescope. Registration is recommended. Star Parties are cancelled if the skies are mostly cloudy. If in doubt, call Alan French at (518)374-8460. Also visit the Landis Clear Sky Clock at http://www.cleardarksky.com/c/GrgLndsAbNYkey.html (opens in a new tab) .

Amsterdam

Saturday evening, the Glen Conservancy Hall (opens in a new tab) features Guy Davis, Ambassador of the Blues (opens in a new tab) .  Guy Davis has spent his musical life carrying his message of the blues around the world, from the Equator to the Arctic Circle his work as an actor, author, and music teacher earmark him as a renaissance man of the blues.  Join the fun in the hamlet of Glen for a very special performance by Guy as he shares his favorite songs and stories and brings the Blues to downtown Glen.

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events (opens in a new tab) , and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337

Fall Foliage Report: October 16-22

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I LOVE NY started the “New York Fall Foliage Report (opens in a new tab) ” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November.  Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Amsterdam

Reporting station:  Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site (opens in a new tab) , Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend:  75%

Brilliance: Average to bright

Predominating colors: Oranges and yellows are really showing off

Rating: Near peak to peak

As temperatures drop, more bright colors are emerging.  The upper edges of the Mohawk Valley are nearer peak so a drive along the Mohawk River provides an explosion of fine fall foliage.  Fingers crossed the rain doesn’t put a damper on the leaf peeping.  Leaves that changed earlier in the season have already fallen with the help of wind and rain.

The Noses as seen traveling east on Route 5

This weekend is full with a variety of events including the annual Halloween Parade (opens in a new tab) in Amsterdam, a Taste of Chocolate & Basket Fundraiser (opens in a new tab) for the Frothingham Free Library, an Evening at Nellis Tavern (opens in a new tab) , Old Fort Johnson’s Harvest Festival (opens in a new tab) , a concert from the Mohawk Valley Chamber Ensemble (opens in a new tab) , and an Open House (opens in a new tab) at an alpaca farm.

This Friday and Saturday the Historic League of Amsterdam presents Ghosts of the Past: A Haunted History Tour of Green Hill Cemetery (opens in a new tab) .  Meet past notable Amsterdam residents and learn their stories while experiencing beautiful and historic Green Hill Cemetery.  All tours begin and end at Amsterdam City Hall.  Free refreshments provided.  Tour times for both Friday and Saturday nights are 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00 and 8:30pm.  Tickets are available at the Book Hound and Damiano’s Flowers.

Saturday the VanAlstyne Homestead & Museum (opens in a new tab) is holding the 8th Annual Soup Tasting & Craft Fair (opens in a new tab) .  There will be delicious soups donated by local chefs, and eateries, fall seasoned crafts available by vendors from far and wide, and delicious harvest specialties grown by local producers.  There will also be local and international artists on hand with their beautiful works on display.  Live music will be performed in the century old ballroom, museum tours will be available, as well as a 50/50 raffle.

The Arkell Museum (opens in a new tab) presents Adirondack Lumber Camp Songs (opens in a new tab) on Sunday afternoon.  Join in for an afternoon of rousing lumberjack songs.  Enjoy the music and learn about this tough, rough, and crucial work. This program also includes informative narratives about Adirondack Mountain logging camps in the 1800s.  This program runs about an hour and is most enjoyable for older children and adults.  Admission is free.  Donations are always welcome and help support future programs.

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events (opens in a new tab) , and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337

Fall Foliage Report: October 9-15

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I LOVE NY started the “New York Fall Foliage Report (opens in a new tab) ” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November.  Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site Aqueduct

Reporting station:  Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site (opens in a new tab) , Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend:  50%

Brilliance: Average to bright in some locations

Predominating colors: Still plenty of green but with oranges coming through strong with yellows and dulling reds

Rating: Midpoint moving quickly toward peak

This weekend we will reach midpoint with peak coming within the next couple of weeks.  There is still a lot of green in some locations but more color is showing through each day.  Leaves that changed early are starting to shed.

Erie Canalway Trail

On Saturday, the Schoharie River Center (opens in a new tab) will host its first ever “Hammer In” welcoming both blacksmiths and the general public to an informal gathering. Blacksmiths are welcome to attend to share techniques and skills with other blacksmiths and the public is invited to meet the blacksmiths and learn about this ancient craft. The Schoharie River Center has a newly constructed, timber-framed, blacksmith shop and all are welcome to celebrate.

Saturday and Sunday, is the 2019 Indigenous Peoples Weekend (opens in a new tab) at Saint Kateri Shrine (opens in a new tab) .  Tom Porter will present “The Journey from Birth to Death: Native American Wisdom on Healing from Trauma”: learn from Mohawk Elder Tom Porter how the beliefs and customs related to death and loss can help in the journey to comfort and healing.   Stay for Native Mass, featuring music by the Akwesasne Choir, including an Opening Prayer of Thanksgiving and smudging ceremony.

Sunday evening, the Landis Arboretum (opens in a new tab) hosts the traditional end to the warm season schedule with an owl prowl (opens in a new tab) .  Learn about the owls of the Arboretum with a short indoor session and then it’s off to the woods to call and listen for owls.

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events (opens in a new tab) , and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337

Fall Foliage Report: October 2 – 8

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I LOVE NY started the “New York Fall Foliage Report (opens in a new tab) ” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November. Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Putman Canal Store

Reporting station: Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site (opens in a new tab) , Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend: 40%

Brilliance: Average

Predominating colors: Oranges and yellows emerge with some reds still holding strong

Rating: Nearing midpoint – with the cold of October coming in, expect peak to move in quickly

More color is emerging and the midpoint of the season is approaching. As the weather becomes more fall-like peak season will be here soon.

The weekend is full of activities across the county. The Ames Museum (opens in a new tab) will be open on Saturday. On the National Registry of Historic Places, the museum collection encompasses life in the smallest incorporated village of New York State along with the surrounding areas and local businesses.

The 28th Hagaman Art Show (opens in a new tab) will be held on Saturday and Sunday from 12-4pm at Pawling Hall, 86 Pawling Street. Many area artists will be displaying their works. There is no admission charge.

On Saturday, the City of Amsterdam (opens in a new tab) will host the annual Oktoberfest (opens in a new tab) . The German themed block party on the Bridge Street will feature games, contests, German food, entertainment, vendors, live music, and Biergarten beer specials.

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events (opens in a new tab) , and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337

Fall Foliage Report: September 25-October 1

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I LOVE NY started the “New York Fall Foliage Report (opens in a new tab) ” on September 11 and will continue until the end of the foliage season, around the first or second week in November.  Montgomery County has started its own annual report this year as well.

Reporting station:  Schoharie Crossing State Historic Site (opens in a new tab) , Fort Hunter

Percent of trees predicted to have changed by the coming weekend:  20%

Brilliance: Dull to average as more color emerges

Predominating colors: Greens with pops of orange and reds developing

Rating: Beginning with a lot more brilliant and beautiful colors to come

Green is still predominant with more orange and yellow showing through.

Enjoy a night of music and dancing!  Friday night at the Elk’s Lodge in Amsterdam, Grand Central Station (opens in a new tab) will perform; wings and craft brews will be available to purchase.

Saturday features A Taste of History, the Garden Bug Fall Festival, Family Fun Day, the Friends of Sanford Stud Farm Open House and so much more (opens in a new tab) .

The Friends of Sanford Stud Farm Open House (opens in a new tab) will feature food trucks, vendors, and crafters.  Tour the historical Hurricana Barn and enjoy a variety of local vendors.

Mohawk Valley Collective (opens in a new tab) in collaboration with the Fort Plain Free Library (opens in a new tab) host “Family Fun Day (opens in a new tab) ” in Haslett Park, Fort Plain.  Including the popular Chalk-on-the-Walk where art is drawn on the sidewalk around the park, a bounce house, and many other family friendly events.  Food and ice cream will also be available.

The Montgomery County Historical Society’s annual fall fundraiser, A Taste of History (opens in a new tab) , features over a dozen soups, along with freshly baked breads and homemade pies.  Benefiting the preservation of Old Fort Johnson (opens in a new tab) , this year’s event will be held at the Century Club (opens in a new tab) in Amsterdam.  Seating is limited seating and advance tickets are recommended.  Admission includes unlimited soup samples, bread, pie, beverage and a special souvenir mug.  Tickets can be purchased online (opens in a new tab) .

The annual Garden Bug Fall Festival (opens in a new tab) will have a variety of agricultural products and fall decor available for purchase: mums, pumpkins, indian corn, bows, hay bales, corn stalks, and more.  Vendors and crafters will be on hand both Saturday and Sunday.  Music, bounce house, cider donuts, wagon rides, car cruise-in (Saturday only beginning at noon), food and gifts are all available.

Explore our countryside, enjoy our events (opens in a new tab) , and take in the autumn season!

Call for Travel Guides and Specialty Maps!

1.800.743.7337