Autumn brings the falling of leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, and many families getting together and being involved in local festivals. These fall festivals may be brisk outdoors, but they’ll warm your heart when you attend them. Wrapping your hands around a hot cup of hot cocoa or hot apple cider while standing outside and listening to the laughter around you is sure to bring peace to any heart. Locally, there are many different festive fall events you and your family can participate in this season.

One local festival is of course the Peak and Peak Fall Festival. This festival became open to the public October 9-10 and will be open again on October 16-17, from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. This event will of course be held at the Peak and Peak located in Clymer, New York. This year will also be the 32nd annual Fall Fest that the Peak has put on. The entrancing fall foliage will entice anyone into wanting to partake in this two-weekend festival. Not only will this create a beautiful sight but also a magnificient background for the judging of the craft show. There will be more than 100 vendors at the event, and each will have different items pertaining to the autumnal season. A snippet into the schedule includes: Pumpkin Cannons, Wildlife Adventures Shows, and Carriage Rides. There will of course be access to the vendors during the event. Some vendors will have fresh fruits and vegetables, while others will be full of sugary goodies. This is certainly one event you won’t want to miss.

Port Farms, located on Stone Quarry road in Waterford is always a great way to enjoy the fall season. The autumn events started on September 18 and go through October 31. They are closed Mondays and Tuesdays but are open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. However, they did make an exception and will be open this upcoming Monday (Columbus Day) from the usual time of 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The admission costs will differ depending on age, group sizes, and days, but can be found here. There are so many different events to do at Port Farms during this time of the year. Some of the many fun-filled activities are hay rides, a corn maze, the trike track, pedal carts, and an adventure course. At Port Farms there are the animal exhibits, where kids (and adults) can enjoy seeing different farm animals and giving them a pet. There are gift shops, food stands, and many other attractions you can enjoy there, too. Even if you don’t go for the hay rides, the apple cider, or sweets, the fresh air there is enough to relax anyone who has been stressed and give them the opportunity to enjoy the distinct smell of fall.

Sparrow Pond Campground has their Spooky Hayrides back again. This frightening event will last until October 3o. These hayrides are tractor drawn, as having horses pull it would most likely prove unsuccessful. The cost is $10.95 per person, and children four and under aren’t suggested to go on the ride. A two year old certainly wouldn’t appreciate a gory clown jumping out at them on a hayride late at night. The rides last from 7:30 until 10:00 p.m. each Friday and Saturday night. (These are the only days they host them, except for one Sunday night special on October 10.) If you’re into the thrill of being scared, this is just the spot for you to enjoy some fall festivities.

Trunk or Treat at the Corry Alliance Church: The Corry Alliance Church hosts a “Trunk or Treat” each year for both church attendant families and the general public. The date, this year though, is still working on being determined. It will not be held on Halloween day, since it is a Sunday. Some people prefer going to the small carnival because it is easier than dragging kids around town, while others go for the closeness and ability to socialize with other families. There are different games set up everywhere, with the volunteers dressed up. Nothing costs money, just the costume you choose to go all-out in. Kids (and adults) have the opportunity to win lots of candy at each vendor. Along with all of the store-bought candy there is a table with refreshments and of course donuts and popcorn. (However, with covid this may be subject to change.) Smiles never cease at such an event. So, what are you waiting for? Get costumed up and head over to CMA for their annual Trunk or Treat festival.

Although there are only four events mentioned, fall festivals are all around that you can partake in. Get out there, meet new people, and enjoy the outdoors. Soon we will all be stuck inside wearing our comfiest sweatpants and sweatshirts watching snowflakes cover the ground.