Western New York boasts a rich festival culture year-round, which means the outdoor fun doesn’t stop when summer winds down. September and October feature several free or low-cost events for all ages.
Niagara Falls Blues Festival
Sept. 13-14
Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls
Free
Since 2008, the legendary Niagara Falls Blues Festival has attracted music lovers from around the world. Experience live music from regional and national musicians while enjoying food and drinks from favorite local vendors. The festival is free and open to all, just steps away from the Falls. Bring a chair, get comfy and get ready for a memorable and music-filled celebration.
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Orchard Park Festival of the Arts
Sept. 14-15
One Bills Drive, Parking Lot #7, Orchard Park
Free
The Orchard Park Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 2024 Orchard Park Festival of the Arts and Health, Fitness & Business Expo. This event welcomes artists and makers from all over the Northeastern United States. Shop alongside thousands of art and craft enthusiasts, grab a snack from food trucks and vendors, watch live art demos and more.
Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival & Highland Games
Sept. 14-15
Niagara County Fairgrounds, 4487 Lake Ave., Lockport
$12-35; free for kids under 12
Escape the ordinary and celebrate all the beauty of Irish, Scottish and Welsh cultures at New York’s largest Celtic festival. Savor an immersive weekend filled with communal food and beverages, music and dancing, living history, shopping, attractions and Highland Games events.
The Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival
Sept. 14-Oct. 31
11199 Main St., Clarence
Free on weekdays; $16-18/person on weekends
For traditional fall festivities, the Great Pumpkin Farm always delivers. Free weekday admission includes a petting zoo, hay maze, playground and pumpkin patch, or visit during one of the themed festival weekends for all that plus live music, rides and extra spooks and surprises. Don’t miss special events like the World Pumpkin Weigh-Off, Pumpkin Olympics and Pumpkin Drop.
Lewiston Harvest & Hops Festival
Sept. 28-29
Center Street, Lewiston
Free
Hosted by the Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce and presented by Brickyard Brewing Company, this event features more than 100 artisan crafters and food and beverage vendors. Enjoy drinks from your favorite local wineries, breweries and distilleries or shop at the Farmers Market on Fifth Street, right in the heart of the festival. Village shops and dining establishments will also be open during the event.
Central Terminal Fall Fest
Oct. 12
495 Paderewski Drive, Buffalo
Free
Gather at the sometimes spooky, always stunning Buffalo Central Terminal for a day filled with live music, pumpkin decorating, samplings from local food vendors and more. It’s a great way to spend a fall afternoon with friends and family while soaking in the historical and architectural ambience of the Central Terminal.
