A fall full of festivities
A fall full of festivities

Although summer is coming to a close and another Syracuse winter is growing near, this fall is full of fun-filled festivals! Here’s a list of some of the best fall events every student should attend before leaving Central New York.

The City Market
What: Sponsored by M&T Bank, The Everson Museum of Art hosts vendors from all over New York inside their plaza and invites the community to come, walk around, shop and enjoy art. Visitors can find handmade ceramics and crafts as well as vintage clothing, furniture, home décor, snacks and more. So whether you’re in the market for the perfect vintage necklace to compliment your thrifted outfit or you’re down to try some West African Style Peanut Brittle, this is one to mark down on your calendar! The City Market is a fun way to explore the vibrant and diverse community of Syracuse while also supporting local artisans. The open-air market is also a COVID-safe way to spend your Sunday!
When: 10 am – 5 pm on the second Sunday of every month from May – October.
Where: Everson Museum of Art 401 Harrison Street Syracuse, NY 13202
Price: Free

The Great American Irish Festival:
What: It’s no secret that Syracuse is home to a vibrant and lively Irish community. The Great American Irish Festival is a three-day-long celebration of Irish and Celtic culture. Events include a bagpipe competition, athletic events including a 5k Ranger Run and Highland Games (traditional Celtic heavy games), a variety of food and alcohol vendors, and even whisky tasting for those who really want to tap into their inner Irishman. The main attraction of the festival is the countless musical performance from bands like We Banjo 3 and the High Kings. This festival gives visitors a taste of both traditional and contemporary Irish culture.
When: September 19 – 21,
Where: 135 Cemetery St, Frankfort, NY 13340
Price: Advance Sale: Friday: $15, Saturday: $18, Sunday: $10, Weekend Pass: $35*
At the Gate: Friday night only: $18, Saturday: $20, Sunday: $10
Free Admission for children 13 and under AND active military members (with valid ID) and immediate family

Wescott Street Cultural Fair
What: After 29 years the Westcott Cultural Fair is still celebrating the diversity and quirkiness of the neighborhood. Come see Wescott comes alive with music, food, beer, dance, and crafts from around the world. With $2 empanadas from Wescott’s Las Delicias, the fair is a great place to get some delicious food on a college student’s budget!
When: September
Where: Westcott St. from Concord to Dell (and side streets)
Price: Free
Golden Harvest Festival
What: If you haven’t gotten enough of the New York State Fair, head over to the Golden Harvest Festival – an old-fashioned, country fair. Events include horse-drawn hayrides, free canoeing, live animal demonstrations and a slew of games. The festival also hosts artists from around central New York, a farmers market and food vendors. The three stages are home to some of the quirkier events like the Wild Critter call competition and Living Scarecrow contest.
When: Sep. 11 – 12, 10 am – 6 pm
Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E Mud Lake Rd, Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Price: $5 (cash only)