New York City in the fall is a vibrant and lively place filled with exciting events. As the leaves change and the weather cools, the city becomes a hub of cultural celebrations, food festivals, and seasonal fun.
Whether you’re a local or visiting, fall is the perfect time to experience NYC’s energy and diversity. There’s something for everyone, from family-friendly events to arts and music festivals. Here’s a list of 28 must-visit fall festivals in NYC that will make your autumn unforgettable.
New York Film Festival
Held annually at Lincoln Center, the New York Film Festival showcases the best in world cinema. With screenings of independent films, documentaries, and international titles, this prestigious festival is a must for film lovers.
Feast Of San Gennaro
One of the most famous fall festivals in NYC, the Feast of San Gennaro is a vibrant celebration of Italian culture in Little Italy. Expect delicious food, music, parades, and fun as Mulberry Street comes alive.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Head to Van Cortlandt Manor in the Hudson Valley for The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. This mesmerizing event features thousands of hand-carved pumpkins illuminated in intricate displays, making it the perfect family-friendly fall activity.
NYC Wine & Food Festival
Foodies rejoice! The NYC Wine & Food Festival brings together celebrity chefs, gourmet tastings, and cooking demonstrations across the city. Enjoy everything from wine tastings to special dinners at this four-day culinary event.
Oktoberfest At Watermark
Celebrate Oktoberfest along the East River at Watermark. Enjoy German beer, bratwurst, and live music while taking in a stunning view of the city skyline. The festive atmosphere is perfect for a fall afternoon with friends.
The Village Halloween Parade
NYC’s Village Halloween Parade is a one-of-a-kind event featuring creative costumes, giant puppets, and live performances. Join thousands of participants in this iconic parade or enjoy the spectacle from the sidelines.
Queens County Farm Fall Festival
Queens County Farm hosts a family-friendly fall festival with pumpkin patches, hayrides, and a corn maze. Kids and adults alike will love this traditional autumn celebration in the city’s heart.
Brooklyn Book Festival
Book lovers will want to visit the Brooklyn Book Festival, one of the city’s most significant literary events. This festival is a haven for bibliophiles, featuring readings, discussions, and book signings by well-known authors.
Harvest Fest At Governors Island
Governors Island’s annual Harvest Fest celebrates the fall season with activities like pumpkin carving, cider pressing, and live music. Bring the family and enjoy a day of fun while taking in the breathtaking views of the harbor.
New York Comedy Festival
Are you looking for some laughs? The New York Comedy Festival features performances from top comedians at venues all over the city. With a mix of stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy, this festival promises plenty of entertainment.
Bronx Night Market
The Bronx Night Market celebrates the borough’s diverse culinary scene with food vendors, live music, and artisan goods. This vibrant market runs through the fall and is a great spot to try unique dishes from local vendors.
Pumpkin Picking At Decker Farm
Take a trip to Staten Island’s Decker Farm for a day of pumpkin picking and fall fun. This historic farm offers hayrides, corn mazes, and plenty of pumpkins, making it an ideal destination for a family outing.
New York Coffee Festival
Coffee lovers can’t miss the New York Coffee Festival, which brings together coffee roasters, baristas, and enthusiasts worldwide. Sample different brews, learn about the latest coffee trends, and enjoy live music at this unique event.
Central Park Pumpkin Flotilla
Central Park’s Pumpkin Flotilla is a magical event where carved pumpkins are set afloat on the park’s Harlem Meer at dusk. This charming, family-friendly festival is a beautiful way to celebrate Halloween in the city.
Cider Week NYC
Celebrate one of fall’s best beverages at Cider Week NYC. This week-long festival features tastings, dinners, and educational events dedicated to hard cider. It’s a delicious way to explore the city’s cider scene.
New York Burlesque Festival
For something a little different, check out the New York Burlesque Festival. This lively event combines burlesque performers worldwide for four dazzling performances and parties.
Dumbo Arts Festival
The Dumbo Arts Festival transforms Brooklyn’s waterfront into an outdoor gallery with interactive installations, live performances, and exhibits by local artists. It’s a perfect festival for art lovers exploring the city’s creative scene.
Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is an open-air food market in Brooklyn that offers a variety of street food and local delicacies. The fall edition features seasonal dishes and a festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit for foodies.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Harvest Festival
Celebrate the harvest season at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Harvest Festival. Enjoy autumn-themed activities like cider pressing, garden tours, and workshops in this beautiful setting.
Winter Village At Bryant Park (Fall Kickoff)
Though a winter destination, Bryant Park’s Winter Village opens in late fall, bringing ice skating, holiday shopping, and festive treats to Midtown. It’s a great way to enter the holiday spirit as the season transitions.
Rubulad’s Fall Ball
Rubulad’s Fall Ball is an underground, eclectic event featuring live music, DJs, and artistic performances. This unique celebration is known for its creative atmosphere, attracting those who enjoy alternative nightlife.
The Chocolate Expo
Indulge your sweet tooth at The Chocolate Expo, where you can sample chocolates, desserts, and gourmet treats from local and international vendors. It’s a delicious way to spend a fall day in NYC.
NYC Marathon
The NYC Marathon may not be a traditional festival, but a city-wide celebration of athleticism and community. Thousands of runners take to the streets each fall, and the entire city comes out to cheer them on.
LIC Flea & Food
In Long Island City, LIC Flea & Food is a famous market offering food, drinks, and vintage goods. The fall edition is especially festive, with seasonal treats and live music adding to the fun.
American Indian Art Market
The American Indian Art Market at the National Museum of the American Indian showcases traditional and contemporary works from Native American artists. It’s a unique cultural festival that celebrates Indigenous art and craftsmanship.
JazzFest NYC
Jazz lovers can’t miss JazzFest NYC, a multi-day event featuring live performances from both renowned and emerging jazz musicians. This festival brings the smooth sounds of jazz to venues across the city.
The Queens International Night Market
The Queens International Night Market celebrates the borough’s rich cultural diversity with food, music, and art worldwide. This vibrant market is a fun way to experience global flavors in NYC.
Union Square Autumn Fair
Union Square’s Autumn Fair is a festive fall market featuring local artisans, food vendors, and musicians. Visitors can browse handmade crafts, enjoy seasonal snacks, and soak in the lively atmosphere at this iconic city square.
New York City’s fall festivals capture the season’s essence with their blend of culture, food, and community. Whether you’re in the mood for pumpkin picking, culinary delights, or dancing to live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These 28 must-visit fall festivals offer the perfect way to celebrate the beauty and excitement of autumn in NYC.