Autumn settles over Chautauqua, New York, with stunning colors and a calendar full of celebrations. Historic apple festivals and seasonal celebrations fill the days with unforgettable memories. Enjoy the best of fall with food, music, and family activities.
Celebrate Tradition at the Busti Apple Festival
The Busti Apple Festival has been a beloved tradition since 1972. What began as a Pioneer Crafts Festival quickly blossomed into a full celebration of apples and autumn.
This year marks the 51st festival. Expanded hours let families enjoy even more time together—Saturday, September 27, and Sunday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5, and children under 12 are free.
Highlights include:
- Carriage and pony rides for kids.
- A bustling farmers’ market featuring fresh apples.
- Handmade goods, crafts, and local vendors.
- Historical demonstrations like weaving, wood carving, and pioneer-style apple butter making.
- Tours of the updated museum, Miller’s House, and the Grist Mill in action.
- Freshly baked apple pies and cider.
New this year: family-friendly historic costumes are encouraged, making the festival even more fun.
Photos Courtesy of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau
Experience Fall Fun at Peek’n Peak Fall Fest
Mark your calendars as Peek’n Peak Fall Fest returns for its 37th year with two weekends of excitement, October 11–12 and October 18–19.
This family-friendly celebration offers:
- A marketplace filled with artisans, bakers, photographers, and woodsmiths.
- Farm-fresh fruits and hot pizzelle cookies.
- Seasonal treats that satisfy every craving.
The Kid’s Zone bursts with energy. Free activities include balloon animals, Jungle Terry & Friends, crafts, and museum exhibits. Ticketed fun brings pony rides, pumpkin paintball shooting, and mountain adventure activities. Live music, magicians, and stage shows keep the energy high all day.
Discover Nature at the Panama Rocks Foliage Festival
Nature lovers will fall in love with the Panama Rocks Foliage Festival, October 4–5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free festival showcases one of the most scenic spots in the region, famous for its 60-foot rock formations.
Visitors can explore:
- Over 70 vendors at the art and craft show and farmers’ market.
- Demonstrations such as chainsaw carving, glass blowing, and blacksmithing.
- Delicious food from food trucks offering wings, funnel cakes, grilled cheese, and more.
- Family activities like trick-or-treating with vendors, pumpkin painting, and costume contests.
Admission to the festival is free, while entrance to the Panama Rocks scenic area requires the normal daily rate.
Plan Your Chautauqua Fall Adventure
With so many exciting events in Chautauqua coming up, fall is the perfect time to gather family and friends. From warm apple pie at the Busti Apple Festival to the laughter of children at Peek’n Peak Fall Fest and the breathtaking sights at the Panama Rocks Foliage Festival, the season delivers something for everyone. Pack your sweater, grab your camera, and create fall memories.
