As we embrace the cooler days, it's the perfect opportunity to explore the rich traditions of agritourism and connect with nature. From the bustling activities on a farm to the simple joy of picking your own pumpkin, fall offers a unique charm and excitement that's best enjoyed outdoors.
More and more travelers are catching on to the fun of enjoying agritourism in new destinations — visiting area farms and producers to learn more about local products and people, and partaking in one-of-a-kind experiences that range from feeding the livestock to picking your own produce. In LivCo, just as is the case throughout much of the country, fall agritourism means harvest season, as well as seasonal staple activities such as apple and pumpkin picking. Add in the fall agricultural events that occur throughout the region, as well as the many farmer's markets that bring the fall festivities to you, and you could hardly ask for anything more. So, where can you go in LivCo to experience fall in all its Instagram-worthy glory? Here are a few of our favorite farms, markets, and fall-related events.
GET OUT THERE AND FIND YOUR PUMPKIN IN THE WILD!
There’s no question that harvest season is a fun few months in Western New York, as the abundant farmland in Livingston County provides family-friendly activities from apple picking and pumpkin patches to hayrides and corn mazes. During your fall adventures, make a stop at various farm markets and stands for your perfect Jack-O-Lantern pumpkin.
Stop at J & A Farm Market in Avon, a greenhouse and market that sells not just pumpkins throughout the fall, but all your favorite gourd varieties as well, and colorful, cheery mums. Many of the area farmers markets also sell a broader array of seasonal produce, as well as tasty, seasonal baked goods, to make your agritourism adventure even sweeter. Head to True North Farms, an organic farm that follows microfarm practices, for pumpkins, fresh vegetables, sunflowers, and more fall goods.
Stop by the Geneseo Farmer’s Market on Center Street, on Thursdays from 3pm to 6:30pm, for quick seasonal shopping. If you’re in the southern part of LivCo, try the Dansville Farmer’s Market, open Fridays from 11am to 4pm, or the Springwater Farmers Market on Thursdays, 3pm to 7pm. The Nunda Area Farmer’s Market runs every Saturday morning on the town government offices’ front lawn. Or stop by the Lima Farmer’s Market every Tuesday, 3pm to 6pm, outside the Lima Presbyterian Church.
CELEBRATE THE SEASON AT AG-FOCUSED EVENTS
Still deciding how to celebrate autumn in LivCo? Plan to be in town for one of the region’s fall events. As leaves change color and farms fill up with apples and pumpkins, spots across the area embrace the fall season with harvest festivals.
Autumn in the Village
Back to Top of ListEarly in the season, catch Livonia’s Autumn in the Village Festival, held annually on the second Saturday in September. Take part in the festival’s Annual Cornhole Tournament, with competitions in the morning and afternoon. In addition to a parade, the festival includes lots of live music, food vendors, crafts, and more, for a celebratory environment the entire family will love.
Lima Pumpkin Festival
Back to Top of ListIf your favorite thing about the season is pumpkins, hands down, you won’t want to miss the 2nd Annual Lima Pumpkin Festival, happening October 5th at Mark Tubbs Park. On the docket, you’ll find horse-drawn wagon rides, a farmers market, antique farm and toy displays, pumpkin displays (of course), and chainsaw carving. Shop for fresh produce and fruit along with locally grown items and a variety of arts and craft vendors including Chainsaw Artist, Jennifer Black.
Agricultural Fair
Back to Top of ListGenesee Valley Hunt Races
Back to Top of ListThe Genesee Valley Hunt Races, held every year on the second Saturday in October, is a historic event celebrating more than 125 years of tradition, with a packed list of offerings that stretch far beyond the actual races. Children’s events include pony rides and stick horse races. Food and drink vendors serve up local eats, as well as craft beers and wines. Shopping from local vendors is a must, as is sitting back to soak up the stylings of local musicians.
