What To Do: Fall Events 2014
Fall Events 2014: A mixed bag of fall events from harvest festivals and crafts fairs to family events in the great outdoors and where to celebrate Halloween. Including The Armonk Outdoor Art Show, John Jay’s Pig Races & The Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival. Or just take a stroll at Wampus Brook Park to see the “Armonk Egret.” Russell J. Tether did and he sent us this photo.
Where To Go: Country Fairs and Fall Festivals
Apple Picking: Apple picking season is here. Check out our Fall Survival Checklist to find out where to pick apples and when. Fall Survival Checklist: Apple Picking.
Yorktown Grange Fair: Westchester’s only true country fair has showcased home grown and home made vegetables, flowers, baked goods, livestock, poultry, needlework, and photography since 1923. Expect antique tractor and animal parades, livestock exhibits, horse competitions, hay rides, watermelon, pie eating, balloon blowing, nail driving and bubble gum blowing competitions, (the stuff memories are mad of) carnival rides, entertainment, funnel cakes, and food. Thurs, 9/4: 5-10pm, Fri-Sat, 9/5-6: 10-am-11pm & Sun, 9/7: 10am-9pm. (Yorktown Grange Fair Grounds, 99 Moseman Avenue, Yorktown Heights; www.yorktowngrangefair.org)
New! Tribes Hill Music Festival at John Hay Homestead: This new event features top folk and roots band talent, locally produced food and beverage vendors, arts & crafts & kids activities. Performances by 10 bands headlined by folk festival stalwarts Red Molly, and the Sloan Wainwright Trio. Bring your own instrument and jam in the song circle/jam tent hosted by the Shovel Ready String Band. Sun, 9/14: 12-6pm. (John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Rt. 22, Katonah; johnjayhomestead.org)
Armonk Cider and Donut Festival: This Armonk Chamber of Commerce celebration recreates the days when Schultz’s farm stand attracted day-trippers to Armonk from far and wide for the best apple cider and donuts in Westchester County. This event features bluegrass music, an apple pie eating contest, apple juggling, donut fishing … and plenty of cider and donuts. The event begins immediately after Jamie’s 5K “Run for Love” and is part of the week-long festivities that culminate with the Armonk Outdoor Art Show. Sun, 9/14: 11am-2pm. (Wampus Park, Maple Ave., Armonk; www.armonkchamberofcommerce.org)
John Jay Barn Dance: BBQ, ice cream sundaes, pig races, and music. Don’t miss the pig races – a WTD Fave Rave –at 5:10, 6:20 and 7:40pm sharp. The highlight of the evening is the music by local bands including: The Celenza Boys, Locke Ness, 52 Pick-Up, and the ever-popular Bad Dog. Sat, 9/20: 5-9pm. (John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Katonah; www.johnjayhomestead.org)
Hawkwatch Festival and Green Bazaar at Greenwich Audubon: Live animal shows, guided hikes, nature themed games, environmental exhibits, and eco-friendly vendors help celebrate the annual hawk migration passing over the site’s “Quaker Ridge Hawk Watch.” Plus, a honey harvest, solar powered merry-go-round, magic show and food from Café Bon, Annie Bananie’s Ice Cream and more. Sat-Sun: 9/27-8: 11am-5pm. (613 Riversville Rd., Greenwich; www.greenwich.audubon.org)
The Edible Academy Harvest Festival, NYBG: Celebrate the bounty of the fall season with live music, samples from local specialty purveyors, and craft beer and wine tastings. On September 28 only, take part in the annual Family Garden Picnic featuring a cooking demonstration by Chef Mario Batali and his co-host from ABC’s The Chew, Carla Hall. Sat-Sun, 9/27-28: check times. (New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. Bronx; www.nybg.org)
Hot Ticket Alert! Annual Stone Barns Harvest Fest: 11th annual celebration and fundraiser is a hot ticket so order early. Live music, hands-on farming activities, food-crafting, farmer’s market, hayrides, farm Olympics and more. Sat, 10/5: 10am-3pm. (630 Bedford Rd., Pocantico Hills; www.stonebarnscenter.org)
Columbus Day Pumpkin Picking at Muscoot Farm: Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch or walk to the vegetable garden to pick your pumpkin. Visit the farmer’s market, farm animals, (check out the pygmy goats and miniature donkeys) 12 historic buildings, (love the ice house and blacksmith shop) and 7 miles of hiking trails from easy to moderately strenuous. Sun-Mon: 10/12-13. (Muscoot Farm, Rt. 100, Somers; www.muscootfarm.org)
The Pound Ridge Harvest Festival ROCKS: Contests, games and activities for kids and families. There’s a craft beer garden for adults, a root beer garden for kids, and BBQ for all. Are you ready for this? Music by the 1990’s mega-band The Spin Doctors, (“Two Princes” and “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong”) and the Fox Lane Rock Ensemble. (Sorry Armonk, Bedford & Chappaqua but Pound Ridge knows how to party.) Park & shuttle from P.R. Town Park. Sat, 10/18: 2-6pm. (Westchester Ave., at Scotts Corners; www.poundridgeharvestfestival.com)
New! Oktoberfest on the Village Green: This one’s under the big tent on Bedford Green and the festivities include craft beers, including a custom made “Bedford Brew”, wine and scotch tastings, live music from The School of Rock house band and Lo Tide, hearty food, and the impeccable charm and grace that is Bedford Village. First 40 people to buy tickets receive a numbered, limited edition growler of Bedford Brew. Tickets go on sale August 25. Sat, 10/18: 6:30-10pm. (Bedford Green, Bedford Village; www.bedfordhistoricalsociety.org.)
Hammond Museum Autumn Tea Festival: The Autumn Tea Festival brings together all of the Japanese Tea Schools to share their traditional practices. Stroll the gardens while you are there. Visit the art galleries and view “Visions Revealed” – an exhibition of the best work from this year’s Hammond Museum Art Competition judged by David Revere McFadden, Curator Emeritus, Museum of Arts and Design, New York. Sat, 10/18: 11am-4pm. (Hammond Museum & Japanese Stroll Garden, 28 Deveau Rd., N. Salem; www.hammondmuseum.org)
Autumn Celebration at Muscoot Farm: Dance to live music, watch a blacksmithing demonstration, make origami, visit the antique cars, try your hand at a variety of farm games, decorate a sugar pumpkin, visit the Farmers Market, take a hayride to the farm’s back fields and more! Sun, 10/19. (Muscoot Farm, Rt. 100, Somers; www.muscootfarm.org)
What To Do: Antiques, Arts & Craft Fairs
Armonk Outdoor Art Show: Consistently ranked one of the country’s top art shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine, the 53rd annual Armonk Outdoor Art Show features over 185 juried artists (52 new artists) in a broad spectrum of media including painting, photography, sculpture, pastels, printmaking, drawing, mixed media and wearable art. There’s a children’s activity booth. The art show, sponsored by Friends of the North Castle Public Library, has become a weekend long series of events with a free movie and a free music concert at the library. This year’s movie is Julian Schnabel’s, Basquiat: Screening at NCPL on Fri, 9/19: 7pm, The free concert at the library will be jazz great Charlie Lagond & Friends performing World Beat, jazz fusion and funk on Sat, 9/20: 8pm. Art Show: Sat-Sun, 9/20-21: 10am-5pm. (205 Business Park Dr., Armonk; www.armonkoutdoorartshow.org)
Crafts at Lyndhurst: One of the best-known outdoor craft festivals in the country. Set on the grounds of the historic Lyndhurst estate, the festival offers over 275 leading artists and crafts people displaying one-of-a-kind and limited edition jewelry, fashion & accessories, furniture & home decor, and functional and sculptural work in ceramics, glass, metal, painting, photography, wood and mixed media. There’s a food court, kids’ activities and music by Tribes Hill. Fri-Sun, 9/12-14: 10am-5pm. (Lyndhurst Estate, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown; www.artrider.com)
Hudson Valley Arts Festival at Rhinebeck: Produced by ArtRider, the producers of Crafts at Lyndhurst, and Crafts at Purchase, the Hudson Valley Arts Festival offers 215 vendors displaying a variety of media: clay, glass, painting, drawing, printmaking, mixed media, furniture, metal jewelry, wearable art and specialty foods. With music, children’s activities, demos, wine and food. Fri-Sun: 9/26-28: 10am-6pm. (Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Ave., Rhinebeck; www.artrider.com)
Crafts at Purchase for Performing Arts Center: This benefit for the Performing Arts Center is produced by ArtRider Productions, creators of Crafts at Lyndhurst, and The Rhinebeck Arts Festival. This fine craft show features craft artists from all over the country selling one-of-a-kind work. Sat, 11/1: 10am-6pm & Sun, 11/2: 10am-5pm. (735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase; www.artrider.com)
Chappaqua Antiques Show: New Castle Historical Society The 46th annual Chappaqua Antiques Show offers extraordinary merchandise from over 50 dealers, an on-site appraiser, design consultant, gourmet café, homemade desserts, and raffles. This event raises funds to support the Horace Greeley House Museum and its events for students, adults and researchers. Sat-Sun, 11/1-2: 10am-5pm. (West Orchard Elementary School, 25 Granite Rd., Chappaqua; www.newcastlehs.org)
Chappaqua Craft & Gift Fair: 30th annual craft fair featuring over 85 vendors presenting handcrafted clothing, designer clothing, handbags and accessories, original artwork, tableware and furniture, bath and beauty products, floral designs, gourmet foods and more. Plus raffles, kids creations and donation alley. This event produced by the Bell Middle School PTA benefits the Bell Middle School. Sat, 11/8: 10am-4pm. (Robert E. Bell Middle School, 50 Senter St., Chappaqua; www.chappaquacraftfair.com)
What To Do: With the Kids
BHPA Fall Carnival: The “new and improved” Byram Hills Preschool Association’s Fall Carnival offers more rides than ever before, face painting, crafts and more. Pizza, frozen treats and beverages for sale. Sun, 9/14: 10am-2pm. (205 Business Park Dr., IBM Community Park, Armonk)
Family Dinners with Mario Batali’s Chefs: This series of three-course garden to table, family style al fresco dinners prepared by featured chefs from Mario Batali’s restaurants also offer hands-on gardening and craft activities for the kids and live cooking demonstrations by top chefs in the outdoor Whole Foods Market® Family Garden Kitchen. Chef Appearances include: Chef Anthony Sasso (Casa Mono) on 9/14, and Chefs Mark Ladner, Matt Abdoo and Brooks Headley (Del Posto) on 9/21: 5-7:30pm. View the menus here. (New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx)
Hammond Museum Mid-Autumn Festival: TheHammond Museum, in conjunction with Families with Children from China, presents a festival of theater, crafts, snacks and culture. There will be face painting related to Chinese Opera characters and children will decorate lanterns and taste Chinese snacks. Sat, 9/20: 12-3pm. (Hammond Museum & Japanese Stroll Garden, 28 Deveau Rd., N. Salem; www.hammondmuseum.org)
Meet Horace, Horace Greeley History Hunt: Part of Chappaqua’s Community Day celebration this Meet Horace puzzle hunt through the life and times of Horace Greeley starts off at the Horace Greeley House and takes you around town following maps, solving puzzles and searching for caches to solve the nine sequential stages of the game. The game can be completed in an afternoon or you can continue your search online. Perfect for multi-generational families and for kids age 13 and up. 9/21: 1pm. (Horace Greeley House, 100 King St., Chappaqua; get started now with this link: www.horacegreeleyhistoryhunt.com)
Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival: & The Great Chappaqua Bake Sale for No Kid Hungry: The Huff Post reported that last year’s event drew thousands. The event features book sales from over 80 popular children’s book authors – most of whom are onsite, doing signings and book readings for the kids. Including, a special visit from Victoria Kann, co-author and Illustrator of the NY Times #1 best selling Pinkalicious books between 1-4pm. Plus, food, entertainment, and activities! (www.chappaquachildrensbookfestival.com) The Great Chappaqua Bake Sale manages the snacks at the book fair offering baked goods and raffle prizes donated by families, restaurants, bakeries and merchants in the Chappaqua area. The bake sale has raised over $51,000 for No Kid Hungry in the past four years. Both events run in conjunction on Sat, 9/27: 10am-4pm. (Robert Bell Middle School, 50 Senter St., Chappaqua; like them on Facebook.)
Sesame Street Live: Let’s Dance at the Westchester County Center: Elmo does the robot, Cookie teaches “all feets to dance,” Abby plays a rhyming game, and Ernie gets into the act taking the lead on “Shake Your Head One Time”. Then everything gets real interactive when “favorite friends” get on the dance floor with the audience. Fri-Sun, 10/10-12: check times. (198 Central Ave., White Plains; www.countycenter.biz)
Peter Gros of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom: Peter shares his animal world, travel experiences and tales. He highlights his many adventures with a mix of video clips and bloopers while introducing friendly exotic animals to audience members, and telling inspirational stories dealing with issues of conservation, travel, and wildlife filming. Sat, 10/11: 1 & 4pm. (Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 E. Ridge, Ridgefield; www.theridgefieldplayhouse.org)
The Big Apple Circus: Alas, Grandma is gone but there is no substitute for the Big Apple Circus – the biggest and best little circus ever where no one sits more than 50 feet from the stage (and you’re out of there in under 2 hours.) Their new show, Metamorphosis, features the Flying Trapeze, the razzle-dazzle of the Rolla-Bolla, the dynamo of the Diablo, the risky rhythms of the Risley team, the cunning conjurors of the Quick-Change, and the incredible flexible limbs of the Contortionists. Plus, clowns and camels, horses, playful pooches and more. Fri-Sun, 10/17-1/11/15: check times. (Lincoln Center, Damrosch Park, 62nd Street, NY; www.bigapplecircus.org)
John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean: Tony Award-nominee John Tartaglia’s interactive black-light puppet show is a magical undersea adventure for kids of all ages. Tank, Bubbles and Dorsel are three BFFs (best fish friends) with a treasure map who sing and dance (to swing, R&B and big band music) on a journey of discovery. Tartaglia starred in the musical Avenue Q, appeared on Broadway in Shrek The Musical, and created and starred in The Playhouse Disney series Johnny and the Sprites. Sat, 10/18: 2pm. (13 Main St., Tarrytown; www.tarrytownmusichall.org)
Harvest on Hilltop: The hiking trails will be open, and tours of the Farm will be provided. You can pick your own pumpkin, have your face painted and meet the. “zombie” farmers. In addition, the farm stand will be open with fall organically grown vegetables. The chickens, cows, and the friendly duck will be there to greet all visitors. Sat, 10/18th: 10am-4pm. (Hilltop Hanover Farm, 1271 Hanover St., Yorktown Heights; www.hilltophanoverfarm.org)
Stories Through Music: ClassNotes transforms classical music into a roller-coaster of sounds and emotions. Get on board as these young, charismatic teaching musicians take you and your kids (5-adult) on a ride of discovery through music and storytelling, with Mozart, Vivaldi, Beethoven, and Dvořák. Free but reservations are required. Sat, 10/25: 11am-12pm. Convent of the Sacred Heart, 1177 King Street, Greenwich; www.CuriosityConcerts.org.
Harvest Festival at John Jay Homestead: This new Cultural Katonah event features cider-pressing, four Discovery Centers, a farmers market with live music, pumpkin picking, pumpkin decorating and a craft activity. Make a traditional God’s eye craft from yarn and twigs and take it to Westmoreland Sanctuary to be hung in their Enchanted Forest. Sat, 10/25: 10am-2pm. John Jay Homestead, 400 Rt. 22, Katonah; www.johnjayhomestead.org)
The Magic Garden: Carol Demas and Paul Janis bring the off-beat rhythm of life in the magic garden to the stage from their popular TV show from the 70s. Complete with inadvertently psychedelic toadstools, the Magic Tree, and the Chuckle Patch, Carol and Paula’s shows draw nostalgia seeking adults and their children to celebrate what the Huff Post called “a timeless cultural institution” and to “keep the magic of childhood with us through adulthood.” The show that ran on WPIX from 1972 to 1984 was so popular that it consistently drew higher ratings than Sesame Street. Who knew? Sun, 10/26: 10am & 1:30pm. (Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln., Mamaroneck; www.emelin.org)
Election Day Bingo & Beads, Pizza and Crafts from Chappaqua Rec: Jewelry and beading workshop for kids K-5 from 10am-12pm. Pizza and Bingo fro kids K-5 from 12-2:30pm. Craft workshop for girls and boys from 2:30-4pm. Register at the Recreation Center. Tues, 11/4: 10am-4pm. (Community Center, Chappaqua; www.mynewcastle.org)
SALZBURG MARIONETTE THEATER, Debussy’s The Toy Box: Over 100 years old, this Austrian company imparts a virtuosic artistry to an ancient art form. Debussy’s children’s ballet, The Toy Box, recalls an innocent world of music-box tunes, opera parodies, folk melodies, and a Golliwog’s Cakewalk. The characters experience life and love… all in a toy box. Live piano accompaniment. (Suitable for all ages!) Fri, 11/7: 8pm (Academic Arts Theatre, Westchester Community College, 85 Grasslands, Valhalla: www.sunywcc.edu)
Community Karaoke Night: Classic rockers, pop divas and crooners alert! This event is for children, teens and adults interested in grabbing a mic and belting out any style of music. Free admission. Food & refreshments available. “Just a small town girl, Livin’ in a lonely world, She took the midnight train goin’ anywhere …” Fri, 11/7: 7pm. United Methodist Church of Mt. Kisco, 300 E. Main St., Mt. Kisco.
Disney On Ice, Frozen: Enter a winter wonderland as Disney On Ice presents Frozen, the Academy Award-winning tale of Elsa and Anna’s, the royal sisters of Arendelle, journey to discover true love. Complete with the hilarious snowman Olaf, Kristoff, and his loyal reindeer Sven, and the mystical trolls from the movie. Hosted by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, with special guest appearances by Disney Princesses and characters from Disney Pixar’s Toy Story, Finding Nemo and Disney’s The Lion King. Tues-Sun, 11/11-16: check times. (Barclays Center, 620 Atlantic Ave., Brooklyn; www.barclayscenter.com)
Disney On Ice, Frozen: If you missed it at the Barclays Center or just like Newark better than Brooklyn … see it here. Wed-Sun, 11/19-23: check times. (Prudential Center, 25 Lafayette St., Newark: www.prucenter.com)
WTD Fave Rave: New York Botanical Garden’s Train Show: The New York Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train Show in the Enid A Haupt Conservatory features more than a dozen large scale model train sets (some super-sized) zipping across a quarter mile of track and a landscape of 140 scaled replicas of iconic New York City buildings made of bark, twigs, fruit, seeds and pine cones. Including, the original Penn Station and Yankee Stadium, Radio City Music Hall, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Sat-Sun, 11/15-1/19/15. (2900 Southern Blvd. Bronx; www.nybg.org)
Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix: From Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus, and appearances on David Letterman, Johnny Peers and the Muttville Comix is a slapstick comedy act featuring a dozen dogs as the comix and Johnny as the straight man. Sat, 11/23:11am & 2pm. (8o East Ridge, Ricgefield, CT; www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org)
Lilly’s Plastic Purple Purse: When Lilly, loses her purse, in this adaptation of Kevin Henke’s award-winning children’s book, she is so angry that she draws a mean portrait of Mr. Slinger and hides it in his book bag. But when she gets her purse back, she finds a surprising note: “Today was a difficult day. Tomorrow will be better.” Suddenly wracked with guilt, Lilly sets out to make up with her teacher. But villainous bicycle-riding bullies, a spotlight-stealing baby brother and the dreaded “uncooperative chair” will test our heroine’s resolve. Sun, 11/23: 1am & 1:30pm. (Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln., Mamaroneck; www.emelin.org)
What To Do: The Great Outdoors
4th Annual Church Tavern Biathlon: This 7 mile bike and 4 mile run on hilly secondary roads, circles Truesdale Lake and offers a scenic vista of Lewisboro from the top of Mount Church Tavern. Be prepared for a 602 foot ascent on the bike course and a 414 foot ascent on the run. There is also a run or walk only race. The race ends with a BBQ, music from Quadrasaurus, a water slide for kids and medals for all. Last year’s race raised $6,400 for charities. Mon, 9/1: 9:30am. (82 Spring St., S. Salem; more here.)
Katonah 5K Road & Trail Race: Take a rolling, scenic run through the trails of Katonah’s Memorial Park and into town. Plus a one-mile race, tots races and awards. Sponsored by Katonah Village Improvement Society (KVIS). Sat, 9/6: 8am. (Meet at the Parkway between Bedford and Edgemont Roads; Register here: www.katonahvis.com)
Bicycle Sundays: A six and a half mile stretch of the Bronx River Parkway will be closed for the exclusive use of bicyclists, joggers, scooters and strollers every Sunday in September. Park at the County Center for $5 and bike to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers. The round trip 13.1 miles. Sun, 9/7, 14, 21, 28: 10am-2pm. www.westchestergov.com.
The Garden Conservancy’s Open Days: The White Garden set in a native oak-hickory forest with a Greek Revival-style house features a pergola garden, theater court, perennial and annual gardens, a jungle garden, a moss garden, a pond with an island and a Temple of Apollo, woodland walking paths and more. Sun, 9/7: 10am-3pm. (199 Elmwood Rd., Lewisboro; www.gardenconsvancy.org) .
Schooner Soundwaters: The Schooner SoundWaters sails through September from Stamford’s Harbor Park Marina. The Schooner’s 2- hour family sails offer a hands-on educational experience for kids 5 & up. Or pack dinner and your favorite quaff and watch the sun set on the horizon on a sunset sail. Sun 9/8, Sat, 9/14, 21 & 28: check times. (Stamford Harbor Park Marina, 333 Ludlow St., Stamford; www.soundwaters.org)
Jamie’s Race for the Library, NCPL: Part of the Armonk Outdoor Art Show’s weekend of activities sponsored by Friends of the North Castle Public Library. Includes, Petite Picassos 100 yd. dash (ages 2-8 at 10am), the Monet Mile (10:15am) and Jamie’s 5K Run/Walk (11am.) Proceeds benefit children’s programs at the library. Sun, 9/14: 9:45am. (Wampus Brook Park, 28 Maple Ave., Armonk; race@armonkoutdoorartshow.org, www.armonkoutdoorartshow.org)
Walking tour of Horace Greeley’s Farm: The New Castle Historical Society’s tour of Horace Greeley’s farm is a 75-minute walk and tutorial where you will learn about Horace Greeley, the gentleman farmer, his experiences on his 78 acre farm in downtown Chappaqua and his book What I Know About Farming. Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes as there are some moderate grades and pebbly paths. Limited to 18 people. Call 914.238.4666 to reserve. Sat, 9/20: 2pm. (Horace Greeley House, 100 King St., Chappaqua; www.newcastlehs.org)
Westmoreland Sanctuary Orienteering Challenge: Westmoreland Sanctuary and Hudson Valley Orienteering present an all-levels orienteering challenge running through Westmoreland’s scenic woodlands with courses designed for beginner through advanced orienteerers. Maps, instruction, training and refreshments are provided. Compass rentals available. Sun, 9/21: 10am-3pm. (Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Mt. Kisco; www.westmorelandsanctuary.org)
The Sarah Bishop Bushwack 10K Trail Race: This challenging 10K trail race in Mountain Lakes Park in N. Salem traverses the park’s 1,000 acres of scenic woodlands, beautiful vistas, over streams and around the lakes that give the park its name. The course features 1,000 feet of total elevation gain taking runners over Bailey Mountain – which at 982 feet is Westchester’s highest point. There is also a 1.5 mile walk/run event called Sarah’s Scramble. This event benefits Northern Westchester Hospital School Health and Wellness Programs. Sun, 9/28: 9:00am, 8:30 for the scramble. (Mountain Lakes Park, 201 Hawley Rd., N. Salem; www.sarahbishop.org)
Kiku: The Art of the Japanese Garden: The chrysanthemum, kiku in Japanese, is the most celebrated of all Japanese fall-flowering plants, and hundreds of meticulously trained kiku will be on display in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Stroll the grounds to explore a Japanese tree tour and enjoy haiku in the perennial garden. Special weekend events spotlight the arts of bonsai and ikebana, as well taiko drumming and celebrate the importance of flowers in Japanese culture. Thurs-Sun, 10/2-26. (2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx; www.nybg.org)
The Garden Conservancy’s Open Days: invites you to Rocky Hills, the garden of William and Henriette Suhr. The garden features 50 years of plantings among stone walls featuring mature specimens of black walnut and ash, weeping beech, dawn redwood, stewartia, dogwood, and a collection of magnolia and conifers. Sat, 10/25: 12-4pm. (Old Roaring Brook Rd, Rocky Hills #95, Mt. Kisco; www.gardenconservancy.org)
Run the Farm: Muscoot Farm: 5th annual run the farm races include a tough (but scenic) 5 mile course through the woods; a 1.1 mile race for kids (7-12), and a .6 mile race for kids under 6. Runners receive farm bucks to use at the Farmer’s Market. Races start at 8:30, 8:45 & 9:15am. Sun, 10/26. (Rt. 100, Somers; www.muscootfarm.org)
The Garden Conservancy’s Open Days: presents the garden of Judy and Michael Steinhardt where landscape designer Jerome Rocherolle has incorporated 2,000 species of trees, shrubs, and perennials into a natural-looking setting on their fifty-five-acre Mt. Kisco estate. With a Japanese maple garden, a hillside with unusual conifers, a “secret garden” of yellow flowers, an alpine garden, fruit orchards, ornamental grasses, and an installation of tall slender stones, looking like a forest from another planet. Sat, 11/1: 10am-3pm. Read more.
How To Give Back: Benefits & Galas
Sparkle for a Cause, for the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester: Join the BGCNW in Amy’s Garden at Crabtree’s Kittle House for summery cocktails, tapas-style food and acoustic music. Sponsored by the Amy Marie Crabtree Foundation in support of the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester. Tues, 9/2: 6pm. (Crabtree’s Kittle House, 11 Kittle Rd., Chappaqua; www.bgcnw.com)
Golf Tournament for the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester: BGCNW’s annual golf tournament raises funds to support the club’s recreational, educational, social and cultural programs. Tues, 9/16: 9am. (Glen Arbor Golf Club, 234 Bedford Center Rd., Bedford Hills; www.bgcnw.com)
Feed Me Fresh: An Edible Evening for the Mount Kisco Child Care Center: MKCCC’s 10th Feed Me Fresh fundraiser at Ivanna Farms in Bedford Corners offers tastings from 19 area eateries including Café of Love, Crabtree’s Kittle House, Village Social and La Tulipe. Feed Me Fresh is named for their garden-to-table nutrition program. MKCCC cares for 160 children ages 3 mos. to 12 years. Sat, 9/20: 6-10pm. (153 Wood Rd., Bedford Corners; www.mkccc.org)
A Night in the Woods Benefit for Teatown Lake Reservation: Plant a seed for the environmental leaders of tomorrow with cocktails, dinner, and a silent auction that includes a tasting menu wine dinner and wine cellar tour for 6 at Crabtree’s Kittle House in Chappaqua. Teatown has been a regional leader in environmental education and land conservation for over 50 years. Sun, 9/21: 5pm (Sleepy Hollow Country Club, 777 Albany Post Rd., Scarborough; www.teatown,org)
Journey of the Heart Bike Tour for the Friends of Karen: The three-day tour covers 150 miles of back roads in Litchfield and Berkshire counties and includes gourmet meals at local inns, a stop at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA and a complimentary massage. Friends of Karen supports children with life-threatening illnesses. Fri-Sun, 9/26-28. (Friends of Karen, 118 Titicus Rd., N. Salem; 914-277-4547; www.friendsofkaren.org)
An Evening in Good Taste To End Childhood Hunger for the Food Bank for Westchester: Sample gourmet delights and specialty cocktails from Westchester’s finest chefs. Last year the Food Bank raised over $200,000 to help fight hunger in Westchester. This event will benefit their Kids Café and Backpack programs. Thurs, 10/16: 6-9pm. (1133 Westchester Ave., White Plains; www.foodbankforwestchester.org)
Community Center of Northern Westchester Annual Benefit: The Center’s Cocktail Party and Auction honors former Center presidents Sheryl Bernhard and Laura Kaplan. Auction items include Broadway tickets to The Book of Mormon, A Gentlemen’s Guide to Love and Murder and Kinky Boots; a golf outing with a former Rangers player, a private tour of The Frick Collection, great local restaurant experiences, and more. Since 1992, the Center has provided food, clothing, and other programs to families in need in Northern Westchester. Sat, 10/18: 6-8:30pm. (St. Matthew’s Fellowship Room, 382 Cantitoe Street, Bedford; www.communitycenternw.org)
Making a Difference Benefit Dinner for Pace Women’s Justice Center: This year’s event will honor Congresswoman Nita Lowey and Robi Schlaff, Esq.Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction, dinner and program. The Pace Women’s Justice Center offers legal assistance and free legal clinics for victims of domestic violence and for seniors who are victims of abuse and financial exploitation. Wed, 10/22: 6pm. (Abigail Kirsch at Tappan Hill, 81 Highland Ave., Tarrytown; www.pace.edu)
Bedford Village Chowder & Marching Club Dinner Dance Halloween Bash: Dinner, dancing and cocktails Halloween style. BVC&M has raised over $750,000 since 1956 for local youth programs in arts and music, club and school sports, scouts, youth outreach, scholarships and community services. Sat, 10/25: 7-11pm. (Venue: TBA: www.bedfordchowderandmarching.org)
Soiree at the Rosen House: Caramoor’s Black & White Ball: Join Caramoor for an evening of dinner, and dancing at the historic Rosen House. Masks are encouraged and, of course, black and white dress. Proceeds will benefit Caramoor, the Rosen House, and the Young Artists Mentoring and Arts-in-Education Programs. The event will honor Michael and Nina Stanton. Sat, 11/1: 7pm. (Caramoor, 153 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah; www.caramoor.com)
Harlem Wizards for the Byram Hills Education Foundation: Professional trick hoops and alley oops team takes on the Bobcat Bruisers (BHHS faculty.) Since 1994 the BHEF has raised over $3.5 million in grants for state of the art programs and technologies at all of the district’s schools. Fri, 11/14: 7pm. (Byram Hills H. S., 12 Tripp Lane, Armonk; www.byramhillsfoundation.org)
Speak Out Against Hunger Gala, Hillside Food Outreach: NY Yankee legend and jazz musician Bernie Williams hosts this charity event with special guests Joe Torre and musical guest Rick Derringer. (“Hang on Sloopy”) Hillside Food Outreach delivers groceries to over 2500 men women and children in need throughout Westchester and Putnam Counties in New York and Fairfield County in CT. Sat., 11/15: 6pm. (Matrix Conference & Banquet Center, Danbury CT; www.hillsidefoodoutrech.org)
What To Do: Mixed Bag
Bedford Riding Lanes Association Fall Pace & Picnic: Horseback riding pace and luncheon. Advance reservations required for participation; call 914-234-BRLA to register. Only want to watch? Admission to the John Jay Homestead grounds, Carriage Barn Education & Visitor Center, and four Discovery Centers is free. Sun, 9/7: 7am-3pm. John Jay Homestead, 400 Route 22, Katonah; www.johnjayhomestead.org)
Friendly Squares Dance Club, Katonah: Free square dancing fun night. Mon, 9/8 & 15: 7:30-9:30. (Katonah Methodist Church Parish Hall, 44 Edgemont Rd., Katonah, 914.433.2919; www.bedfordny.gov)
Harlan Jacobson’s Talk Cinema: Don’t wait for the release date – see it here first in this series of exclusive pre-release screenings. Harlan Jacobson’s Talk Cinema offers audiences the chance to see the best independent and foreign films before their US openings. Plus, each screening features a guest speaker; you’ll rub elbows with critics, scholars, and filmmakers during the post-film discussions. Screenings are Tuesdays at 7pm: 9/16, 10/21, 11/25, 12/16, 1/27, 2/24, 4/14 & 5/12. (Performing Arts Center, Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase; arts center.org)
Rosenthal JCC Water & Wine: The Jewish National Fund and the Rosenthal JCC’s Water & Wine reception explores Israel’s wine revolution in this exclusive tasting event with an Israeli wine expert. Guest speaker Rami Hazan will discuss innovations in Israel’s water management and conservation programs. In addition to his expertise in water conservation Rami has serves as a Brand Manager for Volkswagen, and was the CEO of Mediacom Israel. Register here. Thurs, 9/18: 7-9pm. (Rosenthal JCC, 600 Bear Ridge Rd., Pleasantville; www.rosenthaljcc.org)
66th Annual Herb Fair, John Jay Homestead: Shop for herbs, herb baskets, bulbs, plants and more to raise funds to maintain the Herb Garden at John Jay Homestead. Lunch is available including the traditional lovage soup. Plus gourmet foods, baked goods, books and gift items. Flutists from the Northern Westchester Flutes will perform. Thurs, 9/18: 11am-2pm. (John Jay Homestead, 400 Route 22, Katonah; www.johnjayhomestead.org)
Big Brew NY: Throw on some duds and down some suds. Try the Nitro Milk Stout and the Hot Jala Heim (Chili Beer). You can even try some Purple Haze that you can tell the kids about. Big Brew NY will be pouring 250 craft beers from 130 breweries. Including Allagash, Smuttynose and Vanberg & DeWulf. Plus a beer infused menu from Mambo 64’s Chef Arlen Gargagliano made exclusively with Broken Bow Brewery Beers. Including Mambo 64′s Pernil (marinated and slow-roasted pork shoulder) with Broken Auger Lager Drizzle and Arlen’s Brownies with a Broken Bow Broken Coffee Stout Drizzle. Sat, 9/20: 4-9pm. (Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains; http://bigbrewny.com)
New Castle Community Day The Rotary Club of Chappaqua’s annual meet and greet features over 70 exhibitors presenting information about their organization including the Chappaqua Library, the New Castle Historical Society and The Chappaqua Orchestra. This event also features rides, food, entertainment, and family activities such as the Historical Society’s Meet Horace History Hunt. Sat, 9/20: 11am-4pm. (Downtown Chappaqua)
Muscoot Farm Harvest Dinner: Family style dinner in front of the main house with Chef Richard Parente of Clock Tower Grill in Brewster. Sun, 9/21: 4-9pm. (Muscoot Farm, (Rt. 100, Somers; www.muscootfarm.org)
Mt. Kisco Sidewalk Sales Days Mt. Kisco Chamber of Commerce’s sales days is a family friendly event offering live music, rides, contests with prizes, food court, and samples and special sales from over 150 local merchants. Sat: 9/20: 10am-5pm & Sun: 9/21: 12-4pm. (Mt. Kisco; www.mt.kiscochamber.com)
Taste of Westchester: It’s a continuing education class. It’s a private cooking demonstration. It’s a tasting dinner. And it’s coming to a restaurant near you. The Westchester Community College of Continuing Education’s A Taste of Westchester offers cooking classes (and tastings) with top chefs at local restaurants. Beginning October it’s coming to Armonk, Bedford Hills, Briarcliff, Katonah, Mt. Kisco, Pleasantville, Pound Ridge, Somers and the Salems. Read more here.
James Van Praagh: Clairvoyant and medium James Van Praagh bridges the gap between the living and the dead. His popularity began in the early ‘90s, on the NBC morning talk show The Other Side. He has authored four #1 NY Times Best- selling books: Ghosts Among Us, Talking to Heaven, Reaching to Heaven and Healing Grief. For five seasons he produced CBS’s #1 drama Ghost Whisper starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and has appeared on Oprah, Larry King Live, 20/20, 48 Hours, and A&E Biography. You will be amazed when you see James select people from the audience to participate in the calling of spirits. Wed, 10/8: 8pm. (Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Tarrytown: www.tarrytownmusichall.org)
Bonfire Night: Boscobel BYOB, blankets & chairs. Boscobel provides the bonfires, marshmallows and roasting sticks. Bratwurst, burgers and more are available from Phil’s Grills. Museum Educator Lisa DiMarzo will assist you with stargazing and Rick Soedler provides the fireside songs on acoustic guitar. Glow sticks and other luminescent items on sale. Kids under 10 go for free. Sun 10/12: 6-9pm (no school the next day.) (Boscobel, 1601 Rt. 9D, Garrison; www.boscobel.org)
Hudson Valley Restaurant Week: Foodies of the world unite! During HVRW you can lunch for just $20.95 or dinner for $29.95 at 83 Westchester restaurants. Local participants include: Armonk: Beehive, Moderne Barn, Opus 465, Marc Charles Steakhouse, and Restaurant North. Bedford: La Cremaillere, and Sette e Venti.
Chappaqua: Le Jardin du Roi, and Crabtree’s Kittlehouse. Mount Kisco: Cafe of Love, Global Grill at Myong Gourmet, Village Social KB, Lexington Square Café, Via Vanti, Blackstones Steakhouse, and Rose Room. Katonah: La Fontane. Worth the trip restaurants (that do not have annoying black-out dates) include: White Plains: 42 The Restaurant, and Melting Pot. Yonkers: X2O Xavier’s on the Hudson. Hyde Park: Ristorante Caterina de Medici, and American Bounty. Congers: Restaurant X & The Bully Boy Bar. Mon-Sun, 11/3-16. www.hudsonvalleyrestaurantweek.com)
Annual Mt. Kisco Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast Sat, 11/8: 8-11am. (Holiday Inn Mt. Kisco, 1 Holiday Inn Dr., Mt. Kisco; www.mountkiscorotary.org)
Wine Tasting at Muscoot Farm: The Friends of Muscoot and local wine shops host a delicious and fun evening in the Main House. Tickets $20, reservations recommended, call 914-864-7286. Sat, 12/6: 5-7pm. (Rt. 100, Somers: www.muscootfarm.org)
Where To Celebrate: Halloween
Sunset time for Trick or Treaters: Fri, 10/31: 5:53pm
The Haunted Pumpkin Garden, New York Botanical Garden: Pumpkin sculptures of spooky scarecrows, spiders, snakes, and more await you at every turn in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden. The display includes 500 intricately carved pumpkins from master sculptors that are sure to capture your youngster’s imagination. Sat-Fri, 9/20-10/31. (2900 Southern Blvd. Bronx; www.nybg.org)
The Legend Behind the ‘Legend’, Washington Irving’s Sunnyside: Visit Irving’s fascinating home showcasing numerous objects related to his famous story. On Saturday and Sunday, enjoy a shadow puppet performance of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and experience one of Irving’s spooky tales on a walk through the woods. Sat-Sun, 10/4-5; Sat-Mon, 10/11-13; Sat-Sun, 10/18-19, 25-26 & Fri-Sun, 10/31-11/2: 10:30am-3:30pm. (3 W. Sunnyside Ln., Irvington; www.hudsonvalley.org)
Irving’s ‘Legend’, Old Dutch Church: Master storyteller Jonathan Kruk offers a dramatic performance of Washington Irving’s classic tale, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Featuring the Headless Horseman, Ichabod Crane, Brom Bones, and Katrina Van Tassel. With live, spooky organ music by Jim Keyes. Sat-Sun, 10/4-5; Fri-Sun, 10/10-12, 17-19, 24-26 & Fri-Sat, 10/31-11/1: 5, 6:15 & 7:30pm. (Old Dutch Church: Park at Philipsburg Manor 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow; www.hudsonvalley.org)
Horseman’s Hollow, Philipsburg Manor: Taking the tale of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow to its darkest extremes, Horseman’s Hollow returns for a fifth year of haunted mayhem, now expanded by popular demand to THIRTEEN evenings. Meet the undead, the evil and the insane denizens of a town driven mad by the Headless Horseman. Negotiate a twisted maze of horrors to get to the lair of the Horseman where a party is being thrown in his honor. With elaborate costumes from award-wining feature-film makeup artists and unsettling special effects this popular event is not suitable for small children. Sat-Sun, 10/4-5; Fri-Sun, 10/10-12, 17-19, 24-26 & Fri-Sat, 10/31-11/1: 7-9:30pm. (381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow; www.hudsonvalley.org)
Hot ticket alert:This one sells out so order early! The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, Van Cortland Manor: 5,000 individually hand-carved, illuminated jack o’ lanterns set against an historic, 18th-century riverside landscape. Highlights include a headless horseman, a working doomsday grandfather clock, gourd filled jack in the boxes, and dinosaurs from Jurassic Park – all made out of jack-o-lanterns. With sound effects, synchronized lighting and an original soundtrack by recording artist Richard Christy. Advance tickets required. 25 nights from Sat, 10/4 to Sun, 11/9. (525 S. Riverside Ave., Croton on Hudson; www.hudsonvalley.org)
The Haunt at Rocky Ledge The nightmare begins October 10. Spooky adventures including 2 haunted houses, a haunted trail in the woods, a chilling cornfield, multiple hair-raising walk-throughs and a snack bar. One mile up the road from the Stop & Shop in N. White Plains. Fri, 10/10,17 & 24: 8-11pm; Sat 10/11,18, 25: 7-11pm & Sun, 10/12, 19,26: 7-10pm. (Rocky Ledge Swim Club, 1402 Old Orchard St., North White Plains; www.hauntatrockyledge.com)
Area 51 Train Show and Adult Costume Party at Lasdon Park: This year Lasdon’s Halloween train show will take on an alien theme after the famed Area 51 – a remote section of Edwards Air Force Base in Nevada that is clouded in secrecy and is the subject of many a conspiracy theory linking it with government knowledge of UFOs. The main house and grounds will be converted into Lasdon’s version of Area 51 and loaded with alien surprise and attractions, including documentation of UFO events in Westchester County and a children’s Hay maze. An adult costume party will take place on October 24 from 7pm -11pm with food, live music, dancing and prizes for best costumes. Train show datesL Sat-Sun, 10/11-12, 18-19 & 25-26: 11am-3:30pm. Plus, 3-6pm on Halloween. (2610 Amawalk Rd. Rt. 35, Katonah; www.lasdonpark.org)
Haunted Illusions by David Caserta: Take the Halloween season to another level with master Illusionist David Caserta. Witness people levitating, disappearing, and reappearing right before your eyes. Audience Participation Alert: You could be next! With great humor, Caserta elevates the whole ghosts, goblins and ghouls thing to magical conclusions. Sat, 10/31: 3pm. (Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford: http://palacestamford.org)
Halloween Craft, Bedford Recreation: You will not need to save all your candy wrappers to make a one of a kind CANDY WRAPPER CRAFT. Come out to make your own bag, pencil case or other craft using candy wraps, tape and more. Grades 3-7. Fri, 10/17: 4:30pm. (Bedford Hills Community House, 7 Church St., Bedford Hills; www.bedfordny.gov)
Enchanted Forest at Westmoreland Sanctuary Fairies, gnomes and magical creatures in the Bedford woods. A special weekend with craft projects, food, entertainment and evening walks, with an extra “Spooky Loop” for the brave. Fri-Sat: 10/18-19: TBA (Westmoreland Sanctuary, 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Mt. Kisco; www.westmorelandsanctuary.org)
Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce, Bedford Recreation: Rides, attractions and a haunted graveyard walk at Lake Compounce for grades 6-9. Sat, 10/18: 3-11pm. (Lake Compounce, 822 Lake Ave., Bristol, CT; www.bedfordny.gov.)
Halloween Carnival & Ragamuffin Parade, New Castle Recreation: Games, rides, entertainment and amusements prior to and after the Ragamuffin Parade. Come in costume and march in the parade at 3:30pm. Be part of the parade with the Blue Crew Marching Band, the Dixie Dandies Band and the Music Makers After the parade there’s more entertainment at the train station. Visit the Friendly Witches, walk the “plank” at the Pirates’ Den and enjoy the carnival. Everyone is welcome. Sun, 10/19: Carnival: 12pm. Parade; 3:30pm. (Chappaqua Train Station; newcastlerecreation)
Ghost Tours with Linda at Boscobel: Travel the halls of Boscobel house, with specialized equipment to detect the possible presence of supernatural entities. Hear spellbinding ghost stories from paranormal investigator Linda Zimmermann who will be accompanied by her ghost hunting partner Michael Worden, a police detective and author of Ghost Detective, and psychic, Barbara Bleitzhofer – there to identify the spirits. Plus, cookies, cider and book signings with Linda and Mike. Recommended for children 12 and older. Wed-Fri, 10-/22-24: 6pm. (1601 Rt. 9D, Garrison; www.boscobel.org)
Spooktacular Halloween Event, North Castle Recreation: Entertainment, games, prizes and candy for grades k-5. Come in costume. Fri, 10/24: 7pm. (North Castle Community Center, 10 Clove Rd., N.W. Plains; northcastlerecreation)
Boo Walk at Muscoot Farm A scavenger hunt for Halloween objects for children of all ages. Plus, a farmer’s market. Sat, 10/26. (Muscoot Farm, Rt. 100, Somers; www.muscootfarm.org)
Spooky Tales at Caramoor with Award-Winning Storyteller Laura Simms: This interactive event will offer young children (3-8) spooky (but not scary) stories of goblins, ghosts, and happy witches in the Rosen House Music Room from the award-winning storyteller Laura Simms. The performance is followed by a special brew (hot cider) and other ghostly treats (cookies) in the summer dining room. Costumes encouraged & prizes given to the best costumes. Thurs, 10/30: 3:30pm. (Caramoor, Rosen House, 149, Girdle Ridge, Rd., Katonah; www.caramoor.org)
Pumpkin Carving, Bedford Recreation: Pick your pumpkin from the pumpkin patch and carve it into a spooky jack-o’lantern. Plus, pizza and ghoulish goodies for grades 4-8. Thurs, 10/30: 6:30pm. (Bedford Hills Community House, 7 Church St., Bedford Hills; www.bedfordny.gov)
Where To Celebrate: Thanksgiving
UBS Parade Spectacular Skip the Macy’s Day Parade and stay local with one of the largest helium balloon parades in the country. When we were there we saw the Pink Panther, Popeye, Underdog, (anyone remember Underdog?) Nemo, Mighty Mouse, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Miss Piggy, Spiderman and Kermit the Frog. Plus marching bands, floats and street food. Sun, 11/23: 12pm. (Stamford Downtown)
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Accept no substitute: Thurs, 11/27: 9am on NBC only!
Game times for football fans: In a new twist from NFL Commish Roger Goodell, this year’s line-up will feature a triple-header of division rivals from the NFC. (Sorry Jets fans – no AFC this year.) Thurs, 11/27: Lions vs. Bears: 12:30pm; Cowboys vs. Eagles: 4:30pm; 49ers vs. Seahawks: 8:30pm.
Bedford Turkey Trot: 7th annual 5K run and 2-mile walk. It’s billed as the hardest 5K in New York. Raises funds for Bedford Community Table/Pantry. The course begins on Court Road at Bedford Village Elementary School in historic Bedford Village, NY. The halfway point is just past the top of Indian Hill Road – not for the faint of heart. Finish: at Bedford Village Memorial Park. Pre-registration required. Sat, 11/29: 7am for sign-in. Walkers start at 8am, runners at 8:20 am. (Bedford Village Elementary School, Court St., Bedford; www.bedfordturkeytrot.org)
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