Events This Fall in the First Wilderness
With a bit of planning, you can combine fall hikes in the First Wilderness with the following events:
The American Revolution Experience
September 10-27
The Hadley-Lake Luzerne Historical Society invites the public to experience the American Revolution at the Rockwell Falls Public Library, located at 19 Main Street in Lake Luzerne. This pop-up exhibition, part of the American Revolution Experience, brings history to life with engaging display panels, interactive digital kiosks, and unique artifacts. Visitors can explore the personal stories and events that shaped the birth of our nation through illustrations, technology, and primary accounts. The opening reception hosted by Hadley-Lake Luzerne Historical Society will be Saturday, September 14 from 2 to 4 p.m.
The exhibit will be available from Tuesday, September 10 through Friday, September 27, during regular library hours. The hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with weekend availability on Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Johnsburg History Weekend
September 13-15
Johnsburg History Weekend will take place from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15, 2024, offering three days of engaging activities celebrating the town's rich history. The weekend kicks off Friday evening with a Graveyard Walk at Mill Creek Cemetery, where visitors can honor notable figures like Rev. Enos Putnam and Nathan Davis. On Saturday, the Johnsburg Historical Society will host crafters, author exhibits, and a barbecue at the Robert & Electa Waddell House Museum, followed by live bluegrass music and tours at the North Creek Railroad Depot Museum.
Tannery Pond Center will host a special screening of My Native Air on Saturday, September 14, as part of Johnsburg’s “History Weekend.” The 43-minute documentary, produced by Maury Thompson, tells the story of Charles Evans Hughes, a Glens Falls native who became a prominent figure in U.S. history as governor of New York, Supreme Court justice, and Secretary of State. Beyond his political achievements, the film highlights Hughes' deep ties to the Adirondacks, including his role in forest conservation and the preservation of Saratoga Springs.
The history-filled weekend continues on Sunday, September 15, with Gem Radio Theatre performing a radio play titled Leaves Torn Asunder, based on Glenn Pearsall's book about the Civil War's impact on local families. Supported by local grants and donations, all events are free to attend, though donations are welcome.
World’s Largest Garage Sale
October 4-6
Get ready for a weekend of treasure hunting and culinary delights at Warrensburg’s World's Largest Garage Sale, happening on October 4th, 5th, and 6th. This massive event transforms the charming Adirondack town into a shopper's paradise, with vendors lining the streets and over 100 residential yard sales. From antiques and collectibles to clothing, tools, and even vehicles, there’s something for everyone. Alongside the shopping, you’ll find local artisans selling one-of-a-kind crafts and specialty foods to indulge your culinary curiosity.
In addition to the treasure hunting, prepare to feast like a king with an array of street food options. From BBQ ribs and chicken wings to mac and cheese and giant cookies, the food scene is as diverse as the finds. Explore artisanal delights and specialty food vendors, offering everything from gourmet treats to unique flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a dedicated shopper or a foodie, this weekend promises unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Adirondacks.
Annual Thurman Fall Farm Tour
October 12
The 2024 Annual Thurman Fall Farm Tour on Saturday, October 12, will offer a self-guided journey through Thurman, where farms, artisans, and local businesses open their doors to the public. Visitors can explore a range of unique farms featuring heritage livestock, organic crops, and maple farms with sugar shacks offering fresh maple treats. The day promises a variety of hands-on experiences, including maple boiling demos, weaving workshops, foraging walks, and the crowd-pleasing pumpkin chuckin’. Guests can also enjoy fresh local foods like cheeses, baked goods, and apple cider, as well as scenic wagon rides through the Adirondack countryside.
Alongside farm activities, the tour will feature an Artisan Market at Martin’s Lumber showcasing local crafts and live demonstrations, plus a Quilt Show where the Thurman Quilt Group displays their latest creations. With activities for all ages, from scavenger hunts for kids to sustainable forestry discussions, there’s something for everyone. Visitors are encouraged to bring a cooler for farm-fresh purchases and their cameras to capture the vibrant fall colors. The event is free and runs rain or shine. A directory and schedule of events will soon be available at visitthurman.com.
Plus
Melanie Sawyer teaches historical foraging.
Second Annual Outdoor Show
September 21
North Creek’s Tannery Pond Center will host the 2nd Annual Outdoor Show as part of its 2024 Community Day on Saturday, September 21, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This free event invites hunters, fishermen, trappers, and outdoor enthusiasts to come together and celebrate Adirondack culture. Attendees will have the chance to explore a variety of vendor booths featuring taxidermy, fly fishing, rafting, outdoor guides, gun safety demonstrations, and plenty of fun kids' activities. In addition to the outdoor showcase, the event will feature live music, craft beer, food trucks, and a lively chili cook-off.
Adirondack Wild’s Membership Meeting
Friday, October 11
Join Adirondack Wild as the organization celebrates the 60th anniversary of the National Wilderness Preservation Act of 1964, and the source of its inspiration. Adirondack Wild’s 14th Annual Membership Meeting will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 11 at Tannery Pond Community Center in North Creek, just a few miles from where Howard Zahniser began to draft the National Wilderness Act at his family’s camp. He was inspired by our founder Paul Schaefer and New York’s Forest Preserve, protected by Article XIV, “Forever Wild.”
Amy Godine
Pursuing Racial Justice on the Adirondack Frontier
September 29
North Creek’s Tannery Pond Center will host Amy Godine’s presentation, The Black Woods: Pursuing Racial Justice on the Adirondack Frontier, on Sunday, September 29, from 3-5 p.m. Presented by the Minerva and Johnsburg Historical Societies, this free event will explore the history of racial justice efforts in the Adirondacks. Attendees are invited to arrive early to view introductory posters and enjoy complimentary music before Godine’s talk. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A session with the author, as well as a book signing.
Lake Luzerne Lantern Walk
October 17
The 4th annual Lantern Walk hosted by the Hadley-Lake Luzerne Historical Society is set for Thursday, October 17, coinciding with the Hunter's Moon. Children are invited to celebrate the changing seasons by crafting their own lanterns at the Rockwell Falls Public Library starting at 4 p.m., followed by a parade at 4:30 p.m. along Main Street. The Lantern Walk will officially begin at 6:30 p.m. and again at 6:45 p.m., starting at the Kinnear Museum of Local History at 52 Main Street.
