Things to do this weekend in and around the Capital District
Friendly fun in the Capital District for Friday, September 11, 2026 through Sunday, September 13, 2026. Check out these highlights!
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, September 11, 2026
Magic Carpet Ride World Sound Bath Vision Journey (Teens and Adults) - Nacre Dance Group - September 11, 2026, October 9, 2026 & November 13, 2026 - Round Lake, NY. Experience an evening of deep relaxation and inner vision as Master Sound Healer Barbara Spaulding leads a meditative journey with ethereal instruments from around the world.
Landis Book Sale Saturdays - September 11-13 & September 26, 2026 - Esperance, NY. Browse a wide selection of used books in a peaceful arboretum setting and support Landis Arboretum’s programs and gardens.
Hudson River Valley Ramble - September 11-13, 2026 (and additional dates through fall) - Albany, NY and Hudson River Valley communities. Discover guided hikes, historic site tours, paddles, and family-friendly outings celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of the Hudson River Valley.
Bicentennial Portfolio at Albany Institute of History & Art - September 11-13, 2026 (plus many additional dates through spring 2027) - Albany, NY. Explore special bicentennial-themed works and exhibitions highlighting the rich history and art of the Capital Region.
Fall on the Farm - Engelke Farm - September 11-13, 2026 (continuing on various dates through October 31, 2026) - Troy, NY. Kick off autumn with farm fun including seasonal activities, treats, and outdoor adventures on a working family farm.
Saturday, September 12, 2026
2026 Harvest Craft Fair - September 12-13, 2026 - Albany, NY. Enjoy a lively weekend at Shaker Heritage Society with over 75 vendors, a petting zoo, sheep shearing, live music, local food, and hands-on activities for all ages.
Sadako’s Crane: An Origami Activity of Remembrance - September 12, 2026 - Albany, NY. Join the New York State Museum for a reflective, hands-on origami workshop inspired by Sadako’s Crane, honoring peace and remembrance through creative paper folding.
Star Party - September 12 - September 12, 2026 - Esperance, NY. Spend an evening under the dark skies of Landis Arboretum, where astronomy enthusiasts gather to observe stars, planets, and constellations with telescopes and guided viewing.
Living History: Free Family Art, Garden & History Programs at Ten Broeck - September 12, 2026 - Albany, NY. Enjoy free, family-friendly art and garden activities while learning about local history at the Ten Broeck Mansion.
2026 Ballston Spa Farmers' Market - September 12, 19 & 26, 2026; October 3, 2026 - Ballston Spa, NY. Shop fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items from local vendors in Wiswall Park at this vibrant community farmers’ market.
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Autumn Glow Lantern Festival at Mabee Farm - September 11 & 13, 2026 (plus select dates through November 1, 2026) - Rotterdam Junction, NY. Stroll historic Mabee Farm by lantern light and enjoy glowing displays, seasonal ambiance, and family-friendly evening activities.
Fall Fun on the Farm - Schuyler Farms - September 11-13, 2026 (with additional dates through October 31, 2026) - Schuylerville, NY. Celebrate the season with corn mazes, farm attractions, and outdoor fun at this popular Saratoga County farm.
Catskill Flyer: Spring & Summertime Rides - Catskill Mountain Railroad - September 12-13 & 19-20, 2026 - Kingston, NY. Take a scenic train ride through the Catskills on vintage coaches, enjoying river and mountain views on a relaxing outing.
Free Buddhist Temple Tours Upstate New York in Sullivan County Catskills - September 12-14, 2026 (and multiple additional dates through December 19, 2026) - Glen Spey, NY. Visit Kadampa Meditation Center New York for free guided tours of the temple, peaceful grounds, and meditation spaces in the Catskills.
Dan Rion Memorial Antique Engine Jamboree - Hanford Mills Museum - September 12-13, 2026 - East Meredith, NY. Explore antique engines, historic machinery demonstrations, and hands-on activities celebrating industrial heritage at Hanford Mills Museum.