Apple Harvest Festival brings fall flavor, live music and student energy to downtown Ithaca

Downtown Ithaca’s signature fall tradition, the 43rd Annual Apple Harvest Festival, returns to the Downtown Ithaca Sept. 26–28. This three-day celebration draws thousands to experience the very best of the region — from apples and cider doughnuts to artisan crafts, live music, and community fun.

The festival showcases over 150 local vendors, making it one of the largest gatherings of makers and producers in Upstate New York. Visitors can explore handcrafted jewelry, pottery, woodworking, and clothing, while enjoying fall treats like apple pies, crisps, and hard cider. The event also features 25+ food vendors serving international and regional cuisine, along with 25 New York State farmers sharing the best of the harvest.

The weekend kicks off on Friday, September 26 with a Welcome Students Showcase (4–6 p.m.). New and returning students from Cornell, Ithaca College, and Tompkins Cortland Community College are invited downtown for an afternoon of live student performances and a scavenger hunt with prizes to encourage exploration and connection. That evening, Ithaca’s own Jimkata will headline the Sound on Sound stage, bringing their high-energy, genre-bending sound to festivalgoers.

Throughout the weekend, festival stages will feature a dynamic lineup of local and regional performers, filling the Commons with music and entertainment for all ages. Families can enjoy activities in the Family Fun Zone, including pumpkin painting, an inflatable obstacle course, and a petting zoo — making the festival an interactive and memorable experience for children and parents alike.

Sustainability and accessibility remain at the heart of the event, with a bike valet service available to encourage attendees to ride downtown and reduce congestion.

Festival hours are Friday Noon–8 PM, Saturday & Sunday 10 AM–6 PM, and admission is free.

For more details and the full schedule of performances, visit DowntownIthaca.com.