For many, the fall season calls to mind countless quintessential joys, among these being the bright orange-yellow leaves cascading from the treetops, pillars of steam billowing from a fresh cup of apple cider, and the crisp taste of a freshly picked apple. When in search of these classic sights and smells of the season, however, us members of the Union community need look no further than our backyard. The greater Schenectady area is currently hosting countless activities to allow everyone a gateway into the harvest spirit.
Students on campus, in light of the change of seasons, have reported to the Concordiensis that one of fall’s most essential activities is that of apple picking, which the countless farms local to the capital region readily host in the harvest season. One popular farm among Union students is Bowman Orchards, a 60-acre farm located in Rexford, 8 miles from campus. Not only does Bowman offer guests access to 63 varieties of dwarf apple trees to fill their baskets from, but a petting zoo, hayrides, and food trucks from 11 am-5 pm every Saturday and Sunday until the end of October.
Students who frequent the shops on Jay Street may also be familiar with the Schenectady Greenmarket, a farmer’s market that operates before the front steps of the Schenectady City Hall on Sundays from 10 am-2 pm. This, however, is not the only collection of vendors offering a taste of freshly sourced produce and other goods in the coming months. Stuyvesant Plaza, located 13 miles from campus in Guilderland, Albany, will be hosting its annual Autumn Fest on October 19th from 10 am to 4 pm. Visitors can expect sidewalk vendors, live music performed by local artists, and fresh seasonal food. Promotions and discounts will also be offered by the storefront locations along Stuyvesant Plaza, making Autumn Fest an ideal event for seasonal enthusiasts and eager shoppers alike.
Those who value autumn for its vibrant change of backdrop may opt instead to enjoy the sights and cool weather with one of the Schenectady area’s many hiking trails. One popular nearby option is the Sergeant Falls Side Trail, a roughly three-mile long hiking path winding throughout the Plotter Kill Nature Reserve. The route offers peaceful and breathtaking scenery for hikers while still approachable to those who seek out a calm walk surrounded by fall foliage.
When searching for activities to take part in this autumn, one needs only to look in Union’s backyard. From fall farmers markets apple picking, from live music to the vibrance of our local forests, Schenectady has plenty to keep us warm this chilly season.
