NEWSLETTER
April in New York State blooms with events catering to just about every taste and interest. From the serene thrill of trout season opening in pristine lakes and streams to vibrant flower festivals celebrating the arrival of spring, there’s something for everyone. Literature enthusiasts can revel in a Catskills book festival, while art lovers and foodies can explore gatherings like a celebrated food market in New York City or a wine festival in the Finger Lakes. Whether it’s getting to meet renowned comic book artists and writers, savoring exquisite wines, or stargazing under the Lyrids meteor shower, this April promises unforgettable experiences across the state! Check out our calendar for a full list of events. Photo Credit: @urban_bedouin on Instagram.
Trout Fishing Season Opens (Statewide)
April 1
April marks the beginning of trout season, offering a fantastic selection of trout to anglers fishing the state’s clean, clear lakes and streams. You’ll find brown trout in the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, and Catskill reservoirs. Rainbow trout occur in many New York lakes and tributaries of the Great Lakes and Finger Lakes. Brook trout are found in hundreds of lakes and ponds in the Adirondacks and scattered in cool, clear streams across the state. Before you set out, be sure to get detailed fishing regulation and license information for the waters you intend to fish. Stocking information, along with fishing regulations, maps, and access information is available in The Tackle Box feature of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s HuntFishNY app. Other features include driving directions to state boat launch sites and an offline feature that allows users to access information when cell coverage isn't available. Statewide; fishing license required.
Spring into a Flower Festival (Multiple Regions)
Various Dates
Credit: @mikerechterphotography on Instagram
Spring has sprung in New York State and what better way to celebrate than at a colorful flower festival! In New York City, wander through the New York Botanical Garden and marvel at the stunning displays at The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism (through April 27). Discover enchanting blooms at the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Garden's Spring Flower Exhibit (April 4-28), step back in time in the Hudson Valley at Lyndhurst Mansion for Lyndhurst in Bloom (April 5-6), and take in the seasonal splendor at the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival (April 26-27). Get a taste of Holland and tiptoe your way through the tulips at the Meadowbrook Farm’s Tulip Walk in the Catskills (April 26 and May 3), Mohonk Tulip Festival in the Hudson Valley (April 28-May 9), Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden Tulip Festival on Long Island (April 12 - May 5), and Kelder’s Farm’s Tulip Festival, kicking off in mid-April. Wrap up your floral adventure with a visit to the iconic Macy’s Flower Show (April 27-May 11) in New York City. Each event offers a unique celebration of nature's beauty, sure to leave you captivated and inspired! Prices and locations vary.
Raise a Glass at a Wine Festival (Multiple Regions)
Various Dates
Credit: Thousand Islands Winery
Raise your glass to New York’s vibrant wine scene at one of three can’t-miss festivals this April! Kick things off at the Buffalo Wine Festival at Buffalo RiverWorks on April 5, where you can sip wines from Black Button Distilling, Cellar ’54, and Queen City Meadery, try candle making and olive oil tasting, and enjoy delicious bites from food vendors. On April 12, head to the Capital Wine Festival at the Albany Capital Center for unlimited samples of New York wines and spirits, a Paint and Sip session, and a free photo booth. Finally, don’t miss the Syracuse Wine Festival at The Oncenter Convention Center on April 19, featuring over 40 vendors, Paint and Sip fun, a DJ, and board games for a laid-back vibe. Designated driver tickets available at all events. Prices and locations vary.
Woodstock Bookfest (Catskills)
April 3-6
Dive into the literary world at the Woodstock Bookfest, kicking off with the opening night Story Slam at the Woodstock Playhouse and wrapping up with the memorable closing panel, Memoir-A-Go-Go. Engage in panels discussing wisdom keepers, women's rights post-Roe, rock & roll, how place shapes narratives, love and heartbreak, the Gilmore Girls, and the courage to tell your story. Don't miss Saturday's keynote speaker, Griffin Dunne, whose bestselling memoir, The Friday Afternoon Club, is an emotional rollercoaster of humor and sorrow. Woodstock; tickets from $23.18. A full festival pass, featuring the Story Slam, all evening keynotes, panels, and parties, plus a Woodstock Bookfest goody bag, is available for $241.94.
International Hudson Valley Tattoo Convention (Hudson Valley)
April 4-6
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of art and creativity in Poughkeepsie! This three-day event features over 200 top tattoo artists from around the world, showcasing their unique styles and talents. Enjoy live tattooing, explore diverse techniques, and even get inked by industry pros. Beyond tattoos, enjoy live entertainment, contests, and an eclectic marketplace with artisanal products and tattoo gear. Families are welcome—kids under 12 get in free! Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or just looking for a unique weekend, this is the place to be. Poughkeepsie; $25 1-day pass, $65 3-day pass, $85 VIP pass, children under 12 free.
SUNY Oneonta Planetarium Show - Hubble's 35th Anniversary (Central New York)
April 4 & 18, May 2
Be transported on a breathtaking celestial adventure as the SUNY Oneonta Planetarium celebrates the Hubble Space Telescope's 35th anniversary. Learn about Hubble's groundbreaking discoveries, from the birth and death of stars to the exploration of distant galaxies and the mysteries of dark matter. With stunning visuals and engaging narration, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the marvels of our universe and the incredible technological advancements that have made these discoveries possible. Oneonta; $3.
ITHACON (Finger Lakes)
April 5-6
Now in its 48th year, ITHACON has firmly established itself as a cherished community tradition that celebrates all things comic books. Meet renowned comic book artists and writers, explore diverse exhibitors, and join panels on superhero storytelling and pop culture trends. Enjoy cosplay contests, family-friendly fun, and shop for comics, collectibles, and original art. Ithaca; Admission for both days: $25 adults, $15 Ithaca College student (ID required), $5 ages 7-17, free admission for ages 6 and under. Sunday admission only: $15 adults. Find more ticketing information here.
Smorgasburg Opens (New York City)
April 5-6
Credit: @twogurls_oneplate on Instagram
Smorgasburg, dubbed by the New York Times as "The Woodstock of Eating," is the largest weekly open-air food market in America, and it's set to make its grand return to New York City this April. This culinary extravaganza will pop up in four prime New York City locations: the World Trade Center, Williamsburg, Prospect Park, and The Shed in Hudson Yards. Each spot offers a unique backdrop, from the bustling streets around the Oculus to the scenic views of Marsha P. Johnson State Park. Foodies can indulge in a diverse array of delectable delights, with over 70 vendors serving up everything from fragrant Ethiopian stews and Hawaii-style street comforts to explosive pani puri and potato puff poutine. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Smorgasburg is the ultimate destination to savor the flavors of the world right in the heart of New York City! Manhattan and Brooklyn; free admission, various prices for food.
Opening Weekend at Watkins Glen International (Finger Lakes)
April 7
Credit: @fingerlakestourism on Instagram
Get ready for a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and the chance to experience one of the most iconic racing circuits in the world at Opening Day Weekend at Watkins Glen International! This annual event lets you take your own vehicle for a spin on the historic 3.45-mile Grand Prix circuit. Enjoy three laps around the track, with more available for purchase, all benefitting the Racing and Community Enrichment (R.A.C.E.) Foundation. Arrive early, follow the guidelines, and make the most of this unforgettable racing experience! Watkins Glen; $33.30 per car (ticket fees included); groups of 10 or more must reserve a spot in advance.
Spring Birding Walk (Hudson Valley)
April 11
Credit: @snap_n_sail on Instagram
Step into the heart of nature at the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge! As the Catskills come alive with the vibrant colors and songs of migrating birds, this guided walk offers a front-row seat to one of spring's most enchanting spectacles. Whether you're an avid birder or simply a lover of the great outdoors, this experience promises the thrill of spotting rare species, learning about their habits, and soaking in the serene beauty of the grasslands. Don't miss this chance to reconnect with nature and discover the magic of spring unfolding all around you! Wallkill; free admission with a suggested donation of $10. Registration is required.
The International Taste Festival (Finger Lakes)
April 12
Get ready to experience diverse flavors and rich traditions from cultures around the globe, including Foods of the Americas, Asian Creations, Pan African Cuisine, Middle Eastern Treats, and Tastes of Europe! Back for its 4th year at the New York State Fairgrounds’ Center of Progress Building, this delicious event features $2 sample-sized portions from all food vendors, along with full-priced items, and boasts a separate 5K/10K run and a variety of entertainment throughout the day. Don't miss out on this celebration of global cuisine and culture! Syracuse; Advance sale tickets $5 per person (kids under 10 years of age free). Advance sale tickets are available online: 2/1/2025 - 4/11/2025 only. $10 same day tickets (kids under 10 years of age free). Same day tickets are available 4/12/2025: online and at the door. More ticketing information here.
Fredonia Easter Festival (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
April 12
For an Eastertime event that’s fun for all ages, look no further than the Fredonia Easter Festival at Fredonia First United Methodist Church. Enjoy breakfast and pictures with the Easter Bunny, along with crafts for the kids, followed by an Easter Egg Hunt in the park! Attendees will also enjoy a craft vendor show, and church tours will be available. Breakfast includes pancakes, eggs, sausage, and drink. Fredonia; $7 adults, $5 children 4-12, and free admission for children 3 and under.
Canal Clean Sweep (Statewide)
April 18-20
Credit: @spotlightsojourns on Instagram
Want to give back this Earth Day? Canal Clean Sweep, sponsored by the NYS Canal Corporation, is a beloved annual tradition that brings together thousands of volunteers in cleaning up more than 100 locations along New York's storied canals and greenways. Want to get involved? Organize a cleanup or sign up for an event on the Canal Clean Sweep map. Rally your friends, family, and colleagues to volunteer at cleanup sites across the state! Statewide; free admission; full details on registration and participation here.
New York International Auto Show (New York City)
April 18-27
Celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the New York International Auto Show at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center! Explore over 700 vehicles across four floors of exhibits, featuring 2025 debuts, cutting-edge concept cars, and the latest production models. Dive into the future with electric vehicles, virtual reality experiences, and interactive displays. This year’s expanded EV test track, spanning 90,000+ square feet, lets you experience the power and performance of electric cars from nine leading manufacturers. Don’t miss this ultimate showcase of automotive innovation! New York City; general admission $8 - $22, early access at 9 a.m. Friday or Saturday morning at 9 a.m. $18 - $48.
Fort Niagara in the American Revolution (Greater Niagara)
April 19
Fort Niagara, located at the mouth of the Niagara River in Youngstown, played a significant role during the American Revolution. Originally built by the French in 1726, the fort was later taken over by the British in 1759. During the American Revolution, Fort Niagara served as a strategic stronghold for the British and Loyalist forces. It became a hub for military operations, supply distribution, and refuge for Loyalists fleeing the conflict. The fort's location allowed the British to control access between the Great Lakes and the interior of North America. On April 19th, Old Fort Niagara (as it is also known) will host a special event to mark the 250th anniversary of the beginning of the Revolution. Take a guided tour and explore the fort's historical significance, role in conflict, reenactments, and educational activities for visitors of all ages! Youngstown; $21 adults, $13 children 6-12, and free admission for children 5 and under.
Stargazing Under the Lyrids (Greater Niagara)
April 22
Join a park naturalist at Golden Hill State Park to witness the dazzling Lyrid meteor shower, one of the oldest recorded annual meteor showers, named after the constellation Lyra. Caused by debris from Comet Thatcher, which orbits the Sun every 415 years, the Lyrids create bright, fast streaks with occasional bursts of activity across Northern Hemisphere skies. Bundle up, bring your curiosity, and enjoy a night under the stars exploring this amazing natural phenomenon and other constellations! Barker; free admission; registration required on Eventbrite.com.
2025 Grapes and Hops Festival (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
April 26
Thirsty? Head over to Jamestown’s Northwest Arena to get a taste of New York's craft beer, distillery, and wine scene all while savoring delicious bites from vendors as live music sets the perfect vibe for a fun, relaxing day. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just looking for a great time, this 21+ event is the place to be! A valid ID is required, and designated driver tickets are available at a reduced price. Jamestown; Presale: VIP Admission $50 (early entry at 1 PM, exclusive access to the VIP lounge and small bites, and one commemorative pint glass); General Admission $35 (2-5 PM admission, includes one commemorative tasting glass); Group Tickets: 4 Pack of GA tickets only, $120, 10 Pack of GA Tickets only, $250; deadline is April 15th to by group tickets; Designated Driver $10. At the Door: VIP Admission $60; General Admission $45; Designated Driver $10.
Earthfest at Boscobel House & Gardens (Hudson Valley)
April 26
Credit: @boscobelhg on Instagram
Join in on a celebration of sustainability and community at the Boscobel House and Gardens, a restored 19th-century Federal-style museum overlooking Hudson River and West Point with a Neoclassical mansion and 68 acres of gardens and trails. Shop local goods, enjoy scenic hikes, picnic on the Great Lawn, and explore the budding landscape. Admission to the grounds, Visitor Center, and Exhibition Galleries is free, thanks to generous support. Learn about climate solutions, pollinator gardens, composting, zero waste, electric vehicles, and more from local organizations. Garrison; free admission.
5th Annual Go Fly a Kite Over Babylon (Long Island)
April 26
Credit: Marta Zielinska
Head out to Overlook Beach for a fun-filled day of kite flying, entertainment, and community spirit! Witness professional kite flyers and bring your own kite to join in the fun and feel the wind lift your kite high above the beach. Kids can enjoy a sweet treat during the candy drop. The day will also feature a bubble maker, food trucks, artisan market, live entertainment and more! Babylon; free admission.
Delights and Dances (Thousand Islands-Seaway)
April 26-27
The Orchestra of Northern New York waltzes into spring with a program of music inspired by dance! It opens with the first movement of Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto followed by composer and frequent Jordan Peele collaborator Michael Abels' Delights and Dances follows, which blends Blues, Bluegrass, and popular styles, with the "Julia Trio + 1" as featured soloists. The concert closes with Beethoven’s ultimate tribute to dance, his incomparable Symphony No. 7. Potsdam and Watertown; $30 adults; $27 seniors/military; $10 college students; $5 teens 13-17; $30 Family Trio Bundle (1 adult ticket and up to 2 teen tickets. Child tickets are always free at the box office.); $55 Family Quartet Bundle (2 adult tickets and up to 2 teen tickets. Child tickets are always free at the box office.)
Long Island Restaurant Week (Long Island)
April 27 – May 4
Credit: Marta Zielinska
Embark on a culinary adventure where food lovers from far and wide come to indulge in the best of Long Island’s culinary scene! This week-long celebration is a feast for the senses, offering specially curated prix-fixe menus at an array of restaurants, from cozy waterfront bistros to elegant fine dining establishments. Savor the freshest seafood, decadent desserts, and creative local cuisine crafted by talented chefs who put Long Island on the foodie map. Whether you're a gourmet aficionado or just looking to treat your taste buds, this event is the perfect way to explore the flavors, culture, and hospitality that make Long Island a true culinary gem. Bon appétit! Various locations; $24 for a two-course lunch, and $29, $39, or $46 for a three-course dinner. Prices include appetizer, entrée, and dessert (beverages, tax, and gratuity are not included). Prix-fixe dinners on Saturday typically only available until 7 p.m.
New York Pops 42nd Birthday Gala (New York City)
April 28
Be a part of a magical evening as The New York Pops presents its 42nd Birthday Gala at the iconic Carnegie Hall, honoring the legendary songwriter Diane Warren, whose timeless hits have shaped the music industry for decades. Under the baton of Music Director Steven Reineke, the orchestra will be joined by guest artists, including Shoshana Bean, Sofia Carson, Taylor Dayne, Micaela Diamond, and Angélique Kidjo, with more surprises to come. The celebration doesn't end with the music—attendees can continue the festivities at a glamorous black-tie-optional dinner and dance at the Mandarin Oriental New York. Proceeds from this unforgettable event will support The New York Pops and its PopsEd music education programs, making it a night of inspiration, artistry, and giving back. New York City; concert-only tickets start at $67 (for more information and to order visit this link). Tickets to the full gala begin at $2,000. Please visit this link for more information.
Spring Into Art (Greater Niagara)
April 29
Celebrate Spring at this free event showcasing the diverse talents of the artists and creators at the University at Buffalo. The UB Center for the Arts will come alive with captivating performances, stunning installations, and interactive activities. Enjoy free refreshments as you mingle with fellow art enthusiasts, creators, and performers. Evening highlights include dance, music and musical theatre performances, printmaking, films, digital projects and installations, art exhibitions, a student art sale, and free springtime refreshments. Come see, celebrate, and experience the artistry that happens right on campus! Buffalo; free admission.
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