Best Time of year to Visit the Finger Lakes
A Seasonal Guide to Events and Activities
New York | Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region of New York is a destination that shines in every season, offering breathtaking landscapes, world-class wineries, and a packed calendar of exciting events. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who enjoys vibrant local festivals, there’s no shortage of things to do. But when is the best time to visit the Finger Lakes? The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
From the serene, blossoming beauty of spring to the lively, sun-soaked days of summer, each season in the Finger Lakes has its unique charm. Fall is a showstopper, with stunning foliage and bustling harvest festivals, while winter transforms the region into a magical wonderland, perfect for intimate winery visits and holiday celebrations. Each time of year brings different opportunities to explore, making it easy to find your ideal season to visit.
For wine lovers, the Finger Lakes offers exceptional opportunities throughout the year, whether you’re looking for quiet, personalized tastings in spring, lively vineyard events in summer, or the cozy charm of winter wine pairings. If festivals and local culture are more your style, you’ll find plenty to celebrate with the Finger Lakes events calendar packed with options for every season.
This guide will take you through the best seasons in the Finger Lakes, highlighting seasonal activities, key events, and tips to make the most of your trip. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, we’ll help you decide the best time of year for wine tasting in the Finger Lakes and show you the best things to do in the Finger Lakes during spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Wine Travel Tips
How to Use Guided Wino’s New York Wine Travel Guide
Our New York Wine Travel Guide is designed to be user-friendly, whether you’re planning your trip on a desktop or on the go. Here’s how to make the most of this powerful tool:
Pinterest Integration: If you’re a Pinterest user, save this post to a board for easy access during your trip. Use the Pinterest icon below.
Mobile Phone Convenience: For quick access, create a Guided Wino shortcut on your phone’s home screen. Though Guided Wino doesn’t have a dedicated mobile app, our website is fully optimized for mobile use. By adding a shortcut, you can operate it as a mobile app. If you’re visiting the Finger Lakes wine region, we suggest creating a shortcut to the Guided Wino New York Wine Travel Guide for easy reference.
Spring in the Finger Lakes
Spring is a wonderful time to visit the Finger Lakes as the vineyards awaken and temperatures rise. It’s still considered off-season, so accommodations are more affordable, and wineries are less crowded, offering quieter and more personalized experiences. While the vines and trees are not yet in full bloom, spring is perfect for hiking trails and chasing waterfalls. It’s also a great time to explore without the peak-season hustle, making it one of the best times of year for wine tasting in the Finger Lakes.
Finger Lakes Spring Events
Cayuga Lake Wine Trail’s Bacon on the Lakein: A savory event pairing bacon-themed bites with local wines along Cayuga Lake.
Seneca Lake Wine Trail’s Pasta & Wine Weekend: Enjoy perfect wine pairings with pasta dishes at participating wineries on Seneca Lake.
Seneca Lake Spring Wine & Cheese Weekend: Celebrate spring with delicious wine and cheese pairings.
Keuka Lake Wine & Cheese Lovers Getaway: A delightful tour of Keuka Lake wineries featuring cheese pairings.
Finger Lakes Spring Weather
Mild temperatures, gradually warming from frost to 60s-70s °F by May.
Frequent rainfall, lush greenery, and blooming vineyards.
Summer in the Finger Lakes
Summer is peak season, offering the best things to do in the Finger Lakes, from swimming and kayaking to hiking and winery visits. With average temperatures around 80°F, it’s the perfect time for lake activities and outdoor festivals. Wineries are busy during this time, so reservations are often recommended. Accommodations fill up quickly and are pricier, so plan ahead.
Finger Lakes Summer Events
Finger Lakes Wine Festival: Held at Watkins Glen, this event features hundreds of wines and local vendors.
GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance: A four-day celebration in Trumansburg with diverse music genres.
Canandaigua Lakefront Art Show: A scenic art festival featuring local and regional artists.
Rose Soiree in Geneva: A glamorous summer event celebrating rosé wines.
Paddle Keuka 5K Race: A kayak race on Keuka Lake that is fun for all ages.
Glorious Garlic Festival: A unique festival, held in Geneva, dedicated to garlic, featuring garlic-inspired foods, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
Saperavi Festival: Celebrating the Saperavi grape, this festival offers tastings of this unique varietal, along with Georgian food and wine education.
2024 Summerfest in Geneva over 4th of July: A festive celebration featuring live music, food vendors, and fireworks over Seneca Lake to commemorate Independence Day.
Summer Music Nights at Wineries: Many Finger Lakes wineries host summer music nights, featuring local bands and extended hours to enjoy sunsets over the lakes and vineyards. Check individual winery websites for schedules.
Finger LAkes Summer Weather
Warm and sunny, with highs in the 70s to mid-80s °F.
Lakes provide cooling breezes
Occasional brief summer storms
Fall in the Finger Lakes
Fall is arguably the best season in the Finger Lakes, with breathtaking fall foliage, crisp weather, and the buzz of harvest season. Leaf-peeping, apple picking, and pumpkin patches are just a few ways to enjoy the region’s beauty. It’s also a fantastic time for wine events celebrating the harvest, making it one of the best times of year for wine tasting in the Finger Lakes. Accommodations and wineries remain busy, especially in late October, so early reservations are key.
Finger Lakes Fall Events
Naples Grape Festival: Celebrate the grape harvest with music, crafts, and grape pie contests in Naples.
Annual German Festival at Lucas Vineyards: A September tradition featuring German food, wine, and music.
The Falls Harvest Festival: A family-friendly festival in Montour Falls with crafts, food, and live entertainment.
Finger Lakes Hot Air Balloon & Music Festival: Hosted at Castel Grisch Winery, enjoy hot air balloons, live music, and wine.
Hammondsport Wings & Wheels: A vintage seaplane and car show in Hammondsport.
Binesfest at Climbing Bines Brewery: Binesfest is an annual Labor Day Weekend celebration featuring live music, local food trucks, and craft beers from Climbing Bines and guest Finger Lakes breweries.
Finger Lakes Beer Festival: Hosted at Watkins Glen International, this festival offers a wide selection of craft beers from regional breweries
Finger Lakes Fall Weather
Crisp temperatures from the 50s to 70s °F, with vibrant foliage.
September is mild; frost returns by November.
Winter in the Finger Lakes
Winter transforms the Finger Lakes into a snowy wonderland, perfect for those who enjoy a quieter, cozy experience. Wineries are less crowded, making it an ideal time for intimate tastings and exploring the region’s famous ice wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing, while holiday events bring festive cheer. Accommodations are often more affordable, and reservations at wineries are usually unnecessary.
Finger Lakes Winter Events
Watkins Glen Village Christmas: A holiday festival with a parade, live entertainment, and shopping.
Canandaigua Christkindl Market: A traditional European-style market with crafts and holiday treats.
It’s a Wonderful Life Festival: A celebration in Seneca Falls, believed to be the inspiration for Bedford Falls in the classic film.
Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles: A Victorian Christmas celebration featuring carolers, street performers, and holiday shopping.
Valentine's Day Events: The Finger Lakes region of New York offers a variety of romantic experiences for Valentine's Day, particularly through wine and chocolate pairings at its renowned wineries. Check individual winery websites for schedules.
Finger Lakes Winer Weather
Cold and snowy, with highs in the 20s to 30s °F.
Frequent lake-effect snow.
Final Thoughts
No matter when you choose to visit, the Finger Lakes offers a truly unforgettable experience. Each season paints the region in its own unique colors, from the bright blooms of spring to the fiery hues of autumn and the tranquil snow-covered vineyards of winter. With endless opportunities for wine tasting, outdoor adventures, and attending vibrant festivals, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re savoring a glass of wine during a summer sunset or enjoying a quiet winter tasting by the fire, the Finger Lakes will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return.
Start planning your visit by aligning your trip with the season that best suits your interests. Check the Finger Lakes events calendar, explore the region’s stunning landscapes, and immerse yourself in its rich culture. Whether it’s your first trip or one of many, the Finger Lakes welcomes you with open arms, offering experiences that are as diverse and delightful as the seasons themselves.
