Fenimore Farm Harvest Festival | Fall in Cooperstown, NY

From Silas's Perch | Things to Do

There's something about a sunny September day in Cooperstown that makes you want to stay outside and explore. We spent one of those days at Fenimore Farm & Country Village's Harvest Festival, where music, crafts, historic buildings, and hands-on demonstrations brought the village to life.

What we enjoyed most was getting to see traditional skills in action. This wasn't just a display of old objects. Around the museum, people were demonstrating the kinds of work that once shaped everyday life.

Entrance to Fenimore Farm and Country Village during its fall festival in Cooperstown New York — The entrance to Fenimore Farm & Country Village during our fall visit.

A September Day Full of Music and History

Live musicians were performing outside, giving the day a relaxed, festive feel. Visitors could wander from one demonstration to another, stopping whenever something caught their attention.

Musicians performing outdoors at Fenimore Farm Harvest Festival in Cooperstown New York — Traditional music was part of the Harvest Festival atmosphere.

Inside the historic print shop, we watched a printing demonstration. Seeing the old equipment in use gives you a very different appreciation of how much work once went into producing a printed page.

Watching a Farrier at Work

One of the most memorable stops was watching a farrier work on a horse's hoof. The video captures the careful hands-on process, with tools set beside the horse. It's the sort of everyday skill that's easy to overlook until you see someone performing it right in front of you.

A farrier works on a large black horse at Fenimore Farm and Country Village in Cooperstown — A close-up view of traditional farrier work during our visit.

Watch Our Visit

We put together a short video of the day, from the festival grounds and music to the print shop and farrier demonstration.

Watch the Short on YouTube | See our original Facebook Reel

What Is Fenimore Farm's Harvest Festival?

Harvest Festival is an annual fall event at Fenimore Farm & Country Village. In 2026, it took place September 12–13 and featured live music, artisans, traditional demonstrations, vendors, and family activities. Events change from year to year, so it's worth checking the museum's calendar for the next festival rather than assuming the same schedule will return.

Even outside the festival, the historic village is worth exploring. We also visited on a rainy day earlier in the season and got a completely different experience. Read our earlier Fenimore Farm visit for another look at the grounds, carousel, and blacksmith shop.

Planning a Visit

Fenimore Farm & Country Village
5775 State Highway 80
Cooperstown, NY 13326

Fenimore Farm is located just outside the village of Cooperstown, near Otsego Lake. Admission, hours, and upcoming programs vary seasonally. Before visiting, see the official visitor information and event calendar.

More Ways to Explore Cooperstown

One of our favorite things about living and hosting guests here is finding experiences that go beyond baseball. From museums and workshops to seasonal festivals, there's always another reason to explore the area.

If you're planning a Cooperstown getaway, explore more local stories on From Silas's Perch, and take a look at Cooperstown Bed & Breakfast for your stay.