Category: Community Things to Do

Holiday Gift Shopping from Finger Lakes Small Businesses

By Visit Finger Lakes on Oct. 21, 2026

No holiday trip to the Finger Lakes would be complete without a healthy dose of shopping. Shopping here comes with its own eclectic and distinct flair as you stroll through the beautiful historic downtownsand explore the small, locally owned boutiques featuring local flavors, winery shops, artisan studios, and more. Whether it’s to celebrate Small Business Saturday or to find the perfect holiday gifts, here’s a list of Finger Lakes items that will make the season extra special…

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Oktoberfest Events This Season

By Jessica VanDeMar on Oct. 02, 2026

Oktoberfest season is officially here, so dust off the lederhosen, grab your favorite stein, and get ready for a true Bavarian celebration. A German tradition over 200 years old, the festival began in 1810 as a royal wedding party for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Munich loved it so much…

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Don't Miss These Spooky Finger Lakes Adventures

By Jessica VanDeMar on Sep. 08, 2026

October in the Finger Lakes is the month for spooky and scary fun, so if you’re looking for some frightful entertainment around Ontario County, there are plenty of tricks and treats to be found! From haunted history, to eerie encounters, and family fun, here are some events and places guaranteed to…

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Pet-Friendly Places in the Finger Lakes

By Carolina Taylor on Jul. 21, 2026

Because every getaway is better with your favorite companion, check out these pet-friendly spots in the Finger Lakes region. From accommodations and restaurants to scenic trails and water adventures, you’ll leave Ontario County feeling like you and your pet just enjoyed the best outing of your…

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Discover Ontario County History

By Carolina Taylor on Mar. 25, 2026

Ontario County offers a powerful window into key moments that shaped the United States. From Seneca heritage to the fight for women’s rights and the impact of the abolitionist movement, its history is rich and still felt today. Native American Origins Hundreds of years before Columbus set sail for…

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How to Celebrate the New Year in the Finger Lakes!

By Carolina Taylor on Dec. 01, 2025

From memorable dining experiences to family fun, toast to the year ahead and celebrate Finger Lakes Style…

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3 Places in Ontario County That Feel Like a Scene Out of “Gilmore Girls”

By Jessica VanDeMar on Oct. 02, 2025

If you’re a fan of the beloved show “Gilmore Girls,” you know that the quaint, cozy town of Stars Hollow is practically a character in itself. With its charming shops, friendly locals, and irresistible cafes, it’s a place where every corner feels like a scene from the series. Ontario County is home…

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Shop for the Holidays in the Finger Lakes - Small Business Saturday & Black Friday Deals

By Meg Vanek on Nov. 06, 2024

Thanksgiving and Black Friday and Cyber Monday—oh, my! Each year, the last Saturday in November kicks off the start of the holiday season, and here at Visit Finger Lakes, we want to be sure you are ready. One day we love to celebrate is Small Business Saturday, a day for shopping local and…

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2024 Solar Eclipse in the Finger Lakes: What to Know

By Theresa VanWormer on Apr. 01, 2024

On April 8, 2024, people across North America will experience an event that hasn’t occurred in years: a solar eclipse. This celestial event occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, blocking all or part of the sun. If you want to witness the Great North American Eclipse firsthand…

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Everything You Need For a Romantic At Home Night in the Finger Lakes

By Theresa VanWormer on Jan. 26, 2023

Between the rush of the holidays and the winter cold, sometimes you just wanna stay home. If you are looking for something special to do for your significant other, a friend, or yourself, this is a guide to bring the Finger Lakes romance home with you. Step 1: Bundle Up and Enjoy the Crisp, Fresh…

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