Labor Day Weekend is the unofficial "end of summer", but it really depends how you look at it! No matter how much we adore summer, fall breezes and crisp leaves are something to look forward to every year. But, before we bid adieu to those ‘lazy days of summer,’ let’s enjoy our last sun-soaked afternoons and balmy evenings with Labor Day weekend activities topped off by the awesome “Ring of Fire” celebrations on Canandaigua and Honeoye Lakes.
About the Ring of Fire
The Native American custom to light fires around the lakes was to express gratitude for being saved from the Great Snake and for good hunting and fishing. Originally cattails soaked in kerosene were strategically stationed around the lake to create a burning Ring of Fire. Today, LED Flares are used to create a Ring of Fire, in a safer, yet no less dramatic way.
Canandaigua & Honeoye
Action begins at dusk (around 9 p.m.) on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, with flares lit around Canandaigua, Honeoye Lakes in celebration of Labor Day and marking the unofficial end of summer and the beginning of the harvest season.
The Ring of Fire on Canandaigua Lake began in 1953 and includes the lighting of a ceremonial fire at the top of Bare Hill overlooking the lake in celebration of peace and a bountiful autumn harvest, followed by residents around the shoreline lighting a bonfire or flare, creating a blazing red ring around the lake.
Photo Ops Abound!
As you can imagine, you can capture some awesome photos of these brightly burning rings that light up the night. Be sure to post your favorites on Instagram using the hashtag #FLXperience so we can share and show off the best places to experience this fiery Finger Lakes event! Tips: The luxurious Lake House on Canandaigua provides a front row seat to all the action. Be sure to make reservations early if you want to watch the ring in style sipping a glass of Finger Lakes wine in one of their Adirondack style chairs. Kershaw Park in Canandaigua is a good alternative for families with kids and pets that need room to spread out and run free.
Other Labor Day Weekend Happenings
Ring of Fire Cruise on the Canandaigua Lady is a night boat ride where you can experience the ring of fire around Canandaigua Lake on a historic paddlewheel boat. 8:30-9:30 PM on August 31, if weather allows.
Lincoln Hill Farms will be hosting a free show on August 31, featuring JIMKATA, a Syracuse based band with a "feel-good" vibe. Event runs from 5:00PM to 11:00PM, drinks and food are available for purchase on the property.
The Linden Street Wine Series on Linden Street in Geneva is an amazing event filled with Finger Lakes wine blends with tasting tents, live music, local fare, and a festive atmosphere on the most happening street in Downtown Geneva. All proceeds from the ticket sales will be donated to charities dedicated to clean water and sustainability.
So, think of Labor Day not as the end, but rather as an awesome beginning to Fall in the Finger Lakes!
Please share your favorite Finger Lakes Labor Day Weekend experiences with us. Tag us @VISITFLX and #FLXperience!
