By Darlene Brace
The summer of 2026 is just about behind us, and now it’s time for some fall fun. The Bemus Point Fall Fest is happening September 18-20, from 10am-5pm each day. There will be music, a cruise-in, a variety of vendors, and exciting family activities along the scenic banks of Chautauqua Lake.
As in past years, many area merchants will be participating in the Draw a Leaf discounts. At participating businesses, customers draw a leaf, revealing a discount, ranging from 5%-50% off their purchases. Many of the other Bemus Point restaurants and businesses will feature the fall theme and may include specials.
Main Street will be lined with vendors starting at the corner near EBC to the Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House. Over seventy vendors will be present, creating a street market that will include artisans and specialty item vendors selling handcrafted art, home decor, candles, jewelry, clothing, and other one-of-a-kind treasures. Most of the food vendors will be in the “food court” area near the bus garage. Some of the food and drink vendors will be Mystic Smoke BBQ, Pit Stop Pops, Hope Smoothies, Ace Kettle Corn, Avenue29 Foods, and Gelati’s Italian Ice and more.
Many local restaurants and bars will have fall themed food and drinks. The Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House will offer seasonal craft beers, fall cocktails, and house-made seasonal food, and 14 Main will be serving hot dogs and hamburgers on the porch of the See-Zurh House. The Bemus Point Inn Restaurant will feature a pumpkin waffle topped with whipped cream cheese and other toppings.
The Bemus Point Market will showcase Perry’s Cider Mill ice cream that includes apple cider ice cream with cinnamon graham swirls and donut pieces. Additionally, they will be serving Pumpkin Pie Premium Ice Cream and other seasonal fall flavors.
Coppola’s Pizzeria will have a special fall menu and discounted Buffalo Bills logo pizzas. Guppy’s Restaurant & Tavern will offer Jägerschnitzel, which includes hand-breaded pan-seared pork, homemade spaetzle, warm mushroom gravy, and crispy onions, along with pumpkin bread pudding and fall-themed cocktails. Lake Life Café is planning to feature some type of Fall Fest drink specials.
The festival activities start on Friday with many taking place at the Bemus Point Golf Club and Tap House. A Cowboy Hat Happy Hour will begin at 4pm, followed by live music from Goldirocks on the outdoor stage, weather permitting. They will perform a variety of classic hits from 6-9pm. This is also where the beer garden will be set up throughout the festival, allowing adults to enjoy a cold beverage.
On Saturday, the Tap House will kick off the day with healthy activities starting with HIIT at 9am, followed by Yoga and Brew at 10am. That afternoon, DJ Carmello will be spinning the tunes from 1-4pm. Additionally the classic car cruise-in will be near the tap house from 12-6pm. All types of cars are invited, whether it be a classic vintage car or one of today’s hotrods. Polish up your ride for others to admire. There will be Mikey’s chicken BBQ during the cruise-in starting at 1pm until supplies lasts.
Live music will continue Saturday evening at the Tap House at 6pm with one of WNY’s favorite bands, Black Widow. They play a mix of rock and pop music, and lead singer Lana continues to captivate audiences as she has for decades.
If you’re looking for activities for your kids, visit Alburtus Avenue for a free petting zoo by the fire station and face painting at Lakeside Arts and Furniture on Saturday and Sunday. At the Village Casino, kids can enjoy pumpkin painting. Don’t miss the historic Stow Ferry, operating its last weekend from 12-8pm for a fun way to cross Chautauqua Lake.
The Bemus Point Historical Society will be hosting a free Open House on Saturday, showcasing the fascinating history of Bemus Point from 10am-3pm. Additionally, the Lawson Center will also have an Open House with free admission on Saturday and Sunday from 11am-3pm. The Lawson Center will offer a 20% discount on merchandise in the Ship Store, excluding books.
The Bemus Point Fall Fest is a fantastic annual event celebrating the fall season with shopping, live music, kids’ activities, and a bustling market of over seventy vendors. Join the community from September 18-20 for family fun while supporting local businesses. For more details, visit this event’s Facebook page.