BY PAUL MITCHELLNorth Country This Week

RENSSELAER FALLS – Fall Fest turns 12 years old this year with the inaugural event in 2012 held as a centennial event to celebrate our village's 100th anniversary.

“It quickly became more than just a one-time occasion. It evolved into a community-driven effort to create a lasting legacy for our children—a playground that continues to grow and serve as a gathering place for families. Over the past decade, I’ve had the honor of witnessing our community's unwavering dedication, even through challenges like the global pandemic. This year's additions, including the relocation of our basketball court and the construction of new pickleball courts, are testaments to what we can achieve when we work together,” stated Mayor Michael Hammond.

The two-day festival on Friday, Sept. 6, and Saturday, Sept. 7, has a packed schedule of live music, family-friendly activities, and local vendors that will entertain attendees from noon to midnight.

"As Chair of The Falls Fest Committee, I'm incredibly proud of how our event has grown since its inception. What started as a celebration in 2012 has blossomed into a cherished annual tradition, thanks to the tireless efforts of our volunteers and the generous support of our sponsors,” Hammond added.

He said this year, the village is thrilled to enhance its playground with new equipment and continue its mission to provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for all.

Hammond extends a special thank you to our Diamond level sponsors—North Country Savings Bank, B&L Construction and Excavating, and Superior Plus Propane, “whose contributions have made these improvements possible." 

The weekend will conclude with a fireworks display at 9 p.m. on Saturday.

"As both Mayor and Chair of The Falls Fest Committee, I am filled with pride for what our community has accomplished. Our journey from a centennial celebration to an ongoing commitment to enhancing our village is a remarkable story of perseverance and collaboration. The improvements we’re unveiling this year, including the new playground equipment and planned pavilion, reflect our shared vision for a better future. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our volunteers, sponsors, and community members. Together, we continue to build a vibrant and thriving Rensselaer Falls, remarked Hammond.

Schedule of Events

Festivities kick off Friday at noon with a vibrant street festival featuring a variety of local craft and food vendors. Live music begins at 4 p.m., setting the stage for an evening filled with diverse performances: The Backwater Duo from 4 to 6 p.m., Brian Hammond at 6 p.m., Another Fine Mess until 9 p.m., and Common Revolution Band from 9 p.m. to midnight.

In addition to music, Friday's lineup includes fun for the entire family with kid-friendly events, bounce houses, and the Historical Society Museum open from 5 to 7 p.m. For those with a competitive spirit, the Texas Horseshoe and Cornhole Tournaments will begin at 6 p.m. (registration at 5 p.m.).

Saturday, September 7: All-Day Events
Saturday's events kick off bright and early at 7 a.m. with the Kids Fishing Derby, followed by the Big Wheel Races at noon. Live music continues throughout the day, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at 9 p.m. The music lineup includes The Stompers/Karaoke from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Nick Rycroft from 1 to 3 p.m., Tame The Rooster from 3 to 6 p.m.; Josh Cox & The Rattlesnakes from 6 to 9 p.m., and Tom Nitti and Ashley Bryant from 9:20 p.m. to midnight.

Additional activities on Saturday include bounce houses, kids games, and a Giant Chance Auction running from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., a cake walk at 1 p.m., Big Wheels Races at noon on Rensselaer Street, and the Historical Society Museum is open from noon to 4 p.m.

Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy delicious snacks like popcorn, funnel cakes, snow cones, nachos, street corn, and baked goods. There will also be raffles, 50/50s, Lotto Boards, and more to add to the excitement. Glow sticks and other fun items will be available for purchase to light up the night.

For more information, visit www.rensselaerfallsny.com.