Long Island Fall Festival Returns to Heckscher State Park Columbus Day Weekend; October 10 through October 13
EAST ISLIP, N.Y. – Mark your calendars: the Long Island Fall Festival is set to transform Heckscher State Park into a four-day celebration of autumn from Friday, October 10 through Monday, October 13, 2025. Billed as one of the region’s largest seasonal events, the festival features live entertainment, 300+ vendors, carnival rides, food, games, and a sprawling beer & wine pavilion, making it a one-stop destination for families, foodies, and day-trippers.
Long Island Fall Festival (Quick Facts)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | Fri–Mon, Oct 10–13, 2025 |
| Location | Heckscher State Park, Heckscher Parkway, East Islip, NY |
| Admission | Free entry to festival grounds |
| Parking | Standard NYS Parks parking fees apply; early arrival recommended |
| Vendors | ~300+ artisans, food stalls, craft exhibitors |
| Entertainment | Multiple music stages, children’s activities, community showcases |
| Extras | Beer & wine pavilion, carnival rides, games for all ages |
| Audience | Families, couples, and groups looking for fall fun |
What to Expect at the Festival
- Live Entertainment: Stages set throughout the park will feature a rotating lineup of local bands, dance troupes, and cultural performers, offering something for every taste.
- Vendor Village: Roughly 300 vendors are scheduled to set up tents, selling everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to unique foods and seasonal décor.
- Carnival Midway: Families can enjoy rides, midway games, and kid-friendly attractions.
- Beer & Wine Pavilion: Adults can sample local pours while relaxing near the waterfront backdrop of Heckscher Park.
- Food Options: Dozens of food trucks and stands will cover everything from festival classics to international cuisine.
Why It’s a Must-Go
- Free Admission: Unlike many Long Island fairs, entrance is free – guests only pay for parking and whatever food or activities they choose.
- Prime Location: Heckscher State Park offers wide open space, waterfront views, and easy access via the Southern State Parkway.
- Community Spirit: The festival has become a Columbus Day tradition, drawing tens of thousands of visitors across Suffolk and Nassau Counties.
- All-Ages Appeal: Between the carnival rides for kids, live music for adults, and shopping for everyone, the event balances attractions for every age group.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive Early: Parking lots can fill quickly, especially during peak midday hours on Saturday and Sunday.
- Plan Ahead: With hundreds of vendors, it’s worth mapping out your “must-see” areas – whether it’s crafts, food, or rides.
- Bring Cash: While many vendors accept cards, some smaller artisans and food stalls remain cash-only.
- Dress for the Weather: October on Long Island can swing between sunny and crisp to windy and chilly; layers are best.
Festival Q&A
When is the Long Island Fall Festival?
Friday, October 10 through Monday, October 13, 2025 – spanning Columbus Day weekend.
Where is it held?
Heckscher State Park, East Islip, easily accessible off Heckscher Parkway.
How much does it cost?
Festival admission is free; NYS Parks parking fees apply. Food, rides, and drinks are sold separately.
What kind of entertainment is there?
Multiple music stages, cultural performances, carnival rides, and a large beer & wine pavilion.
Can I bring kids?
Absolutely. The carnival midway and family attractions make this one of the most kid-friendly fall events on Long Island.
