Spooks and activities abound in Genesee County this time of year. Fall offers all kinds of fun for friends and families. My sisters and I like to visit the many farmer’s markets in search of apple cider, pumpkins and mums. Of course, if you'd like a beautiful and tasty apple pie, you'll need to visit McPhearson Orchard in LeRoy. (585-768-7094)
Children can enjoy the enthralling skits & costumed characters they’ll find at Holiday Hollow’s English Village. (585-762-8160 / www.HolidayHollow.com) or the chilling rides and haunted mansion at Darien Lake Theme Park Resort’s “Family Frightfest” (585-599-4641 / www.GoDarienLake.com).
I’m tugged in so many different directions that October flies by. Do I visit Rolling Hills for a haunted tour? (714-757-6565 / www.Rollinghillsasylum.com) Or, go to the St. James “Costume Ball” on October 29th from 6-11pm at Batavia Downs - I certainly can’t miss that. It’s a fund raiser to help with the church’s restoration and they'll have prizes, 50/50 raffles and live music by Andy Hare and the Hellhounds. The cost is just $20 and includes a meal at 7pm. (585-343-6802)
Lately, I’ve spent a lot of time planning for our “Wine Walk.” Yes, I’m going to learn more about wines.
Are you a wine connoisseur? Do you know whether your Merlot should be served chilled or at room temperature? Just what kind of wines do we produce in New YorkState?
Lots of questions; and you just may find the answers at the second annual “Taste of Fall Wine Walk” in Batavia. Bring a group, wear your walking shoes and join in the fun on Saturday, October 15th, 2011, from 5 – 9pm. The cost is just $20 per person, and you’ll receive your very own wine glass, 15 to 20 wine “tastings,” a program/map, discount dining card, deals at participating merchants and entry for the fabulous raffle items at the end of the tour. Area businesses have donated everything from jewelry to wine cases in the past.
Sponsored by the Business Improvement District, the walk gives you an opportunity to admire Batavia’s wonderful decorations, discover new businesses, reconnect with friends, get a little exercise, learn about wine, and then sample the culinary arts of our many restaurants.
Only 500 tickets have been printed, so don’t miss out. You must be 21 years of age, and please, no partaking of the fruit of the vine on the street. To purchase your tickets, call 585-344-0900.
I hope to see you on October 15th!
Dawn Ireland-Monsees
Dawn enjoys sharing her knowledge of the hidden gems in Genesee County, as well as promoting the rich artistic heritage found here. If you come to visit, you’re likely to find her in a play, leading a ghost walk, performing music, woodcarving, writing . . . well, you get the idea.
Why drive 100s of miles to see a wonder of the world? Niagara Falls is an easy 45 minute drive from Genesee County!
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