Things To Do This Weekend: Oct. 2-4

Great Jack-o’-Lantern Blaze

It’s never too early to get into the Halloween spirit, especially when the Hudson Valley’s most elaborate jack-o’-lantern exhibit begins this weekend. The Great Jack-o’-Lantern Blaze showcases over 7,000 jack-o-‘lanterns and runs for 30 nights between October 2 and November 15. In a recent interview with Westchester Magazine, Blaze’s creative director, Michael Natiello, spilled some exciting details about what visitors can expect from the Van Cortlandt Manor exhibit this year. “We’re going to experiment with some video technology within pumpkins, so that’s going to be very exciting. It’s something that we were experimenting with at our spring event, called Lightscapes, that we realized we can translate into pumpkins.” 

21st Annual Support-A-Walk for Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Sometimes the most rewarding weekend experience is helping out for a good cause. The 21st Annual Support-A-Walk for Breast and Ovarian Cancer is taking place this Sunday, October 4, at FDR Park in Yorktown Heights. Come rain or shine, thousands of participants will be there to walk the 3-mile course, presented by Support Connection, to bring awareness for people affected by breast and ovarian cancer. While pre-registration is recommended, that is not to discourage last-minute decision makers from participating in this uplifting event. Although the event is free, proceeds raised before, during, and after the walkathon go towards Support Connection’s free, year-round support services for people affected by breast and ovarian cancer.

Harbor Island International Beer Festival

For those 21 and up, the Harbor Island International Beer Festival may be the place to find reprieve from the rainy weather this Saturday, October 3. Under 40,000 square feet of tenting are more than 150 breweries waiting to serve 150+ varieties of beers from around the world.  In addition to the craft beer and cider offerings, the beer extravaganza also features live music, food vendors, and informational sessions about beer. The tickets to this Harbor Island Park festival are almost sold out, so if you feel like this event is your cup of tea, or rather, your pint of beer , head on over to http://www.harborislandbeerfestival.com/ and pick up a ticket today.

Pound Ridge Fine Arts Festival

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Pound Ridge Fine Arts Festival will feature fine art visionaries from across the country. Additionally, visitors will be able to find community organizations and local artists. The event, taking place at Scotts Corners Market in Pound Ridge, starts at 10 am and goes until 5 pm this Saturday and Sunday. The event has no admission fee and is free to the public.

Blessing of the Animals

The First Baptist Church of White Plains is hosting a Blessing of the Animals ceremony this Sunday, October 4. Hey, people are still buzzing about Pope Francis’ visit, and don’t forget he caused some debate last year when he said animals can go to heaven (maybe?). Whether you plan on attending to receive a prayer for your pooch or just want to cuddle with a cute animal, all are welcome, no matter the religious background or denomination.  While the ceremony is free, attendees are requested to donate cat or dog food for the New Rochelle Humane Society. The service runs from 10 am to 10:30 am with Reverend Tim Dalton.