A Spirited Celebration: Halloween in Canandaigua’s Food Scene

As the crisp fall air settles in and Halloween approaches, Canandaigua transforms into a festive hub of culinary delights and innovative spirits. This year, I found myself particularly excited about the unique offerings at New York Kitchen (NYK), where Halloween isn’t just a holiday—it’s an opportunity to explore the delightful world of spirits and cocktails.

Embrace the Science of Spirits

On October 27th, NYK is hosting “The Scary Science of Spirits” from 3 to 4:30 p.m., a class that promises to unravel the mysteries of our favorite libations. Led by Heather McKechney, a vivacious educator and chemistry professor, attendees will explore what makes spirits so uniquely intoxicating. As part of the experience, participants will sample three spirits designed to scare away any apprehension about their potency.

Picture this: sipping on a Witch’s Brew cocktail while learning the science behind the spirits. It sounds like a perfect blend of education and indulgence, and for just $60, this event is a steal.

Learn about the magic of spirits this Halloween

Further on the schedule is “Hallo-Wine Sips & Spooky Science”. For another $60, enjoy an evening filled with blood-red wines and intriguing tales of Halloween legends—from vampires to zombies. This event promises a pairing plate that complements each glass.

Spooky Crafts and Celebrations

As the ghostly glow of Halloween begins to shine, participants can let their creative spirits flow during the “Paint & Sip: Spooky Style” event on October 28th. Imagine transforming plain glassware into spooky masterpieces while enjoying beverages from NYK’s tasting room. At just $40, it’s the kind of night that fuels both creativity and a festive spirit.

But why stop there? To cap off the Halloween festivities, on October 31st, NYK will host a Día de los Muertos dinner party from 6 to 8 p.m. Here, Chef Christin Ortiz will lead guests in crafting delicious homemade tamales. This celebration not only honors the memories of those passed but also unites family and friends over good food and drinks. With an $85 ticket, the evening promises to be both heartwarming and delicious.

The Anticipated Fall Festival at Star Cider

While NYK has packed its event schedule, the iconic Star Cider is also ready to greet autumn with its much-anticipated fall festival from October 18-20. This event marks their fifth anniversary and will feature a host of activities that make cider the star of the show.

As I reminisce about last year’s festivities, I cannot forget the moment I tasted the Millions of Peaches cider, a rarity that bursts with flavors of fresh peaches and black tea. The wonderful blend seemed to resonate with the jovial atmosphere, joining laughter and music together.

Fall festivities await at Star Cider

Among the live music, cocktails like the Boozy Root Beer Float are gaining quite the following for their whimsical charm. It features bourbon crème and Saranac root beer topped with a donut, creating an experience so indulgent, it’s hard not to smile. Not to forget, if you’re someone who prefers a non-alcoholic refreshment, there are delicious mocktail options for all ages.

Discovering Culinary Delights

In addition to cider, Star Cider’s innovative menu excites the palate with drinks like the Maple Old-Fashioned. Combining maple syrup, apple brandy, and Frisky Whisky cider, this cocktail invites patrons to savor the flavors of autumn. Lauren McGregor, the assistant manager at the cidery, hinted at a “super-secret cider release,” raising the anticipation for all attendees.

As I ponder the possibilities and taste experiences waiting in Canandaigua, I can’t help but think how this community continues to foster creativity and passion in the food and drink industry.

Celebrity Engagements and Culinary Wisdom

Adding another layer to Canandaigua’s enticing October events, three-time James Beard Award winner Dan Pashman is set to visit on October 22nd. Known for his popular podcast “The Sporkful” and his vibrant personality, Pashman will be sharing insights from his newly released cookbook, Anything’s Pastable, at Finger Lakes Community College. This event promises delightful tastes prepared by culinary students.

Join Dan Pashman for an unforgettable evening

Tickets for this illustrious evening are reasonably priced at $30 for youths and $65 for adults—definitely worth an evening filled with culinary exploration and networking.

Community Spirit and Charity Events

Amidst all the festive fun, Canandaigua also nurtures a spirit of giving. The St. Vincent de Paul Society is hosting a pancake breakfast on October 26th, bringing together the community for a good cause. With only a $6 charge ($25 max per family), it’s an unmissable opportunity to enjoy a hearty meal while supporting those in need.

Another initiative to note is the Canandaigua Pop-Up Food Pantry on October 28th, proving that the fall season is not just about festivities but also about generosity and support for the community.

As I prepare to enjoy the culinary and spirited offerings in Canandaigua this October, I invite you to join me in supporting these enriching community events. From spirits and cider to delectable food, this is a wonderful time to celebrate and indulge. Cheers to a hauntingly delicious Halloween month!