The Ridgewalk, Allegany Artisans, SPCA Baskets, and more this weekend
By Andrew Harris, pictured is Ridgewalk and Run 2024
From Angelica to Alma, Allegany County NY is the place to be October 17-18-19. Forecasts call for sun and scattered showers with temperatures into the 70’s and the leaves will be peak for many hedgerows and hillsides. Here are some of the highlights for the weekend.
33rd Ridgewalk and Run, Sunday October 19, Alma NY
The main event, a capstone to the season in Allegany County is the Ridgewalk Run & Walk, hosted by UR Jones Memorial Hospital, the Shear family, and many other Alma area landowners. This year the Ridgwalk filled up fast, selling out two of four events that draw thousands to the Wellsville and Alma area. From competitive endurance running to fun walks in the high elevations, this 33rd annual event puts on a real show for our residents and visitors.

Bonus this year: Our friend, regular columnist and founder of the Exploring the Western NY Wilds series Bob Confer will be working this event! Look for Bob giving a talk to the 2K walkers, and anyone else who is lucky enough to catch the presentation. Lots more here: 33rd Annual RidgeWalk & Run
37th Allegany Artisans Tour, Friday October 17 thru Sunday October 19, County wide
Another great tradition brought to you by the talented large group of local artists known as the Allegany Artisans. Each year as the season is at peak color, these artists cooperate and collaborate on a weekend celebrating thier talents with the public. This map of the event makes it easy to hop in the car, explore the backroads, and visit artists where they make art. Over 30 different studios will be open from 10am until 5pm to the public for visits, questions, and perhaps a special purchase ! From traditional pottery, woodworking, painting, and even blade smithing… this tour is a diverse and fun trip around Allegany County. Read about a few of the new artists on the tour this year and visit Allegany Artisans.

The SPCA Annual Theme Basket Auction, Friday October 18 & Saturday October 19, Alfred State College, Wellsville Campus
Not far from the Ridgewalk and Run, is another staple of October, The SPCA Serving Allegany County’s Annual Basket Auction will be held at the Alfred State Workforce Development Center on the Wellsville Campus. All for the shelter animals, volunteers and donors have some great baskets to bid on and the prizes are well worth stopping by. Just a few examples: $500 Prize Package with the music sensation also known as “The Wrecks”, $250 cash prize from Seneca Gaming, $200 Wegman’s Gift Card and lots more!! Add this stop to your artisan tour or Ridgewalk weekend! More information on the event can be found below:
Angelica events too!!
Saturday October 18 is Collins Creekside Fall Fest For a Cause will benefit the Ronald McDonald House! Kids are FREE and your $5 donation goes to help families and NICU babies just like one of the hosts Bryar Collins. Come to the party for a good cause, 6842 N Swift Rd Angelica, NY ,10AM–6PM

What to Expect:
Kids Zone featuring a bounce house & pony rides
Live music from Hot Apple Pie
Local vendors & artisans including: Lola Riri’s Cafe, Dana Lyn Designs, Carlin’s Catering, Scentsy, The Angelica Hotel and many more! Get a head start on holiday shopping!
Delicious food & drinks at the newest event venue in Allegany County!
Also in the town where history lives will be a celebration for the public library’s 125 year birthday!! They will be having a “front porch party” featuring great guest speakers, live music, front yard fun and a historic group picture. Read more about this event also on Saturday October 18 in Angelica NY: