Staten Island’s living history village, Historic Richmond Town, hosts a slate of annual events as well as regular tours (paranormal activity, anyone?) and some one-off events throughout the year. We’ve spotlighted a half dozen or so of the best times to come when you want more than a wander around the village. For specific dates of this year’s events, check historicrichmondtown.org.
Tavern Terrace. Courtesy, Historic Richmond Town
Tavern Terrace Weekends
Most of the year
Every Friday and Saturday in summer and early fall, you can hear live music at the terrace’s outdoor beer garden. Order a beverage and listen to folk music, sea shanties or whatever happens to be playing. The entertainment moves inside for the colder months.
Yankee Peddler Day
Spring, usually late April or early May
It’s the village’s version of a flea market, and a good time to get some gifts—including vintage items—from the craft vendors who show up.
Courtesy, Richmond County Fair
Richmond County Fair
Labor Day weekend
In a tradition that dates back to the 1970s (actually well before that, but it went on prolonged hiatus), this festival brings folks together over Labor Day weekend for good, clean fun. There’s pie eating, amusement rides and musical entertainment but sadly no longer any bed racing.
Decker Farm. Courtesy, Historic Richmond Town
Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farm
October weekends
Here’s your chance to prep for Halloween and Thanksgiving at the City’s oldest family-operated farm. Take a hayride while you’re at it. Decker Farm, which is just outside Historic Richmond Town’s grounds but still part of the operation, opens to the public for this annual pumpkin-picking soiree.
Courtesy, Historic Richmond Town
Old Home Day
Fall, usually October or early November
Loaves of bread baking in a 19th-century kitchen, tradespeople hard at work crafting their wares, candle-dipping demonstrations—the village shows its true side during this daylong celebration of the past.
Halloween in Richmond Town
Late October
Dress up to trick or treat at the preserved buildings in the village, bob for apples and take part in a parade around the grounds.
Christmas in Richmond Town. Courtesy, Historic Richmond Town
Christmas in Richmond Town
December
The village celebrates Christmas with decorations, a fair, crafty gifts and throwbacks to the way the holidays were observed in times of yore.