Fall is a season of vibrant colors, crisp air, and festive celebrations. Across the United States, communities come together to celebrate the changing of the leaves with various exciting events. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes to beer festivals and Halloween parades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Together, we’ll explore 19 must-visit fall festivals from coast to coast. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, delicious food, or live music, these festivals offer a unique and unforgettable experience. So grab your sweater, grab your pumpkin spice latte, and get ready to celebrate the fall season in style!
Sever’s Fall Festival in Shakopee, Minnesota
When: Sept. 14 to Oct. 27
Sever’s Fall Festival, a beloved tradition in Shakopee, Minnesota, offers a delightful array of autumnal activities for the whole family. This annual event features a captivating corn stalk maze, intricately designed by hand each year. Participants who conquer the maze can enter a thrilling competition for cash prizes. Beyond the maze, the festival boasts a corn pit playground, straw sculptures, zip lines, and a petting zoo. Visitors can blast pumpkins from a cannon or enjoy a leisurely pony ride for extra fun.
A diverse lineup of live entertainment, from pig races to magic shows, ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Indulge in delicious harvest-inspired treats like kettle corn, funnel cakes, apple fritters, wood-fired pizzas, and bratwurst to satisfy your hunger. And don’t forget to pick up some fresh, chemical-free apples from the on-site farm stand. To complete your fall getaway, consider staying at the Hampton Inn Minneapolis/Shakopee, just a short drive away.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati in Cincinnati
When: Sept. 19-22
The Oktoberfest Zinzinnati in Cincinnati, Ohio, is one of the largest Oktoberfests in the country, drawing over 700,000 attendees each year. This beloved festival, which originated in 1976, celebrates Cincinnati’s rich German heritage with a vibrant array of activities and festivities.
From the world-famous Running of the Wieners to the Guinness World Record-breaking Chicken Dance, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati offers something for everyone. Enjoy live music, delicious German food, and, of course, plenty of beer. With its festive atmosphere, friendly locals, and unique traditions, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is a must-visit event for anyone looking for a fun-filled and authentic Oktoberfest experience.
National Apple Harvest Festival in Biglerville, Pennsylvania
When: Oct. 5-6 and 12-13
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s apple-growing region, Biglerville hosts the annual National Apple Harvest Festival, a delightful celebration of autumn’s bounty. This vibrant event offers a feast for the senses, with countless apple-themed treats, live music, and family-friendly activities.
From apple pie and cider to apple-themed crafts and games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the charming orchards, take a hayride, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. With its festive atmosphere and abundance of apple-related delights, the National Apple Harvest Festival is a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuinely autumnal experience.
Salem Haunted Happenings in Salem, Massachusetts
When: Oct. 1-31
Salem, Massachusetts, is synonymous with witches, and the annual Salem Haunted Happenings celebrates that infamous reputation. This month-long festival transforms the charming coastal town into a spooky wonderland with costumed characters, haunted houses, and thrilling attractions.
From the Witches’ Night Parade to the Salem Witch House, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the city’s rich history at the Salem Witch Museum, or take a ghost tour to hear chilling tales of the town’s past. Whether you’re a fan of the supernatural or simply looking for a fun and festive experience, Salem Haunted Happenings is a must-visit event.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Hudson Valley, New York
When: Sept. 13 to Nov. 17
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, held annually at Van Cortlandt Manor in the Hudson Valley, New York, is a magical event that transforms the historic estate into a winter wonderland of carved pumpkins. With over 7,000 illuminated jack-o’-lanterns, the Blaze creates a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you in awe.
As you wander through the enchanted forest, you’ll encounter intricate pumpkin carvings depicting everything from classic Halloween characters to whimsical creatures and scenes. The Blaze is a truly immersive experience with music, lights, and special effects that enhance the magical atmosphere.
Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta in Santa Fe, New Mexico
When: Sept. 25 to 29
The Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta is a beloved annual event showcasing New Mexico’s culinary and cultural heritage. This vibrant festival brings together winemakers, chefs, and artisans from across the state to celebrate the region’s unique flavors.
From wine tastings and cooking demonstrations to live music and art exhibits, the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta offers something for everyone. Sample delicious local wines, savor the spicy flavors of New Mexican chile, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this festive event.
Muertos Fest in San Antonio
When: Oct. 26-27
Muertos Fest in San Antonio is a vibrant and immersive celebration of Día de Muertos, the Mexican holiday honoring the deceased. This annual festival brings together the community to honor loved ones who have passed away and to celebrate the beauty of life.
The festival features a variety of activities, including live music, dance performances, traditional Mexican food, and arts and crafts. One of the highlights of Muertos Fest is the Ofrenda Competition, where participants create elaborate altars adorned with flowers, candles, and offerings for the deceased. The festival also features a parade with colorful costumes, music, and dancing.
Trailing of the Sheep Festival in Ketchum, Idaho
When: Oct. 2-6
The Trailing of the Sheep Festival in Ketchum, Idaho, is a truly unique event that celebrates the rich heritage of the region’s sheep ranching tradition. Held annually in September, the festival features a variety of activities, including a sheep parade, sheep herding demonstrations, live music, and delicious food.
One of the festival’s highlights is the “Sheep Drive,” where local ranchers herd hundreds of sheep through the streets of Ketchum. It’s a sight to behold as the woolly creatures make their way through the town, accompanied by their loyal dogs. The festival also features a variety of vendors selling local crafts, food, and drinks, making it an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and support the community.
Sea Witch Festival in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
When: Oct. 25-27
Who says you have to leave the beach when fall comes around? The Sea Witch Festival, held annually in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is a beloved autumn tradition transforming the charming coastal town into a magical wonderland. This vibrant festival celebrates Halloween with a delightful array of spooky activities, costumes, and entertainment.
You’ll be immersed in a festive atmosphere when you step onto the boardwalk. The streets are lined with vendors selling Halloween-themed merchandise, and live music fills the air. One of the highlights of the festival is the Sea Witch Parade, a colorful procession of costumed participants that winds through the town. Don’t miss the chance to join the fun and show off your best Halloween costume!
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque, New Mexico
When: Oct. 5-13
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. Held annually in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this nine-day event features thousands of hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes, taking flight against the backdrop of the stunning Sandia Mountains.
As the sun rises, the sky is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors as hundreds of balloons take off simultaneously. Visitors can enjoy various activities throughout the day, including live music, food vendors, and special events like the Glowdeo, where the balloons are illuminated at night. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a must-see for anyone who loves hot air balloons and wants to experience the magic of a truly unique event.
Autumn at the Arboretum in Dallas
When: Sept. 21 to Nov. 3
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden transforms into a stunning kaleidoscope of colors each fall. The arboretum’s 66 acres of diverse gardens are adorned with an array of autumn foliage, including vibrant maples, oaks, and dogwoods. The annual Fall Festival is a beloved tradition featuring festive activities, live music, and delicious food.
As the leaves change color, the arboretum hosts the renowned Pumpkin Carving Contest, where skilled artisans showcase their creativity in transforming pumpkins into intricate works of art. Visitors can also stroll through the enchanting Fairy Village, where tiny fairy houses are nestled among the trees, adding a touch of magic to the autumnal atmosphere.
Scarecrow Weekend in St. Charles, Illinois
When: Oct. 11-13
Scarecrow Weekend in St. Charles, Illinois, is a beloved fall tradition transforming the charming downtown area into a whimsical wonderland. The streets come alive with thousands of scarecrows, each one uniquely decorated and showcasing the creativity of local residents and businesses. From classic scarecrows to elaborate costumes and themed displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
In addition to the scarecrow displays, Scarecrow Weekend features a variety of family-friendly activities, including live music, food vendors, craft fairs, and a parade. Children can participate in special events like the Scarecrow Decorating Contest and the Pumpkin Patch Parade. The festive atmosphere and warm hospitality of the St. Charles community make Scarecrow Weekend a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Louisiana Pecan Festival in Colfax, Louisiana
When: Nov. 1-3
The Louisiana Pecan Festival, held annually in Colfax, Louisiana, is a beloved celebration of the state’s rich culinary heritage. This charming town comes alive with the festive spirit of the season as locals and visitors alike gather to indulge in delicious pecan-inspired dishes and enjoy live music, parades, and family-friendly activities.
The festival’s centerpiece is the pecan pie contest, where talented bakers from across the state compete for the coveted title of “Best Pecan Pie in Louisiana.” In addition to the pie contest, visitors can savor various other pecan-themed treats, such as pecan pralines, pecan brittle, and pecan ice cream. The festival also features arts and crafts vendors, carnival rides, and live music performances by local musicians.
Warrens Cranberry Festival in Warrens, Wisconsin
When: Sept. 27-29
The Warrens Cranberry Festival, held annually in Warrens, Wisconsin, is a beloved autumn tradition celebrating the state’s cranberry harvest. This vibrant festival features a parade, live music, food vendors, and a craft fair.
One of the highlights of the festival is the cranberry marsh tours, which offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the cranberry harvesting process and see the marshes up close. Visitors can also enjoy delicious cranberry-themed treats like cranberry juice, cranberry sauce, and cranberry-filled pastries. With its festive atmosphere and delicious food, the Warrens Cranberry Festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of fall in Wisconsin.
Madison County Covered Bridge Festival in Winterset, Iowa
When: Oct. 12-13
The Madison County Covered Bridge Festival, held annually in Winterset, Iowa, is a beloved autumn tradition that celebrates the beauty of the region’s iconic covered bridges. As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, thousands of visitors flock to Madison County to witness this stunning natural spectacle.
The festival offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including arts and crafts vendors, live music performances, delicious food, and guided tours of the covered bridges. Visitors can also enjoy hayrides, wagon rides, and other family-friendly activities. With its picturesque setting and festive atmosphere, the Madison County Covered Bridge Festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of fall in the Midwest.
World Chicken Festival in London, Kentucky
When: Sept. 26-29
The World Chicken Festival in London, Kentucky, is a unique and quirky event that celebrates all things chicken. Held annually in September, this festival attracts thousands of visitors from near and far who come to enjoy delicious chicken dishes, live music, and family-friendly activities.
The festival’s centerpiece is the World Championship Chicken Eating Contest, where competitors from all over the country vie for the title of chicken-eating champion. In addition to the eating contest, the festival features a variety of other activities, including a chicken wing eating contest, a chicken dance contest, and a parade featuring chicken-themed floats.
California Avocado Festival (Avofest) in Carpinteria, California
When: Oct. 4-6
Carpinteria, California, transforms into a guacamole lover’s paradise during the annual California Avocado Festival, known locally as Avofest. This vibrant celebration showcases the versatility and deliciousness of the avocado, a staple in California cuisine. The festival features a variety of activities, including cooking demonstrations, avocado-themed contests, live music, and a farmers market filled with fresh produce and artisanal goods.
The centerpiece of Avofest is the Avocado Contest, where talented chefs from across the region compete to create the most mouthwatering avocado dishes. From classic guacamole to innovative avocado-based desserts, the competition showcases local chefs’ creativity and culinary skills. Visitors can sample these delicious creations and cast their vote for their favorite avocado dish.
West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta in Tualatin, Oregon
When: Oct. 19-20
Imagine a fleet of giant pumpkins, each one a unique and impressive creation, bobbing along a calm lake. That’s the scene at the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta in Tualatin, Oregon, a quirky and fun-filled fall festival that attracts thousands of visitors yearly.
Contestants from all over the region compete to grow the largest pumpkin, with the winner receiving a cash prize and bragging rights. Once the pumpkins are crowned, they are transformed into makeshift boats and paddled across the lake in a hilarious and often chaotic race. The regatta is a celebration of fall, community, and the sheer creativity of its participants.
Junkstock in Waterloo, Nebraska
When: Sept. 27-29 and Oct. 4-6
Junkstock is a unique and eclectic festival held in Waterloo, Nebraska, each fall. This quirky event attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country who come to explore the massive outdoor market filled with vintage treasures, handmade crafts, and antique finds. From furniture and clothing to jewelry and home decor, you’ll find a wide variety of items at Junkstock.
In addition to the shopping, Junkstock offers live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The festival’s laid-back atmosphere and friendly vendors make it a fun and enjoyable experience for all ages. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable fall festival, Junkstock is a must-visit.
Fall festivals are a delightful way to celebrate the changing of the seasons and experience the vibrant colors of autumn. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes to food fairs and craft shows, there’s a festival for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn, these 19 must-visit fall festivals offer something for everyone. So grab your sweater, pack a picnic, and get ready to experience the magic of fall at one of these incredible events.
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