Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Fall Festivals in the United States
As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it's time to embrace the spirit of fall by attending some of the most exciting festivals across the United States. From coast to coast, there are countless events that celebrate the beauty and traditions of autumn. Whether you're a food lover, music enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun-filled family adventure, these fall festivals have something for everyone.
1. Oktoberfest - Munich, Germany
Although not in the U.S., Oktoberfest is a world-famous festival that deserves a mention. Celebrate German culture with beer, bratwurst, and lively music. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
2. New York City Wine & Food Festival - New York, NY
If you're a foodie, this festival is a dream come true. Enjoy tastings from some of the best restaurants and wineries in the world, attend cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, and indulge in all things culinary.
3. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta - Albuquerque, NM
Watch as the sky fills with hundreds of colorful hot air balloons at this mesmerizing festival. Take a ride in a balloon, enjoy live music, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the balloons as they ascend into the sky.
4. Harvest on the Harbor - Portland, ME
If you're a seafood lover, this festival is a must-visit. Located in picturesque Portland, Maine, Harvest on the Harbor celebrates the region's rich culinary heritage. Feast on delicious seafood, attend cooking competitions, and explore the local food scene.
5. Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival - Clarence, NY
Get into the Halloween spirit at this family-friendly festival. Enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, pumpkin picking, and exciting contests. Don't forget to sample some mouthwatering pumpkin treats!
6. Austin City Limits Music Festival - Austin, TX
Music lovers won't want to miss this iconic festival. With an impressive lineup of artists spanning various genres, Austin City Limits is a must-attend event. Dance to live music, indulge in delicious food, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
7. Circleville Pumpkin Show - Circleville, OH
This charming festival is all about pumpkins! Marvel at the giant pumpkins on display, enjoy pumpkin-flavored treats, and participate in pumpkin-themed contests. It's a delightful celebration of all things pumpkin!
8. Dia de los Muertos - Los Angeles, CA
Celebrate the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos, at this vibrant festival. Enjoy colorful parades, traditional music and dance performances, and witness the breathtaking altars and art installations honoring loved ones who have passed away.
9. Keene Pumpkin Festival - Keene, NH
Be a part of a Guinness World Record attempt at the Keene Pumpkin Festival. Join thousands of people as they gather to create an awe-inspiring display of carved pumpkins. It's a unique and unforgettable experience.
10. Fantasy Fest - Key West, FL
This wild and colorful festival is not for the faint of heart. Join the lively street parties, marvel at the extravagant costumes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Key West. It's a one-of-a-kind festival that you won't find anywhere else.
11. National Apple Harvest Festival - Biglerville, PA
Visit the heart of apple country and immerse yourself in all things apple at this festival. Enjoy apple cider, apple pie, apple butter, and indulge in a variety of apple-based treats. Don't miss the apple pie baking contests and apple orchard tours.
12. Sonoma County Harvest Fair - Santa Rosa, CA
Experience the bounty of Sonoma County's wine and agriculture at this vibrant festival. Sample award-winning wines, indulge in farm-to-table cuisine, and witness the excitement of grape stomping competitions. It's a celebration of the fall harvest like no other.
13. National Peanut Festival - Dothan, AL
Pay homage to the humble peanut at this unique festival. Enjoy live music, carnival rides, and indulge in a variety of peanut-based treats. Don't forget to catch a glimpse of the peanut parade and cheer on the contestants in the peanut cooking competitions.
14. National Shrimp Festival - Gulf Shores, AL
If you're a seafood enthusiast, this festival is a must-visit. Feast on delicious shrimp dishes, watch cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, and enjoy live music by the beach. It's a shrimp lover's paradise!
15. Highwood Pumpkin Fest - Highwood, IL
Join the community of Highwood as they attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most pumpkins carved and lit at once. Enjoy live music, carnival rides, and indulge in pumpkin-inspired treats. It's a fun-filled festival for the whole family.
16. National Apple Festival - Bayfield, WI
Experience the beauty of Wisconsin's apple orchards at this charming festival. Enjoy apple picking, apple pie eating contests, and witness the crowning of the Apple Queen. Don't miss the breathtaking fall foliage surrounding the festival grounds.
17. Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show - Various Locations
If you're in search of unique handmade crafts and artworks, this festival is a must-visit. With multiple locations across the country, the Harvest Festival showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of talented artisans. Find the perfect fall decorations and gifts while supporting local artists.
18. National Banana Pudding Festival - Centerville, TN
Indulge in a sweet treat at this festival dedicated to banana pudding. Sample a variety of delicious puddings, watch cooking demonstrations, and enjoy live music performances. It's a dessert lover's dream come true!
19. Texas Renaissance Festival - Todd Mission, TX
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of knights, maidens, and royalty at this Renaissance festival. Enjoy jousting tournaments, live performances, and indulge in traditional Renaissance fare. It's a magical experience for all ages.
20. National Sweet Potato Festival - Vardaman, MS
Celebrate the versatile and delicious sweet potato at this charming festival. From sweet potato pie to sweet potato fries, indulge in a variety of sweet potato-inspired dishes. Don't miss the sweet potato cooking contests and the crowning of the Sweet Potato Queen.
21. Circleville Pumpkin Show - Circleville, OH
This festival is a true homage to pumpkins. Marvel at the giant pumpkins on display, enjoy pumpkin-flavored treats, and participate in pumpkin-themed contests. Don't forget to take a stroll through the pumpkin patch and pick out your own pumpkin to take home.
22. Autumn at the Arboretum - Dallas, TX
Immerse yourself in the beauty of fall at the Dallas Arboretum. Marvel at the stunning display of pumpkins, gourds, and autumn flowers. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and enjoy the crisp autumn air.
23. Halloweekends - Sandusky, OH
Celebrate Halloween at Cedar Point amusement park during their Halloweekends event. Enjoy haunted houses, spooky shows, and thrilling rides. It's a perfect blend of frights and fun!
24. Rockport Harvest Festival - Rockport, MA
Experience the charm of a New England harvest festival in the coastal town of Rockport. Enjoy live music, arts and crafts vendors, and indulge in delicious seasonal treats. Don't forget to take a scenic stroll along the waterfront.
25. Bayou City Art Festival - Houston, TX
If you're an art lover, this festival is a must-visit. Explore the works of talented artists from around the country, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in a variety of delicious food from local vendors. It's a celebration of creativity and culture.
26. National Maple Syrup Festival - Medora, IN
Experience the sweet taste of maple syrup at this delightful festival. Learn about the maple syrup-making process, enjoy pancake breakfasts smothered in syrup, and participate in maple-themed activities. It's a sugary celebration that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
27. National Cranberry Festival - Warrens, WI
Discover the vibrant world of cranberries at this festival. Enjoy cranberry harvest tours, taste cranberry-infused foods and beverages, and watch as massive cranberry marshes are flooded for harvest. It's a unique experience that showcases the beauty and versatility of this tart fruit.
28. National Cornbread Festival - South Pittsburg, TN
Indulge in the deliciousness of cornbread at this mouthwatering festival. Sample a variety of cornbread recipes, watch cornbread cooking contests, and enjoy live music performances. It's a celebration of Southern comfort food at its finest.
29. National Rice Festival - Crowley, LA
Celebrate the staple crop of Louisiana at this lively festival. Enjoy live music, carnival rides, and indulge in a variety of rice-based dishes. Don't miss the rice cooking competitions and the crowning of the Rice Queen.
30. National Black Walnut Festival - Stockton, MO
Discover the unique flavor of black walnuts at this charming festival. Enjoy black walnut ice cream, baked goods, and participate in black walnut cracking contests. It's a nutty celebration that highlights the distinct taste of this Midwest delicacy.
With so many incredible fall festivals to choose from, your autumn calendar is sure to be filled with excitement and adventure. So, gather your friends and family, and embark on a journey to these festive destinations. From savoring delicious food to appreciating the beauty of nature, these fall festivals in the United States offer unforgettable experiences that will create treasured memories for years to come.
