Fall Festivals in America You Can’t Miss
Fall is a time for celebrating the harvest, enjoying seasonal traditions, and coming together to revel in the beauty of the season. From pumpkin festivals and Oktoberfests to music and food fairs, here are some of the top fall festivals in America that you simply can’t miss.
1. Salem Haunted Happenings – Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts, is synonymous with Halloween, and there’s no better place to celebrate the spooky season than at Salem Haunted Happenings. This month-long festival is packed with events that pay homage to Salem’s infamous history, including haunted houses, ghost tours, and witchcraft expos.
Why You Should Go: Salem Haunted Happenings is the ultimate destination for Halloween enthusiasts. Explore the town’s historic sites, attend costume balls, and enjoy parades, psychic readings, and outdoor movies. The festival’s mix of history, mystery, and entertainment makes it a must-visit for anyone who loves the eerie side of fall.
When: October 1–31
2. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta – Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the most breathtaking festivals in the world, drawing hundreds of hot air balloons and thousands of visitors to the skies of New Mexico each year. The sight of colorful balloons filling the sky against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains is truly magical.
Why You Should Go: The Balloon Fiesta offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Highlights include the mass ascensions, where hundreds of balloons take off simultaneously, and the Balloon Glow events, where the balloons light up the night sky. The festival also features live music, food vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
When: Early October
3. Austin City Limits Music Festival – Austin, Texas
Austin City Limits (ACL) is one of the country’s premier music festivals, held annually in Zilker Park in the heart of Austin, Texas. This two-weekend event features an eclectic lineup of top artists across genres, from rock and indie to hip-hop and electronic.
Why You Should Go: ACL offers a mix of big-name headliners and up-and-coming acts, making it a must for music lovers. Beyond the music, the festival showcases Austin’s vibrant food scene, with local vendors serving up everything from barbecue to vegan treats. The festival’s art market, silent disco, and kid-friendly activities make it a great experience for all ages.
When: First two weekends in October
4. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati – Cincinnati, Ohio
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is America’s largest Oktoberfest celebration, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. This lively festival celebrates Cincinnati’s German heritage with traditional music, dancing, food, and, of course, plenty of beer.
Why You Should Go: Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is a spirited celebration of German culture, featuring oompah bands, stein-holding contests, and the famous Running of the Wieners, a dachshund race that’s as adorable as it is competitive. The festival offers a variety of authentic German foods, including bratwurst, pretzels, and strudel, as well as a wide selection of local and imported beers.
When: Late September
5. Harvest on the Harbor – Portland, Maine
Harvest on the Harbor is Portland, Maine’s premier food and drink festival, celebrating the region’s rich culinary traditions. This multi-day event features tastings, dinners, and cooking competitions that highlight the best of Maine’s local produce, seafood, and craft beverages.
Why You Should Go: Foodies will love Harvest on the Harbor for its focus on farm-to-table dining and sustainable seafood. The festival offers a chance to meet and learn from local chefs, enjoy gourmet meals, and sample Maine’s finest oysters, lobsters, and craft beers. The stunning coastal setting adds to the festival’s charm.
When: Late October
6. The National Apple Harvest Festival – Arendtsville, Pennsylvania
Located in the heart of apple country, the National Apple Harvest Festival is a quintessential fall event that celebrates all things apple. Held over two weekends in October, this festival offers everything from apple picking and pie-eating contests to live entertainment and craft vendors.
Why You Should Go: The National Apple Harvest Festival is perfect for families and anyone who loves apple-themed treats. Enjoy fresh apple cider, caramel apples, apple butter, and more. The festival also features antique cars, hayrides, and a petting zoo, making it a fun day out for all ages.
When: First two weekends in October
7. Wine Country Harvest Season – Napa Valley, California
While not a single festival, the harvest season in Napa Valley is one of the most exciting times to visit this world-renowned wine region. From grape stomping to vineyard tours and harvest dinners, Napa Valley comes alive with activity as the grape harvest reaches its peak.
Why You Should Go: Visiting Napa Valley during the harvest season offers a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking. Many wineries host special events, including wine tastings, grape stomps, and pairing dinners. The beautiful fall colors in the vineyards add to the experience, making it a perfect time to explore the region’s wineries and enjoy the fruits of the harvest.
When: September to October
8. Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze – Croton-on-Hudson, New York
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is a spectacular Halloween event held at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, New York. This stunning display features over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins illuminated to create intricate scenes and sculptures.
Why You Should Go: The Blaze is a visual feast that combines artistry and Halloween fun. Visitors can walk through tunnels of jack-o’-lanterns, see pumpkin versions of famous landmarks, and enjoy synchronized light and sound shows. The event also includes spooky storytelling and seasonal treats, making it a perfect evening out for families.
When: Late September through November
9. The Great American Beer Festival – Denver, Colorado
The Great American Beer Festival (GABF) in Denver is the ultimate destination for beer lovers. This annual event showcases thousands of beers from hundreds of breweries across the United States, making it the largest beer festival in the country.
Why You Should Go: GABF offers the chance to sample an incredible variety of craft beers, from IPAs and stouts to sours and lagers. The festival also includes beer education sessions, food pairings, and a lively atmosphere where you can meet brewers and fellow beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just enjoy a good brew, GABF is a must-visit.
When: Late September to early October
10. Sonoma County Harvest Fair – Santa Rosa, California
The Sonoma County Harvest Fair is a celebration of the bounty of California’s wine country, featuring wine tastings, food pairings, and agricultural exhibits. This fair is a perfect blend of harvest festival and wine country charm, offering a true taste of Sonoma’s rich culinary and viticultural heritage.
Why You Should Go: The Harvest Fair is a fantastic way to experience Sonoma’s wine and food culture. The World Championship Grape Stomp is a highlight of the festival, where teams compete to stomp the most juice out of grapes. The fair also offers cooking demonstrations, farm-to-table meals, and plenty of opportunities to sample award-winning wines and artisanal products.
When: Early October
Final Thoughts
Fall in America is a season of celebration, with festivals that capture the spirit of the harvest and the magic of the changing leaves. From the spooky thrills of Salem’s Haunted Happenings to the culinary delights of Napa Valley’s harvest season, these fall festivals offer something for everyone. As you head out to explore these vibrant events, make sure you’re dressed for the occasion with your Eleven Elfs vests and coats. Their stylish designs and superior warmth will keep you cozy as you enjoy all the sights, sounds, and flavors of fall. So, grab your favorite fall gear, and get ready to experience the best of autumn at these must-visit festivals across the USA.