10 Fall Festivals Everyone Should Visit at Least Once

There are many fun ways to celebrate the beginning of fall. From visiting your local pumpkin patch to going apple picking with the family, fall activities are something many people look forward to year-round.

One of the best ways to celebrate fall is by visiting a fall festival. These types of festivals often have games, entertainment, activities, and your favorite fall treats. Although there may be a local festival in your community, there are also some intriguing festivals across the country that every fall fan should visit at least once.

Whether you're curious about some of the exciting festivals out there or you're planning a road trip to another state, here are 10 fall festivals to check out this year.

• Dates: October 10-12, 2025
• Location: Greenville, SC

Fall for Greenville, a festival sponsored by Bank of America, starts on October 9, 2025, with the Thursday Night Kick-Off Concert. But the festival is more than live entertainment. Over the course of the weekend, more than 60 restaurants and 300 menu items will be featured. There will also be drinks, merch, and plenty of activities for the kids. Although the food, drinks, and activities have to be purchased, entry to the festival and entertainment are free.

• Dates: October 24-26, 2025
• Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE

Another fall festival worth checking out is the Sea Witch Festival in Delaware. For over 35 years, this event has brought visitors from all over. The Halloween festival features events such as a parade, costume contests, trick-or-treating, and other family activities. If you're ready for beach games, pony rides, and more kid-friendly fun, check out this annual event.

• Dates: November 1-2, 2025
• Location: Mesilla, NM

In New Mexico, you can join the celebration of the Day of the Dead at the Día de los Muertos event. This free event is part of a tradition in Mexican culture to honor the dead, typically on November 1 and 2nd. In Mesilla, this celebration features a candlelight procession, a giant piñata, and traditional Mexican food.

• Dates: October 4-12, 2025
• Location: Albuquerque, NM

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a unique experience and something a little different for those who don't want anything spooky. At the world's largest hot air balloon festival, you can witness the hot air balloons glow at night or go on your own hot air balloon ride. Even if you can't make it in person, you can watch all 14 sessions of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta live on the event website.

• Dates: September 12-November 16, 2025
• Location: Croton-on-Hudson, NY

In the village of Croton-on-Hudson, NY, you can get into the spirit of the season at The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze. Featuring a display of over 7,000 illuminated jack o'lanterns, life-sized dinosaurs, and all the fall-themed sweets and treats you can imagine, this festival is one you don't want to miss.

• Dates: October 19, 2025
• Location: Tulatin, OR

If you're looking for something unique, the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta is a great time. People from all over come to see participants paddle giant pumpkin boats in the regatta race. But the races are only one part of the fun. At this festival, there's also a giant pumpkin weigh-off, a 5K race, pumpkin bowling, and lots of food.

• Dates: October 18-19, and October 25-26
• Location: Princeton, MA

New England is the perfect place to celebrate fall, and if you're looking for a fun place to visit, try AppleFest at Wachusett Mountain. This festival takes place over two weekends in October and includes an Artist & Crafter Market with over 100 local artisans. You'll also find your favorite fall treats, such as hot apple cider, cider donuts, and apple-flavored cocktails.

• Dates: October 6-11, 2025
• Location: Evansville, IN

This week-long event in Evansville, Indiana, is certainly worth the stop. During the event, Franklin Street is adorned with fall decorations, exciting carnival attractions, and over 137 booths to enjoy delicious fall foods. Over 200,000 people visit the Annual West Side Nut Club Festival every year, and you don't want to miss out on the fun.

• Dates: October 4-19, 2025
• Location: Seven Springs, PA

Not only can you enjoy all your favorite fall things at the Seven Springs Autumnfest, but you can also peep some beautiful fall foliage while you're there. This family-friendly festival in the mountains is offered for three weekends throughout the season. You can expect to find beautiful foliage, live music, pumpkins, and plenty of activities at this event.

• Dates: September 21-November 3, 2025
• Location: Dallas, TX

Every year, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden goes all out for fall with a beautiful display of pumpkins and flowers. This year, the display will include a celebration of Mexican culture with the theme being ¡Mundo México! You'll find beautiful sculptures, over 100,000 pumpkins, and live entertainment throughout the season.