Fall festivals are the perfect way to soak in the season’s vibrant colors, cozy vibes, and crisp air. From pumpkin patches and apple orchards to craft fairs and harvest gatherings, fall festivals offer activities and events that make autumn magical. And, of course, knowing what to wear to these festivals can make the experience even better, blending style with comfort. Here’s your guide to popular fall festivals in 2024, the best activities at these events, and outfit ideas to keep you cozy and stylish all season.
Popular Fall Festivals in 2024
Each year, fall festivals across the U.S. and around the world attract people eager to celebrate the season. Here are some top fall festivals for 2024 that you won’t want to miss:
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Oktoberfest (Munich, Germany): Running from late September through the first weekend in October, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival. It’s filled with traditional Bavarian music, games, and, of course, steins of beer. Don your best lederhosen or dirndl to embrace the full Bavarian experience.
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The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze (New York): This autumn event transforms historic Van Cortlandt Manor into a glowing display of more than 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins. The Blaze is perfect for families, with pumpkin art installations and light shows that celebrate the season.
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The National Apple Harvest Festival (Pennsylvania): A quintessential fall experience, this festival in Arendtsville, PA, celebrates apples with everything from apple-picking and cider-tasting to live music and craft vendors. Held during the first two weekends in October, this event brings together lovers of all things apple.
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Salem Haunted Happenings (Salem, Massachusetts): For those who love Halloween, Salem’s Haunted Happenings is the ultimate spooky festival, held throughout October. With haunted houses, ghost tours, and costume balls, this event is a favorite for Halloween fans.
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Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (New Mexico): Running in early October, this hot air balloon festival is breathtaking, with hundreds of balloons ascending into the sky at sunrise. The Balloon Fiesta is filled with family-friendly events, including concerts, fireworks, and food vendors.
Fun Activities to Expect at Fall Festivals
No matter which fall festival you attend, there are certain activities you can almost always look forward to. Here’s a list of the most popular:
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Pumpkin Picking and Carving: Many fall festivals feature pumpkin patches where visitors can pick out the perfect pumpkin to carve at home or create designs right at the festival.
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Hayrides and Corn Mazes: These classic autumn activities add a rustic charm to any festival. Many corn mazes are set up for daylight fun or spooky nighttime explorations for the brave-hearted.
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Apple Picking and Cider Tasting: Apple festivals often include orchard tours, cider-tasting stations, and booths selling homemade apple pies and treats.
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Local Artisans and Craft Vendors: Fall festivals are excellent places to find handmade jewelry, ceramics, and seasonal decor. Craft fairs and artisan booths allow festival-goers to shop for unique, handmade items.
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Seasonal Foods and Drinks: From pumpkin spice lattes to caramel apples and roasted nuts, fall festivals showcase the best of autumn flavors. Many festivals also offer food trucks and local specialties like cider doughnuts and seasonal cocktails.
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Live Music and Performances: Many festivals bring local bands, folk music, and even DJs to entertain visitors throughout the day. Live performances, dancing, and storytelling sessions add energy and excitement to the festival experience.
Fall Festival Outfit Ideas for 2024
Choosing the right outfit for a fall festival is all about balancing comfort and style. Since you’ll likely spend a lot of time outdoors, it’s essential to dress in layers and bring pieces that are both practical and fashionable.
1. Cozy and Casual: Sweater and Jeans Combo
A classic fall festival outfit that’s comfortable yet stylish is a chunky knit sweater paired with high-rise jeans. Opt for a rich, autumnal color like burnt orange, deep red, or forest green. Complete the look with ankle boots or comfy sneakers and add a scarf for extra warmth. This look is perfect for pumpkin patches, corn mazes, or apple orchards where you’ll be moving around but want to look festive.
2. Boho Vibes: Maxi Skirt and Flannel Shirt
For a touch of bohemian flair, pair a flowy maxi skirt with a cozy flannel shirt. This outfit gives you a relaxed, artsy vibe and is ideal for festivals that involve craft fairs or artisan markets. You can layer a tank top underneath for added warmth and pair it with flat ankle boots. This look is also great for capturing those scenic fall festival photos!
3. Farmhouse Chic: Overalls with a Knit Sweater
Overalls make a great choice for fall festivals, as they’re both functional and stylish. Pair a cozy knit sweater underneath denim overalls for a comfortable, farmhouse-inspired look. Overalls provide plenty of pockets, perfect for keeping your phone or small items handy. Match this outfit with boots or sneakers to keep your feet comfortable for long days at the festival.
4. Outdoorsy and Practical: Quilted Vest with Plaid Shirt
For a laid-back look that’s perfect for outdoor festivals, go with a quilted vest layered over a classic plaid shirt. This outfit is perfect for staying warm without too many bulky layers, making it ideal for hayrides or hiking up to scenic viewpoints. Pair it with dark wash jeans and waterproof boots to keep comfortable while exploring the festival grounds.
5. Fashionable Layers: Turtleneck, Skirt, and Tights
If you’re heading to a festival with a mix of outdoor and indoor events, layer a cozy turtleneck with a fitted skirt and tights. This outfit is versatile, keeping you warm while also allowing you to layer up or down as needed. Complete the look with knee-high boots and a wide-brimmed hat for an effortlessly stylish fall festival outfit.
Tips for Choosing the Right Festival Outfit
When planning your outfit, remember that comfort is key. Fall festivals often require lots of walking, standing, and sometimes even a bit of climbing or exploring. Here are some quick tips to keep in mind:
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Flat, sturdy shoes are best, especially if you’re navigating uneven ground at outdoor festivals. Ankle boots, hiking boots, or sturdy sneakers are all great options.
- Dress in Layers: Fall weather can be unpredictable, especially in November, so layer up with pieces that are easy to add or remove as temperatures fluctuate.
- Accessorize Smartly: Hats, scarves, and even a small backpack can complete your look while also adding practicality. A scarf or beanie can keep you warm, while a backpack allows you to carry festival essentials hands-free.
- Stay True to Fall Colors: Embrace the season’s rich palette with colors like maroon, mustard, olive green, and deep brown to stay on trend and blend seamlessly into the fall vibe.