Best Fall Festivals In Vermont: Embrace The Season’s Colors And Celebrations

Fall in Vermont is a magical time of year. The air is crisp, the leaves turn into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, and the landscape becomes a canvas of colors. The season also brings a plethora of festivals, fairs, and events that celebrate the region’s bounty, culture, and traditions. If you’re looking for the best fall festivals in Vermont, you’ve come to the right place! From pumpkin patches to apple cider doughnuts, here are the top festivals that you don’t want to miss this season.

1. Champlain Valley Fair 🎡

The Champlain Valley Fair is Vermont’s largest agricultural fair and one of the most popular fall events in the state. Held annually in late August to early September, the fair features top-notch entertainment, carnival rides, games, and exhibits. You can also enjoy farm animals, horse shows, arts and crafts, and an array of delicious food options. The event takes place on the Champlain Valley Exposition grounds in Essex Junction, not far from Burlington.

2. Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival 🐑

The Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival is a two-day celebration of all things sheep-related held annually in October. The festival showcases the work of local farmers, fiber artists, and crafters while highlighting the region’s sheep industry. You’ll find a variety of activities, including weaving and spinning demonstrations, sheepdog trials, fleece shows, and a marketplace selling wool, yarn, and other fiber products. The event is held at the Tunbridge Fairgrounds in Tunbridge, Vermont.

3. Stowe Foliage Arts Festival 🎨

The Stowe Foliage Arts Festival is a juried fine arts and crafts festival held annually in late September. The event features over 200 exhibitors showcasing their handcrafted items, including jewelry, pottery, woodworking, and textiles. You can also enjoy live music, children’s activities, and food vendors. The festival takes place at the Topnotch Field in Stowe, Vermont, and is a must-visit for art lovers and collectors.

4. Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival 🎃

The Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival is a unique and quirky event held annually in late September. The festival features teams launching pumpkins using various contraptions, including trebuchets and catapults, to see who can throw them the farthest. You can also enjoy food vendors, live music, and children’s activities. The event takes place at the Stoweflake Resort in Stowe, Vermont, and is a fun and exciting way to celebrate the season.

5. Vermont Apple Festival 🍎

The Vermont Apple Festival is a one-day event held annually in October. The festival celebrates the state’s apple harvest with apple-themed activities, including apple pie baking contests, cider pressing demonstrations, and apple tasting. You can also enjoy craft vendors, live music, and a farmers market selling fresh produce. The event takes place in downtown Springfield, Vermont, and is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors and aromas of the season.

6. Harvest Weekend at Billings Farm & Museum 🐮

The Harvest Weekend at Billings Farm & Museum is a two-day event held annually in early October. The festival celebrates the farm’s harvest season with traditional activities, including apple pressing, cider making, and corn husking. You can also enjoy wagon rides, demonstrations of farm skills, and children’s activities. The event takes place at the Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock, Vermont, and is a great way to learn about the state’s farming heritage.

7. Brattleboro Literary Festival 📚

The Brattleboro Literary Festival is a four-day event held annually in October. The festival celebrates the written word with readings, discussions, and book signings by local and national authors. You can also attend writing workshops, poetry readings, and panel discussions on various topics. The event takes place at various locations in downtown Brattleboro, Vermont, and is a must-attend for book lovers and aspiring writers.

8. Vermont International Film Festival 📽️

The Vermont International Film Festival is a 10-day event held annually in late October. The festival showcases independent and foreign films from around the world and hosts screenings, panel discussions, and workshops. You can also enjoy live music, food vendors, and a VIP reception. The event takes place at various locations in Burlington, Vermont, and is a great way to experience the magic of cinema.

9. Vermont Brew Festival 🍻

The Vermont Brew Festival is a two-day event held annually in late September. The festival celebrates Vermont’s craft beer industry with tastings, live music, and food vendors. You can also attend workshops and learn about the brewing process from local experts. The event takes place at the Killington Grand Resort in Killington, Vermont, and is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

10. Apple Fest Weekend at Shelburne Farms 🐐

The Apple Fest Weekend at Shelburne Farms is a two-day event held annually in late September. The festival celebrates the farm’s apple harvest with cider pressing, wagon rides, and apple-themed activities. You can also enjoy farm tours, cheese tastings, and children’s activities. The event takes place at the Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, Vermont, and is a great way to experience the state’s agricultural heritage.

11. Manchester Fall Art and Craft Festival 🎭

The Manchester Fall Art and Craft Festival is a three-day event held annually in late September. The festival showcases over 200 exhibitors selling their handmade items, including pottery, jewelry, furniture, and clothing. You can also enjoy live music, food vendors, and children’s activities. The event takes place at the Practice Tee Golf Course in Manchester, Vermont, and is a must-visit for art and craft enthusiasts.

12. Vermont Life Wine and Harvest Festival 🍷

The Vermont Life Wine and Harvest Festival is a two-day event held annually in late September. The festival celebrates Vermont’s wineries, breweries, and distilleries with tastings, food pairings, and live music. You can also attend seminars on topics such as wine and cheese pairing and mixology. The event takes place at the Mount Snow Resort in West Dover, Vermont, and is a great way to indulge in the state’s culinary delights.

13. Mount Snow Oktoberfest 🍺

The Mount Snow Oktoberfest is a two-day event held annually in early October. The festival celebrates the German Oktoberfest tradition with live music, food vendors, and beer tastings. You can also enjoy hayrides, pumpkin painting, and other fall activities. The event takes place at the Mount Snow Resort in West Dover, Vermont, and is a fun and festive way to welcome the season.

FAQ

1. What is the best time to visit Vermont for fall festivals?

The best time to visit Vermont for fall festivals is from late August to early October when the leaves are at their peak and the weather is cool and crisp.

2. How can I get to Vermont for fall festivals?

You can fly into Burlington International Airport or drive to Vermont via major highways such as I-89 and I-91.

3. Are the fall festivals in Vermont family-friendly?

Yes, most fall festivals in Vermont are family-friendly and offer activities for all ages, including children.

4. Can I bring my pet to fall festivals in Vermont?

It depends on the festival. Some festivals allow pets, while others do not. Check the festival’s website or contact the organizers for more information.

5. Do I need to buy tickets for fall festivals in Vermont?

Most fall festivals in Vermont require tickets or admission fees. Check the festival’s website for ticket prices and purchase options.

6. What should I wear to fall festivals in Vermont?

You should wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather, which can be chilly and unpredictable. Layers are recommended.

7. Can I bring my own food and drinks to fall festivals in Vermont?

It depends on the festival. Some festivals allow outside food and drinks, while others do not. Check the festival’s website or contact the organizers for more information.

8. Are there accommodations near fall festivals in Vermont?

Yes, there are many hotels, inns, and vacation rentals near fall festivals in Vermont. Book early for the best deals and availability.

9. Are fall festivals in Vermont accessible for people with disabilities?

Most fall festivals in Vermont offer accessibility options for people with disabilities, such as wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms. Check the festival’s website or contact the organizers for more information.

10. Can I volunteer at fall festivals in Vermont?

Yes, many fall festivals in Vermont rely on volunteers to help with various tasks such as setting up booths, serving food, and directing traffic. Check the festival’s website or contact the organizers for more information on volunteer opportunities.

11. Are fall festivals in Vermont eco-friendly?