Best October Festivals In USA

The United States has no shortage of excellent festivals all year round. However, the month of October has some of the most exciting and fun-filled festivals. October is the month of fall and the harvest season, making it the perfect time for Americans to get together and have a good time. From music and beer to art and food, October has something for everyone. Here are some of the best October festivals in the USA that you should attend.

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze Festival 🎃

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is an annual festival that takes place in Croton-On-Hudson, New York. It is a spectacular display of over 7,000 beautifully carved pumpkins that light up the night sky. Visitors can expect to see larger-than-life pumpkin sculptures, a sea of jack o’lanterns, and spooky sound effects. The festival runs from late September to early November, and tickets sell out quickly, so book early to avoid disappointment.

What should I wear to The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze Festival?

The festival takes place outdoors, so it’s recommended that you dress warmly. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 🎈

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a hot air balloon festival that takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, attracting over 500 hot air balloons from all over the globe. The festival is a nine-day event that starts on the first Saturday in October and ends on the second Sunday. Visitors can expect to see hot air balloons in all shapes and sizes, including ones shaped like animals, cartoon characters, and even Darth Vader.

Can I ride in a hot air balloon at The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta?

Yes, there are hot air balloon rides available at the festival. However, they are not included in the admission price and must be booked separately.

The New York City Wine & Food Festival 🍷

The New York City Wine & Food Festival is a four-day festival that takes place in New York City. It is a food and wine lover’s dream, with some of the best chefs and restaurants showcasing their cuisine. Visitors can expect to see cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and meet-and-greets with celebrity chefs. The festival takes place in mid-October, and all proceeds go to charity.

Can I bring my children to The New York City Wine & Food Festival?

Children under the age of 21 are not allowed to attend the festival, even if accompanied by an adult.

The Texas Renaissance Festival 🗡️

The Texas Renaissance Festival is one of the largest Renaissance fairs in the USA. It takes place in Plantersville, Texas, and runs for eight consecutive weekends from early October to late November. Visitors can expect to see jousting, sword fighting, and live entertainment. The festival also has over 400 vendors selling arts and crafts, food, and beverages.

Can I dress up in costume at The Texas Renaissance Festival?

Yes, dressing up in Renaissance clothing is encouraged, but not mandatory.

The Chicago International Film Festival 🎥

The Chicago International Film Festival is the longest-running competitive film festival in North America. It takes place in Chicago, Illinois, and showcases a diverse range of films from around the world. Visitors can expect to see premieres, Q&As with filmmakers, and panel discussions. The festival takes place in mid-October and runs for two weeks.

Are there any age restrictions for films screened at The Chicago International Film Festival?

Yes, some films may have age restrictions, and it’s recommended that viewers check the film’s rating before attending.

The National Apple Harvest Festival 🍎

The National Apple Harvest Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Arendtsville, Pennsylvania. It’s a celebration of all things apple, including apple cider, apple butter, and apple pie. Visitors can expect to see craft vendors, live entertainment, and apple-related contests. The festival takes place over two consecutive weekends in October.

Is there an admission fee to attend The National Apple Harvest Festival?

Yes, there is an admission fee, but children under the age of 12 get in for free.

The Austin City Limits Music Festival 🎶

The Austin City Limits Music Festival is a three-day music festival that takes place in Austin, Texas. It features a diverse lineup of musicians, including both established and up-and-coming artists. Visitors can expect to see rock, country, hip-hop, and electronic music acts. The festival takes place in early October.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to The Austin City Limits Music Festival?

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed at the festival, but there are plenty of food vendors and bars on site.

The Circleville Pumpkin Show 🎃

The Circleville Pumpkin Show is an annual festival that takes place in Circleville, Ohio. It’s a celebration of everything pumpkin, including pumpkin pie, pumpkin pancakes, and even pumpkin fudge. Visitors can expect to see parades, live entertainment, and pumpkin-related contests. The festival takes place in mid-October and runs for four days.

Is the Circleville Pumpkin Show a free event?

Yes, the festival is free to attend, but some events may require tickets or have an admission fee.

The Harvest on the Harbor Food & Wine Festival 🍷

The Harvest on the Harbor Food & Wine Festival is a four-day festival that takes place in Portland, Maine. It’s a celebration of Maine’s food and drink culture, featuring some of the state’s best chefs, breweries, and wineries. Visitors can expect to see cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and live music. The festival takes place in late October.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at The Harvest on the Harbor Food & Wine Festival?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options available at the festival.

The Fantasy Fest 🎭

The Fantasy Fest is an annual festival that takes place in Key West, Florida. It’s a 10-day festival that features costumes, parties, and parades. Visitors can expect to see people dressed up in elaborate costumes, body-painting, and live entertainment. The festival takes place in late October and early November.

Is the Fantasy Fest a family-friendly event?

No, the event is not recommended for children as some of the costumes and events may not be suitable for younger audiences.

The Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival 🎨

The Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival is an annual festival that takes place in Half Moon Bay, California. It’s a celebration of the harvest season, featuring pumpkin carving contests, live entertainment, and artisan crafts. Visitors can expect to see giant pumpkins, pumpkin-themed food, and drinks. The festival takes place in mid-October and runs for two days.

Are there any activities for children at The Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival?

Yes, there are plenty of activities for children, including a costume contest and a pumpkin patch.

The National Fossil Day 🦖

The National Fossil Day is an annual festival that takes place in different locations across the USA. It’s a celebration of fossils and the history of life on earth. Visitors can expect to see exhibitions, displays, and hands-on activities. The festival takes place in mid-October, and admission is free.

Can I bring my own fossils to The National Fossil Day festival?

Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own fossils to show to experts at the festival.

The Oktoberfest Zinzinnati 🍻

The Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is an annual festival that takes place in Cincinnati, Ohio. It’s a celebration of German culture, featuring live music, food, and lots of beer. Visitors can expect to see the world’s largest chicken dance, wiener dog races, and beer stein races. The festival takes place in late September and early October.

Can I bring my own beer stein to The Oktoberfest Zinzinnati?

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own beer stein to the festival.

The Big Fresno Fair 🎡

The Big Fresno Fair is an annual festival that takes place in Fresno, California. It’s a celebration of the harvest season, featuring livestock competitions, live entertainment, and carnival rides. Visitors can expect to see hundreds of vendors selling food, drinks, and artisan crafts. The festival takes place in early October and runs for 10 days.

Is there an admission fee to attend The Big Fresno Fair?

Yes, there is an admission fee, but children under the age of 5 get in for free.

The Chicago Marathon 🏃‍♀️

The Chicago Marathon is an annual marathon race that takes place in Chicago, Illinois. It’s