Best Fall Festivals In Maine

Fall in Maine is a beautiful time of year, with crisp air, colorful leaves, and plenty of festivals to enjoy. From pumpkin patches to apple orchards, there’s something for everyone in this New England state. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best fall festivals in Maine so that you can plan your autumn adventures.

All About Maine Fall Festivals

Fall festivals in Maine are a beloved tradition and a great way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something magical about being in Maine during the autumn months. The festivals range from small, intimate gatherings to large-scale events with thousands of attendees.

What Kinds of Festivals Are There?

Maine fall festivals come in all shapes and sizes, but some common themes include:

Pumpkin patches 🎃
Apple orchards 🍎
Harvest celebrations 🌾
Oktoberfest events 🍻
Halloween-themed parties 🎃👻
Art and craft fairs 🎨
Food festivals 🍴

When Do They Take Place?

Fall festivals in Maine typically take place from late September through early November. The exact dates vary depending on the festival, so be sure to check each event’s schedule before making plans. Some festivals take place on specific weekends, while others run for several weeks.

Where Are They Located?

Maine fall festivals take place all across the state, from the coast to the mountains and everywhere in between. Some popular locations include:

Portland
Bangor
Bar Harbor
Camden
Freeport
Lewiston

How Much Do They Cost?

The cost of attending a fall festival in Maine varies depending on the event. Some festivals are free to attend, while others require tickets or admission fees. Food and drink prices may also vary depending on the festival.

Are They Family-Friendly?

Many fall festivals in Maine are family-friendly and offer activities for children, such as pumpkin carving, hayrides, and petting zoos. However, some festivals may be geared more toward adults, such as beer or wine festivals. Be sure to check each festival’s website for specific details.

What Should I Wear?

The weather in Maine during the fall can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as many festivals take place outdoors and involve walking or standing for long periods. Don’t forget to bring a jacket or sweater, as the evenings can get chilly.

What Should I Bring?

Depending on the festival, you may want to bring cash for food and drink purchases, as some vendors may not accept credit cards. You may also want to bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the autumnal beauty!

Best Fall Festivals In Maine

Now that you know a bit about what fall festivals in Maine are all about, let’s take a look at some of the best events happening this season.

1. Pumpkinfest

Located in Damariscotta, Pumpkinfest is a celebration of all things pumpkin. The festival features giant pumpkin weigh-offs, pumpkin carving contests, and a pumpkin regatta (yes, you read that right!). There are also food vendors, live music, and plenty of other activities for all ages.

2. Fryeburg Fair

The Fryeburg Fair is one of the largest agricultural fairs in the country, attracting over 300,000 visitors each year. The fair features livestock exhibits, a midway with carnival rides and games, craft and vendor booths, and plenty of food options. There are also daily horse shows and harness racing events.

3. Acadia’s Oktoberfest

Held in Southwest Harbor, Acadia’s Oktoberfest offers a taste of Bavaria in Maine. The festival features German beer and food, live music, and games such as keg tossing and stein holding. There are also activities for children, such as face painting and pumpkin decorating.

4. Maine Harvest Festival

The Maine Harvest Festival takes place in Bangor and celebrates all of the state’s agricultural bounty. There are over 150 vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The festival also includes demonstrations, live music, and food tastings.

5. Boothbay Harbor Fest

The Boothbay Harbor Fest is a 10-day celebration of local food, art, and music. The festival includes events such as a Chowder Challenge, a Lobster Chef of the Year competition, and a Harbor Lights Festival. There are also boat tours, art exhibits, and live music performances.

6. Harvest on the Harbor

Portland’s Harvest on the Harbor is a four-day festival that showcases the best of Maine’s food and drink scene. The festival includes tasting events, cooking demonstrations, and competitions. There are also opportunities to meet local chefs and farmers and learn about sustainable food practices.

7. Sunday River Fall Festival

The Sunday River Fall Festival takes place at the ski resort in Newry and offers a variety of autumnal activities. There are scenic chairlift rides, a pumpkin patch, a beer garden, and live music performances. Visitors can also try their hand at axe throwing or participate in a cornhole tournament.

8. Common Ground Country Fair

The Common Ground Country Fair is a celebration of rural living and sustainable agriculture. The fair takes place in Unity and features workshops, demonstrations, and exhibits on topics such as organic farming and renewable energy. There are also food vendors, live music, and a children’s area.

9. Damariscotta Oyster Celebration

The Damariscotta Oyster Celebration is a two-day festival that pays homage to Maine’s delicious bivalves. The festival includes oyster shucking contests, tastings, and educational seminars. There are also live music performances and food vendors offering non-oyster options.

10. Acadia Birding Festival

The Acadia Birding Festival takes place in early October and celebrates the diverse birdlife of Maine’s Acadia National Park. The festival includes guided birdwatching walks, lectures, and workshops. There are also opportunities to learn about conservation efforts and meet local birding experts.

11. Common Street Arts Harvest Fest

The Common Street Arts Harvest Fest is a family-friendly event that takes place in Waterville. The festival features art and craft vendors, pumpkin carving contests, and hayrides. There are also live music performances, food trucks, and activities for children.

12. Blue Hill Fair

The Blue Hill Fair is a classic Maine agricultural fair that has been taking place since 1891. The fair features livestock exhibits, carnival rides, craft booths, and food vendors. There are also harness racing events, demolition derbies, and live music performances.

13. Maine Lobster Festival

No list of Maine festivals would be complete without the Maine Lobster Festival. This iconic event takes place in Rockland and features all things lobster. There are lobster eating contests, cooking demonstrations, and a parade. There are also carnival rides, craft vendors, and live music performances.

FAQ

Q: Are pets allowed at fall festivals in Maine?

A: It depends on the festival. Some festivals allow pets, while others do not. Be sure to check each festival’s website for specific details.

Q: Can I bring outside food and drink to fall festivals in Maine?

A: It varies depending on the festival. Many festivals do not allow outside food and drink, but some may make exceptions for medical reasons or special dietary needs. Be sure to check each festival’s website for specific details.

Q: Are there any indoor fall festivals in Maine?

A: Yes, there are several indoor fall festivals in Maine, such as craft fairs and art shows. However, many festivals take place outdoors to take advantage of the beautiful autumn weather.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for fall festivals in Maine?

A: It depends on the festival. Some festivals may be geared more toward adults, such as beer or wine festivals, while others are family-friendly. Be sure to check each festival’s website for specific details.

Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance for fall festivals in