The Best Fall Festivals In Alabama

Autumn in Alabama is a magical time of year. The hot and humid days of summer fade away, and the crisp fall air brings with it a sense of anticipation and excitement. One of the best parts of fall in Alabama is the abundance of festivals celebrating everything from agriculture to music. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, these 15 fall festivals are a must-see.

Pumpkin patches and corn mazes 🎃

1.

The Great Pumpkin Patch

– Located in Hayden, this patch has more than just pumpkins. With a corn maze, hayrides, and other fall activities, it’s a perfect spot for family fun.

2.

4D Farm

– This farm in Cullman offers a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and even a pig race. With plenty of activities for all ages, it’s a great place for a day trip.

Fairs and carnivals 🎪

3.

The National Peanut Festival

– Held in Dothan each November, this festival celebrates everything peanut-related. From fried peanuts to peanut butter sculptures, there’s something for everyone.

4.

The Alabama State Fair

– This fair, held in Montgomery, has been a fall tradition for over 65 years. With rides, games, and plenty of food, it’s a classic carnival experience.

Music and arts festivals 🎶

5.

Hangout Oyster Cook-Off and Craft Beer Weekend

– This festival, held in Gulf Shores, celebrates two of Alabama’s favorite things: oysters and craft beer. With live music and cooking demonstrations, it’s a unique experience.

6.

Pepper Place Fall Festival

– This festival in Birmingham celebrates the city’s local artists and vendors. With food trucks, live music, and a variety of handmade goods for sale, it’s a great way to spend a fall day.

Food festivals 🍔

7.

The National Shrimp Festival

– Held in Gulf Shores, this festival is a seafood lover’s dream. With dozens of vendors serving up everything from fried shrimp to shrimp gumbo, it’s a must-visit for foodies.

8.

The Taste of Huntsville

– This festival in downtown Huntsville features dishes from the city’s best restaurants. With live music and a beer garden, it’s a delicious way to spend a fall evening.

Heritage and cultural festivals 🎉

9.

The Alabama Butterbean Festival

– Held in Pinson, this festival celebrates the humble butterbean. With a butterbean cook-off and live music, it’s a unique way to experience Alabama culture.

10.

The Covered Bridge Festival

– This festival in Blount County celebrates the county’s historic covered bridges. With arts and crafts vendors, live music, and plenty of food, it’s a true Alabama tradition.

Artisan and craft festivals 🎨

11.

The Kentuck Festival of the Arts

– This festival in Northport showcases the work of over 270 artists from around the country. With live music and food vendors, it’s a great way to support the arts.

12.

The Moss Rock Festival

– This festival in Hoover celebrates nature and sustainability. With over 100 artists and live music, it’s a great way to experience Alabama’s natural beauty.

Agri-tourism festivals 🌾

13.

The Alabama Cotton Festival

– Held in Eclectic, this festival celebrates Alabama’s cotton industry. With a parade, car show, and live music, it’s a fun way to learn about Alabama’s agricultural history.

14.

The National Cornbread Festival

– Held in South Pittsburg, Tennessee (just across the Alabama border), this festival celebrates all things cornbread. With a cornbread cook-off and live music, it’s a unique way to experience Southern food culture.

Halloween festivals and haunted houses 👻

15.

Sloss Fright Furnace

– This haunted attraction in Birmingham is not for the faint of heart. Housed in an actual former furnace, it’s a truly terrifying experience.

What are the dates for these festivals?

Each festival has its own dates, which can be found on their websites or social media pages. Be sure to check before you go!

Are these festivals family-friendly?

Most of these festivals are family-friendly, but some may have activities or events that are not suitable for young children. Be sure to check each festival’s website for more information.

What should I wear to these festivals?

Alabama weather in the fall can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to wear layers. Comfortable shoes are also a must, as many of these festivals involve walking and standing for extended periods of time.

Are there any admission fees?

Each festival has its own admission policy. Some are free, while others require an admission fee. Be sure to check each festival’s website for more information.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Most festivals do not allow outside food or drinks, but some may have designated areas for picnicking or tailgating. Be sure to check each festival’s website for more information.

Are pets allowed?

Most festivals do not allow pets, but some may have designated pet-friendly areas. Be sure to check each festival’s website for more information.

Can I volunteer at these festivals?

Many festivals rely on volunteers to help with various tasks, such as ticket sales, parking, and cleanup. Check each festival’s website for more information on how to volunteer.

What kind of food can I expect to find at these festivals?

Each festival will have its own unique food offerings, but many will feature classic Southern staples like fried chicken, barbecue, and sweet tea. Some may also have more unusual offerings, like fried alligator or peanut butter burgers.

What kind of activities can I expect at these festivals?

Each festival will have its own unique activities, but many will include live music, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, and carnival rides or games.

Can I purchase souvenirs at these festivals?

Most festivals will have vendors selling souvenirs or handmade goods. Be sure to bring cash or a credit card, as many vendors may not accept checks.

What should I bring with me to these festivals?

Be sure to bring cash or a credit card, as many vendors may not accept checks. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle.

How can I get more information about these festivals?

Each festival will have its own website or social media pages with more information. Be sure to check those for updates and details.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun way to experience fall in Alabama, these festivals are a great place to start. From pumpkin patches to corn mazes, music festivals to food festivals, there’s something for everyone. So grab some friends or family and head out to one (or more!) of these fall festivals.

And if you’re feeling really adventurous, why not volunteer? Many festivals rely on volunteers to help make them a success, and it’s a great way to get involved in your community.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, festival dates, admission policies, and other details are subject to change. Be sure to check each festival’s website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.