Originally posted on September 28, 2025 @ 12:51 AM
Top 10 Fall Festivals in the USA 2025 You Can’t Miss: As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to change, fall festivals across the United States offer the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season. From mouthwatering food fairs to lively Oktoberfest-style events and vibrant cultural showcases, the fall of 2025 promises a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for family-friendly fun, these festivals have something for everyone.
Top 10 Fall Festivals in the USA in 2025
The USA comes alive each autumn with vibrant fall festivals, and 2025 promises an exciting lineup. Top events include New Bern’s MumFest in North Carolina, showcasing stunning floral displays and local crafts, and Michigan’s Antique Festival in Midland, famous for vintage treasures and live music. Texas hosts the lively Houston Pumpkin Festival, while Onekama, Michigan offers family fun at its charming Fall Festival. Colorado’s Pagosa Springs Colorfest delights with hot air balloons and craft tastings. Other highlights include New York’s Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze, Cincinnati’s Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, Pennsylvania’s Apple Harvest Festival, South Carolina’s Pecan Harvest Festival, and Portland, Maine’s Harvest on the Harbor, each celebrating autumn’s beauty, food, and entertainment.
1. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati – Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati’s Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the United States, drawing over 500,000 visitors annually. Held in late September, this festival offers authentic German cuisine, over 100 varieties of beer, live polka music, and the famous “Running of the Wieners” dachshund race. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Bavarian traditions.
2. State Fair of Texas – Dallas, Texas
The State Fair of Texas is a Texas-sized celebration that runs from late September through mid-October. With over 2 million visitors, it features everything from deep-fried delicacies to live music, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits. Don’t miss the iconic Big Tex statue and the annual Texas-OU football game.
3. Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb – Newport, Indiana
For vintage car enthusiasts, the Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb is a unique event held on the first Sunday of October. Antique automobiles race up a steep hill, showcasing the rich history of early 20th-century vehicles. The festival also includes a parade, live entertainment, and a classic car show.
4. Catoctin Colorfest – Thurmont, Maryland
Held on the second weekend of October, the Catoctin Colorfest is one of the largest arts and crafts festivals on the East Coast. With over 125,000 attendees, it features more than 300 vendors offering handmade goods, food, and live entertainment. The festival is set against the backdrop of Maryland’s beautiful fall foliage.
5. MumFest – New Bern, North Carolina
MumFest, held on October 11–12, transforms the historic town of New Bern into a vibrant celebration of chrysanthemums. The festival features over 300 vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. It’s a perfect blend of small-town charm and seasonal festivities.
6. LEAF Community Arts Festival – Black Mountain, North Carolina
The LEAF Festival, scheduled for October 16–19, is a biannual event that celebrates global arts and culture. With over 60 performers from 30 different countries, the festival offers music, dance, visual arts, and culinary delights. A highlight is the Kids’ Village, providing interactive experiences for children.
7. Fredericksburg Oktoberfest – Fredericksburg, Texas
Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest, taking place from October 3–5, celebrates the town’s German heritage with traditional cuisine, over 50 varieties of beer, and live polka music. Highlights include the OkTUBAfest, waltz and polka contests, and chicken dancing. Proceeds support local arts initiatives.
8. Trail Ride Fall Festival – Laredo, Texas
On October 25, Laredo hosts the Trail Ride Fall Festival, featuring a horseback trail ride, live music, food vendors, and a Halloween costume contest. The festival promotes community spirit and offers a fun, engaging experience for all ages. It’s a unique blend of Western tradition and fall celebration.
9. The Gathering – Waterbury, Connecticut
The Gathering, held at Library Park in Waterbury, is New England’s largest multicultural festival. Celebrated on a Saturday in late September, it features a parade, international food vendors, live music, craft stalls, and dance performances. The event highlights the city’s diverse cultural communities
10. Diwali Celebrations – Various Locations
Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, will be celebrated on Monday, October 20, 2025. Cities like New York, Houston, and San Francisco host large public events, including fireworks, cultural performances, and festive fairs. The festival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.
Conclusion
Fall festivals across the United States in 2025 offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from the lively celebrations of Oktoberfest to the multicultural showcases and family-friendly events. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your community or a traveler seeking new adventures, these festivals provide the perfect opportunity to embrace the spirit of autumn. Mark your calendars and prepare for a season filled with fun, food, and unforgettable memories.
Top 10 Fall Festivals In The USA FAQs
Q1: What are the dates for the State Fair of Texas in 2025?
A1: The State Fair of Texas runs from September 26 to October 19, 2025.
Q2: Where is the Catoctin Colorfest held?
A2: The Catoctin Colorfest takes place in Thurmont, Maryland, on October 11–12, 2025.
Q3: Is there an Oktoberfest celebration in Fredericksburg, Texas?
A3: Yes, Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest is scheduled for October 3–5, 2025.
Q4: When is MumFest in New Bern, North Carolina?
A4: MumFest will be held on October 11–12, 2025.
Q5: What is the LEAF Community Arts Festival?
A5: The LEAF Festival is a biannual event celebrating global arts and culture, taking place from October 16–19, 2025, in Black Mountain, North Carolina.
Q6: Where can I experience Oktoberfest in the U.S.?
A6: Oktoberfest celebrations are held in various U.S. cities, including Cincinnati, Ohio, and Fredericksburg, Texas.
Q7: What is the Trail Ride Fall Festival?
A7: The Trail Ride Fall Festival is a community event in Laredo, Texas, featuring a horseback trail ride, live music, food vendors, and a Halloween costume contest on October 25, 2025.
Q8: When is Diwali celebrated in 2025?
A8: Diwali will be celebrated on October 20, 2025, with events in cities like New York, Houston, and San Francisco.
Q9: What is the Gathering festival in Waterbury, Connecticut?
A9: The Gathering is New England’s largest multicultural festival, featuring a parade, international food vendors, live music, craft stalls, and dance performances, held on a Saturday in late September.
Q10: Where can I find more information about these festivals?
A10: For more details, visit the official websites of each festival or check local tourism boards for the most up-to-date information.
Note: Dates and events are subject to change. Always check the official festival websites for the most current information.