Discover Top California Fall Festivals
California fall festivals offer a vibrant celebration of the season, showcasing the state’s rich cultural diversity, world-class music, and incredible food. From the legendary Monterey Jazz Festival to charming harvest fairs and Oktoberfest celebrations, these events provide something for everyone.
Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or looking for family-friendly fun, California’s fall festivals are the perfect way to experience the magic of autumn in the Golden State.
Noteworthy Performances
Monterey Jazz Festival
Location: Monterey, CA
Dates: September 27-29, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 50,000
Theme: World-Class Jazz
The Monterey Jazz Festival is a legendary event that brings together jazz enthusiasts and world-renowned musicians on California’s stunning coast. This year’s lineup includes Herbie Hancock, Norah Jones, and Kamasi Washington, who will perform across multiple stages. The festival’s intimate venues, such as the Dizzy’s Den and the Arena, allow for close-up experiences with these musical icons. The event also features panel discussions, workshops, and late-night jam sessions, making it a must-attend for jazz lovers. Sponsors like Yamaha and Blue Note Records play a significant role in bringing this iconic festival to life.
Solvang Danish Days
Location: Solvang, CA
Dates: September 20-22, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 15,000
Theme: Danish Heritage & Folk Traditions
Celebrate Danish culture at Solvang Danish Days, a vibrant festival that transforms the charming town of Solvang into a lively hub of music, dance, and tradition. Visitors can enjoy folk dancing and live performances by Danish bands like Blæsten, known for their modern twist on traditional Danish tunes. The festival also features a torchlight parade, where participants dressed in traditional costumes march through the town’s picturesque streets. Local artisans and bakers offer Danish pastries, such as Æbleskiver, and other Scandinavian treats, making it a cultural and culinary delight. The event is supported by Visit Denmark and the Solvang Conference & Visitors Bureau.
Culinary Delights and Craft Beverages
Arroyo Grande Valley Harvest Festival
Location: Arroyo Grande, CA
Dates: September 27-28, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Local Harvest & Culinary Traditions
The Arroyo Grande Valley Harvest Festival celebrates the bountiful Central Coast. This two-day event highlights the region’s agricultural abundance with an array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local wines. Visitors can sample dishes made from the freshest ingredients, including seasonal fruits, vegetables, and herbs from farms like Talley Farms. The festival’s craft beer garden features local brews from Central Coast Brewing and Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co., while the wine pavilion showcases varietals from renowned vineyards like Laetitia Vineyard & Winery. The event also includes a farmers market, cooking demonstrations by local chefs, and a pie-baking contest that attracts bakers from all over the region.
Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival
Location: Temecula, CA
Dates: October 25-27, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 30,000
Theme: Wine, Balloons & Gourmet Eats
The Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival uniquely combines culinary excellence and breathtaking balloon displays. Set in the heart of Southern California’s wine country, the festival features over 40 food vendors offering everything from BBQ ribs to vegan delicacies. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals paired with award-winning wines from wineries such as South Coast Winery and Callaway Vineyard & Winery. The festival’s highlight is the nightly balloon glow, where hot air balloons light up the sky in a stunning display, accompanied by live music from bands like The Revivalists and Iration. VIP packages offer exclusive wine tastings and chef meet-and-greets, making it a premier event for food and wine enthusiasts.
Family Fun and Children’s Activities
Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival
Location: Moorpark, CA
Dates: September 30 – October 31, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 100,000
Theme: Family Fun & Farm Adventures
The Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival in Moorpark is a family favorite, offering a month-long celebration of autumn with daily activities for all ages. Kids can explore the pumpkin patch, navigate the corn maze, and visit the petting zoo, where they can interact with friendly farm animals. The festival also features tractor-drawn wagon rides, a hay pyramid, and pig races. On weekends, the festival amps up with live music, pony rides, and the ever-popular Pumpkin House, where families can pose for fall-themed photos. This year’s special guests include Farmer Gray, who will lead educational farm tours and teach children about sustainable farming practices.
L.A. Fall Fair
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Dates: October 20 – November 5, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 50,000
Theme: Urban Harvest & Family Entertainment
The L.A. Fall Fair offers a blend of urban and rural experiences, bringing a slice of farm life to the heart of Los Angeles. The fair features a 12-acre amusement park with carnival rides, games, and live entertainment. Kids can enjoy face painting, inflatable obstacle courses, and a dedicated area for crafts and activities known as the Kinder Platz. The fair also offers culinary experiences focusing on fall flavors, including apple cider donuts, roasted corn, and gourmet food trucks. Local celebrity chef Roy Choi will host cooking demonstrations, sharing his favorite fall recipes with fairgoers. The event is supported by the City of Los Angeles and LA Parent Magazine.
Artisanal and Craft Showcases
Renegade Craft Fair
Location: San Francisco, CA
Dates: November 2-3, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 15,000
Theme: Handmade Crafts & Creative Expression
The Renegade Craft Fair in San Francisco is a premier destination for lovers of handmade goods and artisanal creations. With over 300 talented makers, this biannual fair offers a curated selection of one-of-a-kind items, from clothing and accessories to home décor and art. Visitors can explore unique products from artisans like Honey & Bloom and Minna Goods while enjoying live music from local bands and delicious bites from gourmet food trucks. The event also features DIY workshops where attendees can learn new skills, such as jewelry-making and pottery, under the guidance of expert crafters. Sponsored by Etsy and Heath Ceramics, the fair is a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship.
Castro Valley Fall Festival
Location: Castro Valley, CA
Dates: September 14-15, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Local Arts & Community Spirit
The Castro Valley Fall Festival is a beloved community event that highlights the work of local artisans and crafters. Held in downtown Castro Valley, this festival features over 200 exhibitors showcasing everything from handcrafted jewelry to fine art. The festival also includes live music performances, a car show, and a kid-friendly zone with rides and games. This year’s featured artists include Kelley Roy, known for her rustic wood carvings, and Lisa Congdon, who is celebrated for her vibrant illustrations. The event is sponsored by Castro Valley Chamber of Commerce and Bay Area Green Tours, both of which support the local arts community.
Seasonal Attractions and Activities
Apple Hill Harvest Festival
Location: Placerville, CA
Dates: September 1 – December 24, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 500,000
Theme: Apple Harvest & Wine Country
The Apple Hill Harvest Festival in Placerville is a quintessential fall experience, offering visitors a chance to explore the scenic beauty of El Dorado County. The festival, which runs through the entire fall season, features over 50 farms and orchards where guests can pick apples, sample fresh cider, and enjoy homemade pies. Wineries in the region, such as Boeger Winery and Lava Cap Winery, host special harvest events and tastings throughout September and October. The festival also includes craft fairs, hayrides, and live music, making it a perfect outing for families and friends. Sponsored by El Dorado County Visitors Authority and Apple Hill Growers Association, this event celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage.
Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival
Location: Half Moon Bay, CA
Dates: October 19-20, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 200,000
Theme: Pumpkin Harvest & Local Art
The Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival is the ultimate celebration of all things pumpkin. Held in the “Pumpkin Capital of the World,” this festival features giant pumpkin weigh-offs, where last year’s winner, Leonardo Urena, set a new record with his 2,175-pound gourd. Visitors can indulge in pumpkin-flavored treats, from pies and lattes to savory dishes, while browsing local art and craft booths. The event also includes a pumpkin parade, pie-eating contests, and a 5K run, all set against the backdrop of the stunning California coast. The festival is sponsored by Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. and Safeway, both of which play a vital role in supporting the community.
Entertainment and Live Performances
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
Dates: September 7 – November 2, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 60,000
Theme: Bavarian Traditions & Family Fun
The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is a lively celebration of Bavarian culture set against the stunning backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains. The festival features traditional German music performed by bands like Die Sauerkrauts and The Express Band, along with authentic German food, beer, and dance. Visitors can participate in stein-holding and log-sawing competitions and dance the night away in the festival’s spacious beer gardens. The event also includes a Kinderfest, with activities designed specifically for children, making it a fun outing for the whole family. Sponsored by Big Bear Mountain Resort and the German American Society of Hollywood, the festival captures the spirit of Germany in the heart of California.
Culinary Experiences
Del Mar Wine + Food Festival
Location: Del Mar, CA
Dates: October 2-7, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 25,000
Theme: Gourmet Food & Fine Wine
The Del Mar Wine + Food Festival is a premier culinary event that attracts foodies and wine enthusiasts from across California. Set against the stunning backdrop of Del Mar’s coastal scenery, the festival features gourmet creations by top chefs, including Richard Blais and Brian Malarkey. Guests can indulge in wine-paired meals, artisanal cheeses, and farm-to-table delicacies. The festival also includes interactive cooking demonstrations, wine tastings from renowned vineyards like Justin Vineyards & Winery and Silver Oak, and a grand tasting event where attendees can sample the best of California’s culinary offerings. Sponsored by San Diego Magazine and California Wine Institute, this festival is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine food and wine.
Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley
Location: Santa Ynez Valley, CA
Dates: September 27-29, 2024
Attendees: Approximately 10,000
Theme: Local Flavors & Vineyard Views
The Taste of the Santa Ynez Valley is a celebration of the region’s rich culinary and viticultural heritage. Set in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, this event features harvest lunches in vineyards, exclusive chef’s dinners, and wine tastings from top local wineries like Sunstone Winery and Firestone Vineyard. Attendees can savor specialty foods like locally-made olive oils, artisan breads, and farm-fresh produce, all while enjoying the stunning views of rolling vineyards. The event also includes cooking classes, grape-stomping competitions, and live music performances, making it a delightful way to experience the best of the Santa Ynez Valley. Sponsored by Visit Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara Vintners, this festival is a highlight of the fall season in California wine country.
These festivals represent just a sampling of California’s rich cultural and culinary experiences during the fall season. Whether you’re a food lover, a music enthusiast, or a family looking for fun, there’s a fall festival in California waiting to make your autumn unforgettable.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Travel Tips for Enjoying California Fall Festivals
Planning your trip to California’s fall festivals requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your autumn adventure.
Preferred Hotels and Lodging
Booking early is key to securing the best accommodations near festival sites. The luxurious Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco offers stunning city views and easy access to events like the Renegade Craft Fair. If your travels take you to Los Angeles, the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel provides a taste of Hollywood glamour, perfect for those attending the L.A. Fall Fair. For beachfront charm, consider staying at the historic Hotel del Coronado in San Diego, which is ideal for festival-goers heading to the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival.
For a more intimate experience, boutique inns or bed and breakfasts in Orange County often offer special fall packages that include festival tickets. Vacation rentals are also a great option for longer stays or larger groups. They provide extra space and kitchen facilities, which can be convenient for preparing your meals after a day of festival fun.
Ready to make your California fall festival experience unforgettable? Start planning by finding the perfect place to stay. Search for vacation rentals near your chosen festival at Lake.com. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin or a luxurious beach house, Lake.com has many options to suit your needs. Book your ideal getaway today and enjoy the best of California’s autumn celebrations!
