Experience the best of autumn at Pennsylvania’s fall festivals and fairs. From harvest celebrations to lively parades, these events offer a perfect blend of seasonal fun, local culture, and community spirit.
Whether you’re exploring historic towns, enjoying the scenic countryside, or immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of a county fair, Pennsylvania’s fall festivals offer the perfect way to embrace the beauty and bounty of autumn.
National Apple Harvest Festival
Biglerville, South Central Pennsylvania
October 5 – 6 & 12 – 13, 2024
Set against the vibrant autumn backdrop of Adams County’s orchards, the National Apple Harvest Festival is more than just a celebration—it’s an immersion into Pennsylvania’s rich apple-growing heritage. Held in Biglerville, just a short drive from the historic battlefield of Gettysburg, this beloved festival showcases the best of the region, drawing apple lovers from far and wide.
This year, the festival will feature a dazzling array of apple varieties grown locally, including Honeycrisp, Fuji, and the heirloom Smokehouse, renowned for their crisp texture and balanced sweetness. Visitors can savor these apples in countless forms—from warm, flaky apple dumplings to freshly pressed, unfiltered cider from the famed Boyer’s Orchard.
As you stroll through the festival, live music from local bluegrass bands like the Mason-Dixon Ramblers and folk legends such as Cormorant’s Fancy fills the air, setting the perfect mood for a day of autumnal fun. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the antique steam engine displays and classic car show, which this year features a special showcase of vintage Mustangs, courtesy of Gettysburg Ford.
The festival’s craft market offers a treasure trove of handmade goods, with artisans from across the region displaying everything from intricate wooden carvings to cozy, hand-knit scarves. Don’t miss the cooking demonstrations by local celebrity chef Andrew Little of Gettysburg’s Mason Dixon Distillery, who will be sharing his secrets for making the perfect apple pie.
Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at the Apple Pie Eating Contest, where local personalities, including WGAL-TV’s meteorologist Joe Calhoun, will face off for the title.
Bloomsburg Fair
Bloomsburg, Northeastern Pennsylvania
September 20 – 28, 2024
The Bloomsburg Fair, a cornerstone of Pennsylvania’s fall traditions, beckons visitors to its sprawling 236-acre fairgrounds nestled in the scenic Susquehanna Valley. Running from September 20 to 28, 2024, this iconic 9-day event offers a vibrant mix of agricultural exhibits, thrilling carnival rides, and tantalizing fair food, attracting guests from across the state and beyond.
Fairgoers can explore a rich tapestry of agricultural displays, showcasing prized local produce like Luzerne County’s famous sweet corn, prize-winning livestock, and an impressive array of handcrafted goods. The midway promises excitement with rides ranging from the classic Ferris wheel to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters. Food lovers will revel in the fair’s culinary offerings, from traditional funnel cakes to regional favorites like pierogies and apple dumplings. The entertainment lineup features concerts by country music stars such as Chris Young, as well as unique attractions like the famed demolition derby and live animal shows. With its blend of tradition and excitement, the Bloomsburg Fair delivers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of a Pennsylvania autumn.
Autumn Leaf Festival
Clarion, Western Pennsylvania
September 28 – October 6, 2024
The Autumn Leaf Festival in Clarion, Pennsylvania, is a cherished fall celebration that draws large crowds each year. This 9-day event highlights the region’s breathtaking fall foliage and offers activities for all ages, making it a must-visit for autumn enthusiasts.
Located in the heart of western Pennsylvania, about 80 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, Clarion comes alive each fall as it hosts one of the area’s largest autumn festivals. Surrounded by rolling hills and vibrant forests, the town provides a picturesque backdrop of colorful leaves. The festival centers around downtown Clarion, where Main Street fills with vendors, food stands, and live entertainment stages. Clarion University also plays a role, hosting additional activities on campus.
Set for September 28 to October 6, 2024, the Autumn Leaf Festival captures the peak of fall foliage season. Spanning nine days, the festival offers plenty of time to enjoy the festivities, with weekends featuring major events like the Tournament of Leaves Parade. Throughout the week, you’ll find a full schedule of activities to explore.
The festival celebrates the vibrant fall foliage with a variety of autumn-themed events. The Tournament of Leaves Parade is a highlight, showcasing colorful floats and marching bands. The festival also features a large craft fair with hundreds of vendors offering handmade goods. Car enthusiasts can enjoy the automotive sound and light competition, while antique tractor fans can admire vintage farm equipment on display. Cultural nights celebrate the area’s diverse heritage with opportunities to sample ethnic foods and enjoy traditional music and dance performances. To fully appreciate the stunning fall scenery, take a scenic drive through the countryside, where the landscape bursts with red, orange, and gold hues.
Philadelphia Harvest Festival
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 12, 2024
Philadelphia embraces the autumn season with a vibrant urban harvest festival that brings the spirit of fall to the city’s heart, featuring local produce, artisanal crafts, and seasonal activities for all ages.
Held in the historic district of Old City, the Philadelphia Harvest Festival takes over several blocks from 2nd to 5th Street and from Arch to Race Street. This central location not only offers easy access to nearby attractions like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell but also transforms the cobblestone streets into a lively marketplace. Here, local farms showcase fresh apples, pumpkins, and squash, while food trucks serve up seasonal delights like apple cider donuts and pumpkin spice lattes.
Set for October 12, 2024, the festival runs from 10 AM to 6 PM, offering a full day of entertainment and autumnal fun. Arrive early to enjoy the opening parade at 10:30 AM and stay throughout the day to experience live music on two stages, featuring local bands playing folk, bluegrass, and indie rock that perfectly complement the fall atmosphere.
The Philadelphia Harvest Festival is packed with activities for everyone. Kids can enjoy the pumpkin painting station and hay maze, while adults can try apple bobbing or compete in a pie-eating contest. Local artisans offer a variety of handmade crafts, making it easy to find unique gifts and souvenirs. Food lovers will appreciate dishes prepared by top Philly chefs using local, seasonal ingredients. The festival’s beer garden features fall brews from Pennsylvania craft breweries, and as the day winds down, visitors can gather around fire pits for storytelling and s’mores, making it a perfect way to celebrate the season.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
October 17 – November 3, 2024
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Pittsburgh transforms thousands of carved pumpkins into a mesmerizing nighttime display, enchanting visitors with their glowing artistry under the night sky.
Held at the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium in Western Pennsylvania, this magical event is easily accessible from nearby cities. The zoo’s expansive grounds provide an ideal setting for the fall spectacle, where familiar landmarks are illuminated by the eerie glow of intricately carved jack-o’-lanterns. Ample parking and wheelchair accessibility make the experience convenient for all, and you can enjoy a variety of food stands or bring your snacks.
Running from October 17 to November 3, 2024, this 18-day event opens nightly from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, offering plenty of opportunities to attend. Consider attending on a weekday for a more relaxed visit, as weekends are typically busier. Tickets are available online, with flexible options if you’re unsure of your exact date.
Prepare to be captivated by over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins, each a unique work of art. From zoo animals and pop culture icons to famous landmarks and fantasy creatures, these pumpkins are masterfully crafted and enhanced by light and sound effects. Themed areas along the trail take about 40-60 minutes to explore and tell different stories, creating a truly immersive experience. Don’t forget your camera—these glowing masterpieces are picture-perfect.
Covered Bridge and Arts Festival
Elysburg, Central Pennsylvania
October 3 – 6, 2024
The Covered Bridge and Arts Festival is a quintessential fall event in Central Pennsylvania, celebrating the region’s rich craftsmanship and scenic beauty. Held at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds in Elysburg, this beloved festival draws thousands of visitors who come to enjoy a unique blend of art, culture, and the historic charm of the area’s iconic covered bridges.
Set against the rolling hills and vibrant autumn colors of Columbia County, the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds provide a picturesque backdrop for this four-day event, running from October 3 to 6, 2024. The fairgrounds, known for hosting the annual Bloomsburg Fair, offer ample space for the festival’s hundreds of vendors, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors from across Pennsylvania and neighboring states, while nearby hotels like the Inn at Turkey Hill offer convenient accommodations for those planning a weekend stay.
The festival’s heart lies in its expansive arts and crafts market, featuring over 350 vendors showcasing handmade goods such as pottery, jewelry, and rustic furniture. Notable artisans include Black Creek Pottery and Susquehanna Glass, offering live demonstrations that give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at their craft. Foodies will delight in sampling local specialties like apple dumplings from Rohrbach’s Farm Market and sipping on seasonal brews from Berwick Brewing Company at the festival’s beer garden. Don’t miss the guided bus tours of the region’s historic covered bridges, including the iconic Knoebels Grove Bridge, which provide stunning photo opportunities and a deep dive into the area’s rich history.
Hersheypark in the Dark
Hershey, Pennsylvania
October 18 – November 3, 2024
Each fall, Hersheypark transforms into a Halloween wonderland, blending the thrill of its rides with festive decorations and family-friendly fun in a delightfully spooky setting.
Located in Hershey, Pennsylvania—famously dubbed “The Sweetest Place on Earth”—Hersheypark is conveniently situated just off Highway 322. As you drive along Chocolate Avenue, the iconic Hershey’s Kisses-shaped streetlights guide you toward the park, where free parking at the entrance and several nearby hotels make for a seamless visit.
Running on weekends from October 18 to November 3, 2024, the Halloween festivities kick off at 2 PM on Fridays and 11 AM on Saturdays and Sundays, with the park staying open until 9 or 10 PM. Tickets are best purchased online in advance for the best deals, and frequent visitors should consider a season pass to make the most of this eerie season. Be aware that Saturday evenings tend to draw the largest crowds.
As night falls, Hersheypark transforms with over 200 glowing jack-o’-lanterns, eerie music, and special Halloween-themed lighting effects on its 50+ attractions, including fan-favorite roller coasters like Candymonium and Skyrush. Families can delight in Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, where kids can collect candy at themed stops such as Treatville, sponsored by Hershey’s Chocolate World, while showing off their costumes and playing Halloween games. For those seeking a bit more fright, new scare zones like Darkstone’s Hollow, featuring spine-chilling decor and roaming characters, pop up each year, offering varying levels of spookiness to suit every visitor’s comfort level.
Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
Manheim, Pennsylvania
Weekends from August 3 – October 27, 2024
Step into the enchanting world of 16th-century England at the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, where history and fantasy intertwine in a spectacular celebration for all ages. Held at the scenic Mount Hope Estate & Winery in Manheim, Lancaster County, this immersive experience transports visitors to a bygone era, set against the backdrop of lush gardens, meandering pathways, and the estate’s grand, castle-like structure.
Running on weekends from August 3 to October 27, 2024, the faire offers endless opportunities to indulge in Renaissance culture. The 35-acre site, accessible from major cities like Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Baltimore, provides ample free parking and is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for every guest. Each weekend features a unique theme, such as the whimsical “Fairies & Fantasy” on August 17-18, which brings an extra dose of magic with special performances and activities.
Within the faire, you’ll find yourself surrounded by hundreds of performers in vibrant period costumes, bringing the past to life with over 90 stage shows daily, including thrilling jousting tournaments, comedic acts, and captivating musical performances. Culinary delights abound at the 22 Royal Kitchens, where you can feast on Renaissance fare like the legendary giant turkey leg or savory meat pies. The marketplace brims with handcrafted treasures from skilled artisans, offering everything from intricate blown glass by The Glassblower’s Guild to exquisite leatherwork by The Leather Lair. For a fully immersive experience, rent a costume at the onsite Enchanted Garb to truly step into character and capture unforgettable memories.
Apple Butter Festival
Bedford, South Central Pennsylvania
October 12 – 13, 2024
The Apple Butter Festival in Bedford, Pennsylvania, is a beloved autumn tradition where the rich, sweet scents of simmering apple butter fill the historic downtown. Set against the backdrop of Bedford’s charming 18th-century architecture, this festival offers a taste of Pennsylvania’s heritage and community spirit, drawing visitors from across the region.
Held from 9 AM to 5 PM on October 12-13, 2024, the festival invites you to experience the peak of fall colors in the heart of the Alleghenies. Arrive early to witness the day’s first apple butter-making sessions, where local artisans, including the renowned Jean Bonnet Tavern chefs, tend to copper kettles over open fires. The scent of apples and cinnamon wafts through the crisp air as the mixture thickens, stirred by volunteers in traditional attire. Visitors are welcome to try their hand at stirring, gaining an appreciation for the labor-intensive process behind this classic treat. Freshly made apple butter, spread on warm bread from Bedford’s own Horn O’ Plenty bakery, is a festival highlight, and jars of this delightful spread, perfect for gifting, are available for purchase.
In addition to apple butter, the festival features an array of locally made goods. Browse the craft booths showcasing handmade pottery, quilts, and woodwork from artisans like Olde Bedford Village, and enjoy live bluegrass performances from the regional favorite, The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers. The festival is a true celebration of the season, offering a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and the rich flavors of autumn.
Fall Foliage Festival
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Weekends from October 5 – 20, 2024
The Fall Foliage Festival in Jim Thorpe is an essential autumn event, offering breathtaking scenery, exciting activities, and the enchanting charm of a historic mountain town.
Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is the perfect setting for this beloved festival. The town’s Victorian architecture, combined with the vibrant reds, oranges, and golds of the surrounding hills and forests, creates a stunning visual experience. The Lehigh River meanders through the town, adding to its picturesque appeal. Conveniently located about 80 miles north of Philadelphia and 100 miles west of New York City, Jim Thorpe is easily accessible for a weekend getaway.
Running for three weekends from October 5 to 20, 2024, the festival offers multiple opportunities to experience the peak of fall colors. Each weekend features a unique lineup of events and activities, so you can tailor your visit to your interests. Be sure to book accommodations early, as hotels tend to fill up quickly during the festival.
The Fall Foliage Festival provides countless ways to celebrate the season. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the mountains on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, or browse handmade crafts at street fairs featuring local artists. The town comes alive with live music and performances, creating a festive atmosphere.
Food lovers will delight in seasonal treats like apple cider, pumpkin pie, and roasted chestnuts, while local restaurants offer special autumn menus. For those who love the outdoors, guided hikes in nearby state parks and biking along the Lehigh Gorge Trail provide stunning views. Don’t miss the chance to take a fall foliage tour by bus or boat, capturing the beauty of the season from every angle.
Lehigh Valley Craft Beer Festival
Allentown, Pennsylvania
October 12, 2024
The Lehigh Valley Craft Beer Festival is a must-attend event for beer enthusiasts, offering the perfect opportunity to sample a wide variety of local brews and enjoy delicious food in a lively atmosphere.
Held at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown, Northeastern Pennsylvania, this beer festival transforms the baseball stadium into a beer lover’s haven for the day. Conveniently located in the heart of the Lehigh Valley, the park provides ample space for breweries and food vendors, making it an ideal destination if you’re exploring the area. The open-air setting allows you to savor the crisp fall air as you enjoy your beer tastings.
Scheduled for October 12, 2024, the festival takes place in the middle of fall, offering perfect weather for an outdoor event. Running from noon to 3 PM, the event gives you three hours to explore and enjoy a wide selection of craft beers. Since it’s a Saturday, you can plan a full day of fun in Allentown, so be sure to arrive early to make the most of your experience.
The Lehigh Valley Craft Beer Festival features over 50 craft beers from top breweries in the region and beyond. Your ticket includes a tasting glass, allowing you to sample as many beers as you like. Look out for local favorites like Fegley’s Brew Works and Troegs, as well as offerings from Victory Brewing Company and Goose Island. To complement your beer tastings, the festival also offers a variety of pub foods, perfect for pairing with your favorite brews. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking water between tastings to fully enjoy the day.
Pennsylvania Pumpkin Festival
Lehighton, Pennsylvania
October 4 – 6, 2024
The Pennsylvania Pumpkin Festival transforms the charming town of Lehighton into a vibrant autumnal wonderland, where pumpkin-themed fun and seasonal delights take center stage. Nestled in the heart of Carbon County, surrounded by the stunning fall foliage of the Pocono Mountains, this festival offers a quintessential autumn experience from October 4 to 6, 2024, at the Lehighton Fairgrounds. The fairgrounds are conveniently located with ample parking, making it easy for families and visitors to enjoy a picturesque drive through the countryside.
The festival kicks off on Friday evening with a mesmerizing Pumpkin Glow, where hundreds of carved pumpkins—sourced from local farms like Yenser’s Tree Farm—are illuminated to create a magical atmosphere. Throughout the weekend, attendees can immerse themselves in a range of activities, from pumpkin carving contests judged by local artist Josh Miller, known for his elaborate jack-o’-lanterns, to live performances by folk band The Coal Crackers. Foodies will relish the pumpkin-flavored treats, including pies from Blue Mountain Farm Market and decadent pumpkin ice cream from The Creamery on Main. For those seeking adventure, the festival’s ever-popular corn maze, redesigned annually by Mazing Acres, offers a fun and challenging experience for all ages.
Discover the Magic of Penn State Festivals This Fall
Experience Pennsylvania’s vibrant culture and rich traditions this autumn by attending one of Penn State’s celebrated festivals. From the lively atmosphere of harvest fairs to the charming allure of local arts and crafts, these events offer something for everyone. Don’t miss out—plan your visit today and make unforgettable memories at these must-see autumn celebrations!
