Discover the Best Fall Festivals in North Carolina
As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to change, fall in North Carolina brings a season full of festivals. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or history buff, there’s an event for everyone. Here are some of the coolest festivals happening across the state this fall, in date order:
Mayberry Days
Date: September 23-29, 2024
Location: Mount Airy
Step into a simpler time at Mayberry Days in Mount Airy, the hometown of Andy Griffith. The weeklong celebration features everything from checkers and horseshoe tournaments to pork chop-eating contests and a parade. Fans of “The Andy Griffith Show” will feel right at home.
Yadkin Valley Pumpkin Festival
Date: September 28, 2024
Location: Elkin
Head to Elkin for the Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off, where East Coast farmers compete for a $1,000 prize. A 5k/1k Run, Carnival rides, pumpkin-themed food, and local craft vendors make this festival a fall favorite. Check it out!
Wilmington Riverfest
Date: October 5-6, 2024
Location: Historic Downtown Wilmington
Located along the scenic Cape Fear River, Wilmington's Riverfest is a free two-day festival. Craft vendors, live music, and fireworks on Saturday night make this event one you won’t want to miss. With more than 200,000 people attending, it’s one of Wilmington’s largest and most beloved events.
Carolina Renaissance Festival
Date: Weekends, October 5 – November 24, 2024
Location: Huntersville
Step back in time at the Carolina Renaissance Festival, one of the largest festivals in the Charlotte area. With jousting knights, falconers, sea-fairy mermaids, and 14 stages of continuous entertainment, this festival offers a magical escape. Come explore the 16th-century European village of Fairhaven!
Brushy Mountain Apple Festival
Date: October 5, 2024
Location: North Wilkesboro
One of the largest arts and crafts festivals in the Southeast, the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival is a must for lovers of local craftsmanship and Appalachian heritage. Enjoy live music, food, and apple products galore! More Info
Autumn Leaves Festival
Date: October 11-13, 2024
Location: Mount Airy
For a true taste of Appalachian culture, the Autumn Leaves Festival in Mount Airy is a must-visit. This three-day event features local crafts, music, and delicious food, all in the heart of Andy Griffith’s hometown.
North Carolina State Fair
Date: October 17-27, 2024
Location: Raleigh
Fall wouldn’t be complete without the NC State Fair. For 10 days, Raleigh becomes a hub for food, rides, and live music. Be sure to check out the Homegrown Music Fest, featuring regional artists, and sip on local brews and ciders. More Info
Taylorsville Apple Festival
Date: October 19, 2024
Location: Taylorsville
Celebrating 34 years, the Taylorsville Apple Festival promises a day full of entertainment, food, and fun for all ages. With local vendors, live performances, and of course, apples, it’s the perfect small-town festival to kick off your fall.
North Carolina Oyster Festival
Date: October 19-20, 2024
Location: Ocean Isle Beach
Get your fill of coastal charm at the 38th Annual North Carolina Oyster Festival. Known for its oyster shucking and eating contests, this beachside festival also features live music and a shag dance competition. Don’t miss the oyster stew cook-off on Sunday! More Info
Carolina BalloonFest
Date: October 18-20, 2024
Location: Statesville
Soar to new heights at the 49th Annual Carolina BalloonFest, the second oldest hot air balloon festival in the U.S. Whether you want to take a ride or simply watch the balloons float across the sky, this festival offers a magical experience. There’s also live music, a craft beer garden, and more!
Lexington Barbecue Festival
Date: October 26, 2024
Location: Lexington
Known as the "Barbecue Capital of the World," Lexington hosts the ultimate barbecue festival, now in its 39th year. Enjoy Western-style barbecue, a pig-themed sand sculpture, and over 300 vendors, along with a classic car cruise-in and antique displays. Check it out!
Highlands Food & Wine Festival
Date: November 7-10, 2024
Location: Highlands
If you’re looking for a gourmet getaway, head to Highlands for their Food & Wine Festival. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, this festival showcases dishes prepared by top chefs from the Southeast. Expect fantastic wine pairings, live music, and breathtaking views.
Fall season in North Carolina is a time to celebrate. Whether you're into history, food, or breathtaking sights, these festivals will make your fall season even more enjoyable!