New England Fall Events Well Worth The Drive

New England Fall Events That Will Entertain The Whole Family

As we say farewell to summer breezes and the hectic pace of back-to-school September, it’s time to take a big gulp of fresh air and head off on a New England Fall road trip.  With the Columbus Day Weekend ahead, leaves have already begun their brilliant autumn show.

Below are our top New England Fall Foliage Tips.

The White Mountains region of New Hampshire and Maine, and Green Mountains of Vermont, deliver some of the most beautiful  fall foliage viewing in the country.  But you’ll want more than just a pretty view to coax you to visit, so we’ve found fun fall events that will make your destination as exciting as the journey to get there.

Maine Fall Events

Famed Fryeburg Fair, September 30 – October 7
Since 1851, the Fryeburg Fair has signaled the true start of fall foliage season in the Mount Washington Valley.  The fair kicks off on Monday 9/30 and continues through the following Sunday, 7am – 9pm daily.  This agricultural fair is the oldest in the country and considered by many to be the best for rides, fair food, contests, farm animals, demonstrations and A-list entertainers.  And the best part is that children under 12 are free to enter!  Don’t miss the fireworks on Friday night.

Fields on the Saco, Farm-to-Table Dinner, October 21
Fields on the Saco has been a pioneer in the popular farm-to-table movement.  Now in its 11th year, the special dinner takes place at a different farm in the Mt Washington Valley, iniviting prominent chefs in the area to cook with the freshest locally sourced ingredients.  This year the dinner will be held a The Hardy Farm in Fryeburg.  This popular event is always a sell-out so it’s worth getting your tickets early and making a note to plan for next year’s event.

New Hampshire Fall Events

Climb the Elephant at Crawford Notch, October 7

Elephant Rock is located within walking distance of the impressive AMC Highland Lodge in very picturesque Crawford Notch.  This area is a beautiful drive from either Route 95 or Route 93 in Breton Woods.  The “Climb the Elephant”  challenge is great for beginners interested in climbing outside for the first time or fors climber looking to improve their skills. You’ll learn from experienced instructors and all equipment is provided.  The reward will be the glorious view across Crawford Notch from the top of the elephants head!

Story Land – Hero Appreciation Day, October 7
Story Land has been delighting young children for generations, and is today, better than ever.  Families can easily spend an entire at Story Land visiting amusements and attractions styled after favorite childhood nursery rhymes.  Located on Rt 302 and surrounded by the White Mountains, Story Land has a magical setting.  On Sunday, October 7th, Story Land pays tribute to Veterans and First Responders by offering free admission for these ‘heros’ and reduced admission for their family members.

Attitash Mountain Oktoberfest, October 6-7
Columbus Day weekend brings Oktoberfest to Attitash Mountain Resort in Bartlet, New Hampshire.  For the 21st year, the ski hills will be ringing with Bavarian Music, while Biergartens will flow brews and ciders from 20 regional breweries.  German fare will offered and festival goers can ride the gondola to magnificent mountain top views.

Sherman Farm Corn Maze, Through November 4

Located mid-way between Fryeburg, Maine or North Conway, New Hampshire, Sherman Farm turns their 12 acres of farmland into a fall playground with a huge corn maze, petting zoo, hayrides and freshly harvested farm produce, cheeses, flowers, pumpkins and locally crafted treats.  The maze is open weekends and Columbus Day from 9/22 – 11/4 from 10 am – 5pm.

New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival, October 12-13

The Lakes Region of New Hampshire is beautiful at any time of the year, but especially so when vibrant autumn leaves are reflected in Lake Winnipesaukee.  The lakeside town of Laconia is pumpkin central for one of New England’s best fall festivals.  More than 40,000 festival attendees gather over the weekend to marvel at the 34′ tower of jack-o-lanterns and take part in pumpkin carving, contests, kiddie rides, live entertainment, zombie walk and much more.

Vermont Fall Events

Okemo Fall Into Winter Festival – October 6

Ludlow Vermont is home to famed Okemo Mountain and Jackson Gore Village where the fun goes on all year long.  This family friendly fall festival has free admission and offers a mountain of fun for all.    Activities include Big Buzz Chainsaw Carving, local vendors, seasonal brews, and live music .  Events are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m and Festival attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets for seating.  Add-on activities inclulde scenic chairlift rides on Okemo’s Sunburst Six, and access to the Evolution Bike Park and Adventure Zone.  If that’s not enough fun, you’ll also find The Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster and the Haulback Challenge Course, trampoline bungee jumping, bounce houses, miniature golf, disc golf, a climbing pinnacle, zipline tours, Segway Personal Transport tours, an inflatable Air Bag, all priced with a variety of options.

Bennington Oktoberfest, October 6

Come October, traffic along Routes 2 and 2A through western Massachusetts along the Mohawk Trail scenic byway increases dramatically.  Turning north to cross the MA/VT border, a wonderful destination awaits, the beaucolic community of Bennington.  For generations, Bennington has been renouned for its artisan community and shops for  pottery, iron, and textiles.  On the first Saturday in October, Bennington celebrates its annual Oktoberfest at Colgate Park from 11am – 5pm.  In addition to local brews, there will be live music, ethic food vendors, wagon rides and children’s activities.

So pack up the car, chart a scenic drive through your GPS, and head out to discover the wonders of Fall in New England.  All along the way you’ll find pumpkins galore, apple cider donuts, local crafts, and some of the most dramatic scenery in America!