As the leaves transform into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, Vermont emerges as a picturesque haven for autumn enthusiasts. Renowned for its vibrant foliage, charming small towns, and rich agricultural heritage, the Green Mountain State offers a plethora of autumn festivals that celebrate the season in style. From lively pumpkin festivals to arts and crafts fairs, Vermont’s autumn events are a delightful blend of culture, community, and natural beauty. In this article, we will explore the top festivals, traditional activities, and culinary delights that make Vermont a must-visit destination during the fall, ensuring that visitors and locals alike can fully embrace the magic of this enchanting season.
Ah, autumn in Vermont! Just imagine: the crisp air, the kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows in the trees, and the unmistakable scent of apple cider wafting through the air. It’s a time when every corner of the Green Mountain State transforms into a postcard-worthy scene that makes you want to jump in a pile of leaves and shout, “I love fall!” With the arrival of sweater weather and pumpkin spice everything, Vermont opens its arms wide to celebrate the season through a plethora of festivals that capture the essence of fall like a well-placed Instagram filter. So grab your favorite flannel, and let’s dive into the vibrant celebration of autumn that Vermont has to offer!
Attending a Vermont autumn festival is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the state during one of its most spectacular seasons. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun weekend activity or a visitor hoping to experience the magic of Vermont in the fall, these festivals offer something for everyone. From delicious seasonal foods to unique handmade crafts to family-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of things to see and do at a Vermont autumn festival.
September 2026 Festivals
August 28 – September 6, 2026
Address: 105 Pearl St, Essex Junction, VT 05452
Vermont’s ten best days of summer. Animals, agriculture, food, rides, concerts and fun!
One night only! … Spend a beautiful fall weekend enjoying live music, craft beer, and local food at Smugglers’!
Saturday, September 5, 2026
Address: 105 Pearl St, Essex Junction, VT 05452
Vermont will transform into Garlic Town, USA in celebration of all things garlic! Garlic Town brings over 130 vendors to our downtown “cloves” including garlic farmers, craft vendors, food trucks and treats, live bands and entertainment, chef demonstrations, kids activities, sidewalk sales from local merchants and so much more!
September 5 and 6, 2026 – 10 am – 5 pm
Address: Kenyon’s Field. Rt100. Waitsfield, VT
Picture yourself in the shadows of the beautiful Green Mountains listening to live music while you sip a craft cocktail! From small whimsical items for a few dollars to major artwork and jewelry, there is something for everyone.
September 5 and September 6, 2026
Address: President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site. Plymouth Notch, VT
Stars from Vermont and internationally known musicians team up for a lively two-day festival of folk and blues music performed in the pure country air of historic Plymouth Notch
Repeatedly voted one of the “Top 10 Fall Events” by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, the Vermont Golden Honey Festival is part Farmers Market with local produce and hot food, and part craft fair.
Sept 19 – Sept 20. 2026 9am – 5pm
Address: Along The Common in Chester, Vt
For over 40 years, this annual event is has been held as a hallmark kick off to the beginning of fall foliage season here in our Vermont town, where hundreds of people converge on our historic Green from all over New England.
Sept 18 – Sept 19. 2026 4pm-7pm/ 11am – 5pm
Address: Wilmington-West Dover, Vt
Set in the backdrop of our world-renowned Vermont fall foliage, attendees of the 16th Annual Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival will discover, savor and enjoy Vermont vintners, small specialty food producers, chefs, painters, publishers, cheese makers, potters, jewelers, photographers, and farmers.
Join us for the 26th annual Bristol Harvest Festival, presented by the Addison County Chamber, with support from the Bristol Recreation Department. The town green will come alive with 70+ crafters, food and live musical entertainment on the bandstand throughout the day. Continue down Main Street for merchant sales and support our local businesses.
Follow a Vermont woodland path sprinkled with charming fairy houses for a magical experience of the natural world. Crafts for all ages, face painting, bubbles, costumes, and a lasting sense of wonder for the fall season.
TBD Check website for details
Address: Stowe Events Field, 120 Weeks Hill Rd, Stowe, VT
The 16th Annual Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival celebrates the sport of “chuckin” pumpkins. The competition is for distance, using a do-it-yourself constructed trebuchet, which is a gravity powered catapult.
Enjoy live music, food trucks and a chili cook-off contest. The festival raises critical funds to support the Clarina Howard Nichols Center’s work of ending domestic and sexual violence in Lamoille County.
October/ November 2026 Festivals
October 3 – 4, 2026. 10am – 5pm
Address: Tunbridge Fairgrounds. Tunbridge, VT
The Green Mountain Knitting Guild invites you to participate in the Green Mountain Shawl Project, an annual activity that has become a Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival tradition. This year the Green Mountain Shawl is – the Lindal Turritella by Ona Wöldten!
For over a decade, Autumn on the Green has been bringing crafters, artisans, antiques and food to the center of beautiful Danville, Vermont. Always on the first Sunday in October!
October 11 – 12, 2025. 10am – 5pm
Address: Main Street Park at Junction of Routes 4 & 7 in Rutland, Vt
Each year, the Chaffee Art Center presents our Annual Summer and Fall Art in the Park Festivals featuring fine artists and craft persons, specialty foods, kid’s activities, and musical entertainment.
Every October for the last 53 years, locals and visitors alike have enjoyed the Newfane Heritage Festival, which showcases a juried selection of artists and craftspeople, as well as delicious food, a Super Raffle, and live entertainment.
Attending Vermont autumn festivals is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories with friends and family. Whether you’re sipping on hot apple cider, picking out the perfect pumpkin, or admiring the work of talented artisans, there’s no shortage of things to see and do at these festive events. Plus, the friendly atmosphere and sense of community make them a truly special experience that you won’t soon forget.
Vermont autumn festivals offer a unique blend of natural beauty, artistry, and community spirit that makes them a must-visit destination during the fall months. So pack your bags, grab a sweater, and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Vermont’s autumn foliage at these unforgettable festivals.