Virginia is one of the best places in the country to celebrate autumn. With its rolling mountains, vibrant foliage, crisp weather, and rich history, the state offers a wide variety of festivals that showcase everything from harvest traditions to craft brews, wine, music, and family fun. Whether you’re a foodie, a music lover, or someone who simply enjoys a stroll through pumpkin patches, there’s a fall festival in Virginia with your name on it.

1. Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival (Winchester)

Few things say “fall” like apples, and Winchester is famous for them. The Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival is a family-friendly event featuring apple tastings, cider samples, apple butter demonstrations, craft vendors, and a lively kids’ zone. You’ll also find live entertainment and a hard cider garden for adults.

Festival Highlight: A celebration of Virginia’s apple-growing heritage, offering everything from traditional treats to modern cider tastings.

2. Virginia Wine & Garlic Festival (Amherst)

If you love wine and garlic, this quirky combination makes for an unforgettable fall weekend. Hosted at Rebec Vineyards, the festival pairs Virginia’s best wines with garlicky food creations. From garlic ice cream to roasted cloves, you’ll find deliciously bold options. Add in live music, craft vendors, and wine tastings, and it’s easy to see why this is one of Virginia’s most popular fall festivals.

Don’t Miss This: A unique blend of culinary adventure and fine Virginia wines, perfect for those who love bold flavors.

3. Graves’ Mountain Apple Harvest Festival (Syria)

Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this festival is a classic Virginia tradition. Families can enjoy hayrides, fresh apple cider, bluegrass music, pony rides, and local crafts. The stunning mountain backdrop makes it a perfect fall day trip.

What Makes It Special: A true Virginia tradition combining scenic mountain views with family-friendly autumn fun.

4. Urbanna Oyster Festival (Urbanna)

Though not a traditional fall foliage festival, the Urbanna Oyster Festival is Virginia’s official oyster festival and a celebration of the Chesapeake Bay’s heritage. You’ll find oyster tastings (raw, steamed, fried, and roasted), a waterfront parade, arts and crafts, and educational exhibits about the Bay’s ecosystem.

Festival Highlight: A seafood lover’s dream that puts Virginia’s oysters and coastal traditions in the spotlight.

5. Richmond Folk Festival (Richmond)

Held along the James River, the Richmond Folk Festival draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every fall. It features traditional music, dance, food, and crafts from cultures around the world. With multiple stages and free admission, it’s one of Virginia’s largest and most diverse festivals.

Don’t Miss This: A cultural powerhouse bringing global traditions, sounds, and flavors to Virginia’s capital.

6. Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour (Mount Vernon)

For a more refined fall outing, head to George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Guests can enjoy Virginia wines while strolling through the estate at sunset. The historic mansion is open for candlelit tours, making this festival both elegant and educational.

What Makes It Special: History meets fine wine in a picturesque setting overlooking the Potomac River.

Virginia Fall Festival Calendar (September – November)

Here’s a quick snapshot of when and where some of Virginia’s most popular fall festivals take place. Dates can vary slightly year-to-year, so always confirm with the official event website before planning your trip.

September

• Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour – Mount Vernon, early September
• Richmond Folk Festival – Richmond, mid-to-late September
• Blue Ridge Folklife Festival – Ferrum, late September

October

• Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival – Winchester, early October
• Graves’ Mountain Apple Harvest Festival – Syria, first three weekends in October
• Virginia Wine & Garlic Festival – Amherst, mid-October
• Colonial Beach Bike Festival – Colonial Beach, mid-October
• Fall for Fairfax KidsFest – Fairfax, early October

November

• Urbanna Oyster Festival – Urbanna, first weekend in November
• Craft + Design Show – Richmond, early November
• Virginia Thanksgiving Festival at Berkeley Plantation – Charles City, late November

Travel Tips for Experiencing Virginia’s Fall Festivals

• Dress in layers—Virginia fall weather can shift from warm afternoons to chilly evenings.
• Arrive early for popular festivals, as parking and crowds build quickly.
• Bring cash—some local vendors may not accept cards, especially at smaller community festivals.
• Don’t forget your camera! Peak foliage makes every moment worth capturing.

FAQs

1. What is the best month to visit fall festivals in Virginia?
Most fall festivals take place from late September through early November, with peak foliage typically in mid-to-late October.

2. Are Virginia’s fall festivals family-friendly?
Yes! Many festivals, such as the Graves’ Mountain Apple Harvest Festival and Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival, feature hayrides, pumpkin patches, kids’ games, and live music that make them perfect for families.

3. Do I need tickets in advance for these festivals?
Some festivals like the Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival require advance tickets due to limited capacity, while larger events such as the Richmond Folk Festival are free and open to the public. Always check the event’s website before you go.

Plan Your Virginia Fall Adventure

Thinking of exploring Virginia this fall? Whether you’re visiting for a festival, scenic drive, or just the autumn colors, we can help guide you to the best spots.