North Carolina is home to a variety of fall festivals that celebrate everything from apples to Oktoberfest, each with its own unique charm. Whether you are in the mountains, on the coast, or in the Piedmont, there’s a festival for everyone. Explore the best fall festivals in NC and plan your visit to experience the rich culture and fun activities the state has to offer.
Best Fall Festivals in the NC Mountains
NC Apple Festival: Hendersonville, NC
Celebrate the apple harvest at the NC Apple Festival in Hendersonville. This event features apple growers, arts and crafts, live music, and a street fair, making it one of the best fall festivals in NC. Enjoy a variety of apple products, including cider and apple pies, while participating in family-friendly activities.
Brushy Mountain Apple Fall Festival: North Wilkesboro, NC
The Brushy Mountain Apple Festival in North Wilkesboro is a must-visit. This festival features apples, arts and crafts, folk music, and dance performances. It’s one of the best fall festivals in NC for celebrating the apple harvest with family-friendly activities.
Autumn at Oz: Beech Mountain, NC
Autumn at Oz is a unique festival on Beech Mountain that brings the Wizard of Oz to life. Visitors can enjoy themed activities and performances that transport them to the magical world of Oz. This makes it one of the most unique fall festivals in NC.
Woolly Worm Fall Festival: Banner Elk, NC
In Banner Elk, the Woolly Worm Festival is a fun event that includes woolly worm races, crafts, food, and live entertainment. It’s a quirky and enjoyable experience, earning its spot among the best unique events in NC.
LEAF Festival: Black Mountain, NC
The LEAF Festival in Black Mountain is a cultural extravaganza featuring music, art, dance, and workshops. It’s one of the best festivals in NC to experience a mix of global cultures and local arts.
Hola Asheville: Asheville, NC
Hola Asheville celebrates Latin American culture with food, music, and dance. This vibrant event is one of the top fall festivals in NC, showcasing the diversity of Asheville.
Tweetsie Ghost Train Halloween Fall Festival: Blowing Rock, NC
For a spooky twist, visit the Tweetsie Ghost Train Halloween Festival in Blowing Rock. This event features haunted attractions, train rides, and Halloween-themed activities, making it one of the most thrilling fall festivals in NC.
ColorFest Arts and Crafts Walk: Dillsboro, NC
ColorFest in Dillsboro is perfect for art lovers. It showcases local arts, crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment, making it a delightful day out during the best fall festivals in NC.
READ ALSO: North Carolina Mountain Towns: 25 Must-Visit Spots
Best Festivals This Fall on the NC Coast
NC Seafood Festival: Morehead City, NC
The NC Seafood Festival in Morehead City is a seafood lover’s paradise. It features seafood, live entertainment, cooking demos, and contests. This festival celebrates the coastal culinary heritage of North Carolina and stands out as one of the best fall festivals in NC.
Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival: Oriental, NC
The Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival in Oriental is a music lover’s dream. It features live performances on porches throughout the town, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it one of the best fall festivals in NC for music enthusiasts.
Carolina Kite Festival: Atlantic Beach, NC
Held in Atlantic Beach, the Carolina Kite Festival is a visual treat. It includes kite flying demonstrations, contests, and family activities, making it one of the most entertaining festivals in NC.
Blackbeard’s Pirate Jamboree: Ocracoke, NC
Blackbeard’s Pirate Jamboree in Ocracoke offers pirate reenactments, music, and family activities. It’s a great way to dive into the rich pirate history of the Outer Banks, making it one of the best festivals in NC for history buffs.
OBX Brewtag: Nags Head, NC
OBX Brewtag in Nags Head combines beer tasting with unique flying competitions in the Outer Banks. This festival offers a fun blend of beer and creativity, ideal for adults and families alike, ranking it among the best fall festivals in NC.
Wilmington Riverfest: Wilmington, NC
Wilmington Riverfest features live music, food, arts and crafts, and fireworks. It’s one of the biggest and best fall festivals in NC, drawing large crowds for its diverse offerings.
Voracious and Rare Beer & Wine Festival: Wilmington, NC
For exclusive tastings, visit the Voracious and Rare Beer & Wine Festival in Wilmington. It offers rare beer and wine selections, perfect for connoisseurs looking for unique flavors, solidifying its place among the best festivals in NC.
Best Fall Festivals in the NC Piedmont
North Carolina State Fair: Raleigh, NC
The North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh is a highlight of the fall season. It features rides, games, agricultural exhibits, concerts, and food, making it a comprehensive festival experience and one of the best events in NC.
Lexington Barbecue Festival: Lexington, NC
The Lexington Barbecue Festival is a must for BBQ enthusiasts. It includes BBQ, arts and crafts, live music, and competitions, celebrating the town’s famous barbecue tradition and ranking it among the best festivals in NC.
Carolina BalloonFest: Statesville, NC
Carolina BalloonFest in Statesville offers hot air balloon rides, live performances, and family activities. It’s a spectacular sight to see the sky filled with colorful balloons, making it one of the best fall festivals in NC.
READ ALSO: Things to Do Near Statesville, NC: 47 Free and Affordable Ideas
Carolina Renaissance Festival: Huntersville, NC
In Huntersville, the Carolina Renaissance Festival brings medieval times to life with themed activities, performances, and artisan crafts. It’s a journey back in time for all ages and one of the top fall festivals in NC.
Mecktoberfest: Charlotte, NC
Mecktoberfest in Charlotte celebrates German culture with food, beer, music, and activities. It’s a lively event that brings a touch of Bavaria to North Carolina, earning its spot as one of the best festivals in NC.
Triangle Oktoberfest: Cary, NC
Triangle Oktoberfest in Cary offers German beer, food, live music, and traditional Bavarian festivities. It’s a festive and fun way to enjoy the autumn season, making it one of the best fall festivals in NC. It’s also the largest Oktoberfest in North Carolina!
Mayberry Days: Mount Airy, NC
Mayberry Days in Mount Airy celebrates “The Andy Griffith Show” with music, parades, and contests. It’s a nostalgic trip to the fictional town of Mayberry, filled with family-friendly activities, making it one of the best events in NC for fans of the show.
Family-Friendly Fall Festivals in NC
Many of these festivals are perfect for families. Events like the Woolly Worm Festival, Carolina Kite Festival, and North Carolina State Fair offer activities and attractions that children will love. Also, Carolina BalloonFest, Blackbeards Pirate Jamboree, and the Tweetsie Ghost Train are all awesome events for kids!
READ ALSO: NC Fall Activities: Your Ultimate Guide to Autumn Fun
Tips for Visiting Fall Festivals in NC
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are essentials. Also, consider bringing a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while enjoying festivals in NC.
- Best Times to Visit: Weekdays are less crowded, but weekends offer the full festival experience. Plan your visit to these top fall festivals in accordingly.
- How to Make the Most of Each Festival: Check the schedule of events and arrive early to avoid crowds and find good parking. Also, double check if there are specific events or attractions that you want to see that are only during certain times or on certain days. This will help you fully enjoy the best fall festivals in NC.
Fall Festivals in NC Takeaways
North Carolina’s fall festivals are diverse and exciting. From mountain apple festivals to coastal seafood celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visits in advance to make the most of these vibrant events. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these events are the perfect way to enjoy North Carolina in the fall. Explore the best fall festivals in NC and experience the state’s rich culture and fun activities.
