8 fun fall festivals in Virginia

Fall is quickly approaching, and so are the season’s annual festivals.

Throughout the commonwealth, Virginia’s autumn shin-digs include pumpkins, petting zoos, corn mazes, and apples galore. 

Apple festivals and picking are a large part of Virginia’s fall celebrations because of the fruit’s historical roots. In the 1800s, Virginia was the largest apple grower in the United States, and the state’s deep love of apples continues today with many of Virginia’s apple-centric fall festivals. 

Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival

Since 1969, this farm has hosted the fall event of the season. Now in its 55th year, the festival takes place on the first three weekends in October and includes fun for the entire family, including farm experiences, petting zoos, and everything apple-themed. It also features live music and food, as well as their wine and beer tent. Tickets are just $5 per person, so be sure to get your tickets today. 

Apple Dumpling Festival

The entire town of Stuart transforms during the Apple Dumpling Festival. With multiple festival events throughout, including music, crafts, games for the family, and most importantly– apple dumplings galore — this one-day-only event takes place on October 19. There’s even a 5K. Tickets are $30 at the door or $25 with pre-registration. 

Richmond Folk Festival

Ring in the new season with some hearty folk music at Richmond’s 20th annual Folk Festival. Taking place from September 27-September 29, this event features more than 30 folk artists across six stages alongside food vendors, crafts, and more. Hosted along the James River, this free event has become one of the most popular events in Virginia, and it continues to draw crowds year after year. 

Virginia State Fair

Held every fall in Caroline County, the State Fair of Virginia boasts many competitions, like equine and livestock, live music, food vendors, and an artisan market for fantastic shopping. The State Fair takes place from September 27 to October 6, 2024, and general admission for the fair is $16.50 for guests five years and up. 

Cox Farms Fall Festival

Looking for fall-themed merriment for the kids? Look no further than Cox Farms this season. Their attractions include swings, petting zoos, slides, hayrides, and more for the whole family to enjoy. This festival takes place from September 14 to November 5, and ticket prices vary by day, so be sure to check Cox Farm’s website for more information. 

Hunt Club Farm’s Harvest Fair

This Virginia Beach staple event goes from the end of September until Halloween,and features pumpkins, fall festivities, hayrides, and more. Animal lovers will appreciate its bird sanctuary and other animals at their petting zoos. Looking for a fright? During the Halloween season, Hunt Club’s Harvest Festival turns into the Haunted Hunt Club Farm, so you get the best of both worlds. Tickets for the Harvest Festival are $18 per person, so keep an eye out for when they go on sale. 

Bland County Festival of Leaves

Fall is the time of year when leaves are most beautiful, and Bland County’s Festival of Leaves puts fall foliage on full display. This free event celebrates the colors and culture surrounding autumn in Virginia, hosting many vendors and activities so that there’s something for everyone.

Clarksville Harvest Days Festival

On October 5, the streets of Clarksville will transform for their Harvest Days Festival. Vendors will line the streets with unique creations, antiques, food, and more. Kids can also participate in arts and crafts and other fall-fun-themed activities. This event is free and open to the public, so be sure to join them and welcome the fall with their festivities.