No place in the world does fall quite like New England! The fall foliage, the cozy food, the beautiful scenery, from mountains to coastline — it all comes together to create one picturesque autumn setting. If your travel plans include a quick trip to the region this month or next, consider traveling in time to make one of these top fall festivals.
1. The New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival
Taking place Oct. 18–19, the New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival in Laconia fully takes to heart the state’s ranking as Pumpkin Capital of the World. The festival has set multiple world records for most jack o’ lanterns lit in one spot, with the last world record set in 2013 with more than 30,000 jack o’ lanterns. In addition to all the pumpkins, enjoy the rides, a 10K and plenty of festive vendors.
2. The Wellfleet Oysterfest
If you prefer food to carved pumpkins, then you might opt to visit the OysterFest in Wellfleet, Massachusetts, the same weekend. Over Oct. 19 and 20, you can enjoy Cape Cod in full fall fanfare, as you dine on oysters and clams any way you like ‘em. If the live music, vendors and food aren’t enough, you can also try your hand at oyster shucking. Just watch your fingers — it’s not as easy as it looks.
3. Martha’s Vineyard Food and Wine Festival
The next weekend, turn your attention to the Martha’s Vineyard Food and Wine Festival, Oct. 23–27. Foodies, farmers, fishermen, chefs and artisans all come together to celebrate the best of the best when it comes to local ingredients and products. Events during the festival range from tastings to sit-down dinners to seminars. You’ll want to get your tickets soon, though. Festival events are already beginning to sell out.
4. Franklin County CiderDays
In November, you’ll have a chance to combine your New England travel with one of the best parts of the fall season: fresh apples. Franklin County CiderDays takes place Nov. 1–3 all across Franklin County, Massachusetts. Expect orchard tours, loads of cider (both fresh and hard) and apples cooked in all kinds of sweet and savory manners.
5. Maine Harvest Festival
Toward the end of the season, wrap up your fall festivities with a trip to Maine for the annual Maine Harvest Festival, Nov. 23–24. This is the place to be for foodies this fall, as there’s so much scrumptious, locally-grown and sourced Maine food to be had, from produce to pies, wine and spirits. Catch a few cooking demos while you’re there, but also demos on traditional skills such as sheep shearing, basket weaving and more.
How are you getting there?
Headed to New England this fall? Teddy’s can help you get there, with private car service throughout the New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts regions. Whether you just need a private driver to get you and your crew to fall fests safely this season, or a larger vehicle to accommodate your entire family or even a ride from the airport to your destination of choice, Teddy’s has you covered. To schedule a private car service for your next outing, click here.
