Fall in New England is famous for foliage, cozy towns, cool breezes, and the best fall festivals in New England for 2026. From pumpkin parades to harvest fairs and arts celebrations, New England delivers unforgettable autumn experiences every year. If you’re planning a trip for October or September 2026, this guide showcases the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 that are worth your travel plans, complete with insider tips and where to stay.
In this travel guide you’ll find local favorites, dates (when announced), and tips to make the most of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Why Fall Is Perfect for New England Festivals
The best fall festivals in New England for 2026 celebrate harvest time, foliage peaks, Halloween spirit, and local culture. Crisp air and bright leaf colors add magic to every event, making fall one of the most beloved travel seasons in the U.S. Each autumn festival has its own flavor — food, crafts, music, or tradition — and all are enhanced by classic New England charm.
From Maine to Connecticut, here are the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 you should consider.
1) Salem Harvest & Halloween Festival — Salem, Massachusetts
Salem hosts some of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026, especially if you love spooky fun and history.
What to expect:
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Halloween parades and haunted walks
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Costume contests and witch history tours
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Street fairs with local food and music
Salem earns its place on the list of best fall festivals in New England for 2026 thanks to its unique blend of harvest celebration and spooky atmosphere.
Best for: Families, history buffs, Halloween lovers
2) Stowe Harvest Festival — Stowe, Vermont
The Stowe Harvest Festival is one of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 for outdoor lovers.
Highlights:
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Craft vendors and local artisan booths
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Pumpkin contests and fall games
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Live music and craft beer tastings
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Scenic foliage within walking distance
This event captures the essence of autumn and ranks high among the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Best for: Couples, foodies, craft lovers
3) Portland Maine Arts & Fall Festival — Portland, Maine
Portland’s fall arts celebration is one of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 if you love creativity and culture.
What you’ll see:
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Local arts and crafts displays
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Live street performances
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Food truck gatherings and outdoor exhibits
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Trendy neighborhoods to explore
Portland’s creative energy and waterfront setting make this one of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 for cultural travelers.
Best for: Art lovers, urban explorers, food fans
4) Apple Harvest Festival — Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic’s Apple Harvest Festival ranks among the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 for classic autumn fun.
Festival features:
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Apple cider tastings and pie contests
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Craft vendors and artisan markets
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Live music and family activities
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Historic Mystic seaport ambiance
This autumn celebration is perfect for anyone wanting the fullest taste of New England fall — a true member of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 list.
Best for: Families, foodies, craft seekers
5) Vermont Foliage & Fall Festival Weekend — Various Towns
In Vermont, several small towns host fall events that are collectively some of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Notable stops in VT:
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Brattleboro Fall Foliage Festival
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Woodstock Harvest Fest
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Chester Fall Arts Festival
Each town brings local crafts, music, and foliage views — all reasons these are among the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Best for: Scenic drives, nature lovers, craft shopping
6) Big E Fall Festival — West Springfield, Massachusetts
The Big E celebrates all six New England states and is one of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 because it includes state fairs, concerts, food competitions, and agricultural exhibits.
Highlights include:
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Live music stages
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Farm animal displays
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Food competitions and unique regional foods
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Fair rides and games
The Big E is a must-see on any list of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Best for: Families, food lovers, fair fans
7) Manchester Harvest Festival — Manchester, New Hampshire
Manchester hosts one of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 with a cozy city vibe.
Fest features:
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Artisan vendors and live music
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Local restaurant showcases
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Seasonal activities and kids’ events
This festival captures small-city charm and leafy fall views, earning its spot among the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Best for: Urban wanderers, families, foodies
8) Farm and Folk Festival — Norwich, Vermont
The Farm and Folk Festival is one of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 if you appreciate local eats and folk music.
Why it’s special:
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Farm-to-table tastings
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Folk music performances
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Artisan products
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Community gatherings
This cozy, music-driven event makes lists of the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 every year.
Best for: Music lovers, foodies, community travelers
Planning Tips for 2026
🍁 Book Lodging Early
Places like Stowe, Salem, and Mystic fill up fast for the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
🗓 Check Dates (Subject to Announcement)
Many festival organizers finalize dates in early 2026. Keep your travel dates flexible.
🧳 Pack Layers
New England fall weather can change — cool mornings and mild afternoons are common.
🚗 Drive Scenic Routes
Combine your festival stops with foliage drives — a classic pairing for enjoying the best fall festivals in New England for 2026.
Best Time to Visit for Fall Festivals
The peak time for the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 is:
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Late September to Mid October — ideal foliage and festival weather
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Weekends — festival hubs are busiest
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Off-peak weekdays — fewer crowds
Plan around leaf-peak prediction maps for a better overall experience.
Final Thoughts
If you love colorful leaves, local culture, music, food, and crafts, then the best fall festivals in New England for 2026 deliver unforgettable memories. From spooky Salem celebrations to apple harvests, farm festivals, and multi-state fairs, fall in New England turns ordinary weekends into bucket-list travel experiences.
Pack your camera, map out your route, and make time for scenic drives in between these best fall festivals in New England for 2026 — it’s a season you’ll remember.
