Fall Into Fun: The Best Fall Festivals and Activities in Charlottesville
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin their colorful descent, Charlottesville transforms into a hub of fall festivities and scenic charm. From lively weekend festivals to peaceful pumpkin picking, the region offers countless ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re a long-time local or new to the area, autumn is the perfect time to explore all that Central Virginia has to offer—just minutes from your doorstep at Brookdale Apartments.
Fall Festivals Near Charlottesville:
Fall Festivals You Can Count On
Celebrate autumn’s charm at these beloved annual festivals near Charlottesville—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers.
Fall Into Fun Festival
Held each September, this local favorite kicks off the season with pumpkin and apple picking, live music, wagon rides, and fresh apple butter. Because of its beautiful mountain backdrop, it’s the perfect first taste of fall.
Graves Mountain Apple Festival
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this October festival spans three weekends and offers live music, hayrides, pony rides, and delicious apple treats like cider, butter, and pies. As a result, it has become a fall tradition that draws families back year after year.
Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival
In addition to apple harvest celebrations, fall also brings artistic flair. Every October, the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival highlights handmade goods, artisan crafts, food trucks, and entertainment—making it the ideal event for a creative and relaxing weekend stroll.
Foxfield Family Day Races
For a change of pace, the fall edition of this popular steeplechase combines equestrian sports with kid-friendly activities, tailgating, and a relaxed country setting. This event is great for families who want to enjoy both tradition and fresh air.
Snow’s Garden Center Fall Festival
Meanwhile, closer to home, Snow’s Garden Center turns festive in October with pumpkins, mums, seasonal décor, and activities for children. It’s an easy and affordable way to enjoy autumn without leaving Charlottesville.
Bellair Farm Fall Fest Weekend
Finally, as the season winds down, Bellair Farm closes October with a weekend of hayrides, farm animals, local food, and live music. Surrounded by wide-open spaces, this event is a wonderful way to end the season with a touch of country charm.
Fall Activities Worth Exploring
Not all fall adventures come wrapped in festivals. In fact, Charlottesville offers plenty of simple seasonal activities that make autumn just as enjoyable.
Pick-Your-Own Orchards: For example, Chiles Peach Orchard and Carter Mountain Orchard allow visitors to pick apples, sip cider, and shop farm markets. These outings pair fresh produce with mountain views.
Scenic Drives & Fall Foliage: In addition, a drive along Charlottesville’s rolling backroads or up to Carter Mountain reveals sweeping fall foliage—especially breathtaking as the leaves peak.
Outdoor Recreation: Similarly, cooler weather makes this the perfect time to explore local hiking trails, go camping, stroll corn mazes, or visit nearby parks. Whether you choose a short walk or a day-long outing, the crisp air is refreshing.
Local Farms & Markets: Moreover, fall is prime season for fresh produce and handmade treats. Local markets are full of mums, pumpkins, baked goods, and seasonal decorations.
Plan Your Pumpkin Adventure
Of course, no fall season would be complete without pumpkins. For even more seasonal fun, be sure to check out our Pumpkin Patch Blog for the best local patches, carving tips, and festive ideas. It’s the perfect companion to your fall festival calendar.
Want More Fall Fun?
Brookdale Events Page for up-to-date listings of seasonal happenings, community events, and local highlights. Whether you’re looking for a cozy fall day or a festive outing, Brookdale keeps you connected to Charlottesville’s seasonal spirit.