6 Recommended Fall Festivals in Virginia

Virginia Thanksgiving Festival, Charles City, VA

Every year, the Berkley Plantation in Charles City celebrates the fall season by re-enacting the first Thanksgiving. The festival features a horse-drawn carriage parade, musicians, magicians, dancers, crafts, activities, and a corn maze. Get into the Thanksgiving spirit the old-fashioned way.

Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival, Staunton, VA

The Shenandoah Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and the people of Staunton celebrate the coming of fall with the annual Fall Foliage Bike Festival. The festival attracts bicyclists from all over the mid-Atlantic, including families. 

Crab Carnival, West Point, VA

The Crab Carnival is the perfect family event. The free carnival includes a Firefighter’s Parade, children’s bike race, live music, fireworks, food, arts and crafts vendors, and, of course, the carnival, among other events.

Harrisonburg International Festival, Harrisonburg, VA

Take a trip to Harrisonburg for the annual International Festival, celebrating Harrisonburg’s diversity and hospitality. This family-friendly event features food, crafts, and activities, including traditional performances that highlight the different cultures on display, performed by people of that culture.

State Fair of Virginia, Doswell, VA

Doswell hosts the annual State Fair of Virginia each fall. Features attractions include the Famous Rosaire's Pig Race, Heritage Village Music Series, a rodeo, an FMX bike show, the Virginia Logger's Association demonstrations, and more. Indulge in incredible state fair food while you peruse all that Virginia has to offer.

43rd Street Festival of the Arts, Richmond, VA

Each fall, artists from around the state apply to participate in the 43rd Street Festival of the Arts in Virginia's capitol, Richmond. With limited spots, only the best artists are offered spots to sell their wares. Purchase from many of the best artists in the state and enjoy a live music line-up, too.

Key Insights at a Glance

• Virginians love fall and celebrate it with a variety of festivals
• Berkley Plantation in Charles City re-enacts the first Thanksgiving
• Staunton hosts the Fall Foliage Bike Festival in the Shenandoah Valley
• West Point's Crab Carnival is a family-friendly event with a Firefighter’s Parade
• Harrisonburg's International Festival celebrates diversity with food and performances
• Doswell's State Fair of Virginia features attractions like pig races and a rodeo
• Richmond's 43rd Street Festival of the Arts showcases the best artists in the state