10 Festivals To Kick Off Fall In Vermont

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Tractor and wagon full of pumpkins, scarecrows, and corn stalks

VT Fall Festivals To visit during your stay

As summer fades away, Vermont's picturesque landscapes transform into a vibrant tapestry of colors, welcoming the enchanting season of fall. With the arrival of autumn, the Green Mountain State comes alive with a myriad of festivals and celebrations that capture the essence of this magical time. If you're planning a visit to Vermont during the fall season, be sure to mark your calendar for these delightful festivals that will kick off your autumn adventure in style:

Orleans County Fair

September 6-10 - Barton, VT

Experience the timeless charm of an authentic agricultural fair at the Orleans County Fair in Barton. Established in 1867, this beloved event showcases traditional fair attractions such as livestock exhibits, tractor pulls, horse shows, and thrilling carnival rides. Indulge in classic fair treats and immerse yourself in the rich rural heritage of Vermont.

Moos & Brews & Cocktails too!

September 8th - Woodstock, VT

Savor the flavors of Vermont at the Moos & Brews & Cocktails Too! festival in the quaint town of Woodstock. This event brings together craft breweries, cocktail artisans, and local food vendors, offering a delightful culinary experience. The festivities are enhanced by live music, creating the perfect ambiance to unwind and enjoy the fall vibes.

Taste Of montpelier festival

September 9th. - Montpelier, VT

Foodies rejoice! The Taste of Montpelier Food Festival is a culinary extravaganza that highlights the region's gastronomic delights. Sample a diverse array of mouthwatering dishes from the city's finest restaurants and food vendors. Whether you're a gourmet enthusiast or a casual food lover, this festival will leave your taste buds thoroughly satisfied.

chester fall festival

September 15th & 16th - Chester, VT

The Chester Fall Festival is a charming celebration of arts, crafts, and local talent. Explore a diverse range of handmade crafts and artworks while enjoying live music and scrumptious treats. With its small-town charm and vibrant atmosphere, Chester welcomes visitors to experience the essence of fall in Vermont.

Colors of the kingdom festival

September 16th - St. Johnsbury, VT

Prepare to be mesmerized by the Colors of The Kingdom Festival in St. Johnsbury. This celebration captures the breathtaking fall foliage that graces Vermont's landscape. The festival features art exhibits, local vendors, and live entertainment all in the charming downtown of St. Johnsbury, VT.

VonTrapp oktoberfest

September 17th - Stowe, VT

Embrace the spirit of Bavaria in the heart of Vermont at the Von Trapp Oktoberfest in Stowe. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Green Mountains, this festival pays homage to the Austrian heritage of the Von Trapp family. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and indulge in classic Oktoberfest fare and a variety of craft beers.

Wine & harvest festival

September 22nd & 23rd - Dover, VT

Wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike will delight in the Wine & Harvest Festival in Dover. Experience the best of Vermont's wine scene with tastings from local wineries, complemented by gourmet cheeses and culinary delights. The stunning fall foliage serves as the perfect backdrop for this sophisticated festival.

Bristol Harvest fest

September 23rd - Bristol, VT

Celebrate the bounty of the season at the Bristol Harvest Festival. This family-friendly event in the charming town of Bristol features pumpkin carving, hayrides, live music, and a farmers' market teeming with fresh produce and artisanal goods. Immerse yourself in the warm community spirit as you embrace the fall festivities.

Burke fall festival

September 30th - East Burke, VT

Nestled in the heart of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, the Burke Fall Festival promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. This charming event features live music, local artisans showcasing their crafts, delectable food vendors, and exciting activities for the whole family. Embrace the crisp fall air and revel in the beauty of Burke as you immerse yourself in the festivities.

fall dog party

October 7th - Dog Mountain, St. Johnsbury, VT

Join in the festivities at the Dog Mountain Fall Party in St. Johnsbury. This unique event celebrates the bond between humans and their furry companions, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Dog Mountain. Enjoy pet-friendly activities, live music, local food vendors, and explore the Dog Chapel—an artistic tribute to beloved pets.

Fall in Vermont is a time of wonder and enchantment, and these festivals offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the state's rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality. So pack your sweaters, grab your camera, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the splendors of autumn in Vermont. These festivals are sure to leave you with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for this beautiful season.

Snow-covered forest trail winds through bare trees on a sunny day.

From Snow to Dirt

By Jenifer O • March 14, 2026
How the NEK Transitions Between Seasons
Orange boots in a puddle, reflecting a blurry figure and the sky.

Best Mud Season Adventures in the NEK

By Jenifer O • March 7, 2026
(Yes, They Exist)
Woman and child in red raincoats jump in a puddle, smiling, on a rainy day outdoors.

Mud Season Isn’t a Secret

By Jenifer O • March 2, 2026
In Vermont, mud season often gets whispered about—spoken of as something to avoid, endure, or escape. But in the Northeast Kingdom, mud season isn’t a flaw in the calendar. It’s a transition , and an important one. At The Wildflower Inn, we see mud season not as downtime, but as a pause—a chance for the land to rest, reset, and prepare for what comes next. What Mud Season Really Means Mud season happens when winter loosens its grip, but spring hasn’t fully arrived. Snow melts. The ground thaws. Trails soften. Roads tell stories. It’s not messy by accident—it’s the natural result of a landscape waking up after months of snow and cold. And while it may change how we move through the NEK, it doesn’t mean adventure stops. It just looks different. Why Mud Season Matters This season is essential for the health of the land. When trails are given time to dry: Soil structure stays intact Erosion is minimized Trail systems last longer Future seasons are better for everyone Choosing patience now means better riding, hiking, and exploring later. Adjusting Expectations (Not Canceling Plans) Mud season isn’t about cancellation—it’s about adaptation. This is the time to: Trade technical trails for gravel roads Swap long hikes for shorter walks Explore towns, shops, and quiet corners Slow your pace and notice what’s changing The NEK has a way of rewarding those who pay attention. Beauty in the In-Between There’s something special about this in-between season. Snow still clings to shaded woods. Streams run high. The air smells like earth instead of ice. The first signs of green begin to appear. Mud season offers a kind of raw beauty—less polished, more honest. A Season for Thoughtful Travel Mud season asks visitors to be partners in stewardship. Wearing appropriate footwear, respecting closures, and choosing low-impact activities all help protect the places we love. At The Wildflower, we believe good travel means leaving places better than you found them. That mindset matters most in seasons like this. Spring Is Coming Mud season doesn’t last forever. It’s a short but meaningful chapter between winter adventure and spring energy. And when you embrace it for what it is—a season of transition—it becomes something to appreciate rather than avoid. Here in the NEK, we don’t rush the seasons. We let them happen. Stay Wild.
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