It may still be summer, but it's time to plan for those lovely, cool, fresh fall weekends. Last year we focused on Pumpkin Festivals, and we’ve kept our favorites listed at the bottom of the blog; but there’s just so much going on during the fall in and around Boston that we simply have to share some of our favorite non-gourd-related festivals, too. These are in roughly chronological order, so scroll down and fill up that calendar!
Did you know Somerville's Union Square was the birthplace of Fluff? Celebrate the 101st anniversary of one of Greater Boston's sweetest inventions at the 13th annual What the Fluff Festival—featuring musical performances, activities, and Fluff treats of every sort.
"Game of Thrones" fans, this is for you! Travel back to medieval times at the 37th annual King Richard's Faire—New England's largest Renaissance fair. Enjoy tiger shows, turkey legs, rides, royal parades, music, merriment, and more with the whole family.
HONK!, October 5–7 in Davis Square, Somerville
This extended marching band parade and festival takes place in one of Somerville’s coolest neighborhoods. You’ll listen to great music and see some of the most impressive marching bands from all over the country. If you’ve never been, this is the year to make it.
If you’ve never been to an Open Studios event, this would be a great one to start with. Artists who live in the Fort Point area will open their studios to the public. You’ll see art from all kinds of makers: pottery, painting, sculpture, and much, much more. You just have to get your map and show up!
Copley Square hosts this yearly event that “promotes a culture of reading and ideas and enhances the vibrancy of our city.” Check out their schedule and see Tayari Jones, Michael Pollan, Doris Kearns Goodwin and other incredible writers in person. Browse the incredible selection of books from Boston and beyond, and...READ!
Applefest, October 13–14 at Wachusett Mountain, Princeton MA
Visit the mountain before the snow comes and check out over a hundred crafts tables, farmers’ market, and take a spin on the SkyRide (ski lift above the lovely Fall foliage).
This is the 23rd annual festival, which features vendors, speakers, chefs and… you?
Highlights include a giant 50-foot tube slide, pumpkins galore, a corn maze and apple cannons.
This Sudbury favorite farm and market features fresh-cut flowers, homemade apple cider doughnuts and caramel apples on the weekends, and potato blasters (in addition to their usual selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and a great sandwich counter).
This year they’ve pulled out all the stops with an enormous puzzle-based corn maze with all kinds of activities to complete while you’re in the labyrinth. Plus a zip line + dozens more activities. There are specific fees for Davis Farmland, so plan your trip accordingly.
Make the trek to this festival and you won’t be disappointed. Featuring a tower of 20,000 glowing jack-o-lanterns (you can reserve a place for your own pumpkin beforehand if you want to take part in the annual spectacle).
They also have horse-drawn hay rides, as well as live bands and performers.
Bring your kids and/or small, carved pumpkins and float them on the Frog Pond! The pumpkins, not the kids. This is a delightful, family-friendly event.