Ultimate Guide to Fall Festivals on the Connecticut Shoreline
These Connecticut shoreline fall festivals are packed with everything you love about the season: food, music, crafts, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or simply seeking family-friendly activities, there’s a festival on this list for you. So, grab your sweater, a friend, and get ready to fall in love with autumn along the shoreline!
Fall on the Connecticut shoreline is simply magical. With crisp air, vibrant foliage, and a lineup of exciting festivals, it's the perfect time to explore everything this coastal region has to offer. From oyster tastings to garlic extravaganzas, the shoreline is brimming with must-visit fall events. Here’s your guide to the best fall festivals in Connecticut for 2024. Let's dive into the autumn fun!
1. The Guilford Fair
Dates: September 20-22, 2024
Location: Guilford Fairgrounds, Guilford, CT
The Guilford Fair is one of Connecticut’s oldest agricultural fairs, dating back to 1859, and it’s a fall tradition that locals and visitors alike look forward to every year. If you’re searching for a classic New England fair experience, look no further!
What to Expect
Agricultural Showcases: Explore charming agricultural exhibits, from livestock displays to stunning floral arrangements and prize-winning produce.
Entertainment: Enjoy live music, magic shows, and even a lumberjack competition for a mix of classic fair fun.
Daily Parade: Catch the parade featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and antique tractors that celebrate small-town charm.
Delicious Food: Indulge in fair food like funnel cakes, fried dough, and caramel apples—your taste buds will thank you!
Pro Tips
Wear comfortable shoes; the fairgrounds are expansive!
Check the fair’s website for event schedules and special promotions, like family discount days.
2. Niantic Oyster Festival
Date: September 21, 2024
Location: 400 Main StreetNIantic, CT
If seafood is your love language, the Niantic Oyster Festival is calling your name. This fall festival is a celebration of Connecticut's maritime heritage, with oysters, local seafood, and endless coastal vibes.
What to Expect
Oyster Tasting: Savor freshly shucked oysters in various styles, straight from Connecticut waters. Not a fan? No worries—enjoy lobster rolls, clam chowder, and more.
Live Music: Local bands keep the party going all day as you explore food trucks, craft vendors, and family-friendly activities.
Kid Zone: Bring the kids for face painting, games, and fun activities!
Pro Tips
Bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax by the water while enjoying live music and tasty bites.
Parking fills up fast; carpooling or using public transportation is a great idea.
3. Stonington Vineyards Harvest Festival
Dates: September 21-22, 2024
Location: Stonington Vineyards, Stonington, CT
Wine enthusiasts, this one’s for you! The Stonington Vineyards Harvest Festival is the ultimate autumn escape, featuring wine tastings, vineyard tours, and live music amidst the beautiful fall backdrop.
What to Expect
Wine Tastings: Sip on Stonington Vineyards’ finest wines while learning about the winemaking process.
Local Food Trucks: Enjoy a range of culinary delights that perfectly complement your wine selections.
Live Music: Bring a blanket and get cozy on the vineyard lawn while local bands set the perfect ambiance.
Pro Tips
Bring a picnic basket with snacks to pair with your wine tastings.
Purchase a bottle (or two) to take home and keep the fall vibes alive!
4. Olde Mistick Village 17th Annual Garlic Festival
Dates: September 21-22, 2024
Location: Olde Mistick Village, Mystic, CT
Calling all garlic lovers! The Olde Mistick Village Garlic Festival is the place to be for all things garlic. From savory dishes to garlic-infused desserts, this festival is a flavor-packed adventure.
What to Expect
Garlic-Inspired Dishes: Explore unique garlic-infused creations, from garlic bread to garlic ice cream (yes, you read that right!).
Artisan Vendors: Browse local goods, crafts, and, of course, garlic products to take home.
Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music as you wander through the charming village shops and food stalls.
Pro Tips
Bring mints to freshen up after indulging in garlic goodness.
Head to the cooking demonstrations for tips on incorporating garlic into your fall recipes.
5. The Durham Fair
Dates: September 26-29, 2024
Location: Durham Fairgrounds, Durham, CT
The Durham Fair is one of the largest agricultural fairs in Connecticut, featuring a mix of farm exhibits, carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment. If you’re looking for an all-in-one fall festival, this is it!
What to Expect
Livestock Exhibits: Get up close with cows, sheep, goats, and more—it's perfect for kids and animal lovers.
Rides & Games: Thrilling rides, carnival games, and classic fair fun await!
Live Entertainment: The fair features a variety of musical acts, from local talent to regional bands.
Pro Tips
Arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your day.
Pack a hat and sunscreen—fall can still bring sunny weather.
6. Annual Fall Harvest Festival at the Madison Beach Hotel
Date: October 6, 2024
Location: Madison Beach Hotel, Madison, CT
For those looking for a more refined autumn experience, the Annual Fall Harvest Festival at the Madison Beach Hotel is a perfect choice. Enjoy a laid-back day by the sea with great food, drinks, and shopping.
What to Expect
Artisan Market: Shop for handmade goods, seasonal crafts, and gourmet treats from local vendors.
Live Music: Unwind to the sounds of live music while taking in stunning coastal views.
Food & Drink: Enjoy seasonal delights and cocktails in a cozy beachside setting.
Pro Tips
Perfect for a date day or girls' outing—dress in your fall best!
Bring a reusable bag for all your festival finds.
7. Harvest Festival at Bauer Park
Date: October 19, 2024
Location: Bauer Park, Madison, CT
The Harvest Festival at Bauer Park is a celebration of fall, farming, and family fun. It’s an ideal event for anyone wanting to get in touch with nature and enjoy traditional fall activities.
What to Expect
Farm Activities: Participate in hayrides, pumpkin painting, and visit the petting zoo.
Local Vendors: Explore an array of local produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.
Educational Demos: Learn about sustainable farming, beekeeping, and gardening.
Pro Tips
Wear layers as the weather can be unpredictable.
Bring cash for vendors that might not accept cards.
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Looking for the perfect fall indulgence? Al Roker's Bourbon Apple Pie Milkshake from his new cookbook Recipes to Live By blends the rich flavors of apple pie, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a splash of bourbon. This decadent treat is the ultimate way to savor the season. Grab the recipe and cozy up with this autumn delight!