Ever wanted to see the changing colors of the seasons? Well, Vermont is the place to see amazing fall foliage; it is Autumn in a nutshell. During the fall months, come enjoy the scenery with these fall festivals that are fun for everyone.
by Nicole Partis
Vermont is filled with beautiful landscapes that become breathtaking vistas during the autumn season. Here, the locals take their fall festivals very seriously with a variety of activities to accompany the spectacular changing colors of leaves, ranging from wine tasting to barn dancing and even vendors showcasing their seasons natural sheep and wool fibers. These festivals are a great way to experience a new place with the stunning seasonal backdrop.
The Northeast Kingdom Fall Foliage Festival
This festival sets itself apart from others in that it travels throughout Vermont. Held the last weekend in September through the first Saturday in October, the Fall Foliage Festival showcases the amazing views of Vermont cities by guided walking tours which are filled with the colors of autumn. This festival highlights cities such as Cabot, Walden, and Groton Vermont. Each town offers their own unique events like cider pressing or live music. The main focus is to highlight local traditions and communities during the changing of the seasons.
Harvest Weekend at Billings Farm and Museum
In Woodstock, the Harvest Weekend Festival held at Billings Farm and Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of regional farming practices. Visitors are invited to stroll along the pastures learning all about how food gets ‘from farm to table.’ Family-friendly events include barn daces, apple tastings and pumpkin bowling. For museum lovers, there are exhibits and demos where visitors can explore various farming styles as well as try their hand at harvesting their own crops. Throughout the festival there are many food options which are locally grown such as a warm cup of squash soup or homemade cider donuts. The Harvest Weekend at Billings Farm is typically held during the first week of October each year.
Fall Season in Vermont
Vermont Wine and Harvest Festival
Hosted in September, the annual Vermont Wine and Harvest Festival is held at Mount Snow Resort in West Dover. Embrace the fall foliage and ride the Bluebird lift for a summit view of southern Vermont’s gorgeous autumn landscapes. At this festival, meet small specialty food producers, local chefs and even painters for a closer look at the community. Different Vermont wineries, distilleries, cideries and breweries are on hand to offer their goods. Typically, a wine stroll takes place of the Friday before the festival in Wilmington with some 20 different wines to taste.
Stowe Foliage Arts Festival
Held in early October, at Topnotch Field in Stowe, this three-day event is held rain or shine annually to allow visitors to experience the classic New England autumn. Here there are 150 different artists and artisans showcasing their fine craftwork to the community. Not only that, but enjoy live music, beer, wine, and demonstrations of traditional craftwork. Also, enjoy specialty food products from local entrepreneurs such as maple syrup, gourmet chocolate, and spirits. Vermont is renowned for its many agricultural farms specializing in Wines and Spirits and at the Stowe Arts Festival, there are great selections to chose from.
Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival
From late September to early October, the city of Tunbridge organizes an annual Sheep and Wool Festival which honors the local community of fiber crafters. There are three buildings filled with more than 70 different vendors. Their main goal is to showcase natural fibers while both educating and entertaining the community. It is also an opportunity for small farms and fiber producers to promote their businesses to the public. This festival is set against the backdrop of rolling hills during the peak of Vermont fall foliage.
There’s still plenty more to experience in Vermont, regardless of the season, so be sure to Subscribe to Leisure Group Travel magazine for more information
