Experience Vermont’s Best Foliage Festivals This Autumn

Vermont in the fall is unlike anywhere else. Bright reds, golds, and oranges spill across mountains and valleys, drawing in visitors from around the world. But there is more to fall in Vermont than just the scenery. Local festivals and community events celebrate the season with food, music, crafts, and traditions that bring people together. If you are planning a trip to Vermont in 2025, or if you are a local looking for something to do, these foliage festivals and fall events deserve a spot on your calendar.

Why Vermont in Fall is Unmatched

The Green Mountain State is at its peak during foliage season. Tourists come for the views, and locals embrace the crisp air, harvest flavors, and community gatherings. Vermont festivals pair the stunning backdrop of fiery leaves with traditions that make the state unique. From small-town craft fairs to large-scale harvest celebrations, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Iconic Foliage Festivals in Vermont 2025

Every fall, Vermont towns host festivals that highlight the changing season. These events celebrate art, agriculture, community, and the simple joy of autumn. Here are some of the most iconic festivals you will want to plan around in 2025.

Burke Foliage Festival

Held in the Northeast Kingdom, the Burke Foliage Festival offers a true small-town celebration. Expect a lively parade, a craft fair, and plenty of entertainment for the family. Children enjoy games and local treats, while adults appreciate the live music and harvest-themed vendors. Pair the festival with a scenic drive along Burke Mountain or a chairlift ride for panoramic foliage views.

Peru Fair

The Peru Fair is steeped in Vermont tradition. Taking place on the last Saturday in September, this fair transforms the small village of Peru into a bustling marketplace. Local artisans set up booths along the main street, and food vendors serve everything from maple cotton candy to hearty soups. Historical reenactments and traditional entertainment add to the charm. The Peru Fair is often described as one of Vermont’s most authentic fall experiences.

Woodstock Apples & Crafts Fair

Woodstock is beautiful year-round, but it truly shines in fall. The Apples & Crafts Fair brings together over 100 craft vendors and plenty of apple-inspired treats. Fresh cider, apple pies, and caramel apples are favorites, and the festival pairs perfectly with a stroll through Woodstock’s historic downtown. In 2025, plan for this event in early October, when foliage in central Vermont typically peaks.

Food and Drink Events to Savor the Season

Vermont’s fall food festivals highlight the best of harvest flavors. From pumpkin competitions to Oktoberfest celebrations, you will find plenty of events that combine seasonal food and drink with festive fun.

Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival

Yes, it is exactly what it sounds like. The Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival invites competitors to launch pumpkins using trebuchets, slingshots, and other creative contraptions. Along with the fun competitions, guests enjoy live music, local food vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It is quirky, uniquely Vermont, and not to be missed.

Cider Days and Oktoberfest Celebrations

Vermont has a strong tradition of cider-making and craft brewing. Fall is the time to sample the best of both. Oktoberfest celebrations are held across the state, often featuring local beer, cider, German-inspired food, and live music. In 2025, look for Oktoberfest events in towns like Mount Snow, Stratton, and Stowe. Cider-focused events also pop up across the state, celebrating both traditional hard cider and fresh-pressed non-alcoholic varieties.

Harvest Festivals and Farmers’ Markets

Smaller harvest celebrations and extended farmers’ markets bring together the flavors of Vermont’s fall season. Expect pumpkins, squash, fresh apples, maple syrup, and baked goods. Many markets expand their hours in September and October to meet demand. These events are ideal for travelers looking for an authentic and relaxed way to experience Vermont’s harvest season.

Scenic Outdoor Events with a Festive Twist

Beyond food and crafts, fall in Vermont also brings unique outdoor experiences. These events combine foliage with active or adventurous activities, giving you a new way to appreciate the season.

Vermont Fall Foliage Marathon

Runners from around the world travel to Vermont each October for the Fall Foliage Marathon, which starts in Waterbury and ends in Stowe. The route winds through covered bridges, rolling hills, and colorful forests, making it one of the most scenic marathons in the country. Even if you are not a runner, the event is fun to watch and brings a festive spirit to the towns along the route.

Community Hikes and Guided Walks

Many local organizations host guided hikes and educational walks in the fall. Land trusts, nature centers, and outdoor groups often schedule foliage hikes in late September and early October. These events combine exercise with local knowledge, offering insight into Vermont’s natural history while showing off the leaves at their peak.

Tips for Making the Most of Vermont Fall Festivals

Attending a festival is fun, but a little preparation makes the experience smoother. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Arrive early: Parking lots fill quickly at popular festivals like Stowe and Woodstock.
• Dress in layers: Vermont weather changes fast in the fall. A chilly morning can turn into a warm afternoon.
• Combine activities: Pair a festival visit with a scenic drive, hike, or apple orchard stop for a full day.
• Book lodging ahead: October weekends sell out months in advance, especially in popular towns.
• Bring cash: While more vendors accept cards now, some small booths still prefer cash.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate Vermont’s Fall Spirit

Vermont in fall is more than just a destination, it is an experience. The state’s festivals highlight art, food, music, and community against a backdrop of unforgettable scenery. Whether you prefer browsing artisan crafts, sampling cider, or watching a parade march through a small town, you will find something that makes your trip special. In 2025, make time for at least one of these foliage festivals and fall events, and you will see why autumn in Vermont is one of the best times of year to visit.