The leaves changing color, the festive pumpkins and the crisp air welcoming all the cozy clothes, it’s really no shock that Fall is arguably the most beautiful season in New England. Although school is back in session and the locals are settling back into their normal routine, we always make time for all the fun New England festivities that happen during this time. Whether you live in York or are visiting the surrounding area, we’ve put together an itinerary of the best happenings around that will make you fall in love with New England, if you haven’t already!
Fryeburg Fair, September 29th – October 6th
This weeklong fair has it all! From ox and horse pulls to sheep shearing demos and cooking contests, you really get a taste of quintessential New England at Maine’s largest fair. Bring your friends and family to enjoy amusement rides, live music and artisan crafts. Don’t forget to come with an empty stomach so you can fill up on the endless amounts of fair food! Bloomin’ onion, anyone?
For more information, visit: https://www.fryeburgfair.org
Topsfield Fair, October 4th – 14th
Located in Topsfield, Massachusetts, this fair is great to bring your little ones too! Line up to watch Essex County’s Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit put on a demonstration or head over to listen to the Music Man strum his tunes! Later in the day, watch the Great American Duck Race and bet who you think will win or cheer on the swimming pigs as they compete in their race. There’s something here for kids of all ages, trust us!
For more information, visit: https://www.topsfieldfair.org
Sandwich Fair, October 12th – 14th
Located in the Lakes Region Area, the Sandwich Fair is another one you don’t want to miss! Check out the impression livestock exhibit and then head over to the antique car and tractor show. While the kids are competing in a pumpkin carving competition, the adults can compete in a skillet or keg toss!
For more information, visit: https://www.thesandwichfair.com
Autumnfest, October 11th – 14th
An agricultural fair located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, Autumnfest offers a fun parade, delicious fair food, vendors of all kinds and a colorful firework finale!
For more information, visit: http://www.autumnfest.org
York Harvestfest, October 19th
This year will mark York, Maine’s 35th Annual Harvestfest. A great community tradition, this festival takes place at Short Sands Beach. Swing by to enjoy live music, local food vendors, juried crafters and Old-Fashioned Market vendors. Bring your kids and check out the Kidsfest with face painting, horse-drawn wagon rides, storytelling and interactive activities!
For more information, visit: https://yorkharvestfest.com
Zach’s Corn Maze
Put on your best sneakers, hop on the tractor and head down to York, Maine’s largest corn maze! Head during the day or grab your friends for a fun night game of flashlight tag. Don’t forget to stop by the farm stand on your way out to stock up on all your fresh produce.
For more information, visit: http://www.zachscornmaze.com
Applecrest Farm
A New England tradition. You can’t make it through fall without heading to the pumpkin patch or apple orchard! Applecrest Farm is located in Hampton Falls, NH and is the perfect place to pick your own. Work up an appetite and visit their Farm Bistro for a refreshing beverage and delicious meal! Don’t miss out on their Great Pumpkin Carve event and other seasonal festivities that will surely impress.
For more information, visit: http://www.applecrest.com/festival-schedule.html
Cider Hill Farm
Located in Amesbury, Massachusetts, Cider Hill Farm is known for their homemade cider doughnuts and hard cider tastings, in addition to their wide variety of apples to pick from! They also host fun events and activities such as Yoga on Sunday mornings, Harvest Wreath making workshops and so much more.
For more information, visit: https://www.ciderhill.com
Stonewall Kitchen’s York Company Store
Our campus is covered with all the beautiful fall colors! To help celebrate, we’re hosting some great local vendors on campus the first three Saturdays in October. Mark your calendars and swing by for a sweet treat:
- Saturday, October 5th: Wicked Mini Donuts from 11am – 2pm
- Saturday, October 12th Spin-Cloud Cotton Candy from 12pm – 3pm
- Saturday, October 19th: Fred’s Fried Dough from 1pm – 4pm
