There’s something magical about fall in Central Virginia — crisp air, colorful foliage, and weekends filled with family traditions. Fall festivals near Charlottesville, VA, bring that magic to life with music, food, art, and outdoor activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a lively event or a simple day outdoors, the season is full of opportunities to celebrate together.
Fall Festival Picks:
Chiles Orchard Fall Into Fun Festival
Directions | Facebook | Mid to Late September
Chiles Peach Orchard sets the tone for the season with pumpkin picking, wagon rides, and live music. Surrounded by mountain views, it’s a great way to welcome autumn and enjoy time outdoors together.
Blue Ridge Mountain Maze Fall Festival
Directions | Facebook | Late September
For families who love a little adventure, the Blue Ridge Mountain Maze is a fall favorite. The sprawling corn maze offers a fun challenge for kids and adults, while hayrides, pumpkin picking, and farm games add to the excitement. With snacks, photo ops, and wide-open views, it’s a seasonal outing that blends play, tradition, and plenty of fresh air.
Want even more fall inspiration? Check out our Pumpkin Patch Blog for local patch guides, carving ideas, and family activities that make autumn unforgettable.
Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival
Directions | Facebook | First Three Weekends of October
This Blue Ridge tradition runs for several weekends each October. Families return year after year for hayrides, live music, pony rides, and plenty of apple treats — from cider to pies. With its mountain views and festive spirit, it’s a fall experience that never gets old.
Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival
Directions | Facebook | Mid-October
Every October, the Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival transforms the small town into a hub of creativity. Local artisans showcase handmade goods, while food trucks and live entertainment add to the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect event for families who love exploring something new.
Snow’s Garden Center Fall Festival
Directions | Facebook | Throughout October
Closer to home, Snow’s Garden Center hosts a charming fall festival with pumpkins, mums, and seasonal décor. It’s a simple, low-key option for families wanting to celebrate without leaving Charlottesville.
Bellair Farm Fall Festival
Directions | Facebook | Late October
At the end of October, Bellair Farm wraps up the season with hayrides, farm animals, local food, and live music. Its wide-open spaces and laid-back feel make it an easy family favorite.
Fun Seasonal Activities for Families
Festivals are just one part of the fall season. Charlottesville also offers plenty of everyday traditions that make the season memorable.
- Pick-Your-Own Orchards: Carter Mountain Orchard and Chiles Peach Orchard let visitors enjoy apple picking, warm cider, and family-friendly farm markets.
- Scenic Drives & Foliage: Take a weekend drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or local backroads for stunning views of the changing leaves.
- Outdoor Recreation: Cooler temperatures are perfect for hiking, camping, and corn mazes. Family outings to nearby parks are especially enjoyable this time of year.
- Local Markets & Farms: Autumn brings colorful mums, pumpkins, baked goods, and seasonal décor — perfect for making your home feel festive. Make sure to check out our list of Charlottesville Farmers’ Markets to plan your fall market trip!
Experience Fall Living at Lakeside
These fall festivals near Charlottesville, VA, bring together music, food, art, and outdoor activities that families of all ages can enjoy. From bustling celebrations to quiet farm markets, the season offers something for everyone. Living at Lakeside Apartments in Charlottesville, VA makes it easy to join in the fun, so every autumn can be filled with lasting memories.
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