Family-Friendly Fall Festivals Full Of New England Charm

The Northeast is a haven for boating and fishing, but once the crisp chill of autumn arrives, it’s time to start thinking about family-friendly fall festivals! New England fall festivals are great autumn activities and make for memorable family vacation ideas specifically because of the New England charm that’s as abundant as the evocative colors on the ground and in the trees. Family-friendly events such as a lobster festival and Vermont fall festivals with maple syrup tasting taking place in the New England countryside are an idyllic way to celebrate the season with family and friends.

Attending a fall festival full of New England charm is one of the outdoor fall activities everyone should experience at least once because everything about family-friendly fall festivals, from the roasted turkey legs, caramel apples, hayrides, and live music, as well as scrumptious lobster festivals along coastal Maine, combine to make a family vacation or day trip in New England something no one will ever forget.

Family-Friendly Fall Festivals In and Around the New England Countryside

There are countless family-friendly events and autumn activities that ooze New England charm happening this year. Here’s a sampling of the best family-friendly New England fall festivals in 2024.

King Richard’s Faire

When it comes to family-friendly fall festivals, it’s hard to top King Richard’s Faire. This is the premiere Renaissance Festival and Faire in New England, with rides, games, performers, and entertainment spread out over 80 acres of New England countryside. Come watch knights do battle on horseback, be dazzled by fire eaters, amazed by acrobats, and so much more this fall.

Tap to Table - An Autumn Market

One of the best annual Vermont fall festivals happens in Cuttingsville at The Olde Barn Yard. With over 70 vendors from the state showcasing specialty foods, pottery, home goods, bath products, art, and of course legendary Vermont maple syrup, Tap to Table is an easy way to shop local for the holidays and support Vermont small businesses. There’s also live music, ice cream, and the chance to sample of mix of delicious Vermont craft beverages.

Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular at the Rogers Williams Park Zoo

Rhode Island’s favorite autumn tradition has a brand new twist this year! In 2024, the annual pumpkin spectacular features an immersive trivia experience with brain teasers asking questions about sports, pop culture, and history dotting the path with thousands of illuminated carved jack-o-lanterns.

Great Vermont Maze

The largest maze in New England is spread out over 24 sprawling acres and continues to thrill families of all ages with 100 bridges, tunnels, and more. This year there are new maze designs and fun surprises waiting around every turn, and kids can collect reward stones and trade them in for prizes.

Fall for St. Johnsbury

Not to be confused with the Historic St. Johnsbury Fall Festival, this Vermont family-friendly event in the New England countryside delivers a full day of fun with fall foliage train rides, farmer’s, artisan, and vintage markets, a 5K run, and a block party. This community day happening on October 12th is full of autumn activities for all ages.

York’s Harvest Fest

The 39th installment of the Harvest Fest in York is one of the best Maine fall festivals thanks to live music, local food, crafters, vendors, and the included kids fest with storytelling, family-friendly activities, and a roaming railroad.

Looking for more family-friendly activities this fall? Check out these 8 awesome autumn equinox activities.