2024 Fall Fairs, Festivals, & Special Events

Photo courtesy of Dread Hollow

Hamilton and Bradley Counties

RUBY FALLS LANTERN TOURS: GHOST WALK EDITION

WHEN / Select Sunday and Thursday nights from September to October

WHERE / Ruby Falls, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Get in the Halloween spirit with an after-hours, special-edition Lantern Tour featuring ghost stories from the 95-year history of Ruby Falls and eerie Chattanooga legends. On the way to the waterfall, hear the tales and visit the sites of peculiar encounters, mischievous mayhem, and tragedy while exploring the cavern with a guide by the light of handheld lanterns. Advance online ticket purchase is required, and this event is not appropriate for children under the age of 12.

COST / $39.95

INFO / rubyfalls.com, 423.821.2544

 

RAILS, WIZARDS, & SPELLS

WHEN / September 14-October 27

WHERE / Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Step into a world of wizarding fun – brand new for 2024, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is bringing to life their first “Rails, Wizards & Spells” train experience. Your ticket includes entrance through the enchanted forest to Wizards Way, where you can purchase fun wizardry items such as handcrafted wands, special charms to hold spells, and tasty treats of the season. Then, board the train at platform 4 ½ for a ride to remember! Guests are encouraged to bring their own wands and dress in wizarding costumes to enhance the magical atmosphere.

COST / $35 per person

INFO / tvrail.com, 423.894.8028

 

ROCK CITY’S FALL COLORS

WHEN / September 14-November 8

WHERE / Rock City, Lookout Mountain, GA

WHAT / See the gardens and the Chattanooga Valley in full autumn splendor during Rock City’s Fall Colors! Pumpkins, hay bale vignettes, and other seasonal decorations throughout the trail provide a picture-perfect backdrop for fall family photos. Guest-favorite banjo player Matt Downer is sure to amaze guests of all ages during one of Rock City’s most popular seasons.

COST / $29-37/adults; $19-27/children 3-12

INFO / seerockcity.com/fall, 706.820.2531

 

CHATTANOOGA MARKET APPLE FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 15

WHERE / First Horizon Pavilion, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Join in the celebration of fresh-picked apples at the Chattanooga Market Apple Festival! Get ready to enjoy apple pie, apple butter, apple strudel, apple candles, and more from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the First Horizon Pavilion. Come find your favorite apple treats, and check out local vendors and fall activities around this family-friendly market.

COST / FREE

INFO / chattanoogamarket.com, 423.565.9130

 

CRABTREE FARMS FALL PLANT SALE & FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 21-22

WHERE / Crabtree Farms, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / This family-friendly event offers a variety of sustainably-grown edible, flowering, and medicinal plants, plus some fruiting shrubs and trees, which are all perfect for a home garden. Attendees can also expect live music, hay rides, local vendors, and food trucks to round out the event.

COST / FREE

INFO / crabtreefarms.org, 423.493.9155

 

TENNESSEE WHISKEY FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 26

WHERE / First Horizon Pavilion, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / The 9th annual Tennessee Whiskey Festival celebrates distilled spirits crafted in Tennessee and beyond! Come sample some of the best distilled spirits around while enjoying live music, local cuisine, and products from area vendors. Attendees can select their preferred tickets to gain access to unlimited whiskey tastings, more food options, and early access.

COST / $40 and up

INFO / tnwhiskeyfestival.com

 

DREAD HOLLOW

WHEN / September 28, October 1-31, Thursday – Sunday Nights + Halloween

WHERE / Dread Hollow, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / This award-winning haunted house experience is not for the faint of heart! This year, the Dread Hollow scream team turns up the terrifying fun with three all-new haunted houses and three horror-themed escape rooms complete with realistic special effects. Parental discretion is advised for ages 12 and under. Buy timed-entry tickets in advance online.

COST / $25 haunt admission includes all three haunted houses; Escape rooms $15 per person

INFO / dreadhollow.com, 423.800.0576

 

CHATTANOOGA PRIDE FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 29-October 6

WHERE / Ross’s Landing, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Join the Chattanooga Pride Festival to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community while promoting LGBTQ+ visibility, acceptance, and advocacy in the region. Attendees will enjoy a parade, live entertainment, music performances, vendors, food stalls, informational booths, and opportunities for community engagement.

COST / FREE; See website for Friday and Saturday ticket information

INFO / chattanoogapride.com

 

SOUTHERN BELLE RIVERBOAT FALL FOLIAGE SIGHTSEEING CRUISE

WHEN / October 1-Mid November

WHERE / Southern Belle Riverboat, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Enjoy the autumnal wonders of the Tennessee River aboard this three-hour Southern Belle Riverboat cruise. Guests will enjoy live narration, pilot house tours, and magnificent views of the famous Tennessee River Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of the South.” Concessions will be available for purchase.

COST / $59.99/adults; $39.99/children 3-12

INFO / chattanoogariverboat.com, 423.266.4488

Rock City’s Fall Colors

Photo courtesy of Rock City

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

WHEN / October 6

WHERE / St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church, Ooltewah, TN

WHAT / All are welcome to visit the St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church for its annual Blessing of the Animals. This joyful event is conducted in remembrance of Saint Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures. Local vendors at the event will include a petting zoo, pony rides, hot dogs, and popcorn. Registration will begin at 1:30 p.m. with a 2 p.m. pet parade to follow.

COST / FREE

INFO / sfaec.org, 423.238.7708

 

MONSTER BASH

WHEN / October 11-12

WHERE / Creative Discovery Museum, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Join the Creative Discovery Museum for this kid-friendly Halloween party from 6 to 8 p.m. Get dressed up in your favorite fun-not-frightening costumes and explore the museum while enjoying themed activities, trick-or-treating, and games. Admission includes access to all the museum’s exhibits and fun take-aways. This event is for Creative Discovery Museum members only.

COST / $14.95

INFO / cdmfun.org/events, 423.756.2738

BOO IN THE ZOO

WHEN / October 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26

WHERE / Chattanooga Zoo, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / The Chattanooga Zoo’s annual Boo in the Zoo is a merry-not-scary Halloween event perfect for families with kids of all ages. Trick-or-treat stations, scavenger hunts, and costume contests will all be a part of these festive evenings, and the entire zoo will be decorated for the holiday. Note that the zoo’s regular admission will close at 3:30 p.m. on event days before reopening at 4 p.m. for Boo in the Zoo. General admission tickets are not valid for Boo in the Zoo.

COST / $11/members; $16/non-members; FREE/children 2 and under

INFO / chattzoo.org, 423.697.1322

 

CHATTANOOGA OKTOBERFEST

WHEN / October 12-13

WHERE / First Horizon Pavilion, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Don your favorite German attire for this year’s Chattanooga Oktoberfest. Enjoy two festive days of German food and tradition, including oompah music, craft brews, and local vendors. Visitors of all ages can also look forward to viewing and participating in the annual Mr. and Ms. Chattanooga Oktoberfest® Contest on Saturday evening.

COST / FREE

INFO / chattanoogaoktoberfest.com, 423.565.9130

 

THE CLEVELAND APPLE FESTIVAL

WHEN / October 19-20

WHERE / Courthouse Square, Cleveland, TN

WHAT / The Cleveland Apple Festival takes place each year on the Bradley County Courthouse Square. Come enjoy an arts and crafts show, live music, food booths, a petting zoo, the Apple Blossom pageant, and, of course, the apple dessert contest. Net proceeds are donated to nonprofit organizations in the Cleveland area.

COST / $8/adults; $5/seniors; $5/children 4-12; FREE/children 3 and under

INFO / clevelandapplefestival.org

 

FRIGHTS AND PINTS

WHEN / October 24

WHERE / Chattanooga Zoo, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Take a spooky safari with your favorite beer and wine at this 21+ event! Each event ticket comes with three drink tickets, trick-or-treat stations, and entry into our costume contest with great prizes! Enjoy fun music and wild Halloween decorations as you tour the zoo in your costume! Food will be available for purchase at an additional cost.

COST / $35/members; $40/non-members

INFO / chattzoo.org, 423.697.1322

 

AQUASCARIUM

WHEN / October 25

WHERE / Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Dress in your best Halloween costume and join in on a family-friendly celebration of all things scaly, spooky, and fun at Aquascarium, the Tennessee Aquarium’s trick-or-treating event. Ticket holders can enjoy themed decorations, costumed divers, music, candy, and more!   

COST / Member and non-member rates, visit website for pricing

INFO / tnaqua.org/events, 423.267.3474

 

DRINK & DISCOVER: CARNEVIL

WHEN / October 25

WHERE / Creative Discovery Museum, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Creative Discovery Museum will be open for adults only (21+) during this Halloween event. Wear your best costume and explore the museum with a drink in hand. Be transported to a vintage carnival with eccentric characters and classic games, including a caricature artist (additional cost). Admission includes access to the museum’s exhibits, one drink ticket, activities, a souvenir cup, and light fare.

COST / $35 admission in advance; $5 for additional drink tickets; $10 for caricature drawing of up to 3 people

INFO / cdmfun.org/events, 423.756.2738

 

DOWNTOWN CLEVELAND HALLOWEEN BLOCK PARTY

WHEN / October 31

WHERE / Courthouse Square, Cleveland, TN

WHAT / This Halloween block party is a family-friendly Downtown Cleveland tradition. From 5 to 10 p.m., visitors are invited to dress in costume and enjoy live music, games, food, and a costume contest. Mars Wrigley will also provide chocolate for visitors to gather on Treat Street.

COST / FREE

INFO / mainstreetcleveland.com, 423.479.1000

Rails, Wizards, & Spells

Photo courtesy of Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

THANKSGIVING ON THE RIVER

WHEN / November 28

WHERE / Southern Belle Riverboat, Chattanooga, TN

WHAT / Cruise past the kitchen stress and enjoy Thanksgiving dinner on the river this year on the Southern Belle Riverboat. A traditional Thanksgiving meal will be provided, including roast turkey breast, carved ham, and all your favorite side dishes. Dessert and specialty drinks will also be available while you enjoy scenic Tennessee River views and live entertainment.

COST / $55.99/adults; $39.99/children 3-12

INFO / chattanoogariverboat.com, 423.266.4488

 

Surrounding Areas – Tennessee

TENNESSEE VALLEY FAIR

WHEN / September 6-15

WHERE / Chilhowee Park, Knoxville, TN

WHAT / The Tennessee Valley Fair is a non-profit organization dedicated to showcasing East Tennessee heritage, agriculture, and the arts since 1916! Fairgoers can take part in numerous activities on the fairgrounds including rides, live music, competitions, shows, food, action sports, special events, and more.

COST / $12/adults; $9/seniors; $9/children 6-11; FREE/children 5 and under

INFO / tnvalleyfair.org, 865.215.1471

 

HARVEST FESTIVAL & GREAT PUMPKIN LUMINIGHTS

WHEN / September 9-October 28

WHERE / Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, TN

WHAT / Dollywood gets decked out in pumpkins, lights, and whimsical fall décor for the Harvest Festival & Great Pumpkin LumiNights. Enjoy the vivid fall colors by day, and explore glowing pumpkin sculptures and Hoot Owl Hollow by night.

COST / Regular Dollywood admission prices

INFO / dollywood.com, 800.365.5996

 

INTERNATIONAL COWPEA FESTIVAL AND COOK-OFF

WHEN / September 14

WHERE / Charleston City Park, Charleston, TN

WHAT / The International Cowpea Festival and Cook-off will return for its 12th year with a full day of music, handmade crafts, food, and fun. A children’s area, photo contest, local vendors, and a Charleston heritage area will be available to visitors. The Cowpea Cook-off, a competition between professional chefs for the best cowpea-based recipe, is a festival favorite; purchase a $5 souvenir spatula to participate in the tasting and cast a vote for the best dish.

COST / $5/adults; FREE/children 16 and under

INFO / cowpeafestival.com, 423.665.3373

 

LENOIR CITY DOWNTOWN STREET FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 14

WHERE / Historic Downtown Lenoir City, TN

WHAT / Lenoir City Parks and Recreation partners with the Loudon County Shrine Club for this annual street festival. Visitors will enjoy include live music, arts and crafts, food vendors, and of course, the classic car show, exhibiting unique cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

COST / FREE

INFO / lenoircitytn.gov/special-events/, 865.986.2715

 

WHITE OAK CRAFT FAIR

WHEN / September 14-15

WHERE / The Arts Center of Cannon County, Woodbury, TN

WHAT / Over 75 panel-selected artisans will showcase their work for viewing and purchase at this year’s White Oak Craft Fair. Visitors can browse original textiles, woodcarving, jewelry, pottery, photography, metalwork, and more. Live music, food trucks, and kids’ activities will also be available, and awards will be presented to selected artisans.

COST / FREE with a $5 supervised parking donation to the Cannon County Rescue Squad

INFO / whiteoaktn.org, 615.563.2787

 

CHEEKWOOD HARVEST

WHEN / September 14, October 27, November 2-3

WHERE / Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, Nashville, TN

WHAT / Celebrate all things autumn during Cheekwood Harvest. View chrysanthemums in bloom, locally-crafted scarecrows, and pumpkin houses. See beautiful altar displays for El Día de los Muertos on November 2-3. Full-band musical performances, seasonal beers, cocktails, and spirits will be available at the Cheekwood Beer Garden each weekend. Other exciting events include the Fall Break Friday Night Hoedown on October 11 and Halloween Pooch Party on October 26-27.

COST / $20-$28/adults; $18-$26/seniors; $16-$28/college students; $13-$21/youth 3-17; FREE/children 2 and under

INFO / cheekwood.org, 615.356.8000

 

BEAR-VARIAN FALL FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 15-October 31

WHERE / Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park, Gatlinburg, TN

WHAT / Visit Anakeesta for stunning views of changing leaves and whimsical Halloween décor at the Bear-Varian Fall Festival. Visitors will enjoy live performances, seasonal food offerings, and orange, purple, and green lights in the evening. This year, visitors can also purchase an add-on pass for a one-of-a-kind local beer sampling experience.

COST / $36.99/adults; $29.99/seniors; $24.99/children; FREE/children 3 and under

INFO / anakeesta.com, 865.325.2400

 

HOLA FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 21

WHERE / Performance Lawn at World’s Fair Park, Knoxville, TN

WHAT / HoLa Festival invites you to join in the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The fun on Saturday will begin with a Fiesta Latina, including live music, dancing, homemade food, draft beer, and artisan vendors. Other events include the Parade of Nations, educational Hispanic heritage booths, children’s activities, community resources, and a fireworks show.

COST / $3 donation for non-HoLa Hora Latina members; FREE/members and children 11 and under

INFO / holahoralatina.org, 865.335.3358

Aquascarium

Photo courtesy of Tennessee Aquarium

HOMESTEADS APPLE FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 28-29

WHERE / Historic Cumberland Homesteads Tower, Crossville, TN

WHAT / The 20th annual Homesteads Apple Festival will have live music, local craftsmen vendors, a homemade bake sale, and food booths, including a variety of delicious apples and fried apple pies. The Homesteads Apple Festival Pageant returns this year, and all visitors are invited to enjoy The Tower Museum at any time during the festival.

COST / $5/adults; FREE/children 10 and under

INFO / cumberlandhomesteads.org, 931.456.9663

 

PILGRIMAGE MUSIC & CULTURAL FESTIVAL

WHEN / September 28-29

WHERE / The Park at Harlinsdale, Franklin, TN

WHAT / Returning to celebrate their 10-year anniversary, Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival aims to create an intentionally diverse music experience for concert-goers of all ages. This year’s lineup includes Dave Matthews Band, Noah Kahan, Hozier, NEEDTOBREATHE, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Lukas Nelson, COIN, Stephen Sanchez, Better Than Ezra, and more! Other festival highlights include the Americana Music Triangle Tent presented by Hardee’s, Fun Farm Family Village, and Blue Moon Beer Hall.

COST / Passes start at $179

INFO / pilgrimagefestival.com

 

AUTUMN AT GATLINBURG SKYPARK

WHEN / October 1-November 3

WHERE / Gatlinburg SkyPark, Gatlinburg, TN

WHAT / Experience beautiful fall colors and fall fun during Autumn at the SkyPark. Visitors can enjoy face painting and balloon artists for the kids on weekends starting October 11 through November 3, live music every weekend, beautiful fall photo ops, and games for everyone on the SkyDeck for some fall fun at the top of the mountain!

COST/ $34.95/adults; $27.95/seniors; $22.95/juniors; FREE/children 5 and under

INFO/ gatlinburgskypark.com/events

 

GATLINBURG CRAFTSMEN’S FAIR

WHEN / October 3-20

WHERE / Gatlinburg Convention Center,
Gatlinburg, TN

WHAT / Over 200 booths will display one-of-a-kind handmade products at this exceptional craft fair. Each artist and craftsperson has been selected through a rigorous jury process to ensure a unique, high-quality experience for all visitors. After browsing the artist booths, visitors can enjoy daily live music shows and concessions through the Gatlinburg Convention Center.

COST / $10/adults; FREE/children 17 and under

INFO / craftsmenfair.com, 865.436.7479

 

WARTRACE OLD TIME HARVEST DAYS

WHEN / October 5

WHERE / Historic Wartrace, TN

WHAT / The historic town of Wartrace, Tennessee, will host classic fall festivities and artisan vendors during this all-day event. Food trucks, local and handmade products, and live performances will be available for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can also pay $5 to participate in the annual chili cook-off!

COST / FREE

INFO / wartracechamber.org/events, 931.240.0300

 

NATIONAL BANANA PUDDING FESTIVAL

WHEN / October 5-6

WHERE / Hickman County Ag Pavilion,
Centerville, TN

WHAT / Taste homemade banana pudding recipes on Puddin’ Path, watch a live banana pudding cook-off, and enjoy live music entertainment at this two-day event in support of local nonprofits. This festival also offers craft vendors and plenty of fun activities for all kids to enjoy.

COST / $10/general admission; $5/children 5-12; FREE/children 5 and under

INFO / bananapuddingfest.org, 931.994.6273

 

ETOWAH’S FALL ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

WHEN / October 7

WHERE / L&N Depot Museum, Etowah, TN

WHAT / This year, Etowah’s Fall Arts & Crafts Festival celebrates its 50th year! Hosted at the historic depot for the Louisville & Nashville railroad, this event features live entertainment, local food booths, and craft vendors showcasing local cuisine and artisans.

COST / FREE

INFO / 423.920.5659

 

PUMPKINTOWN

WHEN / October 12

WHERE / Historic Downtown Athens, TN

WHAT / Pumpkintown is one of the premier fall festivals in East Tennessee. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can expect live entertainment on two stages, the Scott Crisp Memorial PowWow, the Mutt Strutt/McMinn Regional Humane Society Adopt-a-Thon, Humane Society Doggie Costume Contest, over 200 vendors, CASA Corridor 5K RUN, dunking booth, historical walking tours, Mr. and Miss Pumpkintown Pageant, and more!

COST / FREE

INFO / friendlycityfestivals.com/pumpkintown/

 

TENNESSEE FALL CRAFT FAIR

WHEN / October 11-13

WHERE / Centennial Park, Nashville, TN

WHAT / For three days, Centennial Park will transform into the venue for Nashville’s 46th annual Fall Tennessee Craft Fair. Juried, award-winning artists will showcase their work for viewing and purchase, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about the artists through art demonstrations. To round out this celebration of local fine crafts, hands-on activities will be available at the Kids’ Tent, and food will be available from area vendors.

COST / FREE

INFO / tennesseecraft.org/events/craft-fairs/, 615.736.7600

Gatlinburg Craftmen’s Fair

Photo courtesy of Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

CROSSVILLE OKTOBERFEST

WHEN / October 18-19

WHERE / Knights of Columbus Grounds, Crossville, TN

WHAT / Come to Crossville Oktoberfest for German food, beer, and live music. With food to be served from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., you can have your fill of schnitzel, bratwurst, soft pretzels, späetzle, and all your favorite German foods. Visitors are invited to dress up in traditional German outfits as well as take to the dance floor during this fun fall event!

COST / $8/advance tickets; $10/at the door; FREE/children 12 and under, military veterans, and active duty personnel (with proper identification), $17/full meal, $5/kid’s meal

INFO / crossvilleoktoberfest.com, 423.799.0229

 

KETNER’S MILL COUNTRY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR

WHEN / October 19-20

WHERE / Ketner’s Mill, Whitwell, TN

WHAT / Watch sorghum molasses demonstrations, enjoy wagon rides, and feed animals at the petting zoo at the Ketner’s Mill Country Arts & Crafts Fair. This event has something fun for everyone with food trucks and 200 vendors. Come browse arts and crafts booths and hear live music – all to support the preservation of the historic mill.

COST / $7 cash only/adults; FREE/children 12 and under

INFO / ketnersmill.org, 423.267.5702

 

PUMPKINFEST

WHEN / October 25-26

WHERE / Rhea County Courthouse, Dayton, TN

WHAT / Kicking off on Friday with lunch and shopping, all vendors will be open, including games for kids and entertainment at Centennial Park, this two-day event is packed with fall fun. The festivities continue Saturday with food and craft vendors, a Halloween costume contest, and of course, an evening of trick-or-treating!

COST / FREE

INFO / mainstreetdayton.org, 423.775.9847

 

JOSHUA K. JENNINGS JACK-O-LANTERN JAMBOREE

WHEN / October 26

WHERE / Courthouse Square, Jasper, TN

WHAT / Get ready for the annual Joshua K. Jennings Jack-O-Lantern Jamboree! Kids will enjoy trick-or-treating at the trunk-or-treat trail, and the whole family will enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, and other fun on-site games and activities.

COST / FREE

INFO / 423.942.3180

 

GATLINBURG’S WINTER MAGIC & CHILI COOKOFF

WHEN / November 7

WHERE / Shade Tree Parking Lot, Gatlinburg, TN

WHAT/ Start your holiday season countdown with the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff & Winterfest Kickoff. Visitors can enjoy tasting a delicious variety of homemade chili recipes during the Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff sponsored by Bush’s Beans. The winter festivities will continue through the evening with over 1 million LED twinkling lights, live entertainment, and Christmas tree lighting.

COST / Visit website for admission pricing

INFO / gatlinburg.com/events

 

Surrounding Areas – Georgia

HELEN OKTOBERFEST

WHEN / September 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 26-October 27

WHERE / Helen Festhalle, Helen, GA

WHAT / Helen Oktoberfest is the longest-running Oktoberfest in the United States! A wide selection of both German and classic fair food will be available as well as a variety of German and American beers and wine. Get ready to dance to German-style bands including Polka Cola, Zweifel Brothers, Europa, and more, and don’t miss the Oktoberfest Parade on September 9!

COST / $10/Monday – Thursday; $12/Friday and Saturday; FREE/Sunday and for children 6 and under

INFO / helenchamber.com, 706.878.1619

 

NORTH GEORGIA STATE FAIR

WHEN / September 19-29

WHERE / Jim R. Miller Park, Marietta, GA

WHAT / The North Georgia State Fair returns for its 92nd year! Carnival rides, petting zoos, a dog show, and live art performances will be a part of this year’s fair. Attractions for this year include a sea lion show and Jurassic Kingdom’s life-like dinosaurs.

COST / $10/adults; FREE/children 10 and under

INFO / northgeorgiastatefair.com, 770.528.8989

 

FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS & CRAFTS

WHEN / September 20-22

WHERE / Creative Arts Guild, Dalton, GA

WHAT / Come celebrate the 61st annual Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts with a weekend of art appreciation and fun. An indoor juried art exhibit will be available for viewing through the end of October, and an outdoor artist market will take place on the day of the event. Food and beverage vendors, live music, and self-guided tours of the Robert T. Webb Sculpture Garden will round out the event, and the Children’s Hill area will host activities and art projects for kids to enjoy.

COST / FREE

INFO / creativeartsguild.org, 706.278.0168

 

GREAT LOCOMOTIVE CHASE FESTIVAL

WHEN / October 4-6

WHERE / Historic Downtown Adairsville, GA

WHAT / This Adairsville festival has been a tradition since 1968. Join friends and family for a weekend of food vendors, arts and crafts, live entertainment, amusement rides, a parade, a beauty pageant, and more.

COST / $5 for all-weekend admission

INFO / adairsvillega.net/events, 770.773.3451

 

CHALKTOBERFEST

WHEN / October 12-13

WHERE / The Marietta Square, Marietta, GA

WHAT / Cobb County’s Chalktoberfest combines a Chalk Art Festival with a Craft Beer and Wine Festival, featuring more than 80 professional chalk artists creating works of art on the streets of historic Marietta Square. Experience 40 breweries, 120+ types of craft beer, more than 20 varieties of wine, plus kids’ crafts and games, a competition chalk section, concerts, and more.

COST / FREE; $50/Beer and Wine Tasting

INFO / chalktoberfest.com, 770.528.1444

 

FALL ARTS IN THE PARK FESTIVAL

WHEN / October 12-13

WHERE / Downtown City Park, Blue Ridge, GA

WHAT / Celebrate art and nature at the Fall Arts in the Park Festival. This event will take place in Blue Ridge, Georgia, one of the top 10 fine craft towns in America as recognized by American Craft Week. Over 170 artists, exhibitors, and vendors will offer a variety of arts, crafts, and food for visitors to explore and enjoy.

COST / $5/adults; FREE/children 12 and under

INFO / blueridgeartsinthepark.com, 706.632.2144

 

GEORGIA APPLE FESTIVAL

WHEN / October 12-13, 19-20

WHERE / Lions Club Fairgrounds, Ellijay, GA

WHAT / Celebrating its 53rd year, the Georgia Apple Festival is an event full of big fun in a small town. Rain or shine, hundreds of vendors will showcase handmade products, on-site demonstrations, live music, and classic fair food.

COST / $10/adults; FREE/children 12 and under

INFO / georgiaapplefestival.org, 706.635.7400

 

‘QUE & BREW

WHEN / October 18

WHERE / Taylor-Brawner Park, Smyrna, GA

WHAT / ‘Que & Brew is the ultimate experience for fans of barbecue, bourbon, and beer! Watch as professional barbecue teams compete in a tasting contest with People’s Choice voting for the best chicken wings and pulled pork. Enjoy a variety of bourbons and local beers. The event features two live music bands, axe throwing, a TV truck, a raffle, and more.

COST / FREE/general admission; $30 and up for tasting tickets

INFO / livesaferesources.org/event/quebrew2024, 770.427.2902

 

CHIAHA HARVEST FAIR

WHEN / October 26-27

WHERE / Coosa Valley Fairgrounds, Rome, GA

WHAT / The Chiaha Harvest Fair is a toe-tappin’, cider-sippin’, fun-for-everyone arts festival, bringing together talented artisans from the Southeastern region to support local art and art education. The festival includes live music performances by local artists, arts & crafts activities for the kids, and food trucks for visitors to enjoy.

COST / $5/adults; $4/students and seniors; $1/children 2-12; FREE/children under 2

INFO / chiaha.org