Fall Festivities in Harrisonburg, VA, and the Shenandoah Valley

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, fall in the Shenandoah Valley comes alive with an array of vibrant activities that capture the beauty and bounty of the season. Whether you're a local resident or planning a visit, the Valley offers plenty of ways to enjoy the magic of autumn.

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Autumn in the Valley is legendary for its colorful foliage, and the mild weather allows you to soak it all in over several weeks. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or scenic drives, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees will leave you inspired. From Skyline Drive to local trails, there’s no shortage of stunning spots to experience the season’s natural beauty.

Harvest Season

Here in the Shenandoah Valley, fall is better known as "Harvest Season," thanks to our rich agricultural roots. For a true taste of the Valley, head over to Showalter's Orchard, where you can pick from more than 30 apple varieties straight from the tree. From sweet to tart, the apples are perfect for snacking, baking, or making cider. Speaking of cider, Showalter’s is famous for its sweet and hard ciders, apple butter, and an array of jams—perfect for any fall gathering. With stunning views of the orchard and the surrounding landscape, it’s an ideal spot for a day trip.

And of course, we can’t forget pumpkins during Fall. Check out these pumpkin patches throughout the Shenandoah Valley:

• Myers Pumpkins: 3840 Bull Run Rd, Penn Laird, VA 22846
• Mulberry Hill Farms Pumpkin Patch: 6442 Cross Keys Rd, Mt Crawford, VA 22841
• Middle River Farms: 1744 Weyers Cave Rd, Grottoes, VA 24441
• North Mountain Homestead : 12454 Hollar School Rd, Linville, VA 22834
• Pick-A-Peck Pumpkin Patch : 3050 Mauzy Athlone Road, Broadway, VA, United States, Virginia

Family Fun 

For a more traditional fall experience, visit Back Home on the Farm in Harrisonburg until November 3rd. Their Fall Festival is packed with activities like a 7-acre pumpkin patch, a 5-acre corn maze, and even pig and duck races! With attractions like the vintage carousel, putt-putt golf, and a rubber ducky race, this farm has something for everyone in the family. And don’t forget to grab your camera—there are plenty of photo ops with farm animals and scenic autumn backdrops. Their Virginia Pumpkin Festival Weekends are October 12-13 and October 19-20

Join Endless Views Farms for the 2nd annual Fall Festival, running every Saturday and Sunday from September 7th to November 3rd, 10 AM to 6 PM! Enjoy acres of U-Pick pumpkins and over 20 activities, including the "Spookley" Corn Maze, Cattle Drive Barrel Train, 120ft Hay Slides, Farm Animal Barn, and their famous Apple Cannon.

Festivals and Celebrations

Fall isn’t just about the outdoors—it’s a time for community and celebration. Harrisonburg and its surrounding towns host a number of fall festivals and events that bring people together.

• Broadway’s Oktoberfest 2024 - September 28th, 4pm-9pm

Broadway’s Heritage Park is hosting Oktoberfest with live music, food trucks, drinks, and good vibes. Grab your lawn chair or blanket and join for a fun evening!

• Dayton Days Autumn Celebration- October 5th, 8:30am-4pm
  One of the most anticipated events of the season, this festival features over 300 vendors, historic exhibits, and a chance to enjoy the charm of downtown Dayton.
• Massanutten Fall Festival- October 12th, 11:20am-5:30pm
  Head up the mountain for a day of live music, arts, crafts, and of course, scenic chairlift rides to enjoy the fall foliage from above.
  • Buy tickets here
• Elkton Autumn Days Arts and Crafts Festival- October 19th, 10am-5pm
  A weekend filled with local vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
• Skeleton Festival – October 19th, 2pm-5pm
  If you're looking for something spooky and fun, check out Harrisonburg's Skeleton Festival on October 19th from 2-5 PM. It’s a family-friendly event featuring trick-or-treating, costume contests, games, and food vendors, perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit.

Taste of Downtown

Fall is also the perfect time to explore the local food scene. Taste of Downtown gives you the opportunity to indulge in seasonal dishes crafted by some of Harrisonburg’s best chefs. From warm soups to farm-to-table entrees, this is a delicious way to embrace the flavors of fall.

Experience the Best of Fall with Connexa Real Estate

Whether you’re picking apples at Showalter’s Orchard, enjoying a scenic drive through the Valley, or attending one of the many fall festivals, Harrisonburg is brimming with seasonal charm. If you're thinking of making this beautiful area your home, let Connexa Real Estate guide you through the process. Our deep local connections and expert knowledge of the Shenandoah Valley make us your go-to resource for all your real estate needs.