Autumn in New Hampshire unfolds as a lively patchwork of traditions, woven by generations of communities coming together to celebrate the vibrant transition from summer to fall. As peak foliage makes its arrival, we invite you to explore the season’s best traditions like a local—visit nearby farms, join in annual festivities, and discover things to do that capture the true magic of Fall in New Hampshire.
Annual Fall Fairs and Festivals
One of the best parts of Fall is the return of annual festivities that come to life each season. Many of these traditions run so deep that locals anticipate their arrival all year long. From larger-than-life pumpkin displays and foliage festivals to annual apple harvest days and fiery celebrations to light up the night… there’s no excuse to be bored any weekend this fall. Check out these 7 can’t-miss fall festivals in New Hampshire and mark your calendar!
Visiting the Farm
The annual visit to the farm is a time-honored fall tradition in New Hampshire. It’s a feast for the senses, between the fresh scent of apples lingering in the air, glowing pumpkin patches and the rich textures of corn, gourds, and other seasonal produce. Plus, those famous apple cider donuts that are a hallmark of the season? Most local farms bake their own donuts right on site, churning out thousands of warm cider donuts across the state daily. Hop on for a wagon ride through the orchards or make your way through a golden sunflower field as the sun sets. After all, it’s tradition!
Corn Maze Adventures
While corn mazes crop up at local farms each fall, they never truly get old! Especially in New Hampshire, where our local farms show off their creativity each season with new designs and themed labyrinths perfect for the whole family. And with scavenger hunts, flashlight mazes, and haunted corn mazes starting in October, there’s an adventure for everyone to enjoy. So break out the flannel, gather your crew, and get ready to get lost this season. There’s warm apple cider donuts and pumpkin pie awaiting you on the other side!
Gathering at a Winery or Cidery
New Hampshire locals know that the best time to visit a resident winery or cidery is in the fall. With vineyards and orchards across the state bursting with colorful harvests of apples and grapes—you’ll not find a better time to sample these local flavors. As the vineyards buzz with life, sipping on local wine by the glass feels like a personal escape. And toasting the day’s adventures with a refreshing craft cider is a favorite fall tradition, after all.
Annual Halloween Attractions
A natural conclusion to the colorful autumn season is when the leaves begin to fall and skeleton branches darken New Hampshire’s skies... That’s when towns and neighborhoods begin to pull out those spooky decorations in preparation for all Hallows Eve! Annual Halloween attractions in New Hampshire range from humble haunted hayrides to full-scale nightmare productions and everything in between—and they’re some of the very best around. Plus, with the state’s rich history full of tall tales and ghost stories passed down through generations, there’s no shortage of real haunts to discover, too.
