Fall into Fun: Annual Fall Festivals in and Around Staunton
Autumn in Virginia is a season worth celebrating, and in Staunton, the arrival of crisp air and golden leaves brings a calendar packed with music, art, food, and cultural festivities. From lively downtown streets to scenic mountain resorts, these annual fall festivals are a chance to gather friends and family, enjoy the outdoors, and create memories that last well beyond the season.
In This Article:
Staunton African American Heritage & Multicultural Festival
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Held each September in Gypsy Hill Park, this two-day celebration honors heritage through music, art, storytelling, and cultural performances. Saturday features a lively mix of vendors, local organizations, and live entertainment, while Sunday offers an “under the tent” worship service followed by an afternoon of uplifting gospel music. Admission is free, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it a local favorite.
Staunton Jams – Fall Equinox Jam
Official Facebook Page | Multiple Locations
Staunton’s Wharf District comes alive every September with local and regional bands, art vendors, street performers, and food trucks. This free, multi-day event celebrates the city’s creative spirit with music that spans genres and activities that draw the whole community together.
Queen City Mischief & Magic Festival
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Each September, downtown Staunton transforms into a whimsical village inspired by Harry Potter and other magical tales. Visitors can expect costumed characters, themed dining and shopping, live performances, games, and interactive experiences for all ages.
Fall Foliage Festival Art Show
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Every October, historic downtown Waynesboro becomes a vibrant outdoor gallery. More than 160 juried artists showcase a diverse range of fine crafts, including paintings, pottery, jewelry, and woodwork. Live local music, food trucks, and regional beer and wine tastings complete this free, family-friendly celebration of art and autumn.
Harrisonburg Skeleton Festival
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Not far from Staunton, downtown Harrisonburg comes alive each October with the annual Skeleton Festival. This family-friendly celebration features trick-or-treating at local businesses, a lively costume contest, arts and crafts, games, and plenty of live entertainment. The decorated downtown creates a festive Halloween atmosphere that’s fun for all ages, making it a worthwhile fall outing just a short drive from Staunton.
Rockbridge Beer & Wine Festival
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Kicking off the fall season in September, this beloved tasting event at Lexington’s Lime Kiln Theater features unlimited samples of Virginia wine, cider, craft beer, and ready-to-drink cocktails. Two live music stages and a variety of food trucks keep the good times flowing.
Massanutten Fall Celebrations
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Massanutten Resort hosts two signature events each fall: the Mountain Harvest Days Concert in September and the Fall Festival in October. Visitors can enjoy live music, mountain views, scenic chairlift rides, arts and crafts vendors, local food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. Both gatherings offer a perfect way to take in the Shenandoah Valley’s seasonal beauty.
Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze Fun
Several local farms host their own fall festivals alongside pumpkin picking and corn mazes. Highlights include Blue Ridge Mountain Maze and Endless View Farms. For our complete roundup of pumpkin patches, family-friendly activities, and harvest events, visit our Pumpkin Patch Guide.
To Be Determined:
Lord Dunmore’s War Weekend
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Hosted at the Frontier Culture Museum, this living-history event explores the 1774 conflict between colonial Americans and the Shawnee people. Historians, guest speakers, and reenactors bring the past to life with talks, demonstrations, fife and drum performances, and more. This festival is typically held in early fall, though the museum announces future dates.
Parks and Rec
Official Facebook Page | Directions
Staunton Parks and Rec events don’t end for the year when the Music in the Park series ends. Join in for fall fun with events like Scarecrows in the Park. Families and groups sign up to claim a scarecrow and then dress it in their choice of styles. You can also experience the annual Pumpkin Float at Lake Tams. Participants bring a carved pumpkin to light and launch it on the lake. The event will feature family-friendly music, refreshments, and other activities.
Celebrate the Season
From magical downtown takeovers to art-lined streets and mountain-view concerts, Staunton and its neighbors offer countless ways to enjoy fall. Whether you’re sipping a local vintage, dancing to live music, or exploring artisan markets, there’s no shortage of reasons to get out and celebrate the season.