4 Can't-Miss Northeast Fall Festivals in 2016

 

With all due respect to summer, no season compares to fall when it comes to festivals, and no region comes close to the Northeast U.S. when you're talking fall festivals. Whether you can't get enough of pumpkin or are simply a sucker for vibrant foliage, a visit to the Northeast this October is a must.

If you're heading out, here's your guide to next month's top fall festivals across the Northeast U.S.

National Apple Harvest Festival

Where: Biglerville, Pennsylvania

When: Oct. 1-2, 8-9

Just 10 miles from Gettysburg in the heart of Pennsylvania's apple country is where you'll find the National Apple Harvest Festival. 

This year's festival will be held during the first two weekends in October and will feature not only arts and crafts dealers, but contests, entertainment and a handful of food stands serving up fall favorites. An Apple Auditorium, orchard tours and a petting zoo are among the many attractiosn on tap for 2016. However antique cars, steam engines and the PA Apple Queen will also make appearances in Biglerville this year.

We recommend you buy your tickets online ahead of time to skip the lines.

Cranberry Harvest Celebration

Where: Wareham, Massachusetts

When: Oct. 8-9

If you want to see how that cranberry sauce at your yearly Thanksgiving dinner comes to be then head up to Wareham, Massachusetts for the 13th annual Cranberry Harvest Celebration. 

This year's festival will take place Columbus Day weekend. In addition to learning about the region's cranberry harvest, festival-goers will have an opportunity to view the harvest by helicopter, take in cooking demonstrations, listen to local musical acts and shop the farmer's market.

READ MORE: 4 Must-Visit Places in Appalachia for Fall Colors

For children, the celebration also boasts pony, train, paddle boat and wagon rides as well as live entertainment. 

Autumn Glory Festival

 

Where: Oakland, Maryland

When: Oct. 12-16

The Autumn Glory Festival in western Maryland has taken place each fall for the past half-century and 2016's celebration promises to be the best yet.

This five-day festival celebrating the region's stunning fall foliage features indoor and outdoor activities, including parades, concerts and art exhibits. Music enthusiasts will want to put this festival at the top of their list considering it will feature not only concerts but band competitions as well.

READ MORE: Must-Hit Beer Festivals To Visit This Fall

It's also worth noting that the Autumn Glory Festival was once recognized by MSN.com as the world's best fall festival.

New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival

Where: Laconia, New Hampshire

When: Oct. 22

Once you've experienced southeastern Massachusetts' cranberry harvest head north to Laconia, New Hampshire, home to the state's beloved pumpkin festival. 

This one-day celebration of fall and pumpkins takes place just days before Halloween and is guaranteed to wow with its unique collection of carved pumpkins and other seasonal items. 

EPIC! pic.twitter.com/PvamFC6HFD

— NH Pumpkin Festival (@NHPumpkinFest) September 12, 2016

Pumpkin-themed activities and events, including a parade and haunted attractions are also sure to entertain. 

Follow @_Pat_Clarke