Delaware, with its vibrant foliage and crisp autumn air, is home to some of the most delightful fall festivals in the country. As the summer heat eases, the landscape transforms into a canvas of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, setting the perfect backdrop for a variety of traditional harvest celebrations. Here are the nine best fall festivals in Delaware for 2024 that will fully immerse you in the season’s spirit.

1. Autumnal Arts Festival – Wilmington

Taking place in the artistic heart of Wilmington, this festival celebrates local artists and craftsmen. Enjoy the open-air market, live music, and an array of food vendors offering seasonal treats like apple cider donuts and pumpkin spiced goodies.

2. Harvest Moon Festival – Newark

An enchanting event for families, Newark’s Harvest Moon Festival features hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking. Nightly bonfires and storytelling sessions create a cozy atmosphere that appeals to both young visitors and the young at heart.

3. Delaware Wine & Beer Festival – Dover

Attracting connoisseurs from all over the region, this festival highlights Delaware’s growing craft beverage scene. Savor local wines, brews, and spirits while enjoying live music and gourmet food pairings—an epicurean’s dream come true amidst autumn’s ambiance.

4. Lewes Historical Society Fall Craft Fair – Lewes

For those who appreciate handmade goods and historical settings, Lewes offers an exceptional combination of both. Stroll through craft booths set amongst historic buildings as costumed interpreters add a dash of history to your shopping experience.

5. Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler’s Festival – Rehoboth Beach

A festival that combines Halloween festivities with folk music by the sea. Expect costume parades, magical performances, fiddler competitions, and sea-witch-themed activities galore—perfect for those who love a little spookiness with their fall festivities.

6. Milton Apple Scrapple Festival – Milton

A true celebration of autumn’s quintessential fruits—apples and scrapples (a regional pork dish). Features apple-dumpling making workshops, scrapple carving contests (yes, it’s a thing!), tractor rides and craft vendors selling apple- and pork-themed wares.

7. Hockessin Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival – Hockessin

Nothing says ‘fall’ like catapulting pumpkins through the air at this family-friendly event! Teams compete to launch pumpkins as far as possible using homemade trebuchets while onlookers enjoy delicious pumpkin treats from local food vendors.

8. Bethany Fall Surf Fishing Classic – Bethany Beach

Anglers find this surf fishing tournament to be a relaxing way to enjoy the beach in autumn. Whether you’re competing or just watching from the dunes with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, it’s a serene way to connect with nature as summer fades away.

9. Chadds Ford Days Fall Festival – Chadds Ford

Immersive historical reenactments meet modern-day fun at this festival near Delaware’s border with Pennsylvania. Live Revolutionary War demonstrations blend with beer gardens and live bluegrass music to make for an event full of education and entertainment.

These festivals encapsulate not only the harvest customs but also Delaware’s rich culture and community spirit during fall. Mark your calendars for 2024 if you wish to revel in these autumnal celebrations as each offers unique experiences bound to create lasting memories amidst the golden hues of fall.