As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, Ohio gears up for a spectacular season of fall festivities. From scenic apple orchards and pumpkin patches to vibrant fall festivals, the Buckeye State has something for everyone during this picturesque time of year. Here’s a look at some of the best fall events you’ll want to add to your calendar for 2024.

1. Circleville Pumpkin Show (Circleville)

Known as “The Greatest Free Show on Earth,” the Circleville Pumpkin Show is an annual event that takes place in mid-October. The festival brings tens of thousands of visitors each year, who come to see the giant pumpkin weigh-in, parades, pumpkin-flavored treats, and art-and-crafts vendors.

2. The Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival (Coshocton)

Hosted in historic Roscoe Village, the Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival in late October honors the tradition of making apple butter. Visitors can expect folk music, crafts, and demonstrations alongside a spread of fall food favorites.

3. Woollybear Festival (Vermilion)

A unique event that celebrates the woolly bear caterpillar and its ability to predict winter weather, the Woollybear Festival occurs every fall in Vermilion. The festival includes a parade featuring animals, entertainers, woollybear races, and food stalls.

4. Fall Foliage Train Rides (Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad)

For those who want to take in Ohio’s autumn beauty in a relaxing way, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers special train rides throughout October. These rides let you marvel at stunning views of the changing colors in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

5. Ohio Sauerkraut Festival (Waynesville)

This festival has been celebrated since 1970 and has become known nationally for its extensive variety of sauerkraut dishes. Taking place in October in downtown Waynesville, it features hundreds of craft vendors from over 25 states.

6. HighBall Halloween (Columbus)

Held in Columbus each October, HighBall Halloween is one of the most extravagant costume parties in Ohio. It features a street party centered around fashion design with live music, performance art, costume contests, and more.

7. Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival

This October festival pays homage to Ashtabula County’s 19 covered bridges with tours, a parade, quilt show, car show, crafts and historical exhibits.

8. Mohican Fall Foliage Festival (Loudonville)

Offering more than just beautiful landscapes with vibrant leaves; Mohican State Park hosts vendors from all over showcasing their handmade products during this weekend event.

9. The Renaissance Festival (Waynesville)

While technically starting in late summer and stretching into early fall, the Renaissance Festival transports visitors back to 16th-century England through full-armored jousting tournaments, old world music and dance presentations.

10. Young’s Dairy Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival (Yellow Springs)

Young’s Jersey Dairy turns into a playground for autumn lovers with its Annual Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival. The event features corn mazes, wagon rides on the farm’s scenic routes alongside pumpkin picking from their own patch.

These events are the perfect way to embrace all that fall has to offer in Ohio while creating memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime! Whether you’re relishing delicious seasonal flavors or enjoying festive entertainment amidst a backdrop of stunning fall foliage—Ohio’s exciting lineup of autumn activities is sure to delight visitors and residents alike in 2024.