Updated August 2023
Few things are more stunning than the brilliant colors of fall in Pennsylvania. It’s the perfect time of year for a road trip to view fall foliage. Why not plan the day with a destination in mind, maybe one of the many fall festivals near Hershey, PA? There are themes to satisfy your cravings for beer, music, apples, cars, and knights of the round table!
Take out your flannel shirt, and prepare for pumpkin spice fun! Check your calendar and book your stay to coordinate with your fave festival. Don’t wait! Our scenery and festivals attract lots of visitors!
Annual Mt. Gretna Art Show
August 19 & 20 | Saturday 9 am – 6 pm, Sunday 9 am – 5 pm
Downtown Mt. Gretna, PA
Admission: $15 (12 and over); Free (under 12)
Don’t miss the 49th annual Mt Gretna Art Show, with displays from over 200 artists. Art publications consistently highly rank this show with a special section for emerging artists and kids’ art. You’ll also sip and savor delicacies from the gourmet food court hosted by local restaurants. That’s not all — try craft beers, listen to live music, and more, providing fun for all.
PA Renaissance Faire
Saturdays and Sundays
August 19 – October 29 | Gates open at 11 am
2775 Lebanon Rd. Mannheim, PA
Join in the medieval festivities and frolic with kings and queens, knights and knaves, wizards and time travelers! Even if you don’t want to dress up, the PA Renaissance Faire will have plenty of food and entertainment!
Kipona 2023
Saturday – Monday, September 2 – 4
11am – 8pm Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 6pm Monday
Riverfront Park, Harrisburg PA
Labor Day Weekend will be the 107th celebration of Kipona. Originally named after the Native American term for “to be upon the sparkling water”, nowadays, the celebration takes place as much on the shore as on the water. Kipona 2023 has a beer garden, live music, kayak races, games, and an Artist Market.
Jazz And Wine Festival
Saturday and Sunday, September 9 & 10
4pm – 9pm | Doors open at 3:00 pm
Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St, Harrisburg PA
This is the 16th year of the Dauphin County Jazz and Wine Festival! Bring lawn chairs and picnic baskets, or pick up tasty delights from local vendors. Central PA’s finest wineries will be represented, as well. Expect continuous music!
America’s Largest RV Show
Wednesday – Sunday, September 13 – 17
9am – 8pm | Closing 5pm Sunday
Giant Center, Hershey PA
America’s Largest RV Show is the place to see more than 34 manufacturers and 1400 RVs and the latest accessories. Attend seminars on the RV lifestyle and maintenance; the perfect place to upgrade your current rig or decide on a future purchase.
Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Festival
Thursday – Sunday, September 14 – 17
7am – 8pm | Closing 7pm Sunday
2727 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand PA
See the Lancaster Hot Air Balloon Festival from the ground or the air! Is there anything more thrilling than the sight of dozens of colorful hot air balloons ascending into the sky in the morning air? There is great musical entertainment, with a fireworks finish to the festival.
New Cumberland AppleFest
Saturday, September 30
9am – 4pm
New Cumberland Borough Park, New Cumberland PA
New Cumberland’s Olde Towne Association will host its 37th annual family-friendly Apple Fest with handmade crafts, great food, and music. The highlight is, of course, the Apple Pie Baking Contest!
Hershey AACA Fall Meet
Tuesday – Friday, October 3 – 6
7am – 7pm
Giant Center, Hershey PA
Come to one of the largest antique car shows and flea markets in the US! Hershey AACA Fall Meet has been happening since 1955. Make time for the Car Corral and old-time Movie Box, along with some fun races.
Springgate Apple Festival
Friday – Sunday, October 20 – 22
Starting at noon
5790 Devonshire Rd, Harrisburg PA
The 3-day Springgate Apple Festival celebrates everything apple! Look for apple-themed wine, beer, and other libations, along with live music and food trucks.
ChoctoberFest
ChoctoberFestSaturday, October 14
11am – 6pm
Chocolatetown Square, Hershey PA
The 8th Annual ChoctoberFest will celebrate bands, beers, chocolates, and delicious food from downtown restaurants. The event is free, with food and drink available for purchase. Come and see what Hershey is known for!
There is something for everyone at these fall festivals near Hershey, PA! Come and see the foliage, visit Amish country in Lancaster, and visit the festival(s) of your choice! Come back at night to the 1825 Inn for a cozy night’s sleep and homemade breakfast in the morning!
