A Quick Fall Festivities Guide

With Fall officially upon us and the trees starting to shed their leaves, folks in the Monadnock Region are gearing up for a taste of that spooky, autumn fun with festivals that promise memories for the entire family. Whether you're a fan of pumpkins, apples or local crafts, there's something for everyone! We threw together a little guide to help you find the end of the corn maze and plan to visit some of the best fall festivals happening in Southern New Hampshire this year. Milford Pumpkin Festival (Oct. 11-13, 2024) The Milford Pumpkin Festival is one of the most anticipated fall events in southern New Hampshire. This three-day celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. takes place in the heart of Milford and features an array of pumpkin-related activities, live music on two stages and a haunted trail for those who enjoy a spooky experience. Visitors can also enjoy pumpkin carving displays, bounce houses for kids, a rubber duck race and a variety of local artisan and craft vendors. For adults, there will be beer, wine and spirits tastings, making it a fantastic way to experience the flavors of fall. Don't miss the spectacular pumpkin lighting display that lights up the Milford Oval each evening. Keene Pumpkin Festival (Oct. 12, 2024) Keene's Pumpkin Festival, an annual event since 1991, returns to downtown for another year of fun. Known for its impressive display of carved pumpkins, the festival brings people together to create a breathtaking pumpkin tower that's hard to miss. In addition to the iconic pumpkin display, visitors can enjoy local food vendors, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. The town will be buzzing with autumn cheer, making it a great opportunity for fall fun from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Annual Apple Fest & Crafts Fair (Oct. 12, 2024, Munsonville) The Annual Apple Fest & Crafts Fair in Munsonville (located at 529 Granite Lake Rd., Nelson from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.) is the perfect event for those who love fall's other star fruit: apples! This charming festival combines local craft vendors with seasonal apple treats like cider, pies and more. Whether you're browsing homemade crafts or sampling fall foods, this event is a great way to spend a cozy autumn day. Feeding Tiny Tummies Fall Festival (Oct. 12, 2024) Taking place on the same day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Feeding Tiny Tummies Fall Festival offers a fun way to enjoy the season while supporting a great cause. With a focus on supporting families in need, this event, held at the Cheshire Fairgrounds in Swanzey, will feature live music, games and food vendors, with proceeds helping to provide food and essentials to local children. It's an opportunity to make a difference while enjoying the autumn festivities. If you're looking for more autumn fun, consider visiting some of the other popular events: Warner Fall Foliage Festival (Oct. 11-13, 2024): This small-town festival celebrates the vibrant colors of fall with live music, parades and even an oxen pull. It's a wonderful family-friendly event that captures the spirit of New Hampshire's fall traditions. Claremont Fall Festival & Chili Cook-Off (Oct. 5, 2024): For food lovers, the Claremont Fall Festival is a must-attend. You can sample various chili recipes while enjoying children's activities, local vendors, and live entertainment. Dover Apple Harvest Day (Oct. 5, 2024): Dover's Apple Harvest Day is a massive event that attracts more than 60,000 visitors. With over 300 vendors, live music and delicious apple-themed treats, it's the perfect event to kick off the fall season. Whether it's pumpkin carving, craft fairs or delicious fall flavors, there is no shortage of fall-themed festivals that showcase the best of autumn in New Hampshire. Be sure to check individual event websites for any last-minute updates, throw on a sweater, grab your mugs and plan ahead to make the most of these festive opportunities.