October brings some of the best of Maine and New Hampshire together: brilliant fall foliage, crisp coastal air, harvest traditions, local food, art, and the annual events that bring communities together across both states. From agricultural fairs and craft festivals to pumpkin regattas and coastal celebrations, there is no shortage of ways to experience Maine and New Hampshire in the heart of autumn.
Whether you’re looking for a classic country fair, a coastal celebration, or a weekend in the mountains, these fall events offer plenty of ways to enjoy the season across Maine and New Hampshire.
Fryeburg Fair, Fryeburg, ME
October 4–11, 2026
One of Maine’s classic fall traditions, Fryeburg Fair celebrates the state’s agricultural heritage with livestock, harness racing, rides, food, exhibitions, entertainment, and events for the whole family. The fair returns for eight days in October. Plan your visit to Fryeburg Fair: Fryeburg Fair
Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta, Damariscotta, ME
October 9-12, 2026
Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta returns over Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend with giant pumpkins, local food, family activities, a colorful parade, and the festival’s famous Pumpkinboat Regatta. The weekend also includes a pumpkin derby, KidsZone, pumpkin drop, and other events throughout Damariscotta and Newcastle. Learn more about Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta → Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta
Acadia’s Oktoberfest, Bass Harbor, ME
October 10-11, 2026
Celebrate the arrival of fall on Mount Desert Island at Acadia’s Oktoberfest, Maine’s longest-running Oktoberfest. Held in Bass Harbor, the annual celebration brings together Maine brewers, food vendors, live music, arts and crafts, and traditional Oktoberfest activities, including keg-tossing competitions and more. Learn more about Acadia’s Oktoberfest: Acadia’s Oktoberfest
Warner Fall Foliage Festival, Warner, NH
October 9-11, 2026
From delicious food, handcrafted art, live demonstrations and music, and more, this is a weekend for the whole family to celebrate local! Since 1947, the people of Warner have hosted the Warner Fall Foliage Festival to welcome old and new friends to the community. With hundreds of local volunteers helping to put on the event and raise money for community organizations, the Festival has donated thousands of dollars to organizations to support the growth and enrichment of local culture, music, art, sports, town and school projects, parks and facilities. Find out more here.
Sugarloaf Homecoming Weekend, Carrabassett Valley, ME
October 9-11, 2026
Celebrate the changing season in the mountains during Sugarloaf Homecoming Weekend, featuring scenic lift rides, live music, an art show, family activities, the Uphill Climb, and more. Fall foliage and mountain views make this annual weekend a favorite time to experience Sugarloaf. Discover Sugarloaf Homecoming Weekend: Sugarloaf Homecoming Weekend
Sunday River Fall Festival, Newry, ME
October 10-11, 2026
Head to Sunday River for a weekend of fall fun in the mountains, with scenic Chondola rides, live music, an arts and crafts fair, family activities, and the annual Wife Carrying Championship. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the changing foliage and mountain landscape. Explore Sunday River Fall Fest: Sunday River Fall Fest
Pumpkin Vine Family Farm Harvest Festival, Somerville, ME
October 11, 2026
Celebrate the harvest season at Pumpkin Vine Family Farm with an afternoon of old-fashioned fun on a working Maine farm. The annual Harvest Festival features a cider pressing demonstration, harvest games, a farmers market, seasonal food, and activities for the whole family. Learn more about the Pumpkin Vine Family Farm Harvest Festival: Pumpkin Vine Family Farm
Harvest on the Harbor, Portland, ME
October 15-17, 2026
Harvest on the Harbor brings together Maine chefs, fishermen, farmers, artisans, and food lovers for a celebration of the state’s culinary traditions. The weekend features events including the Maine Lobster Chef of the Year competition and Maine OysterFest, along with opportunities to sample some of Maine’s best food and drink. Explore Harvest on the Harbor: Harvest on the Harbor
York Harvestfest, York Beach, ME
October 17, 2026
York Harvestfest & Kidsfest celebrates fall at Short Sands Beach with local makers, food, live music, and activities for the whole family. The one-day event offers a chance to enjoy the season in one of Southern Maine’s classic coastal communities. Learn more about York Harvestfest & Kidsfest: York Harvestfest
OgunquitFest, Ogunquit, ME
October 23-25, 2026
OgunquitFest returns for its annual celebration of fall with live entertainment, a craft fair, family activities, and seasonal events throughout the village. It’s a festive way to experience Ogunquit after the summer season and enjoy the town in its quieter autumn setting. Discover OgunquitFest: OgunquitFest
New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival, Laconia, NH
October 23 - 24, 2026
It’s all about the pumpkins at this annual event. Downtown Laconia transforms into a sea of orange during the NH Pumpkin Festival, a celebration of autumn featuring thousands of carved pumpkins, family-friendly activities, local artisans, food vendors, live entertainment, and so much more. Bring your own carved creation to add to the display. It’s a fitting finale to a fall festival season filled with classic New Hampshire traditions. Find out more here.
