Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
With crisp mountain air, fewer crowds, and golden aspens lining the trails, fall in Lake Tahoe has a special energy. Seasonal events, traditional celebrations, and family-friendly festivals bring the region to life in between peak seasons.- Palisades Tahoe Oktoberfest – The village at Palisades Tahoe transforms into Bavaria for the largest Oktoberfest celebration in North Lake Tahoe. Expect German food, music by a 20-piece band, and, of course, plenty of beer. VIP packages and non-alcoholic options are also available.
- Meyers Mountain Fall Festival – A family-friendly celebration of the season with live music, local foods, a pumpkin patch, caramel apples, kids’ craft booths, and a beer garden for adults. Highlights include a Halloween costume contest and a pie-eating contest.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Fall on Kiawah Island is marked by Southern traditions, family-friendly festivals, and music-filled gatherings that celebrate the season in true Low-country style.- Thanksgiving Oyster Roast – Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s longest-running event, this cherished tradition brings guests together over fresh oysters roasted on an open fire, accompanied by classic barbecue, Southern sides, live music, and activities for all ages.
- Dogtoberfest – A popular October event where guests and their furry friends can enjoy a lively pet expo that supports local rescues. Expect food trucks, wine, beer, live music, a silent auction, and even a pet costume contest.
Vail, Colorado
Golden aspens replace the evergreens and crisp mountain air fills the valleys. Autumn in Vail brings festivals and outdoor traditions that make the season feel truly special.- Oktoberfest – Named one of the ten best Oktoberfests in the U.S., this beloved celebration has been putting an American twist on classic Bavarian traditions for 50 years. Held on back-to-back weekends in Lionshead and Vail Villages, the festival features live music, hearty food, beer, family-friendly activities, and friendly competitions like stein lifting, keg bowling, and costume contests. Brats and pretzels are, of course, essential.
- Leaf peeping – While not an official event, no fall trip to Vail is complete without exploring the wilderness to see the most spectacular fall foliage. Head out on the Berry Picker Trail for a classic trek through streams and rows of golden aspens, perfect for soaking in the season’s beauty.
Paris, France
Autumn in Paris brings crisp air, golden leaves along the Seine, and a series of cultural and culinary celebrations. The city’s historic streets and squares host festivals that delight the senses and immerse visitors in French tradition.- Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (La Fête des Vendanges) – A four-day celebration of the grape harvest in Montmartre’s historic vineyard, ongoing since 1934. Enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, concerts, street performances, artisanal product tastings, dances, walks, exhibitions, and more. Activities cater to every age, making it a festive experience for all.
- Autumn Festival in Paris – Founded in 1972, this major cultural festival runs from September to December, featuring music, theatre, dance, and film. It showcases both acclaimed artists and emerging talents, offering a rich panorama of Parisian creativity.
Napa, California
Autumn is harvest season in Napa, and the most magical time to visit. The vines and rolling hills turn brilliant shades of orange, green, and gold, and clusters of ripe grapes adorn the vines. The season is marked by numerous events celebrating the harvest.- V. Sattui’s Annual Harvest Ball: For decades, this black-tie soirée has dazzled guests with live entertainment, gourmet cuisine, and world-class wines, capped off with a thrilling afterparty.
- Calistoga Harvest Table: A one-of-a-kind dining event where renowned chefs and wineries come together to serve a multi-course, seasonal feast along a 1,000-foot table stretching through downtown Calistoga.
- Peju Harvest Festival & Grape Stomp: Step into tradition by stomping grapes barefoot before sitting down to a vineyard lunch paired with estate wines. A bucket list-worthy experience!
