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DISCLAIMER: Due to the challenges of COVID-19, our beloved New England businesses are taking a proactive approach in minimizing the spread of the virus. Please be aware the events in the below post may not be up-to-date as state-to-state and individual guidelines fluctuate daily. Before venturing out, be sure to check the official website or Facebook page of the business linked below for updates. 

When I was living in California and Dallas, I missed the colorful autumn season here in New England most, 

More specifically – I missed fall fairs and festivals!

While most regions host large state fairs, I appreciate how almost every New England town puts on a fair or festival of its own to celebrate the newly crisp air. With many a leaf peepers already jumping in my inbox, looking for fairs, festivals, and scenic routes to drive I felt like it only made sense to share my suggestions with you all here!

Fairs & Festivals In Connecticut, You Won’t Want To Miss:

Hebron Harvest Fair – Hebron, CT

Head to the Hebron Harvest Fair for live music, carnival rides, animal barns, an agricultural education tent, and a mechanical pull ring. With tons of food options and a beer and wine garden – there’s something for everyone! The fair runs September 5th through 8th. Thursday, September 5th, is “Hebron Night” which means admission, parking, and all rides are only $1 each! Friday, Saturday, and Sunday admission is free for anyone under the age of 12; $13 for anyone over the age of 12. 

North Haven Fair – North Haven, CT 

The North Haven Fair is a popular agricultural event that features live music, a magician juggler, farm with a petting zoo, and a quintessential New England corn maze. Also on site is a Craft Barn filled with local homemade art and goods to shop. The fair runs September 5th through the 8th. Admission is $10 (only $5 Thursday), kids under 12 are free; Sunday is Senior Day where admission is $5 for those who are 65+.

Wapping Fair – South Windsor, CT

Visitors can take a spin on some carnival rides while listening to live music before grabbing a bite from the food truck festival. With livestock, exhibits, an aerialist performance, and an exotic animal meet-and-greet, there’s something for every age! The fair runs September 5th through the 8th. Adult admission is $8, seniors (65+) $4, children are free. 

Norwalk Oyster Festival – Norwalk, CT

Oyster Festival attendees will listen to local and national performers while slurping fresh oysters! The fest offers plenty of entertainment including a lumberjack show, rides, games, and an Arts & Crafts Pavilion with more than 100 artisans and crafters. Also on-site is an international food court and craft beer tent. The festival runs September 6th through the 8th. Adult admission is $12, children (5-12) $5.; U.S. military personnel on active duty enter free of charge. 

Fairy and Elf Festival – Guilford, CT

This family-friendly festival is perfect for kids and those who want to reconnect with their inner child. Attendees can stroll through the gardens, learn about saving monarch butterflies with Natureworks Garden Center, and check out the 1845 farmhouse. The Guilford Garden Club will be on-site to make fairy houses. Stop in the Farmers’ Market for fairy-themed treasures as well as local and organic produce, meats, maple syrup, jams, pastries, goats milk soap, beeswax candles, and handmade crafts! This free event at the Dudley Farm Museum is on September 7th. 

Real Ale Harvest Festival – West Hartford, CT 

For beer, you can’t find anywhere else, check out the Noah Webster Real Ale Harvest Festival on September 5th. With more than 21 breweries, each beer must include an ingredient from Noah Webster’s 18th-century garden or pantry list. Enjoy unlimited samples and live music for $60 at the door, $50 for advanced tickets. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older. Discount admission is offered for designated drivers!

Connecticut Maritime Heritage Festival – New London, CT

Visitors will experience unique tours aboard a fleet of boats including U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard ships and historic schooners. Festival events include a U.S. Coast Guard search & rescue demonstration, a Captains and Crew welcome party, live music, and their annual “Chowder Challenge.” The free event runs September 12th through 15th. 

Four Town Fair – Somers, CT

The Four Town Fair has come to Somers for almost two centuries! The fair is home to animal pulls, a car show, parade, horse show, and live entertainment. Family-friendly attractions include a mini-farm, a variety of food, games, and rides. A weekend pass for all four days, September 12th through 15th, is $25. Thursday admission is $6; Friday through Sunday is $10; Children are free. Parking is free too!

Berlin Fair – Berlin, CT 

With live music, rides, games, a demolition derby, and tons of carnival food – the Berlin Fair is full of fun! Plus, visitors have an opportunity to give back since many of the state’s charitable organizations benefit from the money raised from the fair. The fair runs September 13th through 15th. Admission for adults is $12; Seniors are $8; Children enter for free. 

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