Fall in Connecticut is such a magical time, and every year when this season rolls around, I find myself wondering "What are some of the best fall festivals near me?" There are so many ways to celebrate autumn, and it's truly a season when some of the best fall festivals in Connecticut take place all over the state. Here are a few of our favorite Connecticut fall festivals in the Nutmeg State:

1. Norwalk Oyster Festival (Norwalk)

The Norwalk Oyster Festival is one of the most popular seafood festivals in Connecticut. This year's edition is the 45th and it's sure to be a blast, with tons of live entertainment, a beer tent, and a special Kids Cove area for the little ones. Of course, there will be plenty of oysters to enjoy! This festival takes place Sept. 6-8, 2024.

2. Harvest Moon Festival (Naugatuck)

The Harvest Moon Festival in Naugatuck is one of the best fall events near New Haven, CT. This fun-filled weekend has tons of events taking place on the Naugatuck Town Green. There are local vendors selling their wares, plus food, concerts, and more. It's such a fun time to get out and enjoy the chillier weather and sense of community that Naugatuck offers. The festivities will happen Sept. 20-21, 2024.

3. Watertown Fall Festival (Watertown)

While many of the fall festivals on this list last for a whole weekend, don't let the fact that the Watertown Fall Festival is only a one-day event scare you off. This Saturday event is a blast, with live music, plenty of craft vendors, and lots of food making it one of the best family-friendly fall events near Litchfield County. Look forward to it on Sept. 14, 2024.

4. South Windsor Apple Festival (South Windsor)

We love the South Windsor Apple Festival! This outdoor fall festival near Hartford, CT features more than 100 vendors, live music, a dunk tank, train rides, hot air balloon rides, and, of course, tons of delicious apples. Best of all, the event is free and even has free parking. This year the event will happen on Oct. 5, 2024.

5. Connecticut Garlic & Harvest Festival (Bethlehem)

Are you the type that just can't get enough garlic? Then this fall event near Litchfield County is for you. The 2024 edition is the 19th time this event has been held, and each year manages to get increasingly delicious! An impressive array of garlic dishes will be available for sale, but there's also entertainment, crafts, and more. There are fun activities for kids and cooking demonstrations and garlic growing lectures that adults looking to learn some new skills will love. Look forward to it on Oct. 12-13, 2024.

6. Glastonbury Apple Harvest & Music Festival (Glastonbury)

The Glastonbury Apple Harvest and Music Festival is another must-attend fall event. This one is full of local musicians and also has a 5K race and plenty of carnival rides that you'll want to check out. Lots of food vendors will be on-site, and you can expect to find plenty of apple dishes that are perfect for celebrating the season. This festival takes place Oct. 18-20, 2024.

7. Riverton Fair (Riverton)

Okay, so the Riverton Fair isn't technically a festival, but it's one of the best fall events in Litchfield County, CT, so we had to mention it! This is one of the last major fairs of the season, and it's always such a fun time for the whole family. Don't you just love an old-fashioned fair with rides, carnival games, and more? There's so much for the entire family to enjoy here. Join in on the fun Oct. 11-13, 2024.

Mark your calendars, as these are all sure to be so much fun! Have you been to any of these fall festivals in Connecticut? We'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments. Fall in Connecticut is a great time for a lovely hike. Check out some of these magnificent hiking trails:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/connecticut/best-hikes-in-connecticut/