Ah, the beginning of fall in Iowa. The weather is starting to cool, and the leaves are starting to change. That means it's time for the fall fun to begin, and I always start wondering if there are any fall festivals near me. The good news is that the Hawkeye State knows how to do autumn in style. The best fall festivals in Iowa kick off in early September and continue through October, with the bulk of them taking place in late September. These include an air show, a famous arts-and-crafts festival, a pumpkin festival featuring gourds that will take your breath away, and maybe the most famous Oktoberfest event this side of Bavaria. I know I look forward to the fall season all year, and it's looking like the best one in a while. Are you looking for fun things to do in Iowa in the fall? Look no further! Here are the best fall festivals in Iowa.

1. Tri City BBQ Fest - Denison

A celebration of all things barbecue, this Denison festival will accompany some of Iowa's best pitmasters with a wide selection of beer and live music. Come try some scrumptious fall-off-the-bone barbecue! The Tri City BBQ Fest is celebrating its 10th year on September 20-21, 2024.

2. Beaverdale Fall Festival - Des Moines

This charming fall festival has been going on in Des Moines for over a century. You can expect a carnival, horseback rides, and a dog parade and car show. It's a wonderful community festival. The Beaverdale Fall Festival is happening September 20-21, 2024.

3. Ely Fall Fest - Ely

One of the most rustic fall festivals in Iowa, this charming farm event features a market, hayrides, fireworks, and games like beanbags. There's even a 5K run! Come get a sense of home at this lovely event. The Ely Fall Fest has a 5K run on September 22, 2024, and the fall festival takes place on September 28, 2024.

4. Kalona Fall Festival - Kalona

The Kalona Historical Village is a great place to celebrate fall. Not only will you find food and craft vendors, but countless opportunities to learn about the town's historic roots. Step into local history and get to know the local people. The Kalona Historical Village Fall Festival will happen on September 27 & 28, 2024.

5. Amana Oktoberfest - Amana Colonies

The most famous Oktoberfest in Iowa, this German town goes all out with beer, dances, and food vendors celebrating the best of European cuisine. Food, music, and fun for three whole days. Don't miss the parade! You're sure to have a very festive and happy time at this Oktoberfest. The Amana Oktoberfest will kick off on October 4-6, 2024.

6. Fly Iowa - Boone

This free air show is one of the most exciting fall events in Iowa. Nationally known stunt pilots will take to the air, and historic planes will be on display as well as ones that run on pure ethanol! The Fly Iowa event takes place on August 31, 2024.

7. Anamosa Pumpkinfest - Anamosa

How big can a pumpkin get? You won't believe your eyes. In addition to the great pumpkin weigh-in, you'll find a parade, food stalls, craft vendors, plus pumpkin displays all around the town. The Anamosa Pumpkinfest will happen on October 5, 2024, and it has some pumpkins that are almost too big to believe that they’re real!

8. Fall Arts and Crafts Festival - McGregor

McGregor is one of the arts capitals of Iowa, and this fall event features more than 40 artists selling exclusive crafts amid a fun atmosphere including food vendors and live music. Bring home some beautiful handmade crafts to display in your home. The McGregor Fall Art Festival will happen on two weekends: October 5 & 6 and October 12 & 13, 2024.

We think these are some of the best fall festivals in Iowa - which are you looking forward to this year? Let us know in the comments section! Make sure you're decked out in fall clothing when you head to your next autumn event! If you're looking for other ways to celebrate the kickoff of the season, why not take this lovely hike to see the beautiful fall foliage:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/iowa/hiking-trail-fall-foliage-ia/