New England Fall Festivals to Visit in New Hampshire

There’s something about fall in New Hampshire that’s hard to beat. Crisp weather, changing leaves, local food, craft vendors and old-fashioned fairs are all part of the season. If you’re looking for a reason to get out and enjoy it, two longtime local traditions are coming up: Dover’s Apple Harvest Day and The Sandwich Fair.

Apple Harvest Day | Dover, NH

Saturday, October 3, 2026 | 9 AM–4 PM

Downtown Dover transforms into one big fall celebration for the annual Apple Harvest Day. First held in 1985, the event now draws more than 60,000 visitors and nearly 350 vendors for a full day of food, live entertainment, arts and crafts and family activities. 

It’s quintessential New England fall without having to leave the Seacoast: historic downtown streets, colorful foliage, local makers, food vendors and plenty happening throughout the day.

Top 3 things to check out:

1. Arts & craft vendors: With hundreds of vendors throughout downtown, give yourself plenty of time to wander and shop local.
2. The food: Follow the festival's dedicated food vendor map and make a point to try something you wouldn't normally grab downtown.
3. Apple Harvest Day 5K: Get there early to watch or participate in the 8:30 AM race through historic downtown before the main festival gets underway!

Plan your visit to Dover Apple Harvest Day

The Sandwich Fair | Sandwich, NH

October 10–12, 2026 | Columbus Day Weekend

For an old-fashioned New Hampshire fair experience, head north to the Sandwich Fair. The three-day agricultural fair combines livestock, traditional competitions, demonstrations, entertainment, crafts and a classic midway. Gates open at 8 AM each day, with rides beginning at 9 AM.

Set in the small town of Sandwich during peak fall season, this is about as classic New England as it gets. Think country roads, fall foliage, farm animals, fair food and traditions that feel like they belong exactly where they are.

Top 3 things to see:

1. The agricultural events: Oxen, steer, horse and livestock events run throughout the weekend and are a big part of what makes this a true country fair.
2. The Grand Street Parade: Sunday’s parade begins at 1 PM and is one of the weekend's signature traditional events.
3. The midway + exhibit halls: Take a ride, then slow things down by checking out the exhibits, crafts and live demonstrations. The Craft Building even requires participating vendors to demonstrate their craft during the fair.

Plan your visit to The Sandwich Fair

Whether you stay close to home in Dover or make a fall drive up to Sandwich, both are great excuses to get outside and enjoy one of the best times of year in New Hampshire.