Fall has a way of bringing people together. The air gets crisp, the colors deepen, and all around the world, communities celebrate with music, food, parades, and traditions that light up the season.
We’ve rounded up seven of the best fall festivals happening this year. Use the interactive map below to explore each one.
1. Paris Autumn Festival
When: September 4, 2025 – January 24, 2026
Where: Paris, France
Founded in 1972, Festival D’Automne à Paris showcases theater, music, dance, film, and visual arts across the city. With no central venue, events take place in iconic cultural institutions like the Pompidou Centre and the Ménagerie de Verre.
Why go: Experience Paris through a rotating lineup of world-class performances. Check the schedule early, as tickets for the most popular shows sell quickly.
2. Niagara Grape & Wine Festival
When: September 5 – 28, 2025
Where: St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
Canada’s largest and oldest wine festival has been running since 1951. The event blends local wine tastings, live music, and family-friendly celebrations.
Highlights:
- The Grande Parade on September 27th fills downtown with floats, dancers, and entertainers.
- Local and international musicians perform nightly.
- Perfect for both wine lovers and families.
3. Oktoberfest
When: September 20 – October 5, 2025
Where: Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest draws millions each fall for Bavarian beer, traditional food, and lively music. The festival is famous for its large beer tents and carnival rides.
Tips for visitors:
- You must be seated to order a beer. Reserve a table in advance, especially if traveling in a group.
- Don’t miss classic rides like Willenborg’s Ferris Wheel or photo opportunities in traditional dress.
4. Chuseok
When: October 5 – 8, 2025
Where: South Korea (celebrated nationwide)
Often called “Korean Thanksgiving,” Chuseok is a 3-day harvest holiday when families honor ancestors and share traditional food. Visitors in Seoul can enjoy public cultural performances, folk games, and free entry to royal palaces such as Gyeongbokgung.
Why go: It’s the perfect way to experience authentic Korean culture, from ceremonies to folk dance performances.
5. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
When: October 4 – 12, 2025
Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the world’s largest hot air balloon festival, with more than 500 balloons filling the skies. The event includes live music, local food stalls, and artisan markets.
Must-see:
- Balloon Glow at sundown, when balloons light up in unison.
- Try a New Mexico green chile cheeseburger before browsing the craft market.
6. Diwali (Festival of Lights)
When: October 20 – 24, 2025
Where: Across India (Varanasi is a standout destination)
Diwali is India’s most celebrated festival, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. In Varanasi, fireworks, lanterns, and floating diyas transform the Ganges River into a glowing spectacle.
What to expect: Streets lined with candles, family gatherings, and dazzling fireworks. It’s a spiritual and cultural highlight unlike any other.
7. Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
When: November 1 – 2, 2025
Where: Mexico (Mexico City and Oaxaca are top destinations)
This vibrant holiday honors loved ones who have passed, blending tradition with colorful celebrations. Streets come alive with altars, flowers, parades, and music.
What to try:
- Sugar skulls and Pan de Muertos (sweet bread).
- Attend parades in Mexico City or witness traditional ceremonies in Oaxaca.
Fall is in the air
Whether you’re drinking a cold one at Oktoberfest or watching the balloons at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, make your fall adventures worthwhile with Faye.
These activities and websites are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration on how to make the most of your fall celebrations.
