Events

NOVEMBER

Rochester Children’s Book Festival | Nov. 2, Rochester, NY
Rochester’s Children’s Book Festival is the perfect event for families and children who love to read. Celebrate reading and writing by meeting with approximately 50 authors and illustrators. Purchase signed books, make book-related crafts and attend a variety of presentations for all ages. rcbfestival.com 

AMBC Fall Festival | Nov. 1–3, Knoxville, TN
Join the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club in celebrating community and the great outdoors. The organization’s goal is to create and maintain trails in the Knoxville area, helping to provide more opportunities for outdoor recreation. Participate in leisurely group rides or thrilling races. fallfest.ambcknox.org

Peddler's Village Apple Festival | Nov. 2–3, New Hope, PA
The annual Peddler’s Village Apple Festival offers a continuous stream of live entertainment, family attractions and activities, and a large selection of apple-flavored food and drinks. Located in the greater Philadelphia region, the outdoor festival provides two days of rain-or-shine fun with free admission. peddlersvillage.com

Christmas in the Country | Nov. 7–10, Hamburg, NY
Celebrate the season of giving at the annual Christmas in the Country craft event. Located at the Hamburg Fairgrounds, the event has a history of giving back to the community by supporting nonprofits such as Variety The Children’s Charity of Buffalo, while also providing attendees the opportunity to find unique artisanal goods. wnypremierpromotions.com

Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer and Food Festival | Nov. 21–23, Grand Rapids, MI
Treat your taste buds to world-class selections of food and drink from west Michigan-area chefs as well as delicacies from around the world at the Midwest’s largest wine, beer and food festival. Visitors can also enjoy live music at local venues such as The Vineyard, Beer City Station, RendezBREW cafe and more. experiencegr.com

Brighton Holiday Glow and Christmas Market | Nov. 23, Brighton, MI
Kick off the holiday season with Brighton’s light displays and activities for the whole family. As you play games, listen to performers and enjoy food-truck fare, don’t forget to take a picture with Santa, Mrs. Claus and the reindeer. The Christmas Market returns this year to Main Street. brightoncoc.org

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival | Nov. 23, Chicago, IL
Returning to dazzle the streets of Chicago again this year is the annual holiday lights festival along the Windy City’s Magnificent Mile. Enjoy a parade of over 40 floats led by grand marshals Mickey and Minnie Mouse, all the way from Disney World. After the sun goes down, lights begin to twinkle in the trees and ring in the holiday season. themagnificentmile.com

East TN Occult Expo | Nov. 23–24, Gatlinburg, TN
This curious and mystical market features over 150 vendors sharing and selling oddities, witchcraft supplies, occult items and more. Learn from the knowledgeable sellers and meet some of your favorite occult authors and content creators. Be sure to stick around for showstopping performances and demonstrations. tnvacation.com

Light Up the Point | Nov. 30, Bemus Point, NY
Share the holiday spirit at Bemus Point during this second annual celebration. Join the community in decorating golf carts and other vehicles with lights and parading through town before heading to the tree-lighting ceremony. The event culminates at 5 p.m. when Santa Claus makes his arrival and helps light the village tree. visitbemuspoint.com

Holly Dickens Festival | Nov. 30–Dec. 1, Dec. 7–8, Dec. 14–15, Holly, MI
Travel back to Victorian England and celebrate the time of author Charles Dickens at this historic holiday festival. Follow the scents of hot chocolate and roasting chestnuts through unique shops and cozy diners. Watch choirs and street-theater performances while riding through the historic downtown in a horse-drawn carriage. Be sure to keep an eye out for Scrooge and Tiny Tim. hollydickensfestival.org

Shaw Festival Presents “A Christmas Carol” | Nov. 8–Dec. 22, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Among the many theater options the cozy town of Niagara-on-the-Lake offers, don’t miss the classic tale “A Christmas Carol.” Grab a ticket and be transported to Victorian England and back in an evening of ghosts and Christmas joy. shawfest.com

A Merry Prairie Holiday | Nov. 29–Dec. 22, Fishers, IN
During one of central Indiana’s most beloved holiday festivals, families can experience a number of activities and events. Walk through the grounds and see the Reynolds Christmas Lights display, gift wrap with Santa’s elves in the North Pole workshop, slide down the Polar Bear Plunge, ride on the Kringle Carousel, and then take the kids to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus. connerprairie.org

Carmel Christkindlmarkt | Nov. 23–Dec. 24, Carmel, IN
Experience the old-world charm of Christmas in Germany. Browse more than 50 wooden huts selling authentic products imported from Germany, like wooden toys, nutcrackers, music boxes and ornaments. The Carmel Christkindlmarkt hosts world-renowned woodworkers from the Erzgebirge region, who share their craft and culture through demonstrations. carmelchristkindlmarkt.com

Christkindlmarkt | Nov. 15–Dec. 27, Bethlehem, PA
Celebrate the spirit of the season in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, at Christkindlmarkt. This event is recognized as one of the best holiday markets in the U.S. and features handmade artisan works and festive fun. This year will highlight Käthe Wohlfahrt, offering handmade ornaments, nutcrackers and collectibles from Germany. christmascity.org

Southern Lights Holiday Festival | Nov. 29–Dec. 31, Lexington, KY
Take the 3-mile driving tour to see over a million dazzling lights during this beloved annual display at the Kentucky Horse Park. Tickets are $25 per carload, and after the drive, visitors can experience the stunning Holiday Village, featuring photos with Santa, Animal Land, model trains and more. khpfoundation.org

Christmas at the Seiberling | Nov. 30–Dec. 31, Kokomo, IN
This mansion in Kokomo is transformed for the holidays. Ring in the season with a special opening-night lighting ceremony. Then, throughout the month of December, enjoy self-guided tours of the mansion and delight in decorations sporting this year’s theme, “The Nutcracker Ballet.” howardcountymuseum.org

Christmas at Gaylord Opryland | Nov. 8–January 4, Nashville, TN
A winter wonderland awaits at Gaylord Opryland with the signature attraction, “Ice!”, featuring favorite holiday stories presented in more than 2 million pounds of hand-carved blocks. This year’s lineup includes ice-skating shows and lessons, ice tubing, carriage rides, Christmas lights and fountain shows. christmasatgaylordopryland.marriott.com

Winter Festival of Lights | Nov. 16–Jan. 5, Niagara Falls, ON
The annual Ontario Power Generation Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest free outdoor illumination festival. Featuring more than 50 displays of Canadian wildlife, illuminated trees, light shows, dazzling tunnels and more, experience 3 million enchanting lights along the Niagara Parkway, Dufferin Islands and across the falls. wfol.com

Wildlights | Nov. 22–Jan. 5, Columbus, OH
Take a winter walk on the wild side at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium during Wildlights, when the zoo is illuminated by millions of lights. In addition to strolling through the animal exhibits after dark, families can also enjoy a light show on the water featuring twinkling bulbs, timed holiday music and festive decor. columbuszoo.org

Merry & Bright: Christmas Tours of My Old Kentucky Home | November 15-January 6, Bardstown, KY
One of the most iconic 19th-century homes in the United States, My Old Kentucky Home welcomes travelers at the holidays. Follow tour guides in hoop skirts and tailcoats as they take you through the home and grounds. Explore the beautifully decorated manor with six 12-foot-tall Christmas trees, each sporting a unique Kentucky theme. visitmyoldkyhome.com

Candy Land Gone to the Birds | Mid November to Early January, Kirtland, OH
This indoor holiday attraction features fun for the whole family, bringing the “Candy Land” game to life with a wild birding adventure. Enjoy displays, scavenger hunts, hands-on exhibits and much more. lakemetroparks.com

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo | Mid November to Early January, Chicago, IL
As more than 2 million lights transform the Lincoln Park Zoo into a twinkling winter wonderland, families can enjoy holiday crafts and activities, musical light shows, a light maze, ice sculpture demonstrations, carnival rides and a visit from Mr. Claus himself in addition to exploring all the animal habitats. lpzoo.org

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden | Nov. 15–Jan. 15, Chicago, IL
Traverse the illuminated trail of Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden as you explore this year’s dazzling new installations, including enormous glowing artificial plants and flowers, laser light shows and other spectacular sights. On select dates, those 21-and-older can enjoy a new version of the experience later in the evening. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape

DECEMBER

Geneva Holiday House Tour | Dec. 6–7, Geneva, IL
Visitors are welcomed into five festive Geneva homes that are decked in holiday splendor by local decorators during this festive event. Take a self-guided tour of the unique properties to explore the fascinating creations and get into the spirit of the season. genevachamber.co

A Quilted Christmas | Dec. 6–7, Bell Buckle, TN
Bundle up for the Quilted Christmas Quilt Walk. Pick up a map at the pavilion before exploring 10 stops around downtown that feature both vintage and new quilts that are locally made in Bell Buckle and the surrounding areas. Some notable features include a quilt made in 1870, a Victorian crazy quilt, Quilts of Valor and some of Mildred Locke’s quilts. bellbucklechamber.com

18th-Century Christmas at the Fort | Dec. 7, Richmond, KY
Take a trip back in time this Christmas and explore Richmond’s Fort Boonesborough decorated in traditional 18th-century fashion. Lanterns and candlelight set the mood as visitors play games, make crafts and meet with Santa Claus. Relax with Christmas music and enjoy refreshments in the historic tavern. fortboonesboroughlivinghistory.org

Pennsylvania Christmas & Gift Show | Dec. 4–8, Harrisburg, PA
Enjoy the sights, sounds and feelings of the holidays at Harrisburg’s annual Pennsylvania Christmas & Gift Show. The event gets festive with choral groups, dance troupes and decorated trees, while visitors are welcomed to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. pachristmasshow.com

A Gettysburg Christmas Festival | Dec. 6–8, Gettysburg, PA
Experience a small-town Christmas celebration in the heart of historic Gettysburg. Meet reindeer, take a photo with Santa Claus and enjoy live entertainment from DJs, bands and choirs across the festival’s three stages. Plus, watch a screening of the event’s new film “A Gettysburg Christmas.” agettysburgchristmasfestival.com

Holiday Lights at Buffalo Trace Distillery | Nov. 30–Dec. 25, Frankfort, KY
Want to check out beautiful holiday lights without leaving the car? Enjoy Buffalo Trace Distillery’s holiday light display from the comfort of your automobile every night of the month in December (and New Year’s Day) from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. buffalotracedistillerycom

Penguins on Parade at the Pittsburgh Zoo | Dec. 7–Feb. 23, Pittsburgh, PA
Flock to the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium each weekend this winter to witness these charming birds venture from the aquarium to their outdoor habitat. The penguins begin their trek around 11:30 a.m. and waddle along the parade route for 20 minutes. This experience is included in regular zoo admission. pittsburghzoo.org

Holly Days | Early December, Valparaiso, IN
Located in downtown Valparaiso, this festival celebrates the holiday season with music in the amphitheater, ice sculpting and caroling for the whole family to enjoy. Local businesses join the festivities by decorating their store windows with holiday designs, and the tree lighting ensures a hometown Christmas feel. valparaisoevents.com

Feast of the Seven Fishes Festival | Early December, Fairmont, WV
Based on the 2005 graphic novel of the same name by Marion County, West Virginia, native Robert “Bob” Tinnel, the Feast of the Seven Fishes Festival is chock full of annual traditions celebrated by those of Italian heritage during the holiday season. marioncvb.com

Bellefonte Under the Lights Winter Market | Early December, Bellefonte, PA
The European-style, open-air market features approximately 70 skilled makers and artisan vendors, as well as food and beverage vendors. Enjoy the glowing lights, listen to live music, sip on a craft beverage while you shop, warm up in the tent and attend story time and crafts with the kids. downtownbellefonteinc.com

Olde Tyme Christmas | Early to Mid December, Harpers Ferry and Bolivar, WV
For two weekends, celebrate a traditional Christmas with a walk down the towns’ beautifully decorated streets. Established in 1971, the experience features horse-drawn wagon rides, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a shopping excursion at the Handmade Holiday Market, live entertainment and activities for the whole family. harpersferryotc.com 

An Old Kentucky Christmas Carol | Early to Mid December, Bardstown, KY
For three weekends, fans of Charles Dickens’ holiday favorite, A Christmas Carol, have a chance to live the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge through a retelling of the tale at the 200-year-old My Old Kentucky Home mansion. After hearing from the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future, visitors can enjoy cookies, hot cider and a meet and greet with Santa. mokhshop.com

Christmas at the Greenbrier | Dec. 23–29, White Sulphur Springs, WV
Enjoy a home away from home this Christmas season at The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs. There is a mix of free and paid events in which guests can participate. With a blend of game nights featuring bingo and puzzles, Christmas tree decorating contests and mixology classes, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy. greenbrier.com

The National Ballet of Canada’s The Nutcracker | Dec. 6–31, Toronto, ON
See “The Nutcracker” on stage in Toronto this season. The acclaimed production brings audiences graceful dancing paired with the classical score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Take a trip to the land of the Sugar Plum Fairy with sisters Misha and Marie as they experience a magical Christmas. national.ballet.ca/productions/the-nutcracker

Lake George Area Winterfest | Late December to Mid March, Lake George, NY
This family-focused festival promises wintry activities like snow tubing, alpine skiing, dog sled riding and ax throwing — guests can choose one of these exciting opportunities with the purchase of a Winterfest wristband. Everyone is welcome to take a horse drawn carriage and enjoy some winter wonderland transportation! After some time in the cold, visitors can warm up at local shops with various hot chocolate stations dotting the property. lakegeorgewinterfest.com

JANUARY

Niagara Icewine Festival | January, Niagara Region, ON
Discover the craft of producing ice wine on three weekends throughout January. Visit different wineries across the region for entertainment such as ice sculptures and a cocktail competition. The festival also provides opportunities to learn how the unique dessert wine is made and sample a variety of flavors. destinationontario.com 

Alton Eagle Ice Festival | Early January, Alton, IL
As American Bald Eagles flock to Illinois for the winter, celebrate our national bird with an eagle-watching shuttle tour and an eagle meet and greet photo session. After eating s’mores, sampling food truck fare and watching live ice-carving, visit the National Great Rivers Museum to learn about eagles from experts, make crafts and spot eagle nests. riversandroutes.com

Detroit Winterfest | Jan. 18, Detroit, MI
Experience the thrill of traveling off-road across snow and ice. This off-roading festival offers training for first timers as well as plenty of challenging opportunities for more experienced riders. With food trucks, hot chocolate and shopping, there is sure to be something for everyone at this event. 4festevents.com

Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition | January 22-25, Rockford, IL
Celebrate winter artistry in Rockford, where teams compete to represent Illinois in the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition. Inspired by a talented pair of snow sculptors at a winter carnival in Wisconsin, two local businessmen brought this tradition to the Prairie State in 1987. ilsnowsculpting.com/events

Marietta Ice Festival | Mid January, Marietta, OH
Enjoy nearly 20 intricate ice sculptures in this historic river town. The event features live ice-sculpture carving and offers opportunities for shopping and dining. Thousands of tourists and locals flock to this annual happening, making it a true Marietta favorite. mariettamainstreet.org

Logan Frozen Festival | Late January, Logan, OH
Embrace Ohio’s chilly season and stop by downtown Logan to be transported to a winter wonderland of family fun. This seventh annual festival features more than 25 ice sculptures, ice-sculpting demonstrations, themed games like ice skeeball, live music and food trucks featuring local restaurants and vendors. As a bonus, Hocking Hills State Park hosts its annual winter hike on the morning of the festival. explorehockinghills.com

Winterfest | Late January, Grand Haven, MI
Experience everything snowy and cozy during this four-day festival. Build and race your own cardboard sled, pull on your pajamas for the Sleepwalker Run and warm up with cider, beer and hot chocolate at the Bonfire Bash. Kids can participate in a snow angel contest, and the whole family can cheer each other on during the family dog pull. grandhavenwinterfest.org

Groundhog Days | Jan. 30–Feb. 2, Woodstock, IL
The filming location for the beloved 1993 Bill Murray movie “Groundhog Day,” the town of Woodstock celebrates the holiday with festivities that draw visitors from around the world. Tour iconic filming locations, test your trivia knowledge, let loose at dinner dances, peruse a movie memorabilia showcase, watch a lively musical and more. woodstockgroundhog.org

FEBRUARY

Ice A Fair | Feb. 1, Vermilion, OH
Bundle up and head to downtown Vermillion to view over 50 ice sculptures. Watch carving demonstrations, take a trolley ride and bring the kids to enjoy the frozen playground. Be sure to stick around for the grand finale in which a chimney of ice is lit with a fire from within and a race against the clock begins. mainstreetvermilion.org/ice

Chicago Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade | Feb. 9, Chicago, IL
This celebration rings in the Chinese New Year with a parade through Chicago’s Chinatown. The area is home to over 20,000 residents of Chinese heritage and draws thousands of visitors to check out the local restaurants and shops. The parade begins at 1 p.m., featuring traditional dragon and lion dancing teams, floats and marching bands. ccc-foundation.org

Vermilion Ice A Fair | Early February, Vermilion, OH
Enjoy a day of family-friendly fun at this lakeshore town during its annual ice-sculpture festival. See ice carvers at work, and take in the gallery of glistening ice sculptures throughout downtown while visiting local shops and restaurants. mainstreetvermilion.org

Snowflake Festival | Early February, Jamestown, NY
Join the Audubon Community Nature Center to spend time enjoying nature and appreciating the winter season. Among the activities offered, enjoy hiking, themed crafts, outdoor games and more, weather permitting. The day is completed with a bonfire and s’mores, as well as other food and hot drinks. auduboncnc.org

WV Chocolate, Wine & Shine Festival | Early February, Morgantown, WV
Enjoy “a sweet taste of the mountains” at the WV Chocolate, Wine and Shine Festival, featuring chocolates, wineries, distilleries and games. During chocolatier showcases, sample the best of the decadent chocolates produced by these West Virginia makers. chocolatewineshine.com

Culver Winterfest | Early to Mid February, Culver, IN
Visit this lakefront town for a three-day celebration of free family fun. With a walking tour of local merchant-sponsored ice sculptures, sledding, a polar plunge and more, there is plenty in store to spruce up a winter weekend. findculver.com

16th Annual Marsh Madness | Feb. 14–15, Linton, IN
Welcome the return of the Sandhill Crane as the birds make their dramatic migration back to Linton’s Goose Pond. A kickoff event happens Friday night, while Saturday brings a bus tour offering excursions through the 9,000-acre property. Arts and crafts vendors and expert speakers round out the weekend. friendsofgoosepond.org/marshmadness

Syracuse Winterfest | Mid February, Syracuse, NY
Head to Upstate New York for winter fun, including unique contests like a Chowder Cook-Off and a Bloody Mary Mix-Off as well as ice-carving demonstrations, trivia, dog-sled races and more. syracusewinterfest.com

Mountain State Maple Days | Mid February & Mid March, various locations, WV
Maple-syrup producers throughout West Virginia open to the public to demonstrate the steps involved in the maple-syrup-making process. Explore a variety of local shops to pick up tasty treats and visit restaurants to sample maple-inspired dishes. wvmspa.org

Gardner Winter Music Festival | February 21–22, Gardner, WV
Escape the cold of winter and warm your heart with good music and even better company at this music festival that has been celebrated since 1978. Showcasing traditional Appalachian music, this event runs all weekend with continuous performances, workshops and informal jam sessions. gwmf.org

The Great Lakes ComiCon | February 21–22, Warren, MI
Enter a world of comics, toys and collectibles at this all-ages event held in Warren. Compete in the adult or kids costume contest, enjoy free-play gaming and deck building, participate in a “Super Smash Bros.” tournament, meet with your favorite fandom characters, chat with industry experts and more. greatlakescomicconvention.com

MARCH

Fasnacht | March 1, Helvetia, WV
This festival celebrating the changing seasons dates to 16th-century Switzerland. Also called Appalachian Mardi Gras, this event in Helvetia encourages attendees to arrive wearing homemade masks to participate in the mask contest, the lampion parade, and the burning of an Old Man Winter effigy. wvfolklife.org

Loveland Frogman Festival | March 1–2, Loveland, OH
Celebrate the mysterious and elusive Loveland Frogman at this third annual festival. Take part in the fun by exploring products from over 50 vendors, watching the lively costume parade, listening to speakers and presenters, checking out circus sideshows and enjoying plenty of food and drink. frogmanfestival.org

Big Ears Festival | March 27-30, Knoxville, TN
Enjoy four days of musical entertainment at the Big Ears Festival in historic downtown Knoxville. The purchase of a festival pass allows attendees to experience over 200 musical performances from many different genres and generations. Stroll between each stage or opt for a breezy trolley ride to quickly get to your destination. bigearsfestival.org

Cheekwood in Bloom | March 9–April 14, Nashville, TN
Welcome spring flowers and warm weather at the historic 55-acre Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, where a dazzling array of 250,000 bulbs are abloom. Activities include flower workshops, live music, seasonal beers and more floral fun. Nashville, cheekwood.org

Fred & Dorothy Fichter Butterflies Are Blooming | Early March to Late April, Grand Rapids, MI
This annual showcase at Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is the largest temporary tropical butterfly exhibition in the nation. Approximately 7,000 tropical butterflies spanning 60 species from around the world fly freely in the warm, lush environment of the conservatory. Special educational programming and butterfly-themed activities are also offered. meijergardens.org

APRIL

Richardson Farm Tulip Festival | Early April to Mid May, Spring Grove, IL
Welcome spring with the sight of tulips blooming across five scenic acres. With 300,000 bulbs spanning 30 different varieties, the colorful plants make for a picture-perfect backdrop. The weather determines exact dates, but this year’s bloom is expected from mid-April through mid-May. Browse the gift shop at the adjacent Adventure Farm, take a bite out of fresh doughnuts and enjoy one free tulip with each ticket purchased. richardsonadventurefarm.com/tulipfestival

Detroit Bourbon Fest | Early April, Detroit, MI
Bourbon collectors will feel like they’ve struck gold at this festival featuring over 200 whiskeys, bourbons and high-end bottles. While attendees try new and unique offerings, Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish provide live entertainment. Those looking to grab a bite between tastings can opt for selections from Detroit BBQ Co., Ken’s Kitchen and Maria’s Food Trucks. detroitbourbonfest.com

Syracuse Wine Festival | Early April, Syracuse, NY
With 26 local vendors, including 15 dedicated to wine and spirits, the Syracuse Wine Festival offers a fun atmosphere for those aged 21 and over. Located in the CNY Regional Market, the festival offers separate afternoon and evening sessions. Both include a glass, wine and food sampling, “paint and sip” attractions and more activities. syracusewinefest.com

Syracuse Fashion Week | Mid-April, Syracuse, NY
This semiannual event showcases the style and fashion of Syracuse and central New York. Check out works from up-and-coming designers or get ahead on some of the latest fashion trends. The event hosts designers, stylists, artists, musicians, boutiques, bars, restaurants and other businesses that are committed to the quality of life of upstate New York. syracusefashionweek.com

Feast of the Ramson | Mid-April, Richwood, WV
Located in Richwood, the ramp capital of the world, the Feast of the Ramson is a celebration of the native wild onion. A Southern-style feast consists of ramps, fried potatoes, ramp bacon and ham, brown beans, cornbread and locally sourced sassafras tea. The $20 adult tickets also provide access to an arts and crafts show, local jewelry and textile vendors and music from local bluegrass artists. richwoodchamberofcommerce.org

4 Bridges Art Festival | Mid-April, Chattanooga, TN
Share in a collective appreciation for the arts at this creatively driven event that has been ranked in the top 30 fine arts festivals in the nation. Considered to be Chattanooga’s premier arts festival, this event showcases the works of 145 different artists from across the country and gives visitors the chance to enjoy live music, food and drinks. avarts.org/about-4baf1

Little 500 | Mid-April, Bloomington, IN
Widely known as “The World’s Greatest College Weekend,” Indiana University’s Little 500 returns as the largest collegiate bike race in the United States. Celebrating its 72nd anniversary and the 35th anniversary of its women’s race, the fun event brings friendly competition, an annual concert, celebrity appearances and more. visitbloomington.com

Dollywood Flower + Food Festival | Mid-April to Early June, Pigeon Forge, TN
Nestled in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, the Dollywood Flower + Food Festival brings a splash of color with fascinating landscaping, unique garden-fresh flavors and live music. Be inspired as you stroll among more than 500,000 flowers and pose for photos beneath the rainbow-hued Umbrella Sky. dollywood.com

Thunder Over Louisville | Mid-April, Louisville, KY
The Kentucky Derby returns each year in May, but the lead-up to race day is just as exciting. Among the celebrations is Thunder Over Louisville — one of the nation’s top air shows followed by one of the largest annual fireworks displays in North America. Additional events in the lead-up to Derby Day include the Kentucky Derby Festival BourbonVille, the Great BalloonFest and more. thunderoverlouisville.org

Pennsylvania Maple Festival | Mid-to-Late April, Meyersdale, PA
Find out why Meyersdale is known as “Maple City, USA” at this event that has been celebrated in the state for decades. Visitors travel from across the country to take part in the tree-tapping ceremony, sample maple products, learn about the history of maple syrup production and enjoy a musical theater performance that has been a staple of the festival for over 50 years. pamaplefestival.com

Chainsaw Carvers Rendezvous | Late April, Ridgway, PA
The Appalachian Arts Studio is hosting 75 carvers from across the United States. Visitors can enjoy live carvings and a small auction in addition to live music from eight bands that cover genres such as rock, blues, country and acoustic. Craft, art and food vendors are available, and many carvers bring finished pieces to sell as well. chainsawrendezvous.org

Geauga County Maple Festival | Late April, Chardon, OH
For nearly a century, the Geauga County Maple Festival has filled the last full weekend of April with fun and sweetness. The event raises awareness of maple syrup production and features the largest maple contest in the state of Ohio, rides for all ages, pageants, contests, live entertainment and more. maplefestival.com

Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival | Late April, Shepherd, MI
For over 60 years, this small Michigan village has celebrated community through good old-fashioned maple syrup. The Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival preserves tradition with Sugar Bush syrup and Shepherd Public Schools to provide a weekend of fun, delicious flavors, exhibits, crafts, music and a parade. shepherdmaplesyrupfest.org

Dogwood Arts Festival | Late April, Knoxville, TN
Located at World’s Fair Park in Knoxville, the Dogwood Arts Festival features a colorful display of pieces by artists working in mixed media, pottery, painting, photography, glass, jewelry, sculpture and more. The festival also provides live music from local acts on two stages throughout the weekend. dogwoodarts.com

Great Greenbriar River Race | Late April, Marlington, WV
A family-friendly triathlon along the Greenbriar River, the Great Greenbriar River Race consists of a 3-mile run, a 4-mile kayak or canoe paddle down the Greenbriar River and a final leg featuring 10 miles by bike along the Greenbriar River Trail to the finish line in Marlington. Participants can register individually or in teams up to four. wwocd.org

Cherokee Triangle Art Fair | Late April, Louisville, KY
Since 1972, this event has been held in Louisville’s historic Cherokee Triangle neighborhood. The two-day juried art fair kicks off with a themed children’s parade on Saturday, and the celebration continues with over 200 artist booths as well as food, drinks, live music and an art tent for hands-on fun throughout the weekend. cherokeetriangle.com/art-fair

Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend | Late April, Champaign-Urbana, IL
Grab your favorite pair of running shoes and head to Champaign-Urbana for a weekend of running. For short-distance runners, there is the 1-mile Green Street Mile race, a Health & Fitness Expo and a 5K run/walk. On Saturday, races include half and full marathons, which can be completed solo or as a four-person relay, and a 10K race. The weekend also includes a wheelchair half marathon and a youth run. experiencecu.org

MAY

Biggest Week in American Birding | Early to Mid May, Oregon, OH
This northwest Ohio region is considered the warbler capital of the world and is a prime destination for spring migration bird-watching. Headquartered at the Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center, this event features a series of keynote speakers, field trips to prime birding destinations such as Magee Marsh, programs at Black Swamp Bird Observatory, a Birder’s Marketplace, bird trivia night and more. biggestweekinamericanbirding.com

Mayfest | Early May, Shipshewana, IN
Celebrate the month of May in Shipshewana with two whole days of family-friendly fun. Guests can join the local community in welcoming spring through many special activities such as band and choir concerts, kids activities, a softball tournament, food trucks, a benefit breakfast and more. The event kicks off with the Grand Mayfest Parade, held on Saturday morning. visitshipshewana.org

Tulip Time Festival | Early May, Holland, MI
Since 1929, the city of Holland has blossomed with hundreds of thousands of tulips, bursting with color in public parks and along the streets. Throughout eight days, events and activities for all ages take place in a variety of locations, most within a 4-mile radius of downtown, including national entertainment acts, walking tours, parades, the Tulip Immersion Garden and more. tuliptime.com

Indiana Wine Fair | Early May, Nashville, IN
Unleash your inner sommelier at this celebration of all things wine in Nashville, Indiana. The fair showcases 40 of Indiana’s premier wineries, local farms and vendors, which provide visitors the option to sample 1-ounce pours, kick back with a glass or go all in on their favorite bottles. Between sips, visitors can indulge in offerings from local restaurants or visit food trucks. indianawinefair.com

BBQ & Barrels | Mid-May, Owensboro, KY
A longstanding tradition in Owensboro and Daviess County, BBQ & Barrels celebrates its namesake and provides authentic Kentucky cooking alongside Kentucky bourbon. Known previously as the International Bar-B-Q Festival, the event has grown to include road races, car shows, carnival rides and more favorites such as the Backyard BBQ Cookoff. bbqandbarrels.com

West Virginia Trail Fest | Mid-May various locations in Pocahontas County, WV
Lace up your running shoes and get ready to explore the natural beauty of West Virginia’s Pocahontas County. Whether you prefer ultra-distance or long-distance running, this trail festival has the best of both worlds. The West Virginia Trail Fest offers 100K, 60K, 30K and 5K distances through the state’s beautiful parks and preserves, including Monongahela National Forest, Green Bank Observatory, Cass Historic Railroad and more. wvtrailfest.com

Rochester Lilac Festival | Mid-May, Rochester, NY
Visitors to Rochester’s historic Highland Park can enjoy the collection of thousands of lilac varieties as they bloom. Taking place Thursdays through Sundays, the free festival celebrates the flower for three weekends and also offers two concert stages with more than 135 performances, an arts and crafts show featuring over 160 artists, and ticketed events. rochesterevents.com

Southern Skies Music & Whiskey Festival | Mid-May, Knoxville, TN
Returning to downtown Knoxville for the third year in a row, this music and whiskey festival hosts a lineup of local, regional and national artists, headlined this year by Old Crow Medicine Show. Attendees can enjoy food trucks, craft beer, wine and specialty cocktails and can even shop a selection of Tennessee whiskey and other exclusive spirits. southernskiesmusicfestival.com

EQT Children’s Theater Festival | Mid-May, Pittsburgh, PA
This sprawling festival takes place throughout Pittsburgh’s downtown at theaters, parks, universities and other participating destinations. The three-day event encourages children to exercise their creativity and let their imaginations run wild through live performances, scavenger hunts, brick building, STEM activities and more. 
ctf.trustarts.org

Fort Wayne Cherry Blossom Festival | Mid-May, Fort Wayne, Indiana
Honor the beauty and traditions of Japanese culture. The festival returns in-person this year at the Allen County Public Library, where you can experience Japanese music, dance performances, food and a tea ceremony. Plus, enjoy an anime contest, cosplay, a haiku contest and children’s activities. cherryblossomfw.com

Oglebay Backyard BBQ Festival | Late May, Wheeling, WV
The Oglebay Backyard BBQ Festival hosts a weekend of live music, beer, bourbon and a celebration of summer. Collective Soul, The Clarks and more musical acts bring the energy on stage, and other events include pet shows, a beer run and hog calling. oglebay.com/backyardbbq

AES 500 Festival Parade | Late May, Indianapolis, IN
Held on the eve of the Indianapolis 500 and adding color to downtown Indianapolis since 1957, the AES 500 Festival Parade has grown to be one of the nation’s largest parades. The festivities feature celebrities, costumed characters, patriotic units, larger-than-life floats, giant helium balloons, award-winning bands and all 33 drivers competing in the Indy 500 — the world’s largest single-day sporting event. 500festival.com

Doors Open Toronto | Late May, Toronto, ON
For over 20 years, Doors Open Toronto has given both the local community and visitors an intimate peek at some of the city’s most storied structures. It is billed as one of the most extensive Doors Open events held anywhere in the world. The event also holds the title of being the first Doors Open event established in North America. facebook.com/doorsopento

Erie’s Wild Rib Cook Off & Music Festival | Late May, Erie, PA
This long-running rib fest is one of Erie’s signature events. Held at Perry Square Park in the middle of downtown, the festival features all things barbecue, including award-winning rib-cooking teams, a variety of vendors and plenty of family fun. erieribfest.com

Great American Brass Band Festival | Late May, Danville, KY
Celebrate brass music during this free, family event held annually in downtown Danville. As well as a weekend of music, enjoy activities such as yoga in the park, a vintage baseball game, a gallery hop, the Main Street Parade and more. gabbf.org

Mountain Music Festival | Late May, Oak Hill, WV
“The Party Never Stops” at Ace Adventure Resort during the Mountain Music Festival. The festival’s eighth year features more than 30 bands on a mountaintop stage, workshops, camping and vendors for food and art. Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy zip lining, whitewater rafting and the other adventures New River Gorge has to offer. aceraft.com

Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix | Late May, Detroit, MI
The Detroit Grand Prix showcases world-class auto racing, featuring the Chevrolet Sports Car Classic, the Chevrolet IndyCar Grand Prix and more. This year, the event returns to Belle Isle, a 982-acre island in the Detroit River. Off-track fan activities include interactive displays, music, merchandise and food and beverage options. detroitgp.com

Johnstown Polkafest | Late May, Johnstown, PA
The three-day festival brings local, regional and national polka acts to Peoples Natural Gas Park. For a daily admission of $5, the festival features the most well-known polka bands in the country, and also offers food and craft and art vendors. Polkafest encourages visitors to enjoy the surrounding area’s rich history, green mountain scenery, national parks and downtown eateries. visitjohnstownpa.com/polkafest

JUNE

57th Street Art Fair | Early June, Chicago, IL
Located in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, the 57th Street Art Fair is a two-day outdoor celebration of the visual arts. Considered the oldest juried art fair in the Midwest, the event showcases fine art and crafts, including glass, jewelry, leather, photography, printmaking, painting, sculpture, digital arts, wood, ceramics and fiber. 57thstreetartfair.org

Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup Series Race | Early June, Madison, IL
Start your engines, get revved up and enjoy this classic American motorsport at the World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison. The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series 200, as well as the Cup Series practice and qualifying races, will take place on Saturday, leading up to the main event — the 300 NASCAR Cup Series — on Sunday. wwtraceway.com 

Railbird Festival | Early June, Lexington, KY
For two days and across three stages, the music festival amps up the live tunes, bourbon and all things equine at its new venue, Red Mile Gaming & Racing. railbirdfest.com

Troy Strawberry Festival | Early June, Troy, OH
What started as a small gathering in 1977 has grown into a large, community-rallying festival. Packed with live music, a car show, great food (with tons of strawberry-infused treats, of course), shopping and more, this summertime feel-good event is a family affair. troystrawberryfest.com

Duncan Hines Days | Early June, Bowling Green, KY
This event celebrates the namesake creator of one of the most popular baking-mix brands. Born in Bowling Green in 1880, Duncan Hines went on to become a traveling salesman and restaurant reviewer. Today, his hometown honors his legacy with a week filled with specialty southern Kentucky foods, desserts, drinks, live concerts and more. Be sure to tour the Duncan Hines scenic byway while you’re in town. duncanhinesdays.com

Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival | Early June, Frankenmuth, MI
Head to Frankenmuth to celebrate German heritage, partake in German food, listen to authentic Bavarian music and watch the local schuhplattler dancing troupe, Da Frankenmuda Fratz’n, perform throughout the festival. Stick around through Sunday for the parade featuring marching bands, decorated floats, the newly crowned Bavarian Princess and dozens of entertainers. bavarianfestival.org

Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival & Contest | Early June, Midland, ON
Spend the sweetest day of the year in Midland at Ontario’s Best Butter Tart Festival & Contest. Enjoy a variety of offerings from 200 vendors and food trucks, along with the signature contest to determine the best butter tart in Ontario. buttertartfestival.ca

Allentown Art Festival | Early June, Buffalo, NY
This annual festival returns to downtown Buffalo with a showcase of several exhibitions, including clay, hard creative crafts, soft creative crafts, drawing graphics, glass acrylic, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography and sculpture. Concessions, busker performances and a student design contest are also featured. allentownartfestival.com

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival | Early-to-Mid June, Mackinac Island, MI
With the theme of “Mackinac In Bloom,” the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival returns to celebrate the flower and its distinctive history on the island. The 10-day fair is loaded with a variety of events, including the Coronation of the Lilac Festival Queen, the Lilac Festival 10K Run & Walk, a cannon firing at Fort Mackinac and multiple tours. mackinacisland.org

North by Northeast Festival | Mid-June, Toronto, ON
The North by Northeast Festival (NXNE) promotes emerging musical artists while also supporting Toronto’s live music venues by hosting gigs at various locations. The emphasis is on Canadian talent, but new acts from around the world also take the stage throughout the five-day event. Toronto, nxne.com

Grant Park Music Festival | Mid-June to Mid-August, Chicago, IL
Take in a multitude of sounds throughout the season of Chicago’s annual music series.The free summer-long lineup offers a variety of classical music acts as well as radio broadcasts, master classes, outreach programs and other activities. grantparkmusicfestival.com

Almost Heaven BBQ Bash | Mid-June, Buckhannon, WV
Nothing says summer quite like a barbecue competition. Top-rated Kansas City Barbecue Society teams converge in Buckhannon, West Virginia, to face off. While the backyard-barbecue competition is taking place, attendees can browse wares from local artists or enjoy family-friendly activities such as face painting, games and contests. While you’re there, be sure to fuel up at one of the many food vendors that line the streets. almostheavenbbqbash.com

New York State Blues Festival | Mid-June, Syracuse, NY
One of the largest free blues events in the northeast, the New York State Blues Festival returns to the state fairgrounds in Syracuse to showcase blues music and culture. Experience regional and national artists from multiple genres while also learning about the role blues music has played in the development of popular music. nysbluesfest.com

FestivALL | Mid-June, Charleston, WV
With over 100 events, 50 venues, 50,000 annual attendees and 800 artists and performers, FestivALL takes over Charleston for 10 days. The citywide multi-arts festival presents a mix of music, theater, dance and visual arts from local, national and international artists. Taking place in 50 locations throughout the city, activities can be enjoyed in theaters, outdoor spaces, intimate galleries and events spaces. festivallcharleston.com

Celtic Fest and Highland Games | Mid-June, Beverly, WV
Featuring a day of education and fun surrounding Scottish and Celtic traditions, the Celtic Fest and Highland Games showcases Highland dancers, Highland games and traditional Celtic foods along with a full lineup of live entertainment. wvcelticfestandgames.com

Memphis Water Lantern Festival | Mid-June, Memphis, TN
Dreams, hope and happiness are illuminated at this family-friendly event featuring food trucks, music and an assortment of activities. Visitors can decorate their own lanterns to prepare for the evening launch, which creates a beautiful spectacle of thousands of paper lanterns floating across the surface of the water. waterlanternfestival.com/memphis.php

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration | Mid-June to Mid-August, Pigeon Forge, TN
Experience family-friendly summer fun at the world-famous Dollywood in Pigeon Forge during this summer-long event celebrating the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Throughout the season, visitors can immerse themselves in the colorful expanse of technicolor trees and kites that decorate the park, take a spin on the park’s rides and roller coasters, watch mesmerizing drone and fireworks shows and more. dollywood.com

Indiana Black Expo’s Summer Celebration | Late June, Indianapolis, IN
One of the largest cultural events of its kind in the world, this summer celebration features music, art, dance, food, film and more exhibitors. For over 50 years, the Indiana Black Expo has empowered individuals through education, events and hands-on initiatives to celebrate and strengthen African American communities. summercelebration.net

Toronto Jazz Fest | Late June, Toronto, ON
Each year, approximately 500,000 people head to Toronto for this highly anticipated outdoor music festival. During this 10-day-long event, 1,500 jazz musicians from around the world come to play music throughout the city. Headlining the festival is Lake Street Dive, a four-person band based out of Boston. torontojazz.com

Carillon Park Rail Festival | Late June, Dayton, OH
Train lovers unite at this two-day, family-fun train event in Dayton featuring free miniature train rides, model train displays, historical displays, rail vendors, live steam engines and train merchandise. This two-day festival complements Carillon Historical Park’s rail-themed artifacts, many of which can be found in the James F. Dicke Family Transportation Center. daytonhistory.org

National Cherry Festival | Late June to Early July, Traverse City, MI
Rich with history, this nationally recognized event returns to Traverse City. During the National Cherry Festival week, attractions include food, contests, shows, tours and races, as well as concerts with performances by Jordan Davis, Chicago, Jeff Foxworthy and Larry The Cable Guy. cherryfestival.org

Kutztown Folk Festival | Late June to Early July, Kutztown, PA
The oldest continuously operated folklife festival in the country features nine days of music, entertainment and education on the traditions of Pennsylvania Dutch and their way of life. The event also features live entertainment from four generations of hoedown dancers and authentic Pennsylvania Dutch delicacies such as shoofly pie. kutztownfestival.com

Illinois Shakespeare Festival | Late June to Early August, Bloomington, IL
For nearly half a century, the nationally renowned Illinois Shakespeare Festival has performed a total of 124 productions, aiming to bring quality and accessible performances of Shakespeare to central Illinois. illinoisshakes.com

JULY

Paradise Music and Beer Festival | Early July, Covington, KY
One of the most prominent breweries in the northern Kentucky area, Braxton Brewing Co. hosts this free festival that is appropriate for all ages. Musical acts ranging from local bands to nationally recognized talent add to the atmosphere centered on music, food, beer and fun. paradise-fest.com

Annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival | Early July, Nashville, TN
The annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival celebrates the Fourth of July with a free event held in East Park. Visitors can enjoy food from Nashville’s best hot chicken establishments, cold beer from Yazoo and more eats and drinks from local vendors. Enjoy the Fire Truck Parade at noon, as well as live music from local bands throughout the day and an Amateur Cooking Competition for those wanting to show off their own hot chicken recipes. hot-chicken.com

Great Blue Heron Music Festival | Early July, Sherman, NY
For the first time in three years, the Great Blue Heron Music Festival will return to Sherman in full production, with live performances on all three of its main stages. The festival features performances from regional and national artists contributing an eclectic mix of musical genres ranging from funk to Americana to Celtic. greatblueheron.com

Smithville Fiddlers’ Jamboree | Early July, Smithville, TN
This free, family-friendly festival is billed as the official festival of the state of Tennessee. The entertainment begins at 9 a.m. on both days, with more than 35 music and dance categories on two stages. The streets of this small town are also filled with handmade craft booths and food vendors. smithvillejamboree.com

Start.ca Rocks the Park | Mid-July, London, ON
A staple of London’s summer celebrations for 18 years, Start.ca Rocks the Park features world-class artists along the Thames River in Harris Park. This event integrates different genres on different nights to appeal to a range of preferences and offers a variety musical acts. rockthepark.ca

Pittsburgh Black Music Festival | Mid-July, Pittsburgh, PA
Enjoy three full days of some of the best music the Steel City has to offer. This festival is free to the public and pays homage to Pittsburgh’s rich jazz heritage. The city that brought the world acts like George Benson, Art Stanley and Stanley Turentine now hosts the next generation of great jazz artists. visitpittsburgh.com/pittsburgh-black-music-festival

Windy City Smokeout | Mid-July, Chicago, IL
Barbecue, country music and beer come together in Chicago at this four-day festival, creating the perfect recipe for fun at the peak of summer. Headlining musical artists include Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum, Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood. Festivalgoers can enjoy an extensive lineup of beer and barbecue from some of the world’s best pitmasters. windycitysmokeout.com

Breyerfest | Mid-July, Lexington, KY
Hitch up your saddle and head to Lexington for this festival featuring three days of equine fun. View collections of handcrafted Breyer model horses and the real-life animals that inspire them. Other activities include live demonstrations, meet-and-greets with the horses and their owners, workshops and more. Visitors can also shop for their own Breyer model horse to take home. breyerhorses.com

Toronto Outdoor Art Fair | Mid-July, Toronto, ON
Canada’s longest-running contemporary outdoor art fair showcases collections of 2D and 3D art, craft and design, photography and digital media to help visitors connect with artists. This summer celebrates 61 years of influencing the accessibility, appreciation and participation in the arts in Canada. torontooutdoor.art

Three Rivers Festival | Mid-July, Fort Wayne, IN
Since 1969, this festival in Fort Wayne has drawn nearly half a million visitors to the confluence of the St. Mary’s, St. Joseph’s and Maumee rivers. From the Children’s Fest to the Young at Heart Senior Fest, this nine-day event has something fun for all ages. Other highlights of the festival include a parade, an artist showcase, river excursions and a two-day international village street fair. threeriversfestival.org

Taste of Buffalo | Mid-July, Buffalo, NY
A staple of summers in New York and the largest two-day food festival in the United States, Taste of Buffalo offers a celebration of the diverse dishes that make up the city’s wide-ranging food scene. Enjoy food from over 50 vendors, serving everything from chicken wings to pad thai to pierogies. tasteofbuffalo.com

Ann Arbor Art Fair | Mid-July, Ann Arbor, MI
A lively Midwestern tradition, the Ann Arbor Art Fair is set to feature about 1,000 artists across 30 blocks in downtown Ann Arbor. The event combines the original Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair and Ann Arbor State Street Art Fair into one packed weekend. theannarborartfair.com

Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival of Music & Dance | Mid-July, Trumansburg, NY
The Grassroots Festival of Music and Dance is a ticketed four-day festival located near Ithaca that provides a multicultural experience for attendees. Music acts of a wide variety of genres play on four stages. The festival also offers camping, food vendors, morning yoga, art vendors, a parade, a vinyl lounge, Indigenous storytelling and a band/instrument contest. grassrootsfest.org

Discover Presque Isle | Late July, Erie, PA
As Discover Presque Isle enters its 30th year, the weeklong event continues to invite community members to uncover everything the park has to offer. Funds raised during this event go toward supporting Presque Isle Partnership projects, which aim to improve the park and its amenities, preserve its history and create more opportunities for education. discoverpi.com/events/dpi

Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix | Late July, Pittsburgh, PA
The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is the nation’s only vintage street race and is the largest vintage race event. Starting with the Kick-Off Rally on July 13, the two-week event is filled with race weekends, car shows, parties, parades and motorsport events. The event closes with Schenley Park Race Day. pvgp.org

The Big Stomp Music Festival | Late July, Louisville, KY
Join the city of Louisville in its mission toward mindfulness at this two-day music festival dedicated to destigmatizing mental health. This event aims to educate audience members about this important topic while entertaining through music that ranges from bluegrass to electronica. Attendees can also check out the festival’s mocktail lounge, a curated bookmobile, a tranquil Zen den and much more. thebigstomp.com

Upper Ohio Valley Italian Heritage Festival | Late July, Wheeling, WV
Throughout this three-day-long festival in Wheeling, attendees can enjoy over 40 live entertainment acts on the main stage, shop from vendors, participate in the bocce tournament and see traditional Italian entertainment. What sets this event apart is the festival scholarship program, which has distributed over $250,000 in awards to college-bound students in the area since 1983. italyfest.org

Canandaigua Lakefront Art Show | Late July, Canandaigua, NY
Located on the scenic north shore of Canandaigua Lake, this art show celebrates its 50th anniversary of hosting artists from across the East Coast for a weekend of artwork, with local food trucks and businesses also attending. lakefrontartshow.com

Garden Walk Buffalo | Late July, Buffalo, NY
Featuring more than 300 walkable private and public gardens with displays of outdoor kitchens, koi ponds or even an urban putting green, this event is the largest self-guided garden tour in the country. The event draws thousands of garden lovers each year and invites them to tour the streets of Buffalo’s Elmwood Village and Parkside neighborhoods. visitbuffaloniagara.com/garden-walk-buffalo

Geneva Arts Fair | Late July, Geneva, IL

For two decades, the Geneva Arts Fair has displayed works by hundreds of artists who hail from across the country. Located in Geneva’s historic downtown, the free event is as eye catching as it is adored by locals and visitors alike. genevachamber.com

AUGUST

Gen Con Indy | Early August, Indianapolis, IN
For over 50 years, this large-scale event held in Indiana’s capital city has invited visitors to explore and discover the fun world of tabletop gaming. As the largest tabletop-game convention in North America, this event hosts a variety of entertaining offerings for attendees, such as game-innovation showcases, expert panels, a playtest hall where guests can experiment with different prototype games, and more. gencon.com/indy

Lucille Ball Comedy Festival | Early August, Jamestown, NY
Wind down summer with a week of laughs at the National Comedy Center’s annual festival in the hometown of Lucille Ball. Featuring more than 50 live events from late-night comedy to kids shows to Lucy tributes, headliners grace the stage that has hosted the likes of Jerry Seinfeld and Amy Schumer. comedycenter.org

The Skaneateles Festival | All Month, Skaneateles, NY
This monthlong music festival welcomes visitors from across the United States to experience a lineup of world-class music performances in the heart of the Finger Lakes region. Musicians featured at the festival range from Grammy Award-winning artists to up-and-coming performers, and their musical offerings span a variety of instruments and genres. skanfest.org

Hocking Hills Bigfoot Festival | Early August, Logan, OH
The annual celebration of this mythical monster is making its return to southeast Ohio for the third year in a row. Embrace all things sasquatch at this summer festival with live music, art, family-friendly events, food vendors and six live presentations. Stick around in the evening to try and catch a glimpse of Bigfoot himself as the sunlight fades away. hockinghillsbigfoot.com

Dublin Irish Festival | Early August, Dublin, OH
The Dublin Irish Festival returns to Coffman Park to showcase the best in Irish dance, music, art and culture. The largest three-day Irish festival in the world, the event invites visitors of all backgrounds to enjoy history, tradition, food and performances. dublinirishfestival.org

Annual Canal Days Marine Heritage Festival | Early August, Port Colborne, ON
This four-day celebration draws crowds of roughly 300,000 people to Port Colborne and the Greater Niagara Falls region to learn about and celebrate the history and heritage of the Welland Canal. Visitors can enjoy a variety of family-friendly events such as outdoor car shows, indoor craft shows, games, entertainment and more. facebook.com/canaldays

National Blueberry Festival | Early to Mid-August, South Haven, MI
Celebrate South Haven’s tremendous blueberry crop and its cultural role in southwest Michigan at one of the country’s oldest continuously running fruit festivals. Enjoy a parade, musical acts, blueberry-inspired foods, a pie-eating contest, rides, the Blueberry Festival Craft Fair and more family fun. blueberryfestival.com 

Tomato Art Festival Nashville | Early to Mid-August, Nashville, TN
East Nashville’s Tomato Art Festival puts a unique spin on your typical food festival, featuring two days of tomato art shows, a home decorating contest, a Bloody Mary Garden party and more. Browse quirky artworks while enjoying foods from local vendors at this free-admission event. tomatoartfest.com

Flag City BalloonFest | Early to Mid-August, Findlay, OH
Float on over to Findlay’s Flag City BalloonFest, which has been an annual tradition in northeast Ohio since 2000. With free admission and parking, guests can enjoy spectacular hot air balloons with fun shapes and colors, an evening glow, family activities, a range of food vendors and more. flagcityballoonfest.com

Heritage Music BluesFest | Early to Mid-August, Wheeling, WV
Located on the waterfront of the Ohio River at Heritage Port Amphitheater, the Heritage Music BluesFest features a main stage with Blues Music Award Winners and a second stage dedicated to regional artists from West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland. With weekend passes starting at $90, visitors can enjoy three days of music and award-winning blues artists. heritagemusicfest.com

Tour di Via Italia | Mid-August, Windsor, ON
The oldest historical street race in Ontario, the Tour di Via Italia bicycle race has been hosted on the same Erie Street circuit in Windsor’s Little Italy since 1958. Racers come from across North America with the hopes of receiving the largest prize purse in Ontario. Fans can watch this race from the comfort of restaurants or cafe patios. tourdiviaitalia.org

Chicago Air and Water Show | Mid-August, Chicago, IL
The Chicago Air and Water Show is the largest free show of its kind in the United States. Featuring high-flying thrills from civilian and military pilots in a range of aircraft, the show can be viewed at North Avenue Beach and along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street. chicagoairandwatershow.us

Crave Food + Music Festival | Mid-August, Lexington, KY
With more than 40 restaurants featured, Crave is an epic food and live music festival showcasing chefs, food trucks, craft beer and cocktails. Enjoy fun for the whole family with children’s activities, a car show and food experiences such as baking and cocktail demonstrations and the Cuban Sandwich Cook-off, plus 10 musical acts performing throughout the event at Masterson Station Park. cravelexington.com

Centralia Balloon Fest | Mid-August, Centralia, IL
Dozens of brightly colored hot air balloons fill the evening skies of Centralia during this event, creating a dazzling spectacle for festival attendees. On Aug. 17, starting at 5:30 p.m., a Veterans Freedom Flight takes place at Foundation Park followed by a balloon glow starting at 7:30 p.m. For a unique opportunity, visitors can experience tethered balloon rides Aug. 16 and 17, beginning at 6 p.m. centraliachamber.com/balloon-fest

60th Annual Danish Festival | Mid-August, Greenville, MI
Since 1965, Greenville has been celebrating its rich Danish heritage, with over 55,000 people attending this festival each year to enjoy parades, artisans, food and live music. Be sure not to miss the Tivoli Gardens, a beer and entertainment tent that is one of the festival’s most popular events. danishfestival.org

Canadian National Exhibition | Mid-August to Early September, Toronto, ON
This 18-day end-of-summer event has grown from humble beginnings in 1879 to the largest fair in Canada, offering a family-friendly mix of exhibits, live music, agricultural displays, shopping, sports events and a casino. The highlight is the expansive carnival midway filled with rides, food and more traditional entertainment. theex.com

Mountaineer Brewfest | Mid-August, Wheeling, WV
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, beer lovers can sample a wide variety of locally crafted brews during the 10th annual Mountaineer Brewfest in Wheeling. Along with local craft and microbreweries, festivalgoers can expand their palates by tasting offerings from local food vendors. To complete the mountaineer experience, musicians will be taking the stage to entertain with live music all day long. mountaineerbrewfest.com

Mackinac Island Fudge Festival | Late August, Mackinac Island, MI
Billing itself as the “Fudge Capital of the World,” Mackinac Island hosts this three-day festival to celebrate the city’s famous sweet treat. Festivalgoers can enjoy freshly made fudge, watch fudge-making demonstrations, indulge in fudge-inspired food and cocktails and enjoy an outdoor movie screening as well as other family-friendly activities. mackinacisland.org

West Virginia State Honey Festival | Late August, Parkersburg, WV
Founded to provide Parkersburg’s community with education on the importance of honeybees, the Parkersburg Honey Festival is back for another year of providing entertainment, education, a range of food options, discounted honey and more sweet fun for all ages. greaterparkersburg.com

Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival | Late August, Auburn, IN
Major attractions during this event billed as the world’s greatest classic car show and festival include the annual garage cruise, the downtown cruise-in and the Parade of Classics. The finale includes a showcase of automobiles from around the world. Funding efforts from the event support the onward growth of the festival as well as automobile-related museums in Indiana. acdfestival.org

SEPTEMBER

Festival of Balloons | Aug. 30–Sept. 1, Dansville, NY
For almost 40 years, the New York State Festival of Balloons has been a staple of Labor Day weekend celebrations. Held at the Dansville Airport, the three-day event offers crafts and art vendors, rides, entertainment and a food court. The six scheduled hot air balloon launches are the highlight of the weekend. nysfob.com

Canada’s Largest Ribfest | Aug. 30–Sept. 2, Burlington, ON
Known for breaking the attendance world record at its 2016 festival with more than 183,000 attendees, Canada’s Largest Ribfest is back to celebrate another Labor Day weekend with four days of musical entertainment, an artisan fair and, of course, mouthwatering ribs. canadaslargestribfest.com

WorldFest 2024 | Aug. 30–Sept. 2, Louisville, KY
WorldFest is one of the region’s largest international festivals, highlighting cultures and customs from around the world. The event returns to downtown Louisville with three entertainment stages that showcase international, national, regional and local performers. The vendor village (dubbed the Possibility World Hub) features nearly 150 international-themed arts, crafts, merchandise and food booths. louisvilleky.gov

Tecumseh! | Through Sept. 1, Chillicothe, OH
Witness the epic life story of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, as he struggles to defend his sacred homelands in the Ohio country during the late 1700s. The theater experience is staged outdoors at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, featuring galloping horses, cannons and large battle sequences. tecumsehdrama.com

LUMA Projection Arts Festival | Sept. 6–7, Binghamton, NY
After dark, Binghamton comes to life with the work of artists from around the globe. Watch from the streets as active art displays are projected onto the city’s buildings. LUMA, which is known as the country’s premier projection arts festival, aims to find new ways to tell stories through the merging of technology and art. lumafestival.com

Nicholas County Potato Festival | Sept. 6–7, Summersville, WV
Celebrate spuds at the Nicholas County Potato Festival. The festivities include tractor shows, pet pageants, potato displays, fireworks and more, as well as performances this year from acts such as Mitch Rossell and Hunter Girl. nicholascountypotatofestival.com

Pekin Marigold Festival | Sept. 4–8, Pekin, IL
Celebrate this classic Midwestern festival at the Mineral Springs Park Lagoon, which offers something for the whole family such as the beloved Marigold Parade, Medallion Hunt, golf outings, the Miss Marigold Pageant, chalk walk, festival fair food court, local vendor fair and more traditional fun. pekinchamber.com/pekin-marigold-festival

Niagara County Peach Festival | Sept. 5–8, Lewiston, NY
In addition to all kinds of peach dishes to try, this annual celebration also features rides, games, live entertainment, a 5K run and more. A peach taste-off and a Peach Queen pageant are also among the festivities at this event. niagaracountypeachfestival.org

Toronto International Film Festival | Sept. 5–15, Toronto, ON
The Toronto International Film Festival showcases international and Canadian cinema, featuring more than 100 films. The festival offers in-person as well as digital options, and the schedule includes talks, tributes, interactive experiences and more special events with acclaimed industry guests. tiff.net

Central Pennsylvania Ragtime & American Music Festival | Sept. 12–15, Rockhill Furnace, PA
Head to Rockhill Furnace for this event held at America’s oldest operating narrow-gauge railroad. Watch silent movies at the station or climb aboard a roaring ’20s-themed train car to enjoy dinner and live music. You’ll hear the best of blues, ragtime and jazz from a variety of musicians. eastbroadtop.com

Kentucky Bourbon Festival | Sept.13–15, Bardstown, KY
If you’re 21 or older and love bourbon, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival is the perfect place to learn more about the signature spirit of the Bluegrass State. With five different tasting packages to choose from, try a wide variety of bourbons from over 50 distilleries. kybourbonfestival.com

Jackson International Food & Art Festival | Sept. 21, Jackson, TN
Founded in 2013 with the mission to spread cultural awareness, the Jackson International Food and Art Festival brings together the community for a celebration of unity that fosters engagement across cultures and recognizes the diverse backgrounds of western Tennessee residents. jifaf.com

Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival | Sept. 19–22, Pittsburgh, PA
The Pittsburgh Jazz Festival is a celebration of jazz artists and icons, offering free street concerts, intimate performance spaces, workshops and other special events. Held at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, the festival is a sure way to get your groove on. pittsburghjazzfest.org

Mothman Festival | Sept. 21–22, Point Pleasant, WV
During the 1960s, the mysterious lore of the Mothman was created. This festival keeps the local legend alive. All ages are encouraged to bring their imagination to celebrate with food, cosplay, live music and more during the free festival. Plus, you can explore the Mothman Museum for an additional price. mothmanfestival.com

Octoberfest | Sept. 28, Ludington, MI
Get a taste of German culture in downtown Ludington during the annual Octoberfest. Enjoy pub-crawl games on Friday night and a host of activities Saturday afternoon, including live music and yard games. Sample German-themed foods and cool down with craft beers in the plaza. downtownludington.org

Bowling Green International Festival | Sept. 28, Bowling Green, KY
This festival celebrates diversity in the Bluegrass State. Explore and learn more about different cultures from all over the world by way of food, music, activities and traditional performances. The festival has grown since its founding, now showcasing artists who are working to create genre-defying music. bginternationalfest.com

Apple Harvest Festival | Sept. 27–29, Ithaca, NY
Nothing says fall in central New York quite like the annual Apple Harvest Festival in Ithaca. The festival kicks off Cider Week New York with offerings that include apple-themed dishes from food trucks, a craft fair, live entertainment and more. downtownithaca.com

Oxford Renaissance Festival | Sept. 27–29, Dorchester, ON
Discover a time of knights and royalty with a weekend of jousts, theater and live entertainment. Buy a costume or souvenir from artisan vendors, try your hand at archery and have a drink at the pub as you enjoy live music. After grabbing food from a themed vendor, catch acrobatic and comic performances. oxfordrenfest.com

Pink Palace Craft Fair | Sept. 27–29, Memphis, TN
Celebrate history at the annual Pink Palace Craft Fair at Audubon Park. The fair benefitting the Museum of Science & History hosts nearly 150 vendors from across the country and offers a range of handmade goods. Learn the tricks of the trade through artisan demonstrations, relax while listening to live music and delight kids with the petting zoo or a ride on the train. moshmemphis.com