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Writer's pictureAndrea Graham

Top Fall Festivals in NW Michigan

Updated: Sep 15


Family at fall festival
Discover the best fall festivals in Northwest Michigan for families, from pumpkin fests to harvest celebrations.

As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, Northwest Michigan comes alive with a variety of vibrant fall festivals perfect for families. Whether you're a local or visiting the area, there's no better way to embrace the season than by attending one of these fun-filled events. From pumpkin patches and harvest festivals to unique local celebrations, this guide will help you find the best fall festivals to enjoy with your kids. Get ready to create lasting memories with these must-visit autumn festivities!


  • Alden's Harvest Fest (Alden, Antrim County)
    • Visit downtown Alden for a full day of fall fun. Enjoy a craft market, blacksmith demonstration, pumpkin painting, donuts, chainsaw pumpkin carving, live music and more at the Alden Harvest Fest.

  • Beulah Fall Festival (Beulah, Benzie County)
    • There will be plenty of activities for the entire family, including pumpkin decorating, a visit from the “Lord of the Gourd”, sidewalk chalk art, kids games, face paint, mask and trick or treat bag decorating, a classic car and motorcycle show, and horse drawn wagon rides.

  • Charlevoix Apple Festival (Charlevoix, Charlevoix County)
    • Enjoy freshly harvested apples and other fall products, plus a farmers' market, food booths and an Arts and Crafts Show.

  • Frankfort Fall Festival (Frankfort, Benzie County)
    • After kicking off with the Fall Festival Parade and Mutt March, head to Open Space Park for kids games, a corn maze, pumpkin decorating, a corn hole tournament, pumpkin drop, craft fair, pie eating contest and more!

  • Friske Applefest (Ellsworth, Antrim County)
    • Head to the Friske Farm Market for cider, caramel apples, baked goods, pumpkin carving, pumpkin smashing, U-pick apples and wagon rides. Kids will also enjoy the pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, zip line, apple slingshot, and more!

  • Highlands Harbor Fest (Harbor Springs, Emmet County)
    • Take in the beautiful fall colors and Pure Michigan views. There will be activities for everyone, including face painting, cookie decorating, toy in a haystack, burlap sack racing, pumpkin ring toss, yard games, and s’mores!

  • Onekama Fall Festival (Onekama, Manistee County)
    • The annual festival features scarecrows, hayrides, pumpkin decorating, a craft show and many free family-friendly activities.

  • Skitoberfest (Boyne Falls, Charlevoix County)
    • Spend the day at Boyne Mountain at an Oktoberfest-style festival with a twist. In addition to craft brews, food and live music, there will be pony rides, inflatables, a tubing hill, face painting, ski decorating and more in the Kids' Zone.

  • Leelanau Uncaged (Northport, Leelanau County)
    • This street fair includes live music, local artists, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.

  • Boyne City Harvest Festival (Boyne City, Charlevoix County)
    • Happening downtown, this festival is the culminating event of the outdoor Farmers Market featuring children's games and local harvests.

  • Boyne City Harvest Festival (Boyne City, Charlevoix County)
    • Happening downtown, this festival is the culminating event of the outdoor Farmers Market featuring children's games and local harvests.


Are we missing your favorite fall festival? Let us know!

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