Weekends in the Mid-Atlantic Region: 5 Ways to Celebrate Fall

September is here, and it’s my favorite time of year! Fall is already in the air, with cooler temperatures in the evenings and some of the leaves already starting to turn. Every weekend between now and Thanksgiving, there is an opportunity to head out and enjoy the cooler weather, colorful leaves, and outdoor activities. Check out these 5  ways to celebrate fall in the Mid-Atlantic area.  
*This post was updated August, 2024

1. Step Back in Time to the Year 1537. If you live in the mid-Atlantic area, chances are you’ve attended the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Now in it’s 48th season, it’s one of the biggest fairs of its kind around the country. True renaissance fans will appreciate the continuous story line that follows the reign of King Henry VIII, and the 27 acre Village of Revel Grove. Both kids and adults enjoy dressing up, so you’ll see plenty of period costumes. With multiple stages for entertainment, jousting, artisans and a variety of food, it’s a fun way to get outside on a crisp fall day.  We’ve gone several times over the years, and some of my favorite activities are watching the jousting and glass blowing, and eating foods on a stick, although the novelty of eating the turkey legs has worn off as I’ve gotten older!  Catch the fair on weekends August 24 through October 20, 2024. 

2. Walk Through the Ultimate Haunted House. If you are looking for the ultimate haunted Halloween experience, head to Halloween Nights (formerly Terror Behind the Walls) at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia.  First off, the prison itself is believed to be haunted, and with its crumbling walls and dark corridors, it’s creepy enough when you visit during daylight hours. Plus the new experience features 15 attractions, including 2 haunted houses along with cellblock tours. Even if you don’t visit during the fall, touring Eastern State should be on your Philly to do list. We took a tour several years ago, and I would highly recommend it. The penitentiary has a fascinating history and unique architecture, along with a record of notable inmates like Al Capone. You can read more about why I think you should visit this historic attraction, at least during daylight hours.  

3. Hit a Bike Trail for Leaf Viewing. Fall is the perfect time to explore one of the the area’s many bike trails, with cooler weather and colorful scenery. To me, there is nothing more relaxing than pedaling along a trail lined with vibrant red, orange and yellow leaves. Some favorite spots we’ve found for enjoying the beautiful fall foliage are the W&OD Trail in Northern Virginia, and the Mount Vernon Trail that follows the Potomac River between Roosevelt Island and Old Town Alexandria. Both are paved trails, with options for side adventures. If you are on the W&OD in Loudoun County, Virginia, check out the LoCo Ale Trail, with options for lunch at local breweries just minutes off the trail. In Old Town Alexandria, you can enjoy a picnic lunch by the Potomac River.

4. Celebrate Oktoberfest & Other Festivals. Most of us probably won’t make it to Germany for Oktoberfest, but you can find Oktoberfest celebrations in the Mid-Atlantic area during the months of September and October. In Loudoun County, Virginia, explore some of the smaller celebrations at breweries and wineries during the fall.

There are a number of fun weekend activities and festivals happening during fall in and around Philadelphia. The Fishtown Feastivale happens in late September. Or head out of the city to check out OctoberFeast at Peddler’s Village in October. 

5. Get Outside for Fall Fun. Fall is one of the best times for fun on the farm (who doesn’t love apple cider donuts!)  and to get lost in a corn maze.  Check out the Maryland Corn Maze in Gambrills (about 30 miles outside of DC). In scenic Bluemont, Virginia, there’s tons of family fun to be had during October at the Fall Pumpkin Harvest Festival at Great Country Farms. And for Halloween fun, the Annual Sea Witch® Festival is happening October 25th-27th in Rehoboth Beach Delaware. 

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