Boy, have we got a treat for you! We’ve put together a list of the best fall festivals on Cape Cod. This diverse list highlights some of the most exciting gatherings that will be happening this season. Fall is the ideal time for watching the leaves change, breathing in the crisp air, and sampling some of our local cultural offerings.
Take some time to peruse this list — whet your appetite for what the Cape has to offer. So much local talent is showcased in these events, truly something for everyone to enjoy. We liken these festivals to a feast for the senses! Taste and smell some delicious food and drink, touch some incredible handmade pieces, hear some incredible music, and gather with friends old and new while enjoying these sensations. We’ve included dates, some interesting tidbits, and links where you can find answers to any questions you may have. We would love to gather questions about our area for the content of future posts as we work hard to make your visit with us unforgettable.
Cranberry Art & Music Festival
September 17 and 18
Community Center Fields, 100 Oak Street, Harwich
Lots of shopping to do here! 100+ vendors will be set up with handmade items. There is free parking and plenty of parking for your bicycle as well. The best part is that the music festival is free too! There is a wooden dance floor in the tent, so make sure to pack your dancing shoes. Don’t forget to bring a chair or a blanket, as the fireworks start at dusk on Saturday.
Tennessee Williams Theater Festival
September 22-25
Provincetown
This season is called Tutti Frutti, and all of the shows are creations of Tennessee Williams. Three tiers of ticketing are available: Day Pass, Flex Pass, and VIP Pass. You have the freedom to choose which shows and how often you would like to see them. Pick from the six productions ranging from “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” to “A Streetcar Named Desire.” Take part in the sensory walk that meanders through the town and pop in your earbuds for this fascinating tour.
Cape Cod BrewFest
September 24 | 2:00-5:30 pm
Cape Cod Fairgrounds, 1220 Nathan Ellis Hwy, Rt 151, East Falmouth
The 10th annual BrewFest will have over 60 breweries and 150 styles of beer featured. It’s a given that attendees must be 21+. Ticket prices include all the drink samples and food from vendors. There is an incentive to be a designated driver, as they receive a large discount. Upon entry, a plastic cup will be provided for beer sampling. When it’s time to leave, make sure to pick up the commemorative glass. A portion of the ticket sales benefits the Barnstable County Agricultural Society. All beers are purchased directly from the breweries. Remember that the ride share drop-off point is not at the fairground; it’s located on 319 Currier Road.
Cape Cod Doxie Day
September 24 | 12:00-3:00 pm
3195 Main Street, Barnstable
What a fun day for dog lovers! The focus is on dachshunds, but all vaccinated and leashed furry friends are welcome. Last year over $10,000 was raised for the Cape Wildlife Center, doubling the amount raised from the previous event. Let’s do it again! Doxie Day is the last Saturday in September (free parking is abundant). Pet-friendly restaurants such as Barnstable Tuscan Cuisine and Nirvana Coffee Company are offering outdoor seating. At the event, the Wild Game Sausage Man food truck and other vendors will be present. Take part in exciting events such as the Doxie Dash, the Wiener Waddle, the Waggin’ Parade, etc. Prizes will be awarded! Who knows, maybe your pup will win the teeniest wienie prize. Make sure to stop by for a puppuccino at the Doxie Day Cafe.
SandwichFest
October 1
Main Street, Sandwich
So many sandwich themed events! Participate in a sandwich-creating competition — hope you’re feeling artistic and hungry! Local Sandwich residents are part of a panel to judge community chefs for the coveted “Best Sandwich in Sandwich” award. A juried arts and crafts event, as well as over 100 booths, provide lots to see. And don’t forget the dog costume parade! A beer and wine garden and free admission to the event make for a complete experience.
Taylor-Bray Farm Fall Festival
October 8
108 Bray Farm Road N, Yarmouth Port
Hay rides, apple cider, donut holes, oh my! There is something for everyone here on this 375+-year-old farm. Pumpkins and gourds and fresh fall treats will be for sale. Visit the mini donkey and the Scottish Highland cow. The hayride goes along part of the Don McIntyre Trail. This trail, as well as the boardwalk that goes out into the salt marsh, will be accessible for leisurely strolls.
Yarmouth Seaside Festival
October 8-10
Joshua Sears Memorial Field, MA-28 & Wood Road, Yarmouth
Founded in 1978, the Yarmouth Seaside Festival always lands on Columbus Day weekend. Some of the activities include a Birds of Prey Show as well as a craft fair featuring more than 125 crafters from all over the country. Maybe you can sharpen your competitive edge by joining the pumpkin decorating or sand sculpture contests. Races, both a 5k and a canoe/kayak variety, add to the excitement. Fireworks and an afterparty wrap up this free event.
Oktoberfest in Chatham
October 22
Kate Gould Park, Chatham
Bratwursts and beer — what else do you need to have a good time? The Oktoberfest features the Devil’s Purse Beer Garden and live entertainment. Craft booths will be set up, and the unique “pumpkin people” will be on display throughout the park. Free entry to this event makes the autumn experience even more attractive. Don’t forget to wear a sweater or jacket!
Sandwich Glass Museum 11th Annual PumpkinFest
October 22 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
129 Main Street, Sandwich
Rounding out our list of fall festivals, this one is sure to give you the most “autumn vibes.” Local glass artisans take up the challenge to make unique pieces for this event. The glass pumpkins for sale range in all sizes and colors. You have never seen a pumpkin patch more iridescent and breathtaking! On the grounds, a glassblower will be demonstrating techniques for the creation of a pumpkin. This event is free, but the entrance to the museum will require a fee.
We want your fall season to be cozy, crisp, and full of pumpkin spice lattes! This list of the best fall festivals on Cape Cod will help you plan your autumn adventures. Maybe you’ll pick up some holiday gifts from our local artisans, or you’ll find a new brew to enjoy by the fireside this season. All in all, there are memories to be made and experiences to enjoy. Come for a visit and let us show you all that the Cape has in store this fall.
