When most people think of fall weather, their minds don’t automatically go to Florida. Fall in Florida pretty much means the temperature drops from 90 degrees to 80. But, North Florida is special. Up here, we do get fall leaves, cool breezes and sweater weather. There are plenty of fall events to get you in the mood up here in North Florida, from fairs to festivals. Here are just a few fall events I’m looking forward to this season.
Gainesville/Alachua
Alachua County Fair
When: October 19-17
Where: Alachua County Fairgrounds
Nothing says fall like a day at the fair. The Alachua County Fair is celebrating 50 years of fun and agriculture this year, and will have some exciting live entertainment, including illusion shows, thrill acts and pig races. Plus, who can resist the yummy fair food?? Funnel cakes and Farris Wheels, that’s what fairs are all about.
Alachua Main Street Festival
When: November 4, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Main Street, Alachua
Historic downtown Alachua is hosting its 16th annual Alachua Main Street Festival on November 4. There will be local businesses, specialty street vendors, food from local restaurants and food trucks and live music. There will also be crafts, rides and games for the kids. Talk about fun for the whole family!
Downtown Festival & Art Show
When: December 1 & 2
Where: Downtown Gainesville
The 37th Annual Downtown Festival & Art Show is happening in Gainesville in a couple months and I can’t wait to check it out! It’s going to be my first time going, and I can’t wait to see all the art, live music, performance artists and food! The festival features 240 local and national artists displaying everything from oil paintings to photography.
Lake City
Columbia County Fair
When: October 26-November 3
Where: Columbia County Fairgrounds
The Columbia County Fair is my favorite event of the fall season! I’ve gone every year for the past three years and each time I love it more and more. It’s full of small-town, southern charm and has everything from funnel cakes to farm animals. It’s a must-do event this fall.
St. Augustine
Sykes Family Farm Crop Maze
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, October 6 – November 4
Where: Sykes and Cooper Farms (5995 Brough Rd. Elkton, FL)
Crop mazes, hay rides and pumpkin patches: the fall essentials. The Sykes Family Farm has all of these fall activities and more, and you can see for yourself by visiting their award-winning crop maze! This looks like the perfect place to spend a fun fall day!
St. Augustine Art Association Art & Craft Festival
When: November 24 & 25
WhereL Francis Field (29 W. Castillo Dr.)
Over 150 artists will be selling their work at the 53rd Annual Art & Craft Festival on November 24 & 25 in historic downtown St. Augustine. Not only will you be able to buy amazing works of art from local vendors, but there will also be artist demonstrations, a kids’ Art Zone and international food, beer and wine.
Jacksonville
Jacksonville Oktoberfest
When: October 12 (5:30-11:30 p.m.) and October 13 (11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.)
WhereL Anheuser-Busch Brewery (111 Busch Drive, Jacksonville)
You don’t have to be German to celebrate Oktoberfest, but you do need to love having a good time! The 2018 Oktoberfest Jacksonville at the Anheuser-Busch Brewery is happening October 12 & 13, and it will be a day full of German food, fun and beer. There will also be live music, weiner dog races, brat eating competitions, Oktoberfest games and more!
The Old Spanish Trail Haunted Attraction
When: Now – October 28
Where: The Old Spanish Trail (13535 W Beaver St., Jacksonville)
The Old Spanish Trail is Jackonville’s largest outdoor haunted attraction. Nestled in the dense woods behind a legitimately haunted, nearly 200-year-old historical property, the trek through the frightening forest is full of terrifying scenes and spooky actors. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush this Halloween season, then take a walk down the Old Spanish Trail.
The Happy Floridian 