The Best Fall Events Near Fairfield County, CT (2023)

The seasons are a’changing. Fall is a time for family gatherings and fun.

With the air a bit cooler, and the leaves changing colors, it couldn’t be a better time to explore all the fall festivities that Fairfield County, Connecticut offers. Raymond Design Builders here: if you’re looking for fun and festive activities for the entire family, you’ll definitely want to read on for these five delightfully festive fall events.

5 Festive fall events near Fairfield County (all ages)

Whether you’re looking for fine dining, arts, or outdoor recreation, Fairfield County, Connecticut has something for everyone. Check out these five awesome Fall events happening between October and November.

1. Glow Wild Lantern Festival

(Image source: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo)

When: September 14- December 2; Thursdays to Sundays from 5:30- 9:30 PM

Where: Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo

What to expect: Shorter days means more night-time fun. Enjoy a dazzling display of over 53 illuminated lanterns at the Lantern Festival at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. With more than 30 acres of flora and fauna to explore, you’ll be treated to a light showcase of exquisite portions. With more than a hundred different interactive lantern displays, you’ll start to see why the zoo glows wild every autumn. Whether with the kiddos, as a romantic date out, or as a fun hangout with friends, Glow Wild Lantern Festival will light up your night this season.

How much it costs: 

Tickets can be purchased in advance online.

• Adult tickets (ages 12+) are $22
• Children (11 and under) are $20
• Free admission for children age 2 and under & adults age 76+

2. Apple picking at Beardsley Cider Mill

When: September to late October

Where: Beardsley Cider Mill in Shelton, CT (10 AM- 5 PM, Saturdays and Sundays only)

What to expect: Enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste of these juicy autumn stone fruits. Empire, Pink Liberty, Jonagold, and more: you name it, Beardsley Cider Mill has it. Bring your own bag for your haul, and make sure to wear sturdy shoes, as picking apples can be messy. Once you’re done, stop by their cider mill and bakery for some cold apple cider, freshly baked pies, and powdered cider donuts. If you’re looking for a festive autumn activity for the whole family, try a pick-your-own adventure at Beardsley’s Cider Mill.

How much it costs: 

Beardsley Cider Mill: $20 per one-peck bag holding 10-12 pounds of fruit. Cash only (ATM available on-site).

3. Fairfield Harvest Market

When: October 14th from 10 AM- 4 PM (rain or shine!)

Where: Fairfield’s Town Hall Green at 611 Old Post Road, Fairfield, CT 06824 (on the corner of Beach Road)

What to expect: Once a year, Fairfield’s Chamber of Commerce comes together to bring us this spectacular event. In partnership with The Pet Pantry of Fairfield, Chewy’s, and many other vendors, Fairfield’s Harvest Market boasts food, shopping, music, and more for all. Whether it’s the beer garden, activities like Guess the Weight of That Giant Pumpkin, home décor, fashion, pet products, and a DJ-selected and curated set of musical tunes, Fairfield Farmers Market is a once-a-season event you won’t want to miss. Best of all, admission is free.

How much it costs: It's completely free!

4. Oktoberfest at Bear Mountain

When: September 30- October 22

Where: Anthony Wayne Recreation Area from 11 AM- 6 PM

What to expect: For thirsty adults looking for their fun alongside their kids, Bear Mountain Inn hosts an Oktoberfest on select days from September to late October. Grab your favorite shoes (or clogs) and head on over to the dance floor for some volksmusic, corn hole, ring toss, and exceptional retail with local vendors. Brought along your kids with you? No problem. Run on over to the bounce house castle, or try your hand at the fun and festive bean bag toss. And of course, it wouldn’t be an Oktoberfest without craft beer and savory Bavarian-style food.

How much it costs: Admission is free! Plan to RSVP ahead of time to reserve your spot.

5. 12th Annual Fairfield Restaurant Week

(Image source: Fairfield Restaurant Week Facebook page)

When: October 24- November 6; See the events schedule and selected sponsors for specific restaurant events and deals

Where: Various locations and times across Fairfield, CT.

What to expect: For the 12th year in a row, the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce is hosting eagerly anticipated Annual Fairfield Restaurant Week. Whether you’re craving gourmet fine dining or no-frills fanfaire, there’s food for every palette and preference at Fairfield’s Annual Restaurant Week. For a list of participating restaurants and scheduled events, check out the Fairfield Restaurant Week Facebook page. Stop by any participating restaurant during late October and November to find out why this event is hailed as one of Fairfield’s most exciting autumn events.

How much it costs: Varies depending on the event and restaurant.

Fairfield County's most trusted home builders

We hope the following events bring color and cheer to you this autumn season. For more on Fairfield, CT living, we invite you to check out our blog. It’s packed with tons of articles that are perfect for the new and prospective homeowner. And if you’d like to discuss anything you see, don’t hesitate to reach out any time. From all of us on the Raymond Design Builders team, happy holidays to you and your loved ones!