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Plan Ahead: Fall festivals + fun in Chattanooga

As we approach a new season, here are ways to find the classic joys of the fall time in and around Chattanooga.

Fall leaves on Lookout Mountain

Celebrate fall in the Scenic City with these festivals.

Photo provided by Rock City

Sunday, Sept. 22 marks the first day of fall, and you could say we’re just a little bit excited. We’re highlighting some major events that will make you autumn-matically happy in the Scenic City.

NOOGAtoday | Flat Top Mtn Farm

Not to be corny, but there’s just something about a fall festival.

Photo provided by Flat Top Mountain Farm

🍂 September

Flat Top Mountain Farm Fall Festival
This family-owned farm in nearby Soddy-Daisy has officially kicked off its annual festival season. Spend Fridays-Sundays through Oct. 27 going through the corn mazes, flower picking, shopping + much more. Tickets start at $12 — kids three and under get free entry.

Fall Colors
Through Friday, Nov. 8, you can enjoy daily programming inspired by the season + the scenic views as the leaves change on Lookout Mountain when stopping at Rock City. We’re talking pumpkin painting, going on a gnome quest, and seeing hanging lanterns — tickets start at $34. Pro tip: Buy online for a discounted rate.

Oddtoberfest
Oddstory Brewing Co. is hosting its own homage to Oktoberfest on Saturday, Sept. 21 + Sunday, Sept. 22. You can expect live polka music, costume contests (there’s one for your pets, too) + stein holding and brat-eating competitions. Presale tickets start at $30.

Signal Mountain Nursery Fall Festival
Head to this local shop to enjoy sales on fall greenery, go through a “spooky maze” + eat free hot dogs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28.

East Ridge Fall Festival
Stop by Camp Jordan Arena from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28 to play yard games while enjoying live music and food + arts vendors.

People dressed in German attire for Oktoberfest

We’re pouring up some more fun this fall for y’all.

🎃 October

Cirque du Soleil “OVO”
From mighty crickets bouncing off trampolines to a hypnotic spider contorting inside her web, you’ll witness the whims of imagination at the McKenzie Arena on Thursday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 6. Tickets start at $55.

Ringgold Haunted Depot
Every Friday and Saturday from Oct. 11-26, you can head to the Ringgold Depot for hayrides, ghost tours, bonfires, and so much s’more. You can purchase an all-access ticket for $23 or pay for the activities separately.

Chattanooga Ocktoberfest
Get a peek at German culture when joining the Chattanooga Market at the First Horizon Pavilion for the return of this fest on Saturday, Oct. 12 + Sunday, Oct. 13. You’ll want to don your best German attire to see who will be crowned Mr. and Mrs. Ocktoberfest.

Witch & Warlock Paddle
River City Co. will bring this annual paddling event back to the Tennessee River on Saturday, Oct. 19. Bring your witch’s broom + get ready to set out on a 4-mile float towards Coolidge Park — stay tuned for more details.

Fire Up the Fields
Pull up a chair for Sculpture Field’s largest bonfire event of the year on Saturday, Oct. 19. This free event from 5 to 9 p.m. will feature the burning of a large wooden sculpture + new to this year, giant screens set up during the festivities for the football fans. See last year’s recap.

Cleveland Apple Festival
Bring the family out for a weekend full of live entertainment, food vendors, activities for the kiddos, and apple-themed contests on Saturday, Oct. 19 + Sunday, Oct. 20. Tickets start at $8 with discounts + family rates available.

🍁 November

Fall Forever Bluegrass Festival
Travel to Mountain Cove Farms in nearby Chickamauga, GA for this three-day festival that kicks off on Thursday, Nov. 7. Attendees will see over 15 bluegrass bands perform, shop a vendor market + be able to camp on site. Early bird tickets start at $15.

Hamilton County Fair
Save the dates for Friday, Nov. 8-Sunday, Nov. 10 and get out the McDonald Farm for the county’s annual fair. Featuring all the classics, from competitions and live music to food and rides, you’ll want to hit the fairgrounds running. Tickets start at $8 — check out the presale deals.

Soddy-Daisy Fall Festival
Head out to Soddy Lake Park on Saturday, Nov. 23 to join the city for its annual fundraising festival. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the whole family can enjoy food vendors, live music, and plenty of activities for the kids.

Leaf room for more — check out our event coverage + stay tuned for an edition dedicated to Halloween.

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