Experience Fall in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom – 2024

September 16, 2024

Picture perfect foliage. Quintessential New England charm. Annual fall festivals. Tasty local bites & brews.

It’s hard to describe fall in the NEK – it’s more about looking around and soaking it all in. Vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, and gold. Local folks selling pumpkins and apples on countryside roads. Breweries crafting up a taste of the season. And communities reveling in the opportunity to host a celebration under a cascade of color. 

You can enjoy great foliage viewing late September through mid October.

We’ll be posting stunning shots on our Facebook and Instagram , and if you find yourself sharing photos from your adventure through the Kingdom, don’t forget to tag #getNEKedVT.

scenic fall vermont

Explore Season-Long Autumn Activities

Head to the Eastern Trek to meander a side of the Kingdom where recreation, arts, food, and history are thriving. While in this area, don’t forget to check out the Kingdom Corn Maze & PYO Pumpkin Patch in Sutton or one of the many live performances presented by Catamount Arts .  Looking for the ultimate fall excursion along the Eastern Trek? Take a scenic drive:

St. Johnsbury – Spaulding Road Afternoon Trip , 5.6 miles
 Start at the First Congregation Church in St. Johnsbury on Breezy Road, turn left on Lackey Hill Road and take a slight right onto Spaulding Road. Continue on Spaulding Rd to Sweet Seasons Farm & Artisans Confections in St. Johnsbury for apple picking and treats. Then head southeast on Spaulding Rd for a visit to Dog Mountain (hiking trails, Dog Chapel, scenic views) before stopping for lunch at Papa Tirozzi’s new location (2165 Portland Street).  Stop at Maple Grove Farms of VT on your way back into town for a maple creemee and to learn the history of the industry that made St. Johnsbury the Maple Center of the World.

Upcoming Eastern Trek Events

Burke Fall Festival , Burke
Saturday, September 28, Beginning at 10am

This annual festival takes place in the East Burke Village and features fun for the whole family including a parade and craft show, children’s activities, horse-drawn carriage rides, a rubber duck race, food & drink, live music, and more.

Festival of Traditional Crafts,  St. Johnsbury
 Saturday, September 28, 10am – 4pm

Savor the lovely fall weather while learning about traditional crafts of the region at the St. Johnsbury History and Heritage Center. Watch demonstrations, enjoy hands-on experiences, and browse exhibits showcasing candle making and quilting.  This event is part of the Historic St. Johnsbury Fall Festival – find complete details here . 

Fall for St. Johnsbury, St. Johnsbury
Saturday, October 12, 7am – 6pm

Enjoy a day filled with seasonal fun and Fall for St. Johnsbury! Start your day running in the Kingdom 5K or Half Marathon or enjoy brunch and shopping at the St. Johnsbury Farmers Market or Artisan Market. Spend the afternoon on a foliage train ride before kicking back with food & drinks at the ‘Behind the Block’ Party By Haven and The Buttery on Railroad Street. Find a full schedule of events  here .

Fall Dog Party, St. Johnsbury
 Saturday, October 5, Noon – 4pm

The perfect fall festival for your four-legged friends! Enjoy live music, delicious eats, sweet treats, special events, and contests for the pups including the Doggie Walk of Fame with Pup-arazzi. This event is free and open to the public and will be held rain or shine. 

scenic fall vermont

Farm & Field Autumn Activities

Riddled with rolling hills and curving valleys, you’ll encounter quiet back roads with stunning views, farm stands stocked with fresh VT produce, and plenty of State Parks perfect for walking, biking, bird watching and sightseeing. This area is also home to the largest maze in New England thanks to the Great Vermont Corn Maze , which is now open six days a week.  Plan out your own itinerary or spend a day soaking up the scenery on a ride from Hardwick to Craftsbury.

Hardwick to Craftsbury Scenic Route, 18 miles
Before starting your drive, stop in Connie’s Kitchen for a breakfast sandwich or pastry. Then head east on VT-15 East, take Center Rd to E Craftsbury Rd/Town Highway 1 continue straight through Greensboro where you can take in the views of Caspian Lake. Continue heading north and turn right onto S Craftsbury Rd. Continue straight onto Wylie Hill Rd and finish your route at Mill Village Pottery to check out some beautiful handcrafted pottery.

Upcoming Farm & Field Events

21st Annual Autumn on the Green , Danville
 Sunday, October 6, 10am – 4pm

Over 200 vendors will be set up on the Danville Green offering a large array of specialty items during this award-winning showcase. Shop original artwork, pottery, antiques, knitwear, quilts, baskets, and much more or get a taste of the season with Vermont-made maple, cheese, pumpkin, cider, jams, jellies, and more. Food vendors, live music and stunning fall foliage round out this free event. 

Fall Foliage Day , Groton
 Saturday, October 7, 10am – 7pm

Fall Foliage Day has something for everyone. Visit Peter Paul Historical House to view artifacts and collections of Groton’s rich history. Visit the Library to check out the Book Sale, or stroll down Main Street and shop with local vendors.

At 10:30am, the Great Pumpkin Weigh-In will take place, followed by the Annual Parade at 1:30pm. As always, there will be vendors, treasure hunt sidewalk sales, and local vendor booths along Main Street all day. The celebration will end with a Chicken Pie Supper, with multiple serving times available.

scenic fall vermont

Mountain & Lake Autumn Activities

Considered one of the most authentic and pristine areas of New England, the Mountain & Lake Getaway is the northernmost region of the NEK, offering vast open land, towering mountain peaks, and pristine waters that somehow turn even more gorgeous this time of year.

Take in the views during a fall cruise on the Northern Star or PYO apples at Rooty’s Apple Orchard .  The Old Stone House Museum & Historic Site, which is well-known for its stunning autumn vistas, will remain open through mid-October; the route to get there is something in itself! 

Old Stone House Scenic Drive to Newport , 9 miles
After visiting the Old Stone House Museum & Historic Village, take a scenic drive up to Newport for a late lunch or dinner in Newport. Head northwest on Old Stone House Rd and take a right onto Hinman Settler Rd. Turn left onto Schuler Rd and continue onto VT-191 N/Access Rd. Turn left onto Western Ave, then right onto Railroad Square crossing over Lake Memphremagog heading into downtown Newport.

Upcoming Mountain & Lake Getaway Events

Newport Fall Festival,   Newport
Saturday, September 28, 11am – 2pm

Celebrate the turning of the leaves at the Newport Fall Festival! Taking place in downtown and throughout Main Street, this year’s festivities include a photo contest, scarecrow contest, Farmers’ Market, Quilt Show, and of course, the Chilifest Contest. 

Fly to Pie Kingdom Marathon , Various Locations
 Saturday, October 5

Lace up and head out on a fall foliage run, walk, or bike through “the gut” of the Northeast Kingdom. There’s a route for every type of athlete (26.2-mile, 17-mile, 13.5-mile, 10 km races), making this a great race for both individuals and families. Each route leads to Parker Pie in West Glover, where you’ll find great pizza, beer, and live music.

15th Annual Bean & Brew Festival , Jay Peak
 Saturday, October 12, Noon – 6pm

Head to Stateside Base Lodge on Saturday, October 14 for Jay Peak’s 14th Annual Bean & Brew Festival. This event features locally-roasted coffees and some of New England’s finest beers, ciders, and more – it’s the perfect place to quench your thirst and savor the flavors of fall! Live music and lawn games will round out this afternoon of sampling. Tickets are $30 and you must be 21+.

This is just a sampling of the many fall events taking place in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom this fall. Visit our Events Calendar for a complete list of events and activities happening in the region. 

Enjoy More Scenic Drives

Craft the perfect playlist, gas up the car, charge your camera batteries, and head out on a scenic drive to experience the glorious colors. Take a ride along one of our suggested routes – or head out on a journey of your own.

< Older Post

 Newer Post >
Other Recent Posts
Cowmoo's Summer Photo Contest banner with a white moose holding a camera in front of a scenic mountain view.

CowMoo’s Summer Photo Contest

By Sullivan • July 9, 2025
It’s summertime and the living’s easy in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom! Whether you’re paddling lakes and rivers, hiking up mountain peaks, sipping a cold beer or indulging in an ice cream cone, there’s nothing like the magical months of summer in the NEK.   How to enter? It’s simple! Submit a photo(s) that captures what makes […]
Outdoor patio with tables, chairs, umbrellas and people seated. Red, yellow, and green umbrellas.

2025 Summer Bucket List – VT Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • June 17, 2025
Make the most of summertime in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom with the help of CowMoo’s Summer Bucket List.  Savor fresh summer flavor, embark on an outdoor adventure, listen to live music, and take in the thriving arts and culture scene. Check our event calendar for a more complete list of upcoming events. Explore Fresh Summer Flavor […]
Moose head with black and white silhouette, gold crown.

Find Ice Cream in the NEK and Brave the Brain Freeze!

By Sullivan • June 13, 2025
There’s no shortage of scoops in the NEK! From the famous Maple Creemees at April’s Maple in Canaan to Tim & Doug’s “bang for your buck” sundaes in Newport, sweet treats can be found all throughout the Kingdom. Wondering just where to get your licks in this summer? Here’s a selection of ice cream stops […]
Two people holding up fish. A young man and older woman smile outside. Trees in the background.

Get Hooked On Fishing in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • May 15, 2025
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is an ideal region for both traditional fishing and fly fishing, with hundreds of lakes, ponds and rivers to explore. In the NEK, you will find a variety of local species including bass, perch, pickerel and trout. Head out on your own fishing adventure […]
Woman rock climbing, wearing a blue helmet and harness, reaching for a handhold on a gray rock face.

Rock Climbing Adventures in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • May 15, 2025
If you are new to climbing or looking to take your skills to the next level, we recommend looking into a guide service that can provide you with the knowledge and resources necessary while climbing in the Kingdom. Please do your research before heading out for a climb and note that some areas are on […]
Show More
Cowmoo's Summer Photo Contest banner with a white moose holding a camera in front of a scenic mountain view.

CowMoo’s Summer Photo Contest

By Sullivan • July 9, 2025
It’s summertime and the living’s easy in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom! Whether you’re paddling lakes and rivers, hiking up mountain peaks, sipping a cold beer or indulging in an ice cream cone, there’s nothing like the magical months of summer in the NEK.   How to enter? It’s simple! Submit a photo(s) that captures what makes […]
Outdoor patio with tables, chairs, umbrellas and people seated. Red, yellow, and green umbrellas.

2025 Summer Bucket List – VT Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • June 17, 2025
Make the most of summertime in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom with the help of CowMoo’s Summer Bucket List.  Savor fresh summer flavor, embark on an outdoor adventure, listen to live music, and take in the thriving arts and culture scene. Check our event calendar for a more complete list of upcoming events. Explore Fresh Summer Flavor […]
Moose head with black and white silhouette, gold crown.

Find Ice Cream in the NEK and Brave the Brain Freeze!

By Sullivan • June 13, 2025
There’s no shortage of scoops in the NEK! From the famous Maple Creemees at April’s Maple in Canaan to Tim & Doug’s “bang for your buck” sundaes in Newport, sweet treats can be found all throughout the Kingdom. Wondering just where to get your licks in this summer? Here’s a selection of ice cream stops […]
Two people holding up fish. A young man and older woman smile outside. Trees in the background.

Get Hooked On Fishing in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • May 15, 2025
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is an ideal region for both traditional fishing and fly fishing, with hundreds of lakes, ponds and rivers to explore. In the NEK, you will find a variety of local species including bass, perch, pickerel and trout. Head out on your own fishing adventure […]
Woman rock climbing, wearing a blue helmet and harness, reaching for a handhold on a gray rock face.

Rock Climbing Adventures in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • May 15, 2025
If you are new to climbing or looking to take your skills to the next level, we recommend looking into a guide service that can provide you with the knowledge and resources necessary while climbing in the Kingdom. Please do your research before heading out for a climb and note that some areas are on […]
Horses pulling a sleigh through a snowy landscape with passengers.

CowMoo’s Vermont Winter Bucket List

By Sullivan • December 31, 2024
Experience Vermont's Northeast Kingdom this winter with CowMoo as your guide.
Poster of Newport, Vermont with buildings by the water, blue sky, and dark green foreground.

VT Northeast Kingdom Holiday Gift Guide – 2024

By nekAdmin • November 17, 2024
Shop small and support local businesses in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom this holiday season!
A bingo-style graphic with boxes showcasing various activities like museums, theater, trails, and events.

 CowMoo’s Summer Bingo: Tour Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • May 14, 2024
It’s summertime and the living is easy – especially when you’re in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. CowMoo has come up with some of his favorite ways to get out and experience the Kingdom this season – and turned them into a game!  Join along in the fun and play CowMoo’s Summer Bingo. Throughout the season, we’ll […]
Red maple syrup building with smoke billowing from the chimney.

2024 VT Maple Open House Weekend in the Northeast Kingdom

By Sullivan • March 11, 2024
Vermont leads the nation in maple syrup production, reporting over 2 million gallons of pure VT maple syrup produced in 2023. Cold nights and warm days are the ideal weather conditions to get sap flowing from maple trees. Syrup season is already underway here in Vermont, and it’s looking like another great year. Tap into […]
Outdoor patio with tables, chairs, and umbrellas; people are seated and socializing.

CowMoo’s Northeast Kingdom Summer Bucket List

By Sullivan • July 26, 2023
The Kingdom is Open for Business! Many people have been impacted by the flooding in Vermont and while challenging times may still be ahead, we appreciate your visitation and business! If you are interested in donating to support recovery efforts in Vermont, please consider the Vermont Main Street Recovery Fund supporting small businesses and the […]
Show More