Fall Festivals in Southern Coastal Maine
Southern coastal Maine is a lively hub of tourism throughout the summer and fall months. Towns like Kennebunk and Arundel have long been centers of entrepreneurial spirit, housing year-round businesses like Tom’s of Maine and Kate’s Homemade Butter; Old Orchard Beach boasts a full range of family- friendly recreation opportunities through its amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and biking/hiking opportunities on the Eastern Trail. Add in its prime location alongside both I-95 and Coastal Route 1, and it’s no surprise that this region of Maine sees tens of thousands of visitors each year. But, it’s not just the summer attractions that make this part of Maine worth a visit – the cooler days of October and early November still have much to offer, from festivals to crisp autumn hikes to farmstands overflowing with seasonal produce. Plus, the southern location means that gorgeous peak fall color stretches a little further into October than it does in more northern parts of state. Read on for some travel inspiration!
Head to Ogunquit to stroll the streets of “the most walkable town in coastal Maine,” a picturesque town where small businesses decorate to celebrate the season – the Fall for Ogunquit annual event is ongoing for most of October. Don't forget to check out OgunquitFest (normally hosted during the weekend in late October), an annual extravaganza featuring a classic car show, artisan craft fair, Halloween events and more.
Further north in Kennebunk, enjoy a brisk morning walk through the Kennebunk Farmers’ Market (8am – 12:30pm on Saturdays through November). Visiting producer-only markets like this one are a great way to support local agriculture and keep your money circulating in the local economy – buy directly from the people who grew the food to enjoy the freshest seasonal flavors and get some face time with our state’s food producers.
If you’re there in late October, head east after your Farmers’ Market adventure to hit up yet another fall festival – Maine Autumn Fest in Kennebunkport. From tart apple cider to pumpkin to briny oysters and seasonal beers, this festival puts the flavors of Maine front and center. Each ticket to the event includes three oysters from The Boathouse, one cocktail featuring Batson River spirits, live music and access to plenty of New England food and artisan vendors.
In the mood for a quieter adventure? Take a few hours to explore the Eastern Trail, a scenic ~65 mile multi-use greenway that begins in Kittery and stretches all the way to South Portland. The route includes historical landmarks, stunning vistas, and more. Or, pay a visit to a local farm stand outside the larger coastal towns - Harris Farm in Dayton offers delicious homemade butter and other dairy products, beef and even a pumpkin patch.
End your day in Biddeford with a pub crawl to remember; over the past few years, Biddeford has become a craft beverage destination with breweries like Lucky Pigeon Brewing Co., Sacred Profane, Banded Brewing, and Blaze Brewing Co. and distilleries like Round Turn Distilling and Batson River Brewing and Distilling. And, of course, if you’re feeling snacky, don’t miss a visit to Nibblesford, our favorite cheese shop featuring amazing regional artisanal cheeses from across Maine and New England.