Autumn in Sacramento isn’t just about pumpkin spice — it’s about festivals, food, and community gatherings. From apple orchards in Placerville to harvest celebrations in Midtown, fall 2025 is packed with events that celebrate the season.
Here’s your guide to Sacramento’s must-visit fall festivals and markets this October.
Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival
- When: Oct 4–5, 2025
- Where: Elk Grove Regional Park
- Why Go: Pumpkin weigh-offs (giants topping 1,500 lbs!), pie-eating contests, kids’ carnival, craft booths.
- Local Tip: Parking fills quickly — arrive early or use shuttle services.
Apple Hill Harvest Festival
- When: All October 2025
- Where: Placerville, 45 minutes from Sacramento
- Why Go: Apple cider donuts, pumpkin patches, hayrides, wineries, and fall foliage.
- Local Tip: Weekdays are quieter; weekends get packed.
Midtown Fall Arts & Crafts Market
- When: Oct 11–12, 2025
- Where: Midtown (20th & K Streets)
- Why Go: Handmade goods, jewelry, art, and seasonal food vendors.
- Local Tip: Great place to find early holiday gifts.
Harvest Festival at Cal Expo
- When: Oct 18–20, 2025
- Where: Cal Expo Grounds
- Why Go: Live music, kids’ rides, pumpkin displays, craft beer tents.
- Local Tip: Evening sessions often include fireworks.
Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm Festival
- When: All October
- Where: Wheatland
- Why Go: Pumpkin train rides, pig races, pumpkin donuts, family activities.
- Local Tip: Grab donuts early — they sell out fast!
Sacramento Harvest Wine Weekend
- When: Oct 25–26, 2025
- Where: Wineries in Clarksburg & Amador County
- Why Go: Seasonal wine tastings, vineyard tours, and harvest dinners.
- Local Tip: Many wineries require reservations — book ahead.
Sacramento Farmers’ Market Fall Edition
- When: Saturdays in October
- Where: Midtown + Downtown Sacramento
- Why Go: Heirloom pumpkins, seasonal veggies, flowers for rangoli, local honey.
- Local Tip: Go early for the freshest picks and fall décor inspiration.
Sacramento Fall Festivals 2025
| Festival / Market | Dates | Location | Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elk Grove Pumpkin Fest | Oct 4–5 | Elk Grove | Families & kids | Free entry, activities extra |
| Apple Hill Harvest | All October | Placerville | Foodies, families, wine lovers | Free entry |
| Midtown Arts & Crafts | Oct 11–12 | Midtown | Shoppers & artists | Free |
| Harvest Festival at Cal Expo | Oct 18–20 | Cal Expo | Families & live music fans | $15–30 |
| Bishop’s Pumpkin Farm | All October | Wheatland | Families & foodies | Free entry |
| Harvest Wine Weekend | Oct 25–26 | Clarksburg/Amador | Wine lovers & couples | Tastings $10–30 |
| Farmers’ Market Fall Edition | Saturdays | Midtown/Downtown | Seasonal produce lovers | Free entry |
Why Fall Festivals Matter in Sacramento
- Celebrate the farm-to-fork harvest with local growers.
- Family outings that blend fun + education.
- Support Sacramento’s small businesses and artisans.
- Create traditions beyond Halloween and Diwali.
FAQs: Fall Festivals in Sacramento
What’s the biggest fall festival in Sacramento?
The Elk Grove Giant Pumpkin Festival draws the largest crowds.
Is Apple Hill worth the drive?
Absolutely — apple cider donuts, pumpkins, and fall scenery make it a must.
Are Sacramento’s farmers’ markets open year-round?
Yes, but October is peak season for pumpkins and squash.
Can I bring kids to wine festivals?
Yes, but Harvest Wine Weekend is best enjoyed by adults.
What’s the best budget-friendly fall activity?
Midtown’s Farmers’ Market and local pumpkin patches are free to visit.
Final Thoughts
Fall in Sacramento is more than pumpkin spice — it’s a celebration of harvest, art, and community. From pumpkin weigh-offs in Elk Grove to wine tastings in Amador County, October weekends are full of ways to connect, eat, and enjoy the season.
👉 Mark your calendar, grab a sweater, and get into Sacramento’s best fall festivals of 2025.
Related Resources:
The Best Guide to Halloween in Sacramento 2025
The Best Pumpkin Patches & Farms In Sacramento 2025
The Best Haunted Houses & Ghost Tours in Sacramento 2025
The Best Sacramento Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Actually Make This Fall
