Summer seems to end earlier every year, but we have to admit, we love Fall in our region! The cooler temps and a plethora of family friendly events are things we look forward to every year. We've rounded up some of the top Fall Festivals for you to plan ahead for family fun! Save the date for these family friendly fall festivals in the New River Valley area!
7th Annual Paw Paw Festival (September 19-20, 2026)
The 7th Annual Pawpaw Festival returns to JBR Vineyards in Pearisburg celebrating Virginia’s largest native fruit. Visitors can enjoy live music, vineyard and pawpaw patch tours, food, vendors, and family-friendly activities, all set against the scenic backdrop of Giles County. Admission is free, making this unique festival a perfect way to spend a September weekend in Southwest Virginia.
New Town Festival: Blues, Brews, and BBQ (September 19, 2026)
This vibrant community event brings together the best of local music, barbecue, and brews, offering performances by The JoJo Stockton Project, Lady D & Mi$$ion, and The Blue Monday Band. Enjoy delicious eats from Kirk’s Famous Smoked Barbeque, refreshing drinks from Blue Ridge Beverage, and a nostalgic celebration of fellowship in a landmark rich with African-American heritage
Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival (September 19 - November 1, 2026)
Celebrating its 35th year, the award winning Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival has something for everyone. Admission includes hayrides, several games and activities for the kids, like the super slide and petting the farm animals. There are also food trucks, vendors and live music. The last weekend of the festival features a regional wine festival. Stay connected to Macaroni KID New River Valley for a chance to win a family pass to the festival!
Hokie BugFest (October 10, 2026)
You can count on a day filled with curious critters and hands-on learning! Hosted by the Department of Entomology, 4-H, and the student-run Alwood Entomological Society, this free, fall festival invites families to explore live arthropods, try out educational exhibits, earn a Junior Entomologist certificate, and more—complete with a special 9–10 a.m. S.A.F.E. hour for guests who may benefit from a quieter environment.
2026 Floyd Americana Fest (October 10, 2026)
This free, all-day festival spotlights the eclectic talents of musicians and artisans from Floyd, Southwest Virginia, and the New River Valley. Set in the heart of Floyd’s vibrant artistic community and autumn scenery, it’s a perfect outing for music lovers and families alike.
Radford Highlanders Festival (October 10, 2026)
The Radford Highlanders Festival has become one of the region’s most anticipated fall traditions. What began in the mid-1990s with just 3,000 attendees has grown into a major event drawing more than 10,000 visitors each year. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains during peak fall color, the festival celebrates Scots-Irish heritage while welcoming families of all backgrounds to enjoy the day.
Held on the main campus of Radford University, the festival features the famed heavyweight games, sheepherding demonstrations, live music, food, vendors, and activities for all ages. A partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford, the event is free and open to the public, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
GO Fest Go Outside Festival (Oct. 16-18)
An annual three-day celebration of everything outdoors in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. The GO Outside Festival is a collaboration between Roanoke Outside Foundation and Roanoke Parks and Recreation. With two distinct locations (Basecamp and Adventure Outpost), this isn’t your ordinary sit-in-your-seat kind of festival – you’re encouraged to get involved. Wander through Roanoke, in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, for three days to try your hand at endless outdoor activities. Here, you can test drive a bike, demo a stand-up paddleboard, learn to fly cast, join a race, and sample craft beer all in one afternoon. Explore the world of outdoor sports when you watch inspiring outdoor films or take in a pro-athlete show. Discover a community of enthusiasts for virtually any outdoor passion and find yourself at home in the Roanoke region’s outdoors. Macaroni KID Roanoke will be sharing the parents guide to GO Fest, you don't want to miss out on this fall tradition!
