The turning of the calendar to fall creates excitement. That might be why this time of year holds so many amazing get-togethers. Here are some fun fall festivals in or near Yosemite to have one last hurrah before we celebrate the coming of old man winter.

As the summer transitions into fall, the fairgrounds come alive with a bustling atmosphere filled with laughter, excitement, and the aroma of delicious treats. The Madera District Fair takes place in September and captures the essence of the community spirit and agricultural heritage of Madera County. The vibrant and lively event has various attractions and entertainment, from thrilling rides and games to live music performances. There is something for everyone to enjoy. The fair also showcases the region's rich agricultural traditions with livestock exhibitions, farm produce competitions, and educational displays highlighting the area's farming prowess. Local artisans proudly display their crafts, while vendors entice fairgoers with delectable treats like funnel cakes, corn dogs, and fresh-squeezed lemonade, to name a few. Mark your calendar for early September and enjoy a classic county fair with your family and friends. 

Over the years, the Oakhurst Fall Festival has always been a fun get-together for the community.  This annual event that began over 30 years ago is always held in October.  It's a three-day extravaganza with special entertainment each day.  Find thrilling midway rides and games, popular bands throughout the days and evenings, and artistic demonstrations.  For the wine and craft brew lovers, Saturday in the Pavilion is wine and beer tasting along with our local hard cider from noon to 5 p.m.  Paired with gorgeous weather, music, an assortment of vendors to find that perfect locally-made gifts and a beautiful park setting, and you got the best recipe for fun.

South Gate Brewing Company is a craft brewery located in Oakhurst, California. The brewery was founded in 2013 by Casey and Lindsay Hawkins. Known for its award-winning beer, like Oaktown Brown and the Glacier Point Pale Ale. The brewery also offers a variety of other beers, including stouts, porters, and sours. South Gate Brewing Company is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The brewery offers a spacious taproom with a large outdoor patio. South Gate Brewing Co. hosts various events throughout the year, including live music and food trucks.  

On Saturday, October 5 — South Gate Brewing Company turns 11! Join the SGBC team for the Oktoberfest party beginning at Noon. There will be live music, food specials, and a stein-holding contest. Admission is free. We hope to see you there!

Both feared and loved, tarantulas and arachnids are some of the most misunderstood creatures. To help debunk some of these myths, the annual Coarsegold Tarantula Awareness Festival is held every October. Along with providing some facts about their importance in the ecosystem, expect to have lots of fun with a scream-off, pie-eating competition, costume contests, pumpkin carving, and even the hairiest leg contest for men and women. Of course, the furry eight-legged creatures steal the show as part of the race to see which is the fastest in Coarsegold. And don’t worry... no tarantulas are harmed during the race.  This event is put on by the Coarsegold Historic Village, and Coarsegold Chamber of Commerce happens each October on the Saturday before Halloween. 

Join us at The Pines Village at beautiful Bass Lake for two spectacular fall events! Kick things off on the last Sunday in September (September 29) with our first-ever Oktoberfest hosted by The Pines Resort. Enjoy a festive day filled with beer, mobile axe throwing from Yosemite Axe Throwing, German dancers, themed food, entertainment, and games. Entry fees are just $15 for adults and $7 for children, with additional charges for food and drinks.

Then, return on the last Saturday in October (October 26), from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., for the annual Bass Lake Halloween Carnival! This family-friendly event features Lawn Games, a Dunk Tank, Inflatables (bounce houses, slides, games), and top Craft Vendors. Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating in the Village and participating in a Costume Contest (ages 0-12), and everyone can enjoy Music, Food, and a Beer Garden for the grownups!

Get ready for a full day of all things pomegranate and nut-related at the yearly tradition of the Madera Pomegranate Fruit & Nut Festival. When we celebrate the world-renowned agricultural products from California's Central Valley, expect to enjoy delicious pomegranate-themed foods while listening to live entertainment. Learn tips and tricks via cooking demonstrations from local chefs alongside educational briefings on pomegranates from growers and master gardeners. It’s an excellent outing for the entire family and all your friends.  This festival is held on the first Saturday in November. 

From enjoying the “fruits and nuts” of the region’s hard work to learning more about arachnids, there’s an assortment of fun fall festivals that should be on your to-do list this year. Discover more events and exciting reasons to visit "California's Gateway to Yosemite!"