As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, Indiana transforms into a hub of festive excitement. From pumpkin festivals to historic reenactments, the state's fall events capture its unique charm and traditions. Whether you're in Indianapolis or exploring the surrounding areas, there's something for everyone to enjoy this season. Here’s a look at some of the top fall festivals happening across Indiana in 2024, conveniently organized by their proximity to Indianapolis.

In Indianapolis:

Harvest Nights  (Sept. 29 – Nov. 2)
Get into the fall spirit at Newfields, where glowing jack-o-lanterns light up the gardens. With seasonal food offerings and whimsical displays, this event is a must-see for both kids and adults looking to embrace the magic of autumn.

Heartland International Film Festival (Oct. 10-20)
Celebrate storytelling with this renowned film festival, showcasing over 100 local and international films. Movie lovers can enjoy a wide variety of genres, from heartfelt documentaries to riveting dramas, all in the heart of Indianapolis.

Autumntidings Fall Fest (Oct. 19)
Hosted by Ash & Elm Cider Co., this festival highlights local cideries, breweries, and artisan vendors. With great food and drinks in a cozy autumn setting, it’s the perfect way to spend a fall afternoon.

Locally Made: Indy’s Fall Fest (Oct. 19)
Located at the Indianapolis Art Center, this free event offers interactive art displays, food trucks, and live entertainment. It's a great opportunity to support local artists and vendors while soaking in the fall vibes.

Irvington Halloween Festival (Oct. 19-26)
As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Indianapolis, Irvington’s annual Halloween Festival is a beloved event filled with spooky street fairs, haunted tours, and costume parades. Perfect for Halloween enthusiasts of all ages!

Nearby Events (Within 30 Miles):

Riley Festival (Greenfield, Oct. 3-6)
Just east of Indianapolis, this festival celebrates the life of poet James Whitcomb Riley with a mix of craft exhibits, food vendors, and a grand parade. A quintessential small-town fall festival experience.

Potter’s Bridge Fall Festival (Noblesville, Oct. 5)
Head to Noblesville for a family-friendly festival featuring over 100 arts and crafts vendors along the scenic White River. It’s a great way to explore the local creative scene while enjoying the beautiful fall foliage.

Headless Horseman Festival (Fishers, Oct. 3-27)
Conner Prairie’s annual Headless Horseman Festival features haunted hayrides, spooky storytelling, and carnival games. It’s a mix of historical reenactment and Halloween fun—an autumn highlight for the whole family.

Short Drives (30-60 Mliles):

Franklin Fall Vintage Fest (Franklin, Oct. 5)
This one-day vintage market is a treasure hunter’s dream. With over 100 antique dealers and food trucks filling downtown Franklin, it’s the perfect event for those who love uncovering hidden gems.

Festival of the Turning Leaves (Thorntown, Sept. 27-29)
Just northwest of Indianapolis, this community festival offers a blend of small-town charm with a 5K run, local crafts, and a parade. It’s a great spot for families to enjoy a relaxing fall weekend.

Morgan County Fall Foliage Festival (Martinsville, Oct. 10-13)
Celebrate the beauty of autumn in Martinsville with carnival rides, food vendors, and a family-friendly parade. It’s a quintessential fall festival where you can make memories with your loved ones.

Moderate Drives (60-100 Miles):

Hope Heritage Days (Hope, Sept. 27-29)
The 56th annual Heritage Days offers live music, food vendors, and over 125 booths filled with crafts and unique items. As the largest fall event in Bartholomew County, it's worth the trip to experience this local tradition.

Atlanta New Earth Festival (Atlanta, Sept. 28-29)
This festival attracts over 100,000 visitors each year and offers everything from food trucks and live music to an impressive array of handmade crafts. It’s one of Indiana’s biggest fall festivals, located just north of Indy.

Hippie Fest (Tipton, Sept. 28-29)
Looking for something a little different? Head to Tipton for Hippie Fest, a family-friendly celebration of peace and love. With tie-dye workshops, arts and crafts, and live music, it’s a unique way to enjoy the season.

Longer Drives (100+ Miles):

Feast of the Hunters’ Moon (West Lafayette, Oct. 5-6)
Travel back to the 18th century at this historic reenactment in West Lafayette. From military drills to authentic food, this festival offers a unique way to experience Indiana’s rich history, while surrounded by stunning fall scenery.

Covered Bridge Festival (Parke County, Oct. 11-20)
Explore Indiana’s largest fall festival with historic bridge tours, local crafts, and stunning autumn foliage. With over 31 covered bridges in the area, it’s a photographer’s dream and a perfect escape into Indiana’s natural beauty.

Soup Stew Chili & Brew Festival (Madison, Oct. 12)
If you're a fan of hearty comfort food, the Soup Stew Chili & Brew Festival in Madison is worth the drive. Sample delicious local dishes while enjoying live music and family-friendly activities in a picturesque riverfront town.

Further Afield (100+ Miles):

West Side Nut Club Fall Festival (Evansville, Oct. 3-12)
As one of the largest street festivals in Indiana, the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival offers carnival rides, food booths, and free entertainment. The excitement and energy make it a must-visit event, even if it’s a bit of a journey.

James Dean Festival and Ducktail Run (Fairmount/Gas City, Sept. 27 – Sept. 29)
Classic cars, live music, and a 1950s vibe take over Fairmount and Gas City as they celebrate Indiana’s own James Dean. It's the perfect destination for those who love vintage Americana.

From quaint small-town festivals to grand celebrations, Indiana’s fall festivals offer something for everyone. Whether you stay close to Indianapolis or take a road trip across the state, these events will help you make the most of the fall season. So, grab your sweater, plan your weekends, and enjoy the best of what Indiana has to offer this autumn!

And while you're out enjoying the festivities, consider exploring the local real estate market. Fall is a fantastic time to buy or sell a home, with many buyers looking to settle before the holidays and sellers benefiting from less competition. At RE/MAX Advanced Realty, we’re here to help you find your dream home or get the best value for your current property. Contact us today to learn more about available listings and how we can assist with all your real estate needs.