Falling for North Carolina

If you’re like us, you’ve been patiently waiting for the heat wave to fade into the changing colors, the cooler weather, the pumpkin spiced lattes of fall. It’s the start of a school season, of football season and the start of your favorite fall traditions in North Carolina.

Huckleberry Trail Farm

Is it really fall without a trip to the Huckleberry Trail Farm Fall Festival? The farm is located on Highway 64, between Pittsboro and Siler City, at 143 Pleasant Hill Church Road. And no, you’ll have to drive something other than a tractor to get there… Every Saturday and Sunday from September 30 through October 28, the barn doors open for visitors to explore their famous corn maze, pick pumpkins from the patch, take a hayride and play outdoor games. The best part? One admission price provides you access to all the fun! Pumpkins, fall decorations, merchandise and refreshments are sold separately.

Admission for adults over the age of 12 is $12. For children ages 3 to 11, ages 65+, military, first responders and teachers, admission is $10. Visit one of Huckleberry Trail Farm’s sponsors for a discount coupon! Discounted admissions are available during special event weekends for the public and for private groups.

And, for an extra dose of fall magic, purchase your ticket for The Quiltmaker Café Fall Festival Fundraiser at Huckleberry Trail Farm on Friday, October 6 from 5-7p.m. As a pay-what-you-can café, The Quiltmaker Café is a space where all guests, regardless of their ability to pay, can receive a healthy meal, served by a welcoming community. The fundraiser will directly support the restaurant’s efforts to combat food insecurity in Chatham County. Purchase your ticket before September 30 for an early bird discount!

Triangle Oktoberfest

You heard it here, folks! It’s the largest Oktoberfest celebration in North Carolina, hosted by Apex Sunrise and Cary MacGregor Rotary Clubs in collaboration with the Town of Cary. On Friday, October 6 and Saturday, October 7, raise your pint glasses high and celebrate the German culture within our own state. The event will feature over 50 beers, including seasonal and local craft brewery offerings. And we can’t forget about the carbs. Try traditional Bavarian cuisine from Capital Club 16, Annelore’s Germany Bakery and the Butcher’s Market!

In purchasing a ticket, you are supporting community causes, including health, hunger and humanity grants abroad. This year’s main beneficiary is Meg’s Smile Foundation, which aims to bring smiles to children affected by serious illnesses. Tickets are on sale now!

To add to the excitement, make sure to stop by the Wiener Dog Races, the kid-friendly Kinder Platz area, the yodeling contest, the stein hoist or hammer striking competitions and the Miss. And Mr. Oktoberfest pageant.

Spring Haven Farm

Have you ever carved pumpkins with goats? Now is your chance! From now until October 31, Spring Haven Farm in Chapel Hill is open for pumpkin carving and visiting with their goats on the following days:

• Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Monday, October 30 and Tuesday, October 31: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The price of admission is $13.50 and once you’re on the farm, you can stay until closing time! Tractor train rides and a walk-through of the Halloween décor is included with the ticket price. Once you choose your perfect pumpkin, you’ll take it to the goat pasture to carve it with the help of the cutest goats around. All pumpkin carving tools will be available onsite and sterilized between each use.

Before you leave, stop by to visit with Peppa Pig, Annie the Donkey and Flynn the Horse!

Festifall Arts Market

Presented by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture, Festifall joins artisans for three markets in October, all located 140 West Franklin Street. On October 14, 21 and 28 from 1-6 p.m., a unique set of vendors and experiences will line Franklin Street. Find out which vendors will be attending each event!