Story by: Bulldog Beat Staff
Looking for a fun fall festival to enjoy in this lovely season? Look into attending these events coming soon near you!
Mayfield Farms
The 2026 Fall Festival at Mayfield Farms runs from September 26 through November 8. The farm has a pumpkin patch, three corn mazes, hayrides, a Silo Light Show, super slides, jumping pillows, and more than 40 activities, making it more than just a place to pick a pumpkin. During Fall Break, October 8-11, general admission is $16.95 online or $19.95 at the gate, with pumpkins and other activities priced separately. Located at 257 Highway 307 East in Athens, Mayfield is especially convenient for a local Fall Break activity and is a fun place to take friends or family, take fall pictures, explore the farm, and enjoy the seasonal atmosphere.
The 24th Annual Pumpkintown in downtown Athens will be held October 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be live entertainment, tons of vendors, activities on every block, the Scott Crisp Memorial PowWow, the McMinn County Regional Humane Society Mutt Strutt & Adopt-a-thon, the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum 42nd Annual Quilt Show, and the Patriot Memorial Project WWII Mural Dedication. Pumpkintown is the perfect way to connect with your classmates, community, and celebrate the fall season!
Be sure to check out surrounding areas for their fun fall festivities too!
Scream Chamber
The Scream Chamber in Athens is a haunted attraction where visitors can walk through scary scenes, see creepy decorations, and enjoy a night full of scares. It is a great activity for friends and anyone who loves Halloween. The Scream Chamber is located at 1163 Hwy 11 N in Athens, and is open 7pm-midnight, Friday-Sunday through November 7. Admission is $25, with additional fees for frightening features.
Dollywood
Dollywood combines the excitement of a theme park with the traditions of the autumn season. During the fall, the park is always decorated with colorful pumpkins and seasonal displays that create a festive atmosphere. Guests can enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and fall-themed foods while experiencing special events like Dollywood’s Harvest Festival. Dollywood is located in Pigeon Forge, and is open 9 a.m.-11 p.m. for the fall season.
Cleveland Apple Festival
Returning October 17, Cleveland host the annually anticipated Apple Festival. Located on the Bradley County Courthouse sq., opening times are Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Ticket prices range from $5 to $8 individually, while children under 3 are free. Meant to raise money for non-profit organizations, vendors are expected.