As the sun begins its trek further south onto the horizon, you begin to feel a change approaching. The mid-summer’s heat is starting to lose its grasp. And the mornings are replaced with a crispness signaling fall is coming. While the days are getting shorter, it brings with it a magical time filled with color and excitement. This is a time for all who visit to experience the local’s season. It’s time for fall festivals in the High Sierra.
49er Festival
Groveland – September 20th
Originally dubbed the “Old West Days,” the 49er Festival celebrates Groveland’s early days of the California gold rush era with a new twist. Celebrating Tuolumne County’s 175th birthday, the day starts off with an old-fashioned parade on Main Street celebrating the end of summer. The newest addition to the event is the Taste of Tuolumne, which celebrates the rich diversity of the county’s heritage and cultures. Enjoy delicious local cuisine and drinks, dance to live music, explore local arts and crafts, and much more. It’s a full day of fun that you won’t want to miss!
Millpond Music Festival
September 19th – 21st
In its 33rd year, Bishop’s annual Millpond Music Festival is a combination of stunning scenery and incredible live music all set in the Eastern Sierra. If you’re looking for the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, musical artistry, and jaw-dropping backdrops… this one’s for you. Bring a blanket, relax in your favorite camping chair, or just get up and dance. The festival is complete with a variety of food vendors, local artisans, and restrooms & water stations. All you have to do is show up and enjoy the tunes.
Lumberjack Day
October 4th
The Gold Rush sparked the great migration to California which created high demand for timber in housing construction, mining, and railroads. Every first Saturday in October, the cozy town of West Point celebrates the history and traditions of the Calaveras County lumber industry as part of Lumberjack Day. A full day of festivities, it includes a home-cooked breakfast, craft fair, soap-box derby, parade, and of course logger’s contest.
Taste of Downtown
October 7th
For those that have visited Visalia, you’ll know that Farm-to-fork isn’t just the newest fad but something they’ve been doing since the town was pretty much founded. Visalia is in the epicenter of one of the most diverse growing regions in the world. No wonder it’s nicknamed the “World’s Fruit Basket.” As you can imagine, the Taste of Downtown gives you a chance to sample the area’s agricultural bounty as 30+ vendors and restaurants share their signature dishes as well as new concoctions. This is just a taste of the fall festivals happening in and around Visalia this season.
32nd Annual Oakhurst Fall Festival
October 10th – 12th
This “Funtober” festival has undergone many forms over its 30+ year history. But at its core, it’s always been a way to celebrate the fantastic fall weather in the area. For the 2025 edition, expect a fantastic selection of local wines, hand-crafted brews and a wide variety of delicious eats from the region’s renowned restaurants. And gourmet treats for dessert, of course. The Oakhurst Fall Festival provides something for everyone with thrilling carnival rides for all ages, live musical performances, character meet ‘n greets, roaming circus acts, face-painting, lots of vendors, and mouthwatering delights. It’s a great way to enjoy the gorgeous fall weather in a beautiful park setting in the town of Oakhurst.
Truckee River Day & Fair
October 19th
Did you know that Lake Tahoe has only one outlet – the Truckee River! Starting from Big Blue just outside of Tahoe City, it flows through the historic town of Truckee and onward to Reno before finally reaching Pyramid Lake. It’s the ideal place to spend an afternoon cooling off in its waters or just floating down. Help ensure your great grandkids can enjoy it by joining other nature-lovers this October 19th for Truckee River Day & Fair. You’ll help improve wildlife habitat, plant native species, and ensure that this beautiful river remains beautiful. To see the past years hard work in person the Truckee River Watershed Council has created this self-guided tour that you can take.
Even though the summer crowds have waned, it doesn’t mean the fun has stopped. Instead, this is THE time to visit the High Sierra. The season for local’s AND visitors alike to enjoy the peace, tranquility and numerous fall festivals of the High Sierra.
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