Fall 2024 Festivals and Events
Autumn in the Niagara region is a season of vibrant foliage, crisp air, and a flurry of festivals that celebrate the harvest, culture, and community. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall. Here’s a detailed look at some of the must-visit events happening in Niagara Falls and the surrounding areas in 2024.
1. Niagara Grape & Wine Festival
Dates: September 20-29th, 2024
Location: Montebello Park, St. Catharines, ON
Website: Grape and Wine Festival
The Niagara Grape & Wine Festival is Canada’s largest celebration of wine and the grape harvest. This event spans two weekends and offers a rich blend of wine tasting, culinary delights, and live entertainment. The Discovery Pass allows you to tour some of the best wineries in the region, where you can savor expertly paired wine and food. This festival is a highlight of the Niagara region’s autumn calendar, perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual tasters alike.
2. Pumpkinfest at Warner Ranch & Pumpkin Farm
Dates: September 3th – October 31st, 2024
Location: 7705 Schisler Road, Niagara Falls, ON
Website: Warner Ranch & Pumpkin Farm
Pumpkinfest at Warner Ranch & Pumpkin Farm is a family-friendly event that runs throughout October. The farm transforms into a fall wonderland with pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos. It’s the perfect place for a fun day out with kids or to find the ideal pumpkin for Halloween carving.
3. Frightmare in the Falls
Dates: October 25-27th, 2024
Location: Niagara Falls Convention Centre – 6815 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls, ON Canada
Website: Frightmare in the Falls
Welcome to Frightmare In The Falls! For those who revel in the eerie and the spine-tingling, this is the ultimate gathering of horror fans. At Frightmare In The Falls, enthusiasts of horror movies, books, comics, and more come together to celebrate all things terrifying. The festival features celebrity guest appearances, panel discussions, film screenings, cosplay contests, and a variety of exhibitors. Join us for three thrilling days at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, Canada, from Friday, October 25 to Sunday, October 27, 2024—if you dare!
4. Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival
Dates: October 11th-14th, 2024
Location: Ball’s Falls 3292 Sixth Avenue Lincoln, ON, Canada L0R 1S0
Website: Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival
The Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival, now celebrating its 50th year, has grown from a small craft show into a cherished family tradition and a key event in Niagara. This special weekend event offers a unique celebration of Fall, making it a highlight of the season. As a major fundraiser for the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), proceeds from the festival support the Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, as well as various conservation, recreation, and educational initiatives.
5. Haunt Manor
Dates: Weekends from September 28 – October 27, 2024
Location: 9387 Lundy’s Lane, Niagara Falls, ON
Website: Haunt Manor
If you’re a fan of spooky thrills, Haunt Manor is a must-visit. Known as Canada’s largest haunted attraction, Haunt Manor offers a series of haunted houses, hayrides, and other spine-chilling experiences set against the backdrop of a historic farm. With new themes and terrifying characters every year, it’s a top destination for Halloween enthusiasts.
6. Cicada Music & Arts Festival
Date: October 5 and 6, 2024
Location: Henley Island 295 Henley Island Dr. St. Catharines, ON L2N 4V9
Website: Cicada Music & Arts Festival
The Cicada Music & Arts Festival is a celebration of Canada’s finest musical talent, showcasing a wide range of artists from both local and national scenes. Whether you’re into folk, indie, roots, or singer-songwriters, the festival offers something for every music lover. The lineup is carefully curated to highlight both well-known and emerging artists, providing a taste of Canada’s vibrant and diverse musical landscape. In addition to the music, the festival is committed to supporting local talent in all forms, featuring locally sourced food, drinks, artists, and makers. Gates open at noon on both days.
7. Niagara Falls CATstravaganza
Dates: September 28-29th, 2024
Location: Niagara Falls Convention Centre – 6815 Stanley Ave, Niagara Falls, ON Canada
Website: Niagara Falls CATstravaganza
Explore a world of feline fascination at our family-friendly event, designed to raise awareness for cats in need. This event aims to highlight the importance of cat rescue and education, addressing the urgent rescue situations many cats face. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Meserve Foundation, supporting emergency cat rescue efforts.
8. Niagara Falls Night of Art
Date: September 19, 2024
Location: Niagara Falls Exchange, Niagara Falls, ON
Website: Niagara Falls Night of Art
The Niagara Falls Night of Art is an eclectic event that combines music, visual arts, and performance. Held at the Niagara Falls Exchange, this event features local artists showcasing their talents in a vibrant, community-oriented setting. It’s a great way to experience the creative pulse of the region.
9. iMela International Festival
Date: September 13-14, 2024
Location: Queen Victoria Park, Niagara Falls ON
Website: iMela International Festival
Mark your calendars for September 13th and 14th, 2024, for an unforgettable experience at Niagara Parks Queen Victoria Park. Set against the stunning backdrop of Niagara Falls, enjoy Bhangra performances, live music from local and international talents, and a captivating stage play by our community theater group.
Don’t miss this fantastic celebration of culture and creativity!
10. Niagara Falls Oktoberfest
Dates: September 28th, 2024
Location: Old Falls Street at 101 Old Falls St. Niagara Falls, NY 14303
Website: Niagara Falls Oktoberfest
Experience a taste of Bavaria at the Niagara Falls Oktoberfest. This event brings authentic German beer, bratwurst, and music to the heart of Niagara Falls New York. Whether you’re of German descent or just a fan of their festive culture, this Oktoberfest is sure to delight with traditional costumes, dancing, and of course, lots of beer.
Other Notable Fall Events in Niagara:
- Niagara Falls Classic (September 14th, 2024): Body builder showcase in Niagara Falls with athletes competing for a chance to earn a spot at the Toronto Pro Qualifier!
- Great Canadian ButterTart Fest Niagara (September 14-15th, 2024): Buttertarts, tasty food trucks, artisan shopping, beer & wine, friendship bracelet making stations, wine glass or beer glass painting, and lawn games!
- Niagara Polo (September 14th, 2024): Discover the power & passion of polo on the historic commons in Niagara-on-the-Lake!
- Inked Circus Tattoo Expo (September 20-22nd, 2024) Our expo is a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and self-expression, offering an unforgettable weekend for tattoo enthusiasts.
- Culture Days (Sept. 20 to Oct. 13, 2024): Culture Days is a nationwide initiative that brings together creators, artists, community groups, and institutions to offer free arts and cultural experiences to the public.
- Sip Niagara (October 5 to 6, 2024): Pair up your SIPS with yummy bites from local restaurants and chefs all while feeling the vibe with to live bands, DJs and check out the festivities with some of the coolest activations, SIP SPACES.
- Welland Foodfest (October 5 – 6, 2024): A celebration of food, music, and community.
- Floral Showhouse Chrysanthemum Display (TBA): A stunning display of autumn blooms at the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse.
- Canada Diwali RazzMatazz Fireworks (October 18-20th, 2024): Experience the magnificence of Diwali amidst the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls!
- All Hallows Eve at Old Fort Erie (TBA): A candlelit ghost tour at Canada’s bloodiest battlefield, blending history and Halloween.
- Niagara Region Pagan Celebration (October 19, 2024): Welcome to the 5th Annual Niagara Region Pagan Celebration – Celebrating Samhain!
- Supernatural Expedition to Haunt Manor (November 2nd, 2024): This November embark on a supernatural expedition to Ontario for the first EVER paranormal festival at Canada’s largest haunted location!
- Rock N’ Gem Show (Nov 8-10th, 2024): Discover thousands of new crystals, gemstones, jewelry pieces, beads, and fossils at this spectacular event.
Alternate Events:
- Welland Salsa & Cumbia Festival (Aug. 31 – Sep. 1st at Merritt Island, Cross Street, Welland, ON.)
- Nightly Illuminations of Niagara Falls (Nightly until 2:00 AM, Niagara Falls)
- Currents: Niagara’s Power Transformed (Nightly, Niagara Parks Power Station)
- Niagara County Peach Festival (September 5th, 2024. Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092)
- Corn Fest in Chippawa: (September 7th, 2024, Chippawa Lions park, 3970, Welland Street, ON)
- 15th Annual Blues Festival (September 13, 2024, Old Falls St., Niagara Falls, NY 14303)
- Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival (4487 Lake Ave. (Rt. 78) Lockport, NY 14094)
- Niagara Jeep Fest (September 15, 2024, Merrittville Speedway, Thorold, ON)
- Harvest Pioneer Day (September 21, 2024, Lincoln Museum, 3800 Main St. Jordan, ON)
- Harvest and Hops Festival (September 28th, 2024. Center Street, Lewiston, NY 14092)
- Locktoberfest (September 28th, 2024. Canal Street, Lockport, NY 14094)
- Tap & Craft Festival (October 5th, 2024. NFCC, 101 Old Falls St., Niagara Falls, NY 14303)
- Festival of Slice (November 23rd, 2024. NFCC, 101 Old Falls St., Niagara Falls, NY 14303)
With such a diverse lineup of festivals and events, autumn 2024 in the Niagara region promises to be a season full of excitement, culture, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re here for the wine, the music, or the spooky thrills, there’s something to make your visit truly special.