We know that Austin City Limits and Nashville’s Oktoberfest go off in October. But, if you’re not up for dealing with big crowds, you may be looking for a more reserved excuse to travel next month. Here are nine unique and cool events that are a little less overwhelming and more locally immersive reasons to travel the country in October.
Trailing of the Sheep Festival 2023
Where: Ketchum, Idaho
When: Wednesday, October 4 to Sunday, October 8.
Why it’s cool: It’s a week-long celebration of Idaho’s sheep herding culture that goes on from Idaho’s northern mountains to right down to Main Street in Ketchum. If you want to get immersed in the 150-year-old tradition of sheep herding, this is your chance.
CaveFest 202
Where: Pelham, Tenn.
When: Friday, October 6 to Sunday, October 8
Why it’s cool: Get a sense of the local vibes with this folk and bluegrass festival held partly in an underground venue.
Chicago Beer Fest 2023
Where: Chicago
When: Saturday, October 7
Why it’s cool: It’s a craft beer festival in Chicago, so if you’re asking why this is cool you probably aren’t familiar with beer or Chicago. Trust us when we say it’s awesome.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2023
Where: Albuquerque, New Mexico
When: Monday, October 9 to Sunday, October 15
Why it’s cool: This festival isn’t small but we felt compelled to include it since it’s quite a sight. Hundreds of thousands gather each year to watch custom hot air balloons lift off and drift in front of the New Mexico sunrise. And this year coincides with a solar eclipse.
Philly Music Fest 2023
Where: Philadelphia
When: seven nights from Monday, October 9 to Sunday, October 15
Why it’s cool: The music fest is dedicated to showcasing and developing the local scene.
The Moonshiner’s Ball 2023
Where: Livingston, KY
When: Thursday, October 12 – Sunday, October 15
Why it’s cool: The music is distinctly American and part of the festival’s agenda is to put not-yet-known local groups on the map.
New York City Wine & Food Festival 2023
Where: New York City
When: Thursday, October 12 – Sunday, October 15
Why it’s cool: Much like the city itself, this festival has every kind of food you can think of, from smash burgers to an Air France-sponsored intimate dining experience.
The Chocolate Expo 2023
Where: Manchester, N.H.
When: Sunday, October 15
Why it’s cool: There’s as many as 90 vendors serving chocolate at the Chocolate Expo.
Bridge Day 2023
Where: Fayetteville, W.V.
When: Saturday, October 21
Why it’s cool: Thousands of people gather in Fayetteville to jump off a bridge during a one-day event.
