This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Emerson chapter.
In case the cold breeze and influx of sweaters and boots that have rapidly become a staple of Boston’s morning commute this past week didn’t clue you in, allow me to be the first to tell you: Fall has ARRIVED.
Now, I know most of you are still pining for summer, because let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good crop top, frozen drinks, and any excuse to hit the beach – but I would be lying if I said I was anything less than thrilled that autumn is finally upon us. It could have something to do with the fact that I’m a November baby, or maybe the fact that anything apple or pumpkin flavored makes me smile, but I digress.
The real reason I get so excited for fall is all of the outdoor festivals held in Massachusetts. I am a HUGE fan of day trips, and combining that passion with the opportunity to gorge on delicious festival foods (and craft beers), admire and shop at amazing DIY craft booths, as well as pet baby farm animals, makes me just about the happiest girl in Boston proper.
Here are a few of the festivals I am most looking forward to as the leaves start changing:
1. Harpoon Brewery’s OctoberFest: October 3rd & 4th at Harpoon’s Boston Brewery
For the 21+ crowd, this one is simply can’t miss! The fest is Harpoon’s take on Germany’s traditional Oktoberfest and the brewery doesn’t cut any corners. A wide selection of Harpoon’s best brews will be available alongside authentic German fair from the area’s best restaurants. There’s plenty of music, dancing, and even a German Cake Eating Contest. I can’t think of a better way to ring in the fall!
2. The Big E: September 12th – September 28th in West Springfield, MA
The Big E holds a huge place in my heart since I hail from Western Mass and have been attending it annually since before I could walk. The festival takes place over the course of two weeks and literally has something for everyone. There are over 150 food vendors, a mini amusement park complete with rides and games, and dozens of vendors selling crafts, home goods, clothing, etc. Big name entertainers (this year’s include Darius Rucker, Cassadee Pope, and Emblem 3) play free shows on the weekend nights, and there are beer gardens, a martini bar, and even a wine tasting barn on the grounds to satisfy those patrons looking for a bit of nightlife. My favorite part of the festival, however, is the State Houses (one for each New England state) that showcase the foods, goods, history, and businesses, that make each state unique.
3. Allston Village Street Fair: September 21st on Harvard Ave in Allston, MA
I’m mostly excited for this one because it is literally two blocks away from my apartment. But even if that wasn’t the case, a free street festival filled with international food offerings, live entertainment, and plenty of craft vendors are more than enough reason to hop on the B line for an afternoon out! If that alone doesn’t entice you, the fair boasts THOUSANDS of promotional giveaways – read, free swag – and we all know that free stuff is the best stuff.
So what are you waiting for?! Grab some friends, throw on a flannel and your favorite boots (please ladies, no Uggs!), and have some good old fashioned fall fun.