Tennessee transforms into a festival paradise when autumn arrives, offering some of the most unique celebrations in the South. From world-class storytelling gatherings to quirky banana pudding competitions, the Volunteer State serves up fall fun that goes way beyond typical harvest fairs. Pack your appetite for adventure and get ready to discover festivals that showcase Tennessee’s rich culture, incredible food, and welcoming spirit.
1. National Storytelling Festival — Jonesborough
America’s oldest town becomes a magical realm where words come alive every October. Since 1973, master storytellers from around the globe have gathered in colorful tents scattered throughout Jonesborough’s historic streets.
Picture yourself sitting under canvas listening to tales that transport you to distant lands and forgotten times. The festival features everything from ghost stories that’ll give you chills to heartwarming family tales that’ll make you laugh.
Beyond the storytelling, you can explore Tennessee’s first incorporated town, browse unique shops, and enjoy delicious local food. This three-day celebration proves that sometimes the best entertainment doesn’t need screens or special effects.
2. Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion — Bristol
Standing on State Street, you’re literally straddling two states while soaking up incredible music. Bristol’s famous “Birthplace of Country Music” status isn’t just a catchy slogan—this is where it all began back in 1927.
Over 100 musical acts perform on a dozen stages scattered throughout downtown Bristol. You’ll hear everything from traditional bluegrass to modern country, plus folk, gospel, and roots rock that’ll have you dancing in the streets.
Food vendors line the sidewalks offering everything from barbecue to funnel cakes. The festival’s intimate setting means you might find yourself chatting with performers between sets, making this feel more like a giant neighborhood party than a typical music festival.
3. Nashville Oktoberfest — Germantown
Nashville’s Germantown neighborhood transforms into a Bavarian wonderland complete with lederhosen, bratwurst, and plenty of beer gardens. This isn’t your typical country music celebration—it’s all about embracing German culture right in Music City’s heart.
The highlight has to be the dachshund derby, where adorable wiener dogs race down a specially built track while crowds cheer wildly. Live polka bands keep the energy high, and traditional German food vendors serve up authentic schnitzel and pretzels.
Don’t miss the 5K run if you’re feeling energetic, or simply stroll through the historic Germantown district admiring the beautiful Victorian architecture. Four days of German-inspired fun await in one of Nashville’s most charming neighborhoods.
4. Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue — Lynchburg
Welcome to “The Jack,” where the world’s best pitmasters compete in the tiny hollow that’s home to America’s most famous whiskey. This isn’t just any barbecue competition—teams travel from across the globe to prove their smoking skills in Lynchburg.
The aroma of slow-cooked meats fills the air as competitors work their magic over glowing coals. You can sample incredible barbecue, watch cooking demonstrations, and maybe even pick up some secret techniques from the pros.
Between bites, tour the Jack Daniel’s distillery to see where the magic happens. The combination of world-class barbecue and Tennessee’s most famous spirit creates an unforgettable weekend that celebrates two of the South’s greatest contributions to cuisine.
5. Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair — Gatlinburg
More than 200 juried artisans fill Gatlinburg’s Convention Center with handmade treasures that showcase Appalachian craftsmanship at its finest. This isn’t your average craft fair—every vendor has been carefully selected for their exceptional skill and creativity.
Watch glassblowers create delicate ornaments, woodworkers carve intricate sculptures, and potters shape clay into beautiful vessels. Live demonstrations happen throughout the day, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at traditional mountain crafts.
The fair’s location makes it perfect for combining with a Great Smoky Mountains National Park adventure. After browsing unique handmade gifts, you can easily drive into the park to see spectacular fall foliage. Two and a half weeks of shopping and mountain beauty await.
6. Unicoi County Apple Festival — Erwin
Small-town charm reaches its peak in downtown Erwin, where over 400 vendors create a bustling marketplace celebrating all things apple. This festival captures the essence of old-fashioned fall fun without any corporate sponsorship or flashy gimmicks.
Apple butter simmers in giant copper kettles while vendors sell everything from handmade quilts to apple pies that’ll make your mouth water. Live music fills the air as families stroll through streets lined with craft booths and food stands.
The festival’s authentic atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to when community celebrations brought entire towns together. Kids can enjoy carnival rides while adults browse antiques and sample locally made apple cider and fresh-pressed apple juice.
7. Cooper-Young Festival — Memphis
Memphis’s coolest neighborhood throws one of the city’s biggest street parties every September. Cooper-Young’s eclectic mix of artists, musicians, and creative spirits transforms the historic district into an outdoor celebration of local culture.
Street performers entertain crowds while local bands rock multiple stages throughout the day. Art vendors display everything from paintings to handcrafted jewelry, and food trucks serve up Memphis barbecue alongside international cuisine.
The neighborhood’s unique character shines through in every booth and performance. Vintage shops, coffee houses, and quirky restaurants stay open late, making this feel more like a giant block party than a formal festival. One Saturday packed with Memphis creativity and community spirit.
8. RiverArtsFest — Memphis
Memphis’s premier fine arts festival brings together juried artists from across the country in the heart of downtown. This isn’t just another craft fair—every piece has been carefully selected for exceptional artistic merit and creativity.
Stroll through booths featuring original paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media works while artists demonstrate their techniques. Live music provides the perfect soundtrack as you discover unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else.
The festival’s downtown location puts you within walking distance of Beale Street, the Mississippi River, and Memphis’s famous barbecue joints. You can easily combine art appreciation with sightseeing and great food. Two days of discovering incredible artwork in one of America’s most musical cities.
9. Franklin PumpkinFest — Franklin
Middle Tennessee’s largest family fall festival transforms Franklin’s charming Main Street into a pumpkin-filled wonderland. This celebration captures everything wonderful about small-town autumn festivities with a decidedly family-friendly focus.
Kids parade down Main Street in creative costumes while live bands perform on outdoor stages. Craft vendors line the sidewalks selling handmade goods, and food booths offer everything from caramel apples to hot cider.
Franklin’s historic downtown provides the perfect backdrop with its antique shops, cozy restaurants, and beautiful 19th-century architecture. The festival’s Saturday-only format makes it perfect for a day trip filled with pumpkin-themed fun. Don’t forget to bring your camera—the autumn decorations create picture-perfect moments around every corner.
10. National Banana Pudding Festival — Centerville
Only in the South could banana pudding inspire an entire festival, and Centerville does it right with tastings, competitions, and pure sweet celebration. This unique festival proves that sometimes the quirkiest ideas make the most memorable experiences.
Sample dozens of banana pudding variations from traditional recipes to creative modern twists. Local cooks compete for bragging rights while visitors stroll the “Puddin’ Path” discovering different flavors and presentations.
Live music keeps the energy high between tastings, and local vendors sell crafts and other Southern specialties. The festival’s small-town setting adds to its charm—everyone feels like family when you’re bonding over shared love of this classic dessert. Come hungry and leave with a new appreciation for Southern culinary creativity.
