HARVEST SEASON
Celebrate fall’s bounty at these festivals.
MASSACHUSETTS
It’s back to the bog this autumn as the Nantucket Cranberry Festival returns O t. 9. Put on a pair of waders and help with the traditional harvest during the interactive cranberry bog experience, or simply tour the bog. Other festivities include music, family activities such as hayrides, and local chefs serving up New England classics and cranberry cuisine. nantucketchamber.org
CALIFORNIA
The Golden State produces the most avocados in the U.S. and shows off its bounty during the Avocado Festival Oct. 2-3 in Carpinteria. The state’s largest free music festival also entertains the taste buds with a variety of products made from avocados. Visit the expo tent for tips on growing your own! avofest.com
MAINE
Damariscotta loves its pumpkins! At the Pumpkinfest and Regatta O t. 8-11, racers will carve boats out of giant pumpkins (800 pounds or so) and paddle for first place. This party to honor the gourds of fall includes a dessert contest, a derby, a pie-eating contest and public pumpkin art around the downtown area. mainepumpkinfest.com
NORTH CAROLINA
Every year farmers harvest up to 5 million pounds of pecans in North Carolina, giving the town of Whiteville a reason to celebrate. The North Carolina Pecan Harvest Festival returns Nov. 6 with a parade, car show, food vendors and more. ncpecanfestival.com
Editor’s Note: As of this writing, all events are scheduled to take pla e in 2021.