As cooler weather approaches, fall marks the return of some of our favorite events & festivals you don’t want to miss. From getting lost in one of the giant mazes in the Southeast to local fall festivals and the Carolina Renaissance Festival. This season brings some of the best signature events to the area, so mark your calendars to be in the area for the next few months!
Amazing Maize Maze
September 16 - October 29
4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville
Get lost in 7 acres of corn at Rural Hill, making it one of the most giant mazes in the Southeast! After you've completed the maze, be sure to make time to take a hayride around the property. Pick a pumpkin, take a photo, and enjoy a cold beer from a local brewery!
Mystical Moonlit Maze Campout
Attend the Mystical Moonlit Maze Campout at Rural Hill on Friday, October 13. Spend the night at the Rural Hill campground and enjoy the Amazing Maize Maze until midnight! Mystical Moonlit Maze Campers will have access to the maze for all members of your party (up to eight people). Besides the fun in the Maze and a sleepout to remember, campers can enjoy s'mores and yard games. Make sure to bring a flashlight!
Carolina Renaissance Festival
September 30 - November 19
16445 Poplar Tent Road
The 16th-century-themed festival is one of the most popular events every fall. Weekends in October and November are jam-packed with performances that will keep attendees of all ages entertained and eager to come back. Enjoy an autumn stroll through the Village of Fairhaven, where history comes alive with non-stop interactive entertainment. The open-air Artisan Market has arts and crafts, games and rides, jousting knights on horseback, mermaids, fairies, dragons, and more. Come hungry for a turkey leg and other food options at the Carolina Renaissance Festival!
Annual All-American Dog Show
October 1
17738 W Catawba Ave
Celebrating 23 years, the All-American Dog Show returns to Robbins Park. Bring your furry best friend out for a great day of contests, pet-related vendors, treats, and more! Some competitions include Best Kisser, Best "Puppy Dog" Eyes, Cutest Puppy, and All American Dog! There is no charge to attend or to register your dog(s) for the contests.
Laketoberfest Music & Brew Festival
October 14
11536 Bailey Road
Come for the 11th annual celebration from 4-9 pm on Saturday, October 14th, at Bailey Road Park. Featuring live music, over a dozen local craft breweries, NC wine & cider, and a plethora of food trucks. Not to mention, the little ones can play in the Kids Zone! If you're looking for a budget-friendly event, this is the one...admission, parking, and shuttle service are free!
Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials
November 4-5
4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville
Celebrating 25 years, the area's best-known dog event is back and better than ever. This two-day event at Rural Hill is a great place to bring your squad and furry friends to enjoy a day full of fun. National Border Collie Shepherding Championships will be taking place in addition to Carolina Dock Dogs and Canine Agility Club Competitions.
Lake Norman is an excellent place for family and friends to come together. As always, don’t forget to share your experience and tag us in your social posts @visitlakenorman. You never know when we might feature you on our page!