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!
Rural Hill Corn Maze
September 20 - October 27
4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville
Navigate through a sprawling cornfield maze, carefully weaving your way through the towering stalks. With twists and turns at every corner, The Rural Hill Corn Maze is no ordinary stroll. Test your problem-solving skills, unraveling the intricate pathways and seeking out hidden clues that will guide you towards the ultimate triumph of finding your way out.
Experience the golden hues of autumn during the day, or find your way through the corn after dark with the Night Maze on Friday or Saturday nights! After the maze, stop by any of the food trucks on-site. There will be a food truck and dessert truck every day that the maze is open to the public.
TIP* Be sure to use the entrance off of Neck Rd - there is no public entrance on Jim Kidd Rd (no matter what your GPS tells you).
Carolina Renaissance Festival
October 5- November 24
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!
24th Annual All-American Dog Show
September 29
17738 W Catawba Ave
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 Pooch Smooch, Best "Puppy Dog" Eyes, Best Paw Shaker and Fluffiest Coat!
There is no charge to attend, only to register your dog for contests if you want to participate. Concessions will be available as well!
Laketoberfest Music & Brew Festival
October 12
11536 Bailey Road
Come for the 12th annual Laketoberfest celebration from 4-9pm 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 and parking are free!
Sheepdog Trials and Dog Festival
November 2-3
4431 Neck Rd, Huntersville
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. In addition to the trials themselves, you can enter your dog into the very first Huntersville's Next Top Dog Show! Categories include Fluffiest Coat, Curliest Tail, Silliest Name and Best Trick! Contests begin at 2pm and is $5 per dog to register.
The event will also feature a variety of other activities and attractions, including food and drink vendors, merchant vendors, pet adoptions, and demonstrations by skilled dog trainers. Free access to The Rural HIll Corn Maze is also included with your ticket!
Lake Norman is an excellent place for family and friends to come together. Don’t forget to share your experience and tag us in your social posts @visitlakenorman!