Fall Foliage Festivals Along Route 6 You Can’t Miss This October
As autumn paints the landscape in fiery hues of red, gold, and orange, Pennsylvania’s Route 6 transforms into a premier corridor for leaf peepers and festival-goers alike. Not just a scenic road, it’s your gateway to unforgettable fall festivities and a forward-thinking blend of heritage, nature, and community. Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss festivals and attractions this October.
1. Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival
When: Weekends of October 4–5, 11–12, 18–19 (and possibly October 25–26)
Where: Jim Thorpe, along Route 6’s stretch through the Pocono Mountains
Highlights:
- Live music at multiple outdoor venues
- Craft and food vendors offering seasonal delights
- Scenic train rides through the Lehigh Gorge
- Historic tours, such as the Asa Packer Mansion and Old Jail Museum Visit
Insider Tip: Visiting midweek (Monday–Thursday) can help avoid the heavy weekend traffic and parking challenges people often face
2. Bedford Fall Foliage Festival
When: October 5–6 and October 12–13
Where: Downtown Bedford, south-central Pennsylvania, easily accessed via Route 6
Highlights:
- One of the state’s largest—now in its 59th year!
- A vibrant mix of vendor booths, live music, children’s activities, and an antique car parade
3. Autumn Leaf Festival in Clarion
When: September 28–October 6
Where: Clarion County, a short drive north of Route 6’s main corridor
Highlights:
- A beloved 71-year tradition drawing nearly half a million visitors
- Attractions include parade, carnival rides, live entertainment, and antique tractor displays
4. National Apple Harvest Festival
When: October 5–6 and October 12–13
Where: Biglerville, Adams County—just off Route 6 via nearby connectors
Highlights:
- Celebration of Pennsylvania’s top apple-producing region
- Apple-inspired treats, live entertainment, arts & crafts, and vendor stalls
5. Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival
When: Daily from September 27 through October 26
Where: Near Lehighton, along Route 6’s Poconos stretch
Highlights:
- Hayrides, pumpkin fun houses, corn bins, live music, pedal carts, pirate ship play areas, and carnival rides
- A full-blown autumn wonderland spanning nearly the entire fall season
6. PA State Flaming Foliage Festival
When: October 11–13
Where: Renovo, in Clinton County—accessible via northwestern Route 6 spur
Highlights:
- A long-running tradition entering its 75th year
- Features include a colorful parade, vendors, live performances, and a pageant recognizing festival royalty
Beyond Festivals: Scenic Route 6 Must-Sees
- Route 6 Fall Foliage Drive: Lauded by Car and Driver, National Geographic, and Harley‑Davidson as one of America’s most scenic roads, this 50-mile stretch between Honesdale, Hawley, and Milford brims with autumn brilliance
- Historic attractions like Grey Towers National Historic Site, Dorflinger‑Suydam Glass Museum, and tranquil canal lock parks invite strolls amid color-drenched landscapes
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Prompton State Park (boating, hiking), Shohola Falls, and access to Lake Wallenpaupack for lakeside views and relaxation
- Pine Creek Gorge (“PA Grand Canyon”): A slight detour off Route 6 rewards you with sweeping vistas and outdoor adventures—rafting, hiking, or rail trail walks—especially around Wellsboro
