What you’ll find here: A list of Fall Festivals in Charlotte, NC that are perfect for the kids.
Looking to plan some family fun this fall?
We’ve rounded up the best fall festivals in and around Charlotte that offer plenty of entertainment for kids — from rodeos to hands-on science zones to dance parties in the park. Here’s what to add to your calendar!
Fall Festivals for Families near Charlotte, NC
Cabarrus County Fair
- Date: September 5–13, 2025
- Location: Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, Concord, NC
- Details: Nine days of rides, games, animals, food, and entertainment. Includes four nights of rodeo action, plus themed discount nights.
- Kid Highlights: Rides, petting zoo, fun fair food, and plenty of family shows.
- Cabarrus County Fair Website
Charlotte Soul Fest
- Date: September 6, 2025 (11 am – 9 pm)
- Location: First Ward Park, Charlotte, NC
- Details: Celebrate culture with music and dance including hip hop, line dancing, afrosass, and more.
- Kid Highlights: Free entry, family-friendly performances, and lots of energy.
- Charlotte Soul Fest Website
Festival in the Park
- Date: September 19–21, 2025
- Location: Freedom Park, Charlotte, NC
- Details: A longtime Charlotte favorite featuring local artists, food vendors, music, and community fun.
- Kid Highlights: Open spaces to run and play, art booths, and free admission.
- Festival in the Park
6th Annual Kanntoberfest
- Date: September 27, 2025
- Location: Downtown Kannapolis, NC
- Details: All-day family fun with live music, carnival rides, games, food, and drinks.
- Kid Highlights: Affordable rides and plenty of activities geared toward younger kids.
- Kanntoberfest Website
Charlotte Kids Fest
- Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025 (11 am – 4 pm)
- Location: Shoppes at University Place, Charlotte, NC
- Details: This free event features interactive zones: Create, Dance, Discover (STEM), Go (vehicles!), and more! Rain or shine, no pets allowed.
- Kid Highlights: Hands-on learning, crafts, games, and big vehicles to explore.
- Charlotte Kids Fest Website
Carolina Renaissance Festival
- Date: Weekends in October & November 2025
- Location: Huntersville, NC (just outside Charlotte)
- Details: A 25-acre Renaissance village with 16 stages of entertainment, costumed characters, jousting, artisan booths, and more.
- Kid Highlights: Mermaids, games, food, performances, and a fairytale-like experience.
- Carolina Renaissance Festival Website
Get more on the Carolina Renaissance Festival from Kidding Around.
Planning Your Fall Fun
Which festivals are going on your list? Let us know your favorites — or if we missed one your family loves, send it our way! Looking for even more things to do this fall? We’ve got you covered with guides to pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and more.
