Published on
August 20, 2025
Southwest Ohio is gearing up for a big fall tourism boost. Festivals like the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival, the Ohio Renaissance Festival, and the Halloween Haunt at Kings Island will be pulling in huge crowds. These events offer everything from tasty food and historic fun to spooky thrills, making the region a top fall getaway. Plus, they pump money into the local economy, helping shops, restaurants, and hotels do well.
“The busy summer travel season may be winding down here in Southwest Ohio, but there’s still so much for our visitors and locals alike to look forward to in the cooler months ahead,” said Scott Hutchinson, Director of Marketing & Communications for the WCCVB. “We’re about to kick off an equally awesome, fun-filled autumn here in Warren County and we couldn’t be more excited.”
The Ohio Renaissance Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the season. Kicking off on August 30 and running through October 26, this 36th annual festival will bring to life the sights, sounds, and excitement of medieval times. Known for offering “non-stop, day-long adventures,” the festival attracts visitors from across the country to enjoy a packed schedule of performances, jousting tournaments, and market vendors. It is consistently ranked among the top Renaissance-themed festivals in the United States and promises a memorable experience for all ages.
A short drive from the Renaissance Festival grounds, the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival in Waynesville will mark its 55th anniversary on October 11-12. This much-loved event draws large crowds annually, who flock to taste creative sauerkraut dishes, enjoy live entertainment, and browse an array of craft vendors featuring one-of-a-kind, handmade items. The festival’s lasting popularity has solidified its status as a fall tradition and a standout attraction in Southwest Ohio.
In addition to the Sauerkraut Festival, Waynesville will be hosting the Waynesville Fall Fest every weekend from September 13 through November 2. This fun-filled, family-oriented event features a variety of activities, including mini-golf, mazes, a petting farm, human foosball, and a playful, not-so-spooky walking trail. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the picturesque charm of this historic town while embracing the fall season with a mix of outdoor excitement.
This fall, the town of Lebanon will come alive with two exciting festivals: Lebanon’s Country AppleFest (September 27-28) and Lebanon Oktoberfest (October 10-11). Known for their lively craft displays, mouthwatering food, and festive atmosphere, these events draw visitors from all over. In addition, Springboro’s Oktoberfest, taking place on September 5-6, will further enhance the region’s Oktoberfest festivities, offering an extra dose of delicious food, music, and entertainment for all to enjoy.
For those in search of a thrilling autumn adventure, Kings Island’s Halloween Haunt stands out as one of the top attractions in the region. Recognized by USA Today as one of the best Halloween events at theme parks nationwide, Halloween Haunt will run on select nights from September 19 to November 1. Families with young children can enjoy the park’s Tricks & Treats event, offering a more gentle, fun-filled experience, available on select dates from September 21 to November 2.
This fall, another thrilling haunted experience awaits at Brimstone Haunt, set on the grounds of the Ohio Renaissance Festival. Running every Friday and Saturday throughout October, visitors can enjoy spine-chilling haunted houses and eerie activities. Additionally, Waynesville, renowned as one of the most haunted villages in the U.S., will host guided ghost tours on select evenings, enhancing the town’s already eerie and festive ambiance.
Warren County is also home to several farms and orchards that embrace the season with fall-themed activities. Hidden Valley Orchards and Blooms & Berries offer visitors a chance to explore pumpkin patches, enjoy hayrides, and pick fresh fruit throughout the fall. Additionally, the LM\&M Railroad’s Pumpkin Express is returning this year, offering nostalgic train rides along with fall-themed fun on select dates in October.
As the season transitions from autumn to winter, Kings Island’s WinterFest will make its return in late November, providing guests with ice skating, light shows, holiday shopping, and festive food. Similarly, Waynesville will launch its Yuletide Village at Renaissance Park, a delightful old-time winter celebration that kicks off the holiday season.
Tourism keeps powering Warren County’s economy, bringing in over 14 million visitors every year. Their presence gives a huge boost, adding up to a remarkable \$1.7 billion in economic impact and creating more than 13,000 jobs tied to tourism. As the leaves start to change color, Southwest Ohio shines with a packed lineup of fall events and adventures. From festivals and harvest activities to vibrant craft fairs, the region is the go-to place for both locals and visitors. Whatever you’re into, you’ll find it here this fall.
