Multiple fall festivals and fairs will be coming to Augusta and the CSRA throughout the months of October and November, bringing families together with races, pumpkins, celebrations, and food.
Augusta Duck Dash
On Oct. 4, the Augusta Canal will host the annual Augusta Duck Dash. The Duck Dash is a colorful fundraiser that will have thousands of rubber ducks racing and floating downstream towards the finish line.
However, it is more than just a race with proceeds supporting the YMCA’s A Place to Dream program, which provides beds to kids in need.
At the Duck Dash, families will gather and cheer for their ducks, enjoy live music and food, and take part in the games. The event combines lighthearted competition along with a meaningful cause, making it a beloved fall tradition in Augusta.
Oliver Hardy and Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee
The Oliver Hardy Festival will return to downtown Harlem on Saturday, Oct. 4. The event was cancelled in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, but is making its return with a variety of vendors. For more information, visit https://harlemmuseumandwelcomecenter.com/oliver-hardy-festival.
North Augusta will get into the fall fun with the 39th Annual Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee on Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25. There will be food trucks, craft vendors, food trucks, local entertainment, carnival rides, a kids zone and live music. This event will take place throughout downtown North Augusta. For more information, visit https://explorenorthaugusta.com/jackolanternjubilee/.
Fairs bring classic fall fun
It is almost fair time in Augusta! The Georgia-Carolina Fair will take place Oct. 17- 26 at the Exchange Club Fairgrounds. The fair will feature rides, food vendors, games, and shows.
Days later, the Columbia County Fair will follow from Oct. 30 – Nov. 9 at the Columbia County Fairgrounds in Grovetown. With the concerts, rides, and local vendors, both fairs are highlights of the fall season for families across the CSRA.
Family festivals fill an October weekend
Columbia County will host a trick-or-treat event at Evans Towne Center Park on Thursday, Oct. 16. From 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., kids can come out and enjoy a night of trick-or-treating.
One October weekend will feature a busy schedule of family gatherings across the region. On Oct. 17, Pine View Baptist Church will host its Fall Festival, which will offer inflatables, candy, games, and fellowship.
The following day, Oct. 18, will bring two more celebrations. At Evans Towne Center Park, the Columbia County Fall Thing will take place, including inflatables, amusement rides, balloons, face painting, candy, and more!
On the same day in North Augusta, the Pumpkin-palooza will take place. St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church will have a pumpkin patch, food, games, painting, and of course pumpkins and candy.
Halloween Fun at Phinizy Swamp
Phinizy Swamp will blend Halloween fun with outdoor adventures Oct. 25 – 26. Families can go and enjoy camping, campfires, night hiking, and movies.
A few days later, on Oct. 28, the park will also host Spookduckular. Spookduckular is a toddler-friendly celebration that offers costumes, games, and other seasonal fun for young festivalgoers.
Trunk or treat closes out October
To close out October, the Gracewood Fall Festival and Trunk or Treat will take place on Halloween day. At this free admission event, decorated vehicles will line up with candy, vendors, and games. The event offers residents a safe and festive way to spend Halloween day.