The best fall festivals in Virginia can mean many different things. For some people, it's a chance to visit haunted houses and be scared silly. For others, it's a time to reflect on the changing seasons with loved ones. If you're looking for a seasonal event that's fun for the whole family, we'd recommend taking part in the beloved Apple Butter Festival. Located at Wade's Mill in Raphine, this celebration centers around the state's tradition of making apple butter. It's equal parts delicious and fascinating! Let's look into this Virginia fall festival.

The 2024 Apple Butter Festival at Wade's Mill is scheduled for Saturday, October 19 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

The 28th annual Apple Butter Festival at Wade's Mill is officially on the calendar, and you won't want to miss out.

A trip to this historic grist mill in Raphine, Virginia is rewarding in any season, but fall proves to be something else altogether.

The festival centers around the art of making apple butter the old-fashioned way.

Virginia-grown apples are cooked down in a 130-year-old copper pot over an open fire.

Guests are invited to watch this process and even take a turn stirring with the long wooded handle if they're interested.

When the apple butter is finished, you can take your very own jar home to enjoy all season.

You should be warned, though, that once you've tried authentic Virginia apple butter, you won't want to settle for anything else!

So what else can you expect from the Apple Butter Festival?

Look for live demonstrations of blacksmithing, broom-making, woodturning, and more. It's like traveling back in time.

You'll also be able to sample other delicious foods and beverages, many of which are made locally.

One of the vendors returning this year will have cider from Halycon Days Cider Company - one of our favorites.

And the best part of all? One of the best things to do in Virginia in fall is totally free.

Just be sure to bring some money or cash so you can purchase local products and support the vendors.

The best fall festivals in Virginia include this one. Discover more on the Apple Butter Festival web page. Have you ever attended the annual event at Wade's Mill? What was your experience there like? Be sure to tell us in the comments below!

If you want to try some of the best BBQ in Raphine, this is the place. And stay on a beautiful farm at a nearby cottage rental from Vrbo.