NEWS
Minnesota in the Fall
There’s nothing quite like autumn in Minnesota. Crisp air, golden light, and the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows of fall foliage make every drive memorable. Whether you’re traveling in your Mini-T Campervan for a weekend escape or planning a longer road trip, pairing the season’s best colors with Minnesota’s top fall festivals is the perfect way to experience this time of year.
Twin Cities Oktoberfest – St. Paul
Held October 3–4, 2025, at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, this two-day event celebrates German culture with local craft beer, authentic food, music, and dancing. It’s a lively festival that captures the essence of Oktoberfest without leaving Minnesota.
Minnesota Renaissance Festival – Shakopee
Running weekends through September 28, 2025, this long-standing favorite Renaissance Festival blends medieval fun with artisan markets, jousting, and costumed performances. Its final weekends often carry an Oktoberfest flair, making it a unique way to welcome fall.
Sever’s Fall Festival – Shakopee
From September 13 to October 26, 2025, Sever’s offers corn mazes, hayrides, slides, and cider. It’s a classic Minnesota fall tradition, especially for families looking for wholesome seasonal fun.
Fall Fest at Gale Woods Farm – Minnetrista
Taking place October 11–12, 2025, this free event celebrates farming, local food, and autumn traditions. Visitors enjoy demonstrations, live music, and outdoor activities at one of Three Rivers Park District’s most beautiful farm settings.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at the MN Zoo – Apple Valley
From September 26 through November 2, 2025, the Minnesota Zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with thousands of carved pumpkins lit each night. It’s a magical mix of artistry and Halloween fun.
Twin Cities Harvest Festival – Brooklyn Park
Open weekends October 4–26, 2025, this family-friendly event features pumpkin patches, live entertainment, food vendors, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a cozy way to soak in autumn.
Ferguson’s Minnesota Harvest – Jordan
Running August 16 through November 2, 2025, Ferguson’s offers apple picking, gourmet food, cider slushies, and live music. It’s one of southern Minnesota’s longest and most festive seasonal celebrations.
The Dead End Hayride – Wyoming MN
For those who like a scare with their fall fun, this haunted hayride runs from September 19 through November 2, 2025. Expect thrills, chills, and spooky fall nights under the stars.
Wabasha SeptOberfest & Valleyfair Halloween Events
From late September through early November, Wabasha offers Oktoberfest traditions along the Mississippi, while Valleyfair in Shakopee delivers rides and attractions with a spooky Halloween twist.
Apple Festivals Across Minnesota
Apple season runs throughout September and October. Orchards such as Aamodt’s Apple Farm in Stillwater host events with apple picking, hayrides, cider tastings, and pie contests. These celebrations pair perfectly with a scenic fall drive.
Scenic Fall Drives and Camping Along the Way
Fall colors in Minnesota are spectacular, and driving routes are only half the experience. Camping along the way lets you immerse yourself in the season.
- Highway 61 along Lake Superior – From Duluth to Grand Marais, enjoy sweeping lake views and brilliant foliage. A great overnight option is Tettegouche State Park, where you can camp steps from waterfalls and hiking trails.
- Root River Scenic Byway – Rolling bluffs and river valleys in southeastern Minnesota show peak color in early October. - - Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park makes an excellent campground stop, with both hiking and cave tours available.
- Mississippi River Bluffs Drive – From Red Wing to Winona, river overlooks glow with vibrant reds and oranges. Camp at - Frontenac State Park, where sites sit above the river with panoramic views of Lake Pepin.
Pairing scenic drives with state park campgrounds makes your road trip feel unhurried and immersive, and with the Mini-T Campervan, you’re always ready for a comfortable night under the fall sky.
A Road Trip to Remember
With your Mini-T Campervan’s efficiency and comfort, you can easily combine multiple festivals and scenic routes into a single journey. Start in southern Minnesota for orchard events, head north for Lake Superior color, then swing back through the Twin Cities for Oktoberfest. Along the way, camp in state parks, cook simple meals, and wake up surrounded by autumn’s best views. Every stop offers a new taste of Minnesota’s fall spirit.
Happy travels and Happy Camping!
DLM-Distribution / Campervans is a licensed manufacture and dealer located in Lake Crystal Minnesota serving clients around the country
Contact Dave: 651-285-7089 or Candy: 507-382-9446 today!