September 05, 2025

Fall adventures await in Harford County, Maryland

From apple picking and farm breweries to waterfront wine festivals and illuminated gardens, this scenic Chesapeake destination has weekend getaways covered.

By Hello Harford

Provided Courtesy/Hello Harford

Harford County Sunflower Field

When you say “Hello Harford County" you're saying hello to scenic Chesapeake shores, year-round festivals and friendly faces. It's a place where close-knit communities and charming towns offer a warm invitation.

Farm Fresh

Visit a sunflower field for Instagram-worthy photos of bright yellow flowers as far as the eye can see. Try apple and pumpkin picking at local orchards and pick up fresh mums and hand pressed cider while you’re there. Stop by a farm brewery for seasonal varieties made with locally grown hops. It’s all so easy with Harford County’s Farm Finder app and its interactive map of farms selling directly to consumers.

“Take a Hike”

You’ll be happy to in Harford County! Enjoy beautiful tree lines in autumnal colors and meander scenic paths along the Susquehanna or Bush rivers. Explore state parks, nature centers, kayak and canoe launches, and a variety of hiking and biking trails.

Provided Courtesy/Hello Harford

Mariner Point Park in the fall.

Festivals & Events

Fall festivals are our favorite! There’s at least one festival every weekend this season, so stay overnight and visit two (or more):

The Darlington Apple Festival, a nearly 40-year tradition, has local vendors selling baked goods and other products, all with apples at their “core,” and features an apple pie contest. The Harford County Wine Festival in Bel Air offers wines grown at local vineyards with dozens of other artisan vendors (hurry, this event sells out every year). Garden Glow in Jarrettsville at the world-renown Ladew Topiary Gardens showcases hundreds of illuminated jack-o-lanterns throughout the gorgeous grounds and decorated topiaries.

Provided Courtesy/Hello Harford

Garden Glow in Jarrettsville

Are you a foodie? The Galbani Maryland Italian Festival in Aberdeen is the largest in the state and attracts thousands looking for delicious eats, live entertainment, and fun. This three-day festival is being held this year in the Ripken Stadium parking lot (you can see the ballpark sign from I-95).At the Susquehanna Seafood and Wine Festival in Havre de Grace, enjoy scenic waterfront views with a pinot in one hand and a crabcake in the other. The Maryland State BBQ Bash in Bel Air is a serious competition for experts and a tasty treat for visitors, with dozens of vendors, live music, and all the ribs and pulled pork you could ask for.

Provided Courtesy/Hello Harford

The Maryland State BBQ Bash in Bel Air

The Bel Air Festival for the Arts, now in its 58th year, showcases the talents of more than 300 artists. The Ramble Festival in Darlington is a music lover’s dream – thousands of attendees spend the festival’s three days in the great outdoors, listening to artists from varying genres and camping out in RVs, tents, and cabins. First-class event venues like the Star Centre and the Havre de Grace Opera House also bring in top talent for audiences of all ages.

Provided Courtesy/Hello Harford

The Harford County Wine Festival in Bel Air

Last but not least: The Susquehanna River Running Festival includes a race across Hatem Memorial Bridge connecting Harford and Cecil counties; The Extreme Boat Dockin’ and Riverfront Festival, new for 2025, includes a boat docking competition and a lighted boat parade; and The Upper Chesapeake Bay Pride Festival celebrates inclusivity and fun for all.