The Autumn Glory Festival is one of the most popular events in the Deep Creek Lake area. It draws thousands of visitors to the area each year. In fact, it was named MSN’s number one fall festival in the world!
The 2024 festival dates are October 9-13. Click here for a complete schedule of activities.
So, what is all of the fuss about? Aside from admiring beautiful leaves, there are tons of fun activities for the entire family to enjoy.
History of Autumn Glory
Before it was known as “Autumn Glory”, it was actually a turkey festival. Local turkey growers started an annual event to promote turkey dinners. In the 1960s, folks started to think about turning it into a larger festival. It eventually evolved into the extravaganza that we know today. Of course, turkey dinners are still part of the tradition! Check out restaurants that are participating in the “turkey trail”.
Favorite Autumn Glory Activities
The festival kicks-off on Wednesday and continues through Sunday. I put together a few of my favorite “must-dos” for the festival.
-The Autumn Glory Kick-Off Dinner & Reception is Wednesday night at Wisp Resort. You can mingle with the festival king and queen while you dance the night away.
-Wednesday through Saturday, you can check out the Glorious Harvest Farmers Market & Craft Show at the Mt. Fresh Pavilion in Downtown Oakland. It features hand made arts and crafts, baked goods, pumpkins, fresh veggies, and more!
-On Thursday at 7PM, enjoy the Fireman’s Parade in downtown Oakland. It includes fire and rescue vehicles as well as bands, dance groups, and various local organizations.
-Also on Thursday evening, Oompah is being held at the Front Page Stage in Oakland. In addition to a beer garden, local bands will perform and there will be a cornhole tournament.
-The Official Maryland State Banjo & Mandolin Championships are Friday night. Doors open at 5PM, and the competition starts at 6PM Program at Southern Garrett High School. Enjoy the sounds of the Appalachian Mountains as musicians compete for the state title!
-Saturday is the main event – the Grand Feature Parade at 1PM in downtown Oakland! Arrive early to get a good seat! Also, vendors are on hand with great food that you can eat while you wait for the parade to start. It includes marching bands, fire trucks, antique cars, and more!
-The Autumn Glory Craft & Gift Sale is Saturday and Sunday at the Exhibit Hall at the Garrett County Fairgrounds in McHenry. There will be a wide variety of crafts & gifts including woodworking, candles, painted décor, jewelry, specialty foods and more.
-Saturday evening, the Annual Western Maryland Tournament of Bands starts at 6PM at the Southern High School Athletic Field. Watch marching bands perform and compete. It is fun entertainment for the entire family!
-The Autumn Glory Festival Car Show is Sunday from 9AM-3PM in downtown Oakland. It is the largest car show in Garrett County with hundreds of participants. It is free for spectators, and you can see lots of classic cars!
Make Your Autumn Glory Plans Now
Events like this are one of the best things about living in the Deep Creek Lake area! The opportunities for fall fun and great memories are almost endless!
