Fall Fun Near The Lakes: Explore North Carolina’s Best October Festivals

Fall in Eastern North Carolina is nothing short of spectacular. As October rolls in, the air turns crisp, the trees erupt in vibrant shades of red and gold, and the region comes alive with small-town charm, seasonal flavors, and some of the best fall festivals in the state.

If you’re planning an autumn getaway, The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort in Maysville, NC offers the perfect home base. Nestled between pine forests and three scenic lakes—Misty Morning, Cypress, and White Oak—our resort puts you within easy reach of North Carolina’s top October events and festivals. From pumpkin patches and hayrides to seafood feasts and live music, there’s a celebration for every kind of fall traveler.

Whether you’re staying in one of our cozy cabins or pulling into a spacious RV site, here’s your guide to experiencing the best of fall fun near The Lakes RV Resort—complete with scenic drives, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable local flavor.

Fall Festival at The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort

October 10–13, 2025 | Maysville, NC
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Begin the season right here at The Lakes during ourFall Festival. This exclusive, guest-only celebration brings together the cozy comforts of cabin life with all the excitement of a seasonal festival. Over Columbus Day weekend, the resort comes alive with hayrides between the lakes, candy bar bingo, autumn crafts for kids, a cornhole tournament, family movie night, and a toe-tapping live band under the stars. As the fire rings glow and s’mores are passed around, it’s not hard to see why fall feels so magical here.

And the setting? Absolutely postcard-worthy. Picture fiery foliage reflected across Misty Morning, Cypress, and White Oak Lakes, and cool breezes rustling through tall pines as you walk the Lakeside Trail or relax on Dozer Beach.

Fall at Pogie’s Farm

Weekends, Sept 26–Oct 31, 2025 | Onslow County, NC
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If pumpkins, hayrides, and classic farm fun are on your autumn bucket list, Fall at Pogie’s Farm delivers. Located just 5 minutes from The Lakes, this seasonal attraction is a favorite among families and anyone looking to embrace fall nostalgia. Explore the pumpkin patch, ride the hay wagon, shop local vendors, and enjoy fresh farm treats. Each weekend offers a slightly different mix of activities, making it worth a repeat visit.

It’s a great Saturday adventure for guests traveling with children—or anyone who still loves the simple joys of fall on the farm.

Mullet Festival of Swansboro

October 11–12, 2025 | Swansboro, NC
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Just 20 miles from the resort, the charming town of Swansboro hosts one of North Carolina’s longest-running seafood festivals—the Mullet Festival. This weekend celebration isn’t about hairstyles—it’s all about the fish. Enjoy fresh local seafood, live music, street vendors, crafts, and a community parade. The festival stretches through downtown Swansboro, offering waterfront views and a classic small-town atmosphere.

Pair this event with a morning paddle along the White Oak River or a stroll through Swansboro’s boutique shops before returning to the peaceful lakeside setting of The Lakes for an evening of stargazing.

MumFest

Saturday & Sunday, October 11–12, 2025 | New Bern, NC
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New Bern comes alive each fall with MumFest, a two-day festival that fills the historic waterfront downtown with live music, food trucks, arts and crafts, and family-friendly entertainment. Stroll past vibrant mum displays, shop hundreds of vendors, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this award-winning celebration.

Just a short drive down the road from The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort, MumFest makes for an easy outing where guests can experience the energy of New Bern and return for a quiet evening by the lake.

Autumn With Topsail

October 17–19, 2025 | Topsail Beach, NC
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Art, music, and coastal charm collide at Autumn With Topsail, held about an hour south on scenic Topsail Island. This beloved coastal festival features over 100 regional artists, live beach music, food vendors, and activities for kids, all set near the sound. Enjoy the salty breeze and laid-back energy while discovering handcrafted treasures and listening to local bands perform with the Atlantic Ocean just a few steps away.

For resort guests looking to combine beach day vibes with a cultural twist, this is the ideal October outing.

Burgaw Autumn Fest

Saturday, October 18, 2025 | Burgaw, NC
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Celebrate the season in the historic railroad town of Burgaw during its annual Autumn Fest. Held on Saturday, October 18, this beloved small-town event brings together craft vendors, food trucks, live music, and fun activities for kids—all set against the backdrop of the charming courthouse square. With its welcoming atmosphere and hometown pride, Autumn Fest offers a slower, more nostalgic pace that pairs beautifully with a fall getaway.

Located just about an hour from The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort, this makes for a delightful day trip where guests can enjoy local flavor and return in time for an evening by the firepit or lakeside sunset.

Cape Carteret Fall Festival

October 25, 2025 | 11 AM–5 PM | Cape Carteret, NC
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For those who enjoy a festive day trip filled with crafts, food, and live entertainment, the Cape Carteret Fall Festival is worth the short drive. Located about 25 minutes southeast of Maysville, this free family-friendly event is filled with vendor booths, children’s activities, and live performances—all set within one of the most scenic towns on the Crystal Coast.

Cape Carteret’s easygoing vibe pairs perfectly with a relaxed morning at The Lakes. Grab a coffee, enjoy a lakeside sunrise, and make your way down for a day of fall fun.

Downtown Fall Festival – Maysville, NC

October 25, 2025 | 5 PM | Downtown Maysville
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The heart of Maysville beats strong in this annual Downtown Fall Festival, held just minutes from the resort. As twilight sets in, Main Street comes to life with live music, food trucks, crafts, and community spirit. It’s a wonderful way to spend a local Saturday night, enjoying small-town charm with neighbors and fellow travelers.

Guests of The Lakes can easily walk or take a quick drive to join in the celebration, then return to a warm fire ring and quiet lakeside views.

Why Fall at The Lakes Is the Perfect Home Base

Whether you’re festival-hopping or simply enjoying a cozy, scenic escape, The Lakes RV & Cabin Resort is where autumn days feel their richest. Here, you can start your morning with coffee beside a misty lake, explore local events in the afternoon, and return to a sunset paddle or bonfire under the stars. From luxury cabins to full-hookup RV sites, you’ll find comfort, community, and natural beauty woven into every detail of your stay.

Plus, fall is the season when the lakes seem to glow a little warmer, and every breeze carries the promise of new memories.

So, pack your flannel, bring your appetite for cider and funnel cakes, and get ready to fall in love with Eastern North Carolina. The season is calling—and The Lakes is ready to welcome you.

📍 100 Lakes Blvd, Maysville, NC 28555
📞 (910) 595-4112
🌐 thelakesrvcabinresort.nienec.com/

Because life’s better in the fall—at The Lakes.