Get ready for cooler weather, colorful leaves, pumpkin spice everything, and amazing memories made with family and friends. Here are the eight events, festivals, and experiences in Sanford, NC to add to your ultimate fall bucket list.
1. Boo & Brew Ghost Tour
Oct. 24-25; 30-31
By far the most anticipated event of the season is Sanford’s Boo & Brew Ghost Tour. Now in its sixth year, this spooktacular combination of a pub crawl and self-guided audio tour scares up loads of fun for brave pub crawlers, fans of the paranormal, and folks looking for a spectacular night out.
Join us for this year’s tale of The Ghosts of Downtown Sanford for an experience that will chill you to your very bones. Uncover the haunting secrets of Sanford’s spectral residents, with ghostly encounters around every corner.
Hit the Boo & Brew trail as you listen to the chilling story and “crawl” your way through local restaurants and bars in downtown Sanford. At each stop, enjoy themed drinks, delicious eats, choice entertainment, and more.
2. Catch A Show At Temple Theatre
The Addams Family
Oct. 16 – Nov. 2
Catch a hilarious and heartwarming performance of Temple Theatre’s Mainstage Event, The Addams Family. This musical comedy brings the iconic, spooky family to life with original songs, witty humor, and endless laughs. Follow Wednesday Addams as she surprises her parents with a love story they never saw coming. Keep an eye on the calendar for a full season of exciting shows and special events!
3. Triple Crown Car Show
Oct. 4
Car lovers, mark your calendars! The Triple Crown Car Show rolls into Sanford with three unique automotive categories, a free cruise-in, live music from the Dalton Davis Band, and legendary vehicles on display in the indoor Legends Exhibit. Explore the outdoor Open Show and Select Show for free, or enter your own ride in the judged competition with a $20 donation benefiting local charities. With over 125 trophies and awards up for grabs, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
4. Downtown Sanford StreetFest
Oct. 11
As a Sanford signature event, StreetFest draws folks near and far for a celebration filled with music, entertainment, art, and games. Come enjoy a food truck rodeo, a craft market, and a slew of great performances in Depot Park and other spots downtown. Listen to music by bands like Peace & Love Party Band, 70s Kids, and The Breakfast Club. Visitors will also be wowed by a fireworks display and an epic, DJ dance party to conclude the festival.
5. Sanford Brush & Palette 60th Annual Art Show
Oct. 11-18
Art enthusiasts are in for a treat at the Sanford Brush & Palette Club’s 60th Annual Art Show. This milestone event showcases more than 1,100 original works, including paintings, pottery, the 3rd Annual Bowl & Vessel Show, and a special photography exhibit debut. Explore the Holiday Gallery for unique gifts, meet the artists, enjoy door prizes and raffles, and don’t miss Art After Dark on Friday, Oct. 17, from 6–9 p.m. for an evening of art and celebration.
6. Downtown Trick-or-Treating
Oct. 16
Scare up some delightful memories by taking your little ghouls and goblins trick-or-treating this Halloween in downtown Sanford. Participating businesses will hand out candy, host costume contests, and offer other holiday goodies. Local tip: Look for paper pumpkins in the store windows of participating businesses.
7. Farm Fun
Sept. 13 – Nov. 2
Gross Farms Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch season is upon us! Join in on the fall fun with activities for all ages. Navigate the large corn maze, pick your very own pumpkin right from the patch, or take a scenic hayride on a working farm. Sanford is known for its many farms, so be sure to check out Buchanan Farms for even more unforgettable memories this season.
Happy fall, y’all!
