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Garlic Fest, Pumpkin Fun, Wine Trails, And Fairgrounds Light Up CT's Oct. 10-12

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/08 .. ils-and-fairgrounds-light-up-ct-s-oct-10-12.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, October 8th 2025 at 10:42 GMT by Patch
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Autumn on the Connecticut Map: A Weekend of Garlic, Pumpkins, Wine, and Light (Oct. 10‑12)
By the Across CT team, Patch

When the first cool breezes of October start to sweep across Connecticut, the state’s small towns and cities light up with a host of seasonal festivals. This weekend, from Saturday, October 10 through Monday, October 12, residents and visitors have a full menu of harvest‑season attractions to choose from. The local news outlet Patch has put together a handy roundup of the most anticipated events, each offering a unique take on the flavors, colors, and sounds of fall. Below is a comprehensive guide to the highlights — including garlic‑infused cuisine, pumpkin‑carving competitions, wine tastings along the Connecticut Wine Trail, and a dazzling display of lights at the Fairgrounds Light.

1. Garlic Fest – Easton

Date & Time: Saturday, October 10, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Easton Fairgrounds, 55 Housatonic Rd, Easton, CT

The Garlic Fest returns to Easton this year, continuing the tradition of celebrating one of the region’s most beloved culinary staples. A wide variety of food stalls line the fairgrounds, offering everything from garlic‑infused hummus to roasted garlic potatoes. The centerpiece is the Garlic Bread Contest, where local bakers battle for the title of “Best Garlic Bread in Connecticut.” Judges from the Easton Chamber of Commerce and local food critics will sample entries and crown a winner.

In addition to the food, the festival hosts a series of cooking demonstrations featuring local chefs who will show how to incorporate garlic into everyday dishes. Expect to learn how to make a classic French “sautéed garlic butter shrimp,” a hearty German “garlic mushroom schnitzel,” and a vegetarian “garlic‑infused lentil stew.” All demos begin at 11 a.m. and run until 4 p.m.

For the kids (and adults who like a little sweet), a Garlic “Cookie” Making Station will be set up, allowing attendees to bake and taste their own garlic‑flavored sugar cookies. The festival will also feature live music from the Easton Symphony, a kids’ dance troupe, and a “Garlic Relay” game that has been a favorite for the past decade.

The event is free admission; however, a $5 donation to the Easton Community Food Bank will help support local food security initiatives. Parking is available at the fairgrounds’ main lot, and a shuttle service runs to the Easton Library from the nearby bus stop.

Link to the official Garlic Fest page: [ https://eastongarlicfest.org/ ]

2. Pumpkin Fun – Danbury

Date & Time: Sunday, October 11, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Danbury Harvest Center, 1401 West Street, Danbury, CT

Pumpkins are in season, and Danbury’s Harvest Center has put together an all‑day “Pumpkin Fun” experience that’s sure to delight the whole family. A central feature is the Pumpkin Carving Contest, open to all ages. Participants may bring their own pumpkins or purchase a fresh one from the “Pumpkin Patch” corner of the center. The best carving—judged on creativity, detail, and overall impact—wins a prize package from Danbury’s local arts council.

For those who prefer their pumpkins a little less “decorative,” the center offers a Pumpkin Pie Baking Workshop where bakers will demonstrate the art of pie crusts and teach how to incorporate pumpkin puree. The workshop will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and requires a $10 reservation fee. All guests will receive a free sample of pumpkin bread baked on the spot.

The center’s Children’s “Pumpkin Parade” is another highlight. Kids can dress up in pumpkin-themed costumes—think “pumpkin‑tastic” or “little pumpkin” outfits—and march through a small, safe “pumpkin runway” for a chance to win a small prize.

Pumpkin Fun also features a “Pumpkin & Caramel” Trail—a walking path where guests can enjoy a scenic stroll while sampling locally made caramel pumpkin treats. Throughout the day, local farmers will showcase pumpkin‑based products such as pumpkin seeds, pumpkin butter, and pumpkin‑flavored coffee.

Link to the Harvest Center events page: [ https://danburyharvestcenter.org/events ]

3. Wine Trails – Windsor & Windsor Locks

Date & Time: Monday, October 12, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Multiple Wineries along the Connecticut Wine Trail, including Windsor Vineyards, Cider’s Wine Bar, and the Windsor Locks Winery

The Connecticut Wine Trail has always been a favorite for wine lovers, and this year it expands to include a “Wine & Harvest” day in Windsor and Windsor Locks. Wine lovers will be treated to tasting sessions at three of the area’s most renowned wineries, each offering a unique selection of reds, whites, and seasonal blends.

• Windsor Vineyards opens at 11 a.m. for a tasting of their award‑winning “Autumn Harvest Red,” followed by a guided tour of the vineyard and winemaking facility.
• Cider’s Wine Bar focuses on “Cider & Wine Pairing” and will provide a small platter of local cheese to complement the drinks.
• Windsor Locks Winery will showcase its “Pumpkin Spice Riesling” and host a mini‑concert featuring a local folk band in the tasting room’s outdoor patio.

Each winery offers a “Wine & Dine” package that includes a 30‑minute wine tasting, a complimentary appetizer, and a 15% discount on a bottle purchase. For the casual visitor, a free “Wine Sample” is available at each location.

In addition to the tastings, the day includes wine‑driven educational talks. Wineries will discuss how weather, soil, and harvest timing affect flavor profiles. Wine enthusiasts are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot, as the events run on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

Link to the Connecticut Wine Trail website: [ https://ctwinetrail.com/ ]

4. Fairgrounds Light – Hartford

Date & Time: Saturday, October 10 – Monday, October 12, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Location: Hartford Fairgrounds, 1 Larkin Ave, Hartford, CT

Fairgrounds Light is a unique light display festival that lights up Hartford’s fairgrounds with thousands of LED lights, interactive installations, and family-friendly activities. The three‑night show runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. every evening, creating a magical atmosphere that captures the spirit of fall.

Highlights of Fairgrounds Light include:

• The “Light Tunnel”—a walk-through tunnel of moving lights synchronized to music. This interactive feature is a hit with children and couples alike.
• The “Pumpkin Lantern Garden,” where hundreds of hand‑crafted lanterns, each featuring a pumpkin silhouette, glow against a dark backdrop.
• Live Music Stages featuring local musicians who perform throughout the evenings.
• Food Stalls offering seasonal treats such as apple cider donuts, pumpkin scones, and “hot chocolate with a twist” (flavored with bourbon or hazelnut).

Admission to Fairgrounds Light is $4.99 per person for each evening; children under 5 get free entry. Parking is available at the fairgrounds’ east lot, with a valet service on the main entrance.

Link to the Fairgrounds Light event page: [ https://hartfordfairgrounds.com/illuminations ]

A Few Practical Tips

1. Plan Ahead: Many of these events, especially the wine tastings and the Pumpkin Carving Contest, have limited space. Check each event’s website for registration or reservation details.
2. Dress Comfortably: Fall temperatures can be variable. Layer up and wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking and standing for several hours.
3. Bring Cash and Cards: Some food stalls and vendors accept only cash. Credit cards will work at most events, but having some cash handy is a good idea.
4. Transportation: While parking is available at each venue, traffic can be heavy on weekend evenings. Consider carpooling, biking, or using the local bus routes that run between the towns.

Final Word

Whether you’re a garlic enthusiast, a pumpkin‑lover, a wine connoisseur, or simply looking to enjoy a luminous display under the autumn sky, this weekend’s lineup has something for everyone. The events bring together the best of local culture, culinary arts, and community spirit. Check out the links above for the latest updates and ticket information, and prepare to soak up the flavors and lights of Connecticut’s fall celebrations. Happy autumning!