Leiper's Fork, Tenn. – September 23, 2026 -- A string of fall festivals is rolling out across the rural communities bordering the Natchez Trace Parkway, the 100-mile stretch of National Park land anchoring what organizers call Nashville's Big Back Yard.
Lavender and pudding lead the harvest lineup
Near Hohenwald, the Oak Grove Lavender Farm hosts an all-day Fall Festival on Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with artisan vendors, seasonal food and a dog costume contest. In Centerville, the National Banana Pudding Festival runs Oct. 3-4, featuring a cook-off and a tasting trail dubbed 'The Puddin' Path.'
Leiper's Fork packs three events into six weeks
Patina Home & Garden holds its Fall Market in Leiper's Fork from noon to 4 p.m. on Oct. 3, including a book signing with author Courtney Allison. That evening, Leiper's Creek Gallery marks its 25th anniversary from 6 to 8 p.m., with live music from Bob Irwin, catering by Blue Diamond and drinks from Leiper's Fork Distillery. Fork Fest follows on Oct. 25 at 3 p.m., and the 10th annual Pickin' Leiper's Fork Antiques and Vintage Show is set for Nov. 13-15 at the PROPS venue.
Music festivals stretch into Alabama
Jason Isbell's Shoals Fest takes place Oct. 3-4 at McFarland Park in Florence, Alabama. In Nashville, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum continues its 'Muscle Shoals: Low Rhythm Rising' exhibit spotlighting the region's recording history.
Loretto adds a week of German-style celebration
Loretto's Oktoberfest runs Oct. 4-11 with a farmers market, a graveyard walk, a merchants' day and German beer tasting. In Waynesboro, visitors can book horseback trail rides along the Buffalo River through the Tennessee hills.
Lodging options across the region include Fork And Field Cottages in Leiper's Fork, the GunRunner Hotel and Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa in Florence, the Commodore Hotel in Linden, and the Woodland Parkview Motel in Lawrenceburg.