Fall is the best season in New Kent County. The heat of summer breaks, the leaves along the Virginia Capital Trail shift from green to gold and amber, and the countryside fills with the sights and smells of harvest season. It is still July, but the best fall activities book up fast, so knowing what is coming and planning ahead is the smart move. From pumpkin patches within the county to legendary apple orchards in the Blue Ridge foothills, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy autumn in this part of Virginia.
The season here runs from late September through November, with peak foliage color typically arriving in mid-to-late October. New Kent County's own wineries and vineyards put on harvest festivals through October, the farmers market returns for special fall dates on September 26 and October 31, and the county's rural setting means you do not have to drive far for a classic fall experience. Here is every pumpkin patch, fall festival, apple orchard, and harvest event worth planning for around New Kent County.
Where Are the Best Pumpkin Patches Near New Kent?
From a farm right in Barhamsville to legendary destinations within an hour's drive, here is where to find the best pumpkins, corn mazes, and fall family fun near New Kent County.
Holly Fork Farm
Barhamsville · ~10 minutesThe closest pumpkin patch to New Kent County. Holly Fork Farm is a seasonal, family-operated farm that opens its pumpkin patch in fall with you-pick pumpkins, jump pads, jump castles, inflatable obstacle courses, and family-friendly activities. They also run a spring strawberry u-pick season. Fall hours and opening dates are posted on their website starting in September. This is the go-to within-county option for a classic pumpkin patch experience without the long drive.
Visit WebsiteBelvedere Plantation Fall Festival
Spotsylvania · ~60 minutesOne of the biggest and best fall festival destinations in Virginia. Belvedere Plantation opens in late September with a massive pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, cow train, jumping pillows, duck races, a giant slide, and live music on weekends. Their full fall festival runs on weekends through October, with additional activities on Columbus Day and select Fridays. The 8-acre corn maze is a highlight — a different theme every year. Weekday admission is more affordable, and the crowds are smaller. About an hour from New Kent via I-95 north.
Visit WebsiteLiberty Mills Farm
Somerset · ~75 minutesA beloved family farm with a massive 10-acre corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, farm animals, and a jump pad. Liberty Mills is a destination for families who want the full fall experience — pick your own pumpkins, navigate the maze, and enjoy the farmstead atmosphere. They also have a farm market with seasonal produce, baked goods, and local crafts. Open weekends in September and October. About 75 minutes from New Kent via I-64 west and Route 231.
Visit WebsiteWhere Can You Go Apple Picking Near New Kent?
Apple season in Virginia runs from late August through November, with different varieties ripening at different times. The best apple orchards near New Kent are in the mountains west of Charlottesville, about an hour and a half drive. The scenery on the way is part of the experience — the Blue Ridge foothills are spectacular in October.
Carter Mountain Orchard
Charlottesville · ~90 minutesThe crown jewel of Virginia apple picking. Carter Mountain Orchard sits on a mountaintop overlooking Charlottesville with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. U-pick apple season runs from late August through October with varieties including Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, and Pink Lady. The orchard also has a farm market, fresh-pressed apple cider donuts, hard cider tastings, and live music on weekends. Sunset views from the mountaintop are spectacular. Reserve your picking time online in advance — weekend slots fill up fast, especially during peak foliage season in October. About 90 minutes from New Kent via I-64 west.
Visit WebsiteChiles Peach Orchard & Farm Market
Crozet · ~90 minutesJust a few miles from Carter Mountain, Chiles Peach Orchard offers u-pick apples, peaches, and nectarines along with a large farm market featuring fresh-baked pies, local honey, and Virginia-made products. The mountain views are equally stunning, and the atmosphere is more relaxed with generous picking hours. They also have a popular hard cider bar on weekends. Open daily through the fall season. About 90 minutes from New Kent.
Visit WebsiteWhat Fall Festivals and Harvest Events Are Near New Kent?
New Kent Farmers Market — Fall Bonus Markets
New KentAfter the regular Saturday market season ends on August 29, the New Kent Farmers Market returns for two special fall dates: Saturday, September 26 and Saturday, October 31, both 9 AM to 12 PM. These fall markets feature seasonal produce, pumpkins and gourds, local honey, baked goods, and artisan crafts. The October 31 date falls on Halloween, so expect a festive market with costumes and seasonal treats. A wonderful way to enjoy the harvest season right in the heart of the county.
Learn MoreNew Kent County Winery Harvest Events
CountywideFall is harvest season in Virginia wine country, and New Kent County's wineries roll out special events through September and October. New Kent Winery typically hosts grape stomping and harvest celebrations, with live music on weekends. Saude Creek Vineyards in Lanexa offers fall foliage views of the Pamunkey River that are spectacular in late October. Jolene Family Winery in Quinton continues its lakeside tastings and live music through the fall, and the changing leaves reflecting on the 18-acre lake are a sight worth seeing. Gauthier Vineyard in Barhamsville continues its live music series through the autumn months. Check each winery's calendar for specific harvest events and fall hours, which can shift as the season progresses.
Food Truck Palooza
QuintonFriday, September 19, 2026, 5 PM – 8 PM. A monthly community food truck gathering in Quinton featuring a rotating lineup of local food vendors. Bring the family, grab dinner from a different truck, and enjoy the relaxed community atmosphere. A wonderful way to welcome fall with neighbors and support local small food businesses.
Learn MoreWhere Are the Best Places for Leaf Peeping Near New Kent?
You do not have to drive to the mountains for great fall foliage. New Kent County has its own leaf-peeping destinations that are spectacular in their own right, with the added bonus of being close to home.
Virginia Capital Trail
The 51.7-mile paved trail that runs right through New Kent County is one of the best places to see fall colors in eastern Virginia. The trail passes through forests, farmlands, and along the James River, with the canopy turning brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red from mid-October through early November. Biking or walking the trail in early morning during peak foliage is a magical experience. The section between New Kent and Charles City is especially scenic.
Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area
Over 5,200 acres of woodlands along the Chickahominy River near Lanexa. The hardwoods here put on a beautiful fall display, and the river reflections amplify the colors. Open dawn to dusk for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The trails are quiet, the crowds are minimal, and the autumn light filtering through the trees is worth the trip.
Crawfords State Forest
A 258-acre state forest in New Kent County with walking paths and forest roads. The oak-hickory forest canopy turns reliably in late October, and the quiet setting makes it a peaceful place for a fall afternoon walk. A State Forest Use Permit is required for anyone 16 and up.
Winery Views
All of New Kent County's wineries offer spectacular fall views. Saude Creek Vineyards overlooks the Pamunkey River from a hillside that catches the afternoon light beautifully. New Kent Winery's grounds are surrounded by mature trees. And Jolene Family Winery's 18-acre lake reflects the changing leaves like a mirror. Plan a weekend tasting in late October for the best foliage.
Deeper Guide
Fall Foliage & Leaf Peeping Near New Kent County
York River State Park river bluffs, Chickahominy WMA, the Route 5 byway, James River Park, and when peak color arrives.
What Other Fall Family Activities Are Near New Kent?
Corn Mazes & Hayrides
Belvedere Plantation's 8-acre corn maze is the largest near New Kent, with a new theme each year. Liberty Mills Farm has a 10-acre maze that is a challenge for all ages. Both offer hayrides through the farm and pumpkin patches. Liberty Mills also offers a flashlight maze on select October nights for an adventurous twist. For a closer option, check if Holly Fork Farm adds a corn maze in the fall — their fall lineup changes year to year.
Halloween Events & Trunk-or-Treats
New Kent County and surrounding communities host Halloween events in late October. The New Kent Farmers Market's October 31 fall market doubles as a Halloween celebration. Local churches and community centers around Quinton and Providence Forge typically host trunk-or-treat events. Colonial Downs sometimes runs a Halloween-themed race day. Check the county events calendar and local community boards in October for the full lineup.
Fall Golf
Fall is the best season for golf in New Kent County. The summer heat breaks, the courses are in peak condition, and the foliage along the fairways at Viniterra, Royal New Kent, and Brickshire is stunning. October is the prime month — book a tee time in the afternoon when the light is golden and the temperatures are in the 60s. Twilight rates make it an affordable afternoon outing.
