October 3-11, 2026, Downtown Clarion
Autumn Leaf Festival
Experience the splendor of Autumn in a picturesque small town setting at one of Pennsylvania’s largest daytime festivals, running nine days in length, featuring its infamous Tournament of Leaves Parade, carnival, and hundreds of craft vendors ready for the holiday season.
A Must-Visit Event
Experience the splendor of autumn in a picturesque small town setting!
The Autumn Leaf Festival is a globally award-winning event and a staple of Clarion County, tracing its origins back to 1953.
It is one of the largest daytime festivals in Pennsylvania, attracting over half a million people each year. Held over nine days, the celebration features unique events such as the Tournament of Leaves Parade, a massive craft show and sale, an automotive light and sound competition, an antique tractor show, and cultural and community nights from Penn West Clarion University. Enjoy the stunning autumn colors while experiencing entertainment for all ages. Locals and visitors alike flock to this one-of-a-kind festival in the scenic Appalachian Mountains.
Clarion: The Autumn Leaf Capital
Famous for its nickname the “Autumn Leaf Capital,” the beautiful small town of Clarion in northwestern PA transforms each year into a kaleidoscope of golds, reds, and oranges that blanket the hillsides and line the charming streets and rivers.
Festival Highlights
This internationally award-winning festival is held over nine days every year. It offers a range of attractions, including sidewalk sales, a steinholding competition, a carnival with evening fireworks, and a crafters’ day featuring more than 250 vendors.
Festival Schedule Highlights
- Dates: October 3 – October 11, 2026
- Theme: “Liberty, Legacy & Leaves”
- Tournament of Leaves Parade: Saturday, October 10, 2026, starting at 12:00 PM (line-up begins at 10:00 AM; chair tickets are $5.00)
- Steinholding Competition: Saturday, October 10, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM
- Daily Activities: Expect craft vendors, a carnival with fireworks, food stands, and kids’ events hosted around downtown Clarion and Memorial Park
This event is organized by the Clarion Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Explore Fall Beyond the Festival
Clarion County stands out as a prime destination for autumn enthusiasts, offering scenic road trips and a host of local fall celebrations.
Families, couples, and travelers from all over gather here to experience this week-long celebration of autumn’s beauty and bounty, with everything from lively parades to arts and crafts, delicious seasonal foods, and vibrant community traditions.
