Manchester’s First Annual Harvest Day!

Happy Harvest, Friends! By now, you’ve seen that my love for all things Fall runs very deep, but I suspect many of you are right here with me. This past holiday weekend, our region hosted so many folks leaf peeping, pumpkin picking, and sipping hot apple cider. Everywhere I went, I saw people snapping photos of beautiful scenery and loved ones in front of gorgeous, autumnal displays. The happiness in the air was truly infectious. 

Photos courtesy of the Manchester Business Association

I’m particularly excited today because this weekend, on Saturday, October 18 from 2pm to 5pm, is Manchester’s First Annual Harvest Day celebration! This much-anticipated event is proudly presented by Heritage Family Credit Union in partnership with the Manchester Business Association (MBA). October 18 also marks the reveal of the Pumpkin Carving Contest winners! The Fall Harvest Decorating Contest is still happening, too, with voting available through October 19. Don’t forget to cast your own vote, and then stay tuned for the crowning of the Fall Harvest Decorating Champion!

I want to give a gigantic shout out to MBA’s Executive Director, John Burnham, and MBA’s new Events Manager, Valeria “Val” Ryan, for all the hard work they’ve put in to bring Manchester’s inaugural Harvest Day to fruition. They have worked together and with MBA member businesses, like Heritage Family Credit Union, and nonprofits, like the Northshire Day School, to create a lovely day for our community. The MBA is committed to bringing more seasonal events to the area, in addition to those we’ve all come to look forward to every year, from the Sidewalk Sales in August to all the jolly happenings during the Manchester Merriment season, and more.

I can’t wait to see what new and exciting events come to our area as a result of the MBA’s passion and dedication. Thank you to John, Val, the MBA Board, and all MBA member businesses and organizations for contributing to our community in such an impactful way.

Family Footwear Center’s Fall Harvest display

Here is the full press release from the Manchester Business Association:

Celebrate Fall in Manchester, Vermont – A Season of Community, Creativity & Fun!

Autumn in Manchester is a season like no other — with crisp mountain air, vibrant foliage, and a strong sense of community spirit. This fall, both locals and visitors are invited to enjoy a lineup of festive, family-friendly events that highlight everything we love about this special time of year.

Fall Harvest Decorating Contest: October 6 – 18

A cherished Manchester tradition returns! Presented by the Manchester Business Association, local businesses will showcase their creativity by decorating storefronts and windows with festive fall flair. It’s a friendly competition—and you get to be the judge! Take a stroll through town, admire the displays, and vote for your favorites here.

NEW in 2025! First Annual Harvest Day:  Saturday, October 18 | 2 pm to 5pm

We're excited to announce Harvest Day, a brand-new community celebration proudly presented by Heritage Family Credit Union in partnership with the Manchester Business Association. Join us for a fun-filled event featuring:

• Live Music

• Games & Family-Friendly Activities

• Crafts and Seasonal Treats

• Community Booths

Join us on Factory Point Green, in the heart of Manchester, VT, for a fun-filled afternoon and be sure to stick around to see all the pumpkins on display from our annual Pumpkin Carving Contest!

Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest

Unleash your inner artist! The Manchester Business Association’s beloved Pumpkin Carving Contest invites participants of all ages from across the region to showcase their most creative, spooky, or whimsical jack-o’-lanterns. Prizes donated by local businesses will be awarded across multiple age groups and design categories. Winners will be announced following the evening of Harvest Day.

Full contest details are available here. 

Bring your family, invite your friends, and help us celebrate the season in the heart of Manchester. For a full schedule of fall events, scenic spots, and more, visit:

manchestervermont.com/fall-harvest-fun

All photos courtesy of the Manchester Business Association