Looking for the best fall events in Calaveras County? Think golden leaves, historic Gold Rush towns, vineyard views, live music, small-town festivals, spooky season fun, and plenty of reasons to make a weekend of it. From the legendary Calaveras Grape Stomp in Murphys to Lumberjack Day in West Point and the colorful Dia de los Muertos celebration, autumn in Calaveras County is packed with experiences you won’t want to miss.
Located in California’s Sierra foothills, Calaveras County offers a fall getaway that feels a world away without going too far. Whether you’re planning a family road trip, a couples’ escape, a girls’ weekend, or simply looking for things to do in Calaveras this fall, here’s your guide to making the most of the season.
Get Your Feet Dirty at the Calaveras Grape Stomp
Murphys | October 3, 2026
If you only put one fall event on your Calaveras itinerary, make it the Calaveras Grape Stomp.
Every October, teams of two compete to see who can stomp the most juice from a barrel of grapes. And yes, it gets messy. The 2026 Grape Stomp takes place Saturday, October 3, at Murphys Community Park, with the competition running alongside the Gold Rush Street Faire. The event celebrates the annual wine grape harvest and has been a Calaveras tradition since 1993.
Expect:
- Competitive grape stomping
- Calaveras wine
- Live entertainment
- Local arts and crafts
- Food vendors
- Family-friendly fun
- Plenty of friendly competition
The Grape Stomp is also more than just a quirky fall festival. Proceeds from the event’s auction support local community organizations and high school scholarships. Pro tip: If you’re planning to stay overnight, book early! Popular Calaveras events can fill local lodging quickly!! Murphys Suites (modern, comfortable), The Murphys Historic Hotel (LOTS of history with modern amenities), and The Victoria Inn (adorable B&B with clawfoot tubs & well-appointed rooms) are all an easy 1/2 mile walk to the event.
Lumberjack Day: Where the Chainsaws Meet Small-Town Charm
West Point | October 3, 2026
Ready for something completely different?
Head to West Point for Lumberjack Day, an annual celebration of Calaveras County’s logging and timber heritage.
The 2026 event is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Main Street and Spink Roads. This is classic small-town California at its best, with:
- Lumberjack competitions
- A lively parade
- Live music
- Local food
- Arts and crafts
- Local vendors
- Family activities
Get Your Witchy On at the Murphys Gathering
Murphys | October 17, 2026
Not ready to let spooky season go? Good—because Murphys has you covered.
The Murphys Gathering returns with a day of witchy, whimsical fun throughout the historic town. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the theme and show up in their best magical, mystical, or Halloween-inspired looks. Local tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops participate with special activities, entertainment, vendors, food, and merchandise. Think of it as fall in Calaveras with a little extra magic, so grab your favorite people, put together a look, and turn a day of wine tasting and shopping into a full-on autumn adventure. Be sure to visit the Murphys Mystical Emporium and their Enchanted Cauldron for magical goods and extensive loose-leaf tea selections!
Step Into Another World at All Hallows Faire
Angels Camp | October 24–25, 2026
If your ideal fall weekend involves costumes, live music, medieval vibes, magic, and a little mischief, All Hallows Faire is calling your name. The 2026 festival takes place October 24–25 at the Calaveras Fairgrounds in Angels Camp. The event features live music, themed entertainment, village characters, medieval-style games, performers, shopping, food, and more. It’s not your typical Halloween event. Instead, it creates an immersive festival atmosphere inspired by ancient traditions and historical fantasy. Plus, costumes are STRONGLY encouraged!
Chase the Sunset to Cougar Rock on the Arnold Rim Trail
Arnold, CA | October 24, 2026
Experience one of the most memorable hiking adventures in the Arnold and Calaveras County area with the Arnold Rim Trail Association’s Cougar Rock Full Moon Sunset Hike. This intermediate 4.86-mile hike features 860 feet of elevation gain and leads hikers to Cougar Rock for spectacular sunset views over the Sierra Nevada and surrounding Stanislaus National Forest. Held on weekends near the full moon, these guided Arnold Rim Trail hikes offer visitors and locals a special way to experience the beauty of the California Gold Country after dark. Hikers should be prepared for an approximately 2½-hour adventure, with frequent rest stops and a return hike in the dark. Participants should bring water, a snack, layers, bug repellent, and a headlamp or flashlight. The October 24, 2026 hike departs promptly at 3:50 PM, with arrival requested by 3:35 PM.
Celebrate Life at Murphys Dia de los Muertos
Murphys | November 7, 2026
Fall takes on a deeper meaning in Murphys, California with the annual Dia de los Muertos celebration. This beautiful and meaningful celebration honors the lives and memories of loved ones who have passed. Set in the historic heart along the creekside Murphys Community Park of California’s Gold Country, this cherished tradition brings together community, culture, art, music, and remembrance in a welcoming and respectful atmosphere. Visitors to Murphys can experience the beauty of Día de los Muertos through colorful altars, traditional decorations, local gatherings, and heartfelt tributes that celebrate life while honoring those who came before. More than a festival, Día de los Muertos offers an opportunity to learn about Mexican traditions, reflect on family and heritage, and experience the warmth and spirit of the Murphys community.
Don’t Just Go to an Event – Go See the Fall Colors
Here’s the secret: the events are only part of the reason to visit Calaveras in autumn. Between festivals, make time to explore the scenery. Calaveras County is home to mountain landscapes, wide open spaces, historic Gold Rush communities, vineyards, forests, and Calaveras Big Trees State Park, making it an ideal destination for a fall road trip. Take a scenic drive over the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway to see the colors before winter sets in. Pack your camera. Stop for lunch at the dog & family-friendly (not to mention HISTORIC!) Lube Room in Dorrington for an amazing burger and homemade chips. Wander through a tasting room in downtown Murphys. Explore the Arnold Rim Trail. Or simply find a beautiful overlook and enjoy the season.
Whether you’re chasing fall colors, grape-stomping glory, lumberjack competitions, spooky season energy, cultural celebrations, wine tasting, or just a great excuse to get out of town, Calaveras County delivers.
And the best part? You don’t have to choose just one experience. Come for the events. Stay for the scenery. Fall in love with Calaveras.
