SCALLOP SEASON IS OVER - BUT THESE 7 FALL FESTIVALS ARE JUST GETTING STARTED! | Discover Crystal River

SCALLOP SEASON IS OVER - BUT THESE 7 FALL FESTIVALS ARE JUST GETTING STARTED!

Your Ultimate Guide to Citrus County's Autumn Events

Fall is here, and Citrus County is ready with cooler weather, small-town charm, and authentic Old-Florida style for your perfect autumn escape. Throughout the area, the upcoming months bring vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, and family fun. Browse the latest schedule on upcoming Events in Crystal River and Citrus County or explore our extensive list of the season’s highlights below that you simply can’t afford to miss.




New This Year!

Rocktoberfest

* When: Oct. 3, 2026 from 5pm to 9pm
* Where: Crystal River Town Square, 559 N Citrus Avenue

This Fall we start things off with a free concert in Town Square to celebrate Rocktoberfest. Award winning Jasmine Cain will be performing her music during this event featuring great food, cold drinks and good times. Bring your lawn chairs and come and enjoy the Downtown festivities. Check City of Crystal River website for details.



    Cootertober

    * When: October, 2026 – All month long

    * Where: Various locations throughout Downtown Inverness

    Named after the local cooter turtle found in nearby lakes, Inverness’s month-long October celebration features concerts, festivals, markets, family activities, and seasonally themed events held throughout the city. The celebration highlights local culture, businesses, and community while offering a full calendar of fun throughout the month. For the latest information check the Cootertober website.




    Crystal River Scarecrow Fest


    * When:     Oct. 10, 2026 from 10am to 3pm
    * Where:     Downtown Crystal River

    The Fall season gets into full swing with the Crystal River Scarecrow Fest! Start your day in Heritage Village with a variety of fun including costumes, games, live music, vendors, food and free activities for the kids. Stick around for another fantastic Crystal River Nights Concert Series in Town Square from 5pm to 9pm featuring the Rick Lynn Band. For additional information check Scarecrow Fest 2026.

    The Big Weekend: November 7–8, 2026


    The first full weekend in November leaves very little free time. With three major events happening at once, use this suggested itinerary to see it all:


    Start your Saturday Morning watching the races at the Dragon Boat Festival in Hernando. With about a half-hour drive to Crystal River, you can enjoy fresh seafood at the Stone Crab Jam. A great night’s sleep here in town gets you ready for Sunday, where you can stroll the booths at the Inverness Festival of the Arts.


    Hernando Dragon Boat Festival


    * When:     Nov. 7, 2026 from 8am to 5pm
    * Where:     Lake Hernando Park, 3699 E Orange Drive

    Affectionately dubbed “The Beast of the Southeast,” one of the largest dragon boat festivals in the United States draws more than 5,000 people to scenic Lake Hernando. As one of the largest International Dragon Boat Festivals, teams compete in thrilling 300-meter races throughout the day while on shore, festivalgoers enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with local food vendors, artisan booths, live music, and cultural performances. The event benefits local community initiatives and charities, including the Citrus County Education Foundation. Visit the Lake Hernando Dragon Boat Festival website for more information about this can’t-miss event.



    Inverness Festival of the Arts


    * When:     Nov. 7-8, 2026 from 10am to 4pm
    * Where:     Downtown Inverness

    The Inverness Festival of the Arts has been one of Central Florida’s premier juried art shows since 1971 and is celebrated for its commitment to showcasing artistic excellence and creativity. The event will feature a wide variety of talented artists and craftspeople from across the country. The festival promises two days filled with engaging live performances, interactive exhibits, and artist demonstrations that will bring the world of art and craft to life right in the heart of Downtown Inverness. For more information visit: Inverness Festival of the Arts



    Stone Crab Jam Music Festival


    * When:     Nov. 7, 2026 from 12pm to 9pm
    * Where:     Downtown Crystal River

    One of the most anticipated events of the year, the 19th annual Stone Crab Jam Music Festival is an open street event featuring three stages for live music throughout the streets of downtown Crystal River. Fresh stone crab served by local restaurants, continuous music on multiple stages, craft beer and wine, food trucks and a variety of artisan vendors. This event is presented by the Kings Bay Rotary Club and proceeds go to area charities and food banks. Visit Stone Crab Jam Music Festival for discount tickets and more information.



    Homosassa Arts, Crafts & Seafood Festival


    When:     Nov. 14-15, 2026 from 9am to 5pm Saturday – 9am to 4pm Sunday
    Where:     Homosassa Civic Club, 5530 S Mason Creek Road

    The 51st annual festival is back for two days of eclectic art, live entertainment, juried art shows, true crafts, delicious local seafood, raffles, an interactive Kid Zone, and more. Stroll the booths for a close-up view of original paintings, handcrafted wood, and jewelry. Just a $5 donation is requested to enjoy the festival. Proceeds benefit organizations supported by the Homosassa Civic Club. Visit the Homosassa Arts, Crafts, & Seafood Festival website for more information.

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    Author

    Michael Corcoran
    Visitor Services Representative