Fall is officially here and Western Maryland is kicking off the season in style. This week is the start of Autumn Glory, the annual fall celebration in Deep Creek, taking place from October 9 – 13.
From children’s activities to early holiday shopping, the five-day fest offers something for the entire family. We know the best things to do and see in Deep Creek during the off season… here are our top five things to check out during the 52nd annual festival.
Join this year’s annual parade with thousands of visitors and the new grand marshal – Maryland’s favorite meteorologist Justin Berk! The parade – held on Saturday afternoon in downtown Oakland – features dancers, live entertainment, and plenty of parade floats. There are options for the kiddies too… face painting and children’s crafts will be available throughout the area.
Nothing says autumn more than a delicious turkey dinner. During this year’s festival, several restaurants, churches, and additional organizations are serving turkey dinners throughout the Deep Creek region. Maybe you’re interested in the Oakland Elks Lodge for a meal? Or maybe you’d rather visit Shooters Bar & Grill and eat your turkey dinner while you watch a game on TV? Either way, follow the turkey trial and see where it leads you!
With the colors changing throughout the region, now is the perfect time to go on a tour of the local fall foliage. Mountain Maryland and the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce have provided tour options for both the experienced and the novice leaf peeper. Grab a map inside the McHenry visitor center, hop in the car, and decide if you’d like to see the short tour or the extended fall driving tour with the family. Don’t forget to stop at one of the overpasses to really take in the sights!
Held at the Garrett County Fairgrounds, there are plenty of arts, crafts, and gifts available at the annual Autumn Glory festival. On both Saturday and Sunday, shoppers can explore the 60 artisans on display just in time for the start of the holiday shopping season. From pottery and woodcrafts to jewelry and knitted items, there’s something for everyone during the festival weekend.
Once you’ve seen everything the festival has to offer, it’s time to hit up one of our state’s largest tourist attractions. Now that summer is over and the weather has cooled, it’s the perfect time to check out the lake. Rent a pontoon boat or a kayak and get up close and personal with Maryland’s largest man-made lake. While you’re admiring the colorful leaves you’re bound to see tons of freshwater fish and unique birds that call Deep Creek home.
