The first weekend of October in Lehigh Valley marks the unofficial kickoff of fall. Pumpkins, Oktoberfest tents, garlic treats, harvest fairs, and live music transform the region into a seasonal hub for families and visitors. From Bethlehem’s beer gardens to Easton’s garlic-filled streets and Breinigsville’s farm outings, there is something for every taste and age group.

Big crowds, food vendors, walking paths, and festival setups can also present risks such as slips or trips. Let’s look at the best fall happenings in Lehigh Valley from October 3–5, 2025 — ideal for families, foodies, and fest-goers alike.

Quick Events Snapshot: What’s On Oct 3 Weekend

The biggest draw is Oktoberfest at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, October 3–5. This free festival features authentic German food, beer tents, live music, and dachshund races alongside artisan vendors. In Downtown Easton, Easton Garlic Fest takes over Centre Square with garlic-themed food, crafts, chef demos, and kid-friendly programming on October 3–5.

For a seasonal farm outing, Grim’s Orchard & Family Farms continues its weekend Fall Festival with hayrides, pumpkin picking, cider donuts, and family activities. Wine lovers may also enjoy the Lehigh Valley Zoo Fall Wine Festival, adding a more adult-focused option to the mix.

Spotlight: Bethlehem Oktoberfest at SteelStacks

Bethlehem’s Oktoberfest at SteelStacks is one of the region’s signature fall events, presented by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE). The festival runs from October 3–12, with the opening weekend set for October 3–5.

Festival hours: Friday (5–10 p.m.), Saturday (12–10 p.m.), and Sunday (12–6 p.m.).

What to expect:

  • German beer selections and Bavarian food such as bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel
  • Live bands across multiple stages with polka, folk, and party sets
  • Local artisans and a vendor marketplace
  • Fan favorites like dachshund races, stein-holding contests, and “Kong Pong” tournaments

Visitors should arrive early, especially Friday evening, and consider shuttle or public parking to avoid congestion. Planning stage visits in advance helps avoid missing must-see acts.

Easton Garlic Fest: A Savory Weekend

Easton Garlic Fest runs in Centre Square with a preview night on Friday, October 3 (4–8 p.m.) and full festival days on October 4 and 5 (10 a.m.–6 p.m.).

Festival highlights include garlic-themed food trucks and stands offering roasted garlic dishes, sauces, and even garlic ice cream. Artisan booths and local businesses line the streets with crafts and specialty items. Entertainment stages feature live music and chef demonstrations, while the “Little Stinkers’ Row” gives children their own section of age-appropriate activities.

Admission is free, rain or shine. Mapping your walking route ahead of time can help avoid bottlenecks. Expect food lines during midday peaks, so consider early or late visits for shorter waits.

Family & Farm Fun: Grim’s Orchard & Seasonal Picks

Grim’s Orchard & Family Farms in Breinigsville continues its weekend Fall Festival. Families can enjoy hayrides to the pumpkin patch, apple picking, pedal carts, farm animals, and seasonal treats like cider and donuts.

Arrive mid-morning to beat the heaviest crowds and wear sturdy shoes, as grass and mud are common on the farm. Bringing water, snacks, and time for photo stops makes for a smoother visit.

After farm fun, visitors can pair the trip with nearby park walks or nature trails to catch fall foliage. As a bonus, the Lehigh Valley Zoo occasionally hosts fall-themed events such as the Fall Wine Festival, appealing to adult audiences or mixed groups.

Food, Music, and Local Flavor Highlights

Food plays a starring role at all of these events. Oktoberfest offers hearty German beers and Bavarian classics like schnitzel, potato pancakes, and pretzels. Garlic Fest focuses on inventive garlic dishes and sauces, along with local produce and specialty items.

Music sets the tone across venues. Oktoberfest stages host folk and party bands, while Easton features entertainment that pairs well with its culinary programming.

After attending the main events, visitors can explore nearby restaurants in Bethlehem or Easton for seasonal menus, local breweries, or comfort food away from the crowds.

Practical Tips & Safety Guidance

Festival weekends draw large crowds, so preparation helps. Stick to designated walkways, watch for spilled drinks or food, and stay aware of tent stakes or cords around vendor areas. October weather can shift quickly. Layer clothing and pack umbrellas or rain jackets. Sunscreen is still helpful for sunny afternoons.

Stay hydrated and pace your eating and drinking throughout the day. If injured, document the scene with photos, gather witness information, report to staff, and keep tickets or receipts. Parking is often tight, so review shuttle services or public transit to save time and reduce stress.

Legal Angle: Role of Lehigh Valley Medical Malpractice Lawyers

While known for medical malpractice cases, our firm also handles personal injury and premises liability tied to public events. Festival organizers, property owners, and municipalities owe a duty of care to attendees.

Injuries from slips, trips, faulty setups, or poor supervision may justify claims. Preserving evidence, seeking immediate medical attention, and collecting documentation are essential first steps. We can evaluate potential negligence and guide you toward recovery or compensation. Acting early strengthens your case and ensures your rights are protected.

Conclusion

The weekend of October 3–5 in Lehigh Valley is packed with highlights. From Bethlehem’s lively Oktoberfest to Easton’s garlic-filled streets and farm outings at Grim’s Orchard, the region shines with autumn tradition. Food lovers, families, and festival fans will all find something to enjoy.

These celebrations bring joy but also the realities of big crowds and busy spaces. Staying alert and planning ahead ensures a safe and enjoyable visit. If you need legal help after an incident or want safety advice before attending, click here to contact Lehigh Valley Medical Malpractice Lawyers for support and guidance.