Harvest Season on the Trace: Agritourism Stops You Can’t Miss This Fall

Fall along the Natchez Trace Parkway isn’t just about the scenic drive framed by fiery reds, oranges, and golds. It’s also harvest season, a time when farms, pumpkin patches, and seasonal markets welcome travelers to enjoy the flavors and traditions of autumn. From fresh produce and handmade goods to lively fall festivals, the Trace offers endless ways to connect with local agriculture and small-town charm.

Seasonal Markets and Farm Stands

One of the best ways to experience autumn along the Parkway is by visiting farmers’ markets. Bursting with seasonal flavors, baked goods, and artisan crafts, these markets are the perfect place to stock up on road trip snacks or unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of fall in the South.

Top Farmers Markets Along the Natchez Trace Parkway:

• Mississippi Markets
  • Natchez Farmers Market, Natchez: This market overlooks the Mississippi River and brings together local growers, bakers, and artisans.
  • Tishomingo County Farmers Market, Iuka: A vibrant gathering that has become a centerpiece for Iuka’s fall community life.
• Alabama Markets
  • Colbert County Farmers Market, Sheffield: Serves as both a place to shop and a place to connect, giving visitors a chance to meet the people behind the food, learning about the growing and harvest process, and support small farms.
  • Florence-Lauderdale Farmers Market, Florence: Run by the Lauderdale County Commission ( in partnership with the city of Florence) and showcases the best of what local farmers provide.
• Tennessee Markets
  • Coach’s Corner Farmers Market, Hohenwald: The name “Coach’s Corner” honors Coach Eugen Grinder, who managed the park for many years, and the market has become a hub for local growers, artisans, and neighbors to come together.
  • Nashville Farmers Market, Nashville: A year-round marketplace provides retail space to farmers, artisans, and small businesses.

Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals

Nothing says autumn like pumpkin patches and family-friendly festivals. Along the Natchez Trace Parkway, you’ll find patches where visitors can pick the perfect pumpkin and enjoy activities like hayrides, corn mazes, farm games, and seasonal treats such as caramel apples and kettle corn.

Pumpkin Patches and Festivals to Explore:

• Mississippi
  • 2025 Pumpkin Adventure, Jackson: Your adventure includes a hayride around the Ag museum and a fun fall treat. There is also a pumpkin patch that visitors can stop by on the way out to find their perfect pumpkin.
• Alabama
  • Carver’s Creepy Crawly Halloween Fest, Florence: Experience 16 acts spread across 3 stages at CCC’s Halloween Fest. Friday, Oct. 24, will be completely free with artists on 2 stages, a Halloween market, and more. On Saturday, Oct. 25, visitors must have a ticket to watch the artists and will have an after-party with a DJ.
• Tennessee
  • Gentry Farms, Franklin: A visit to Gentry Farms is the perfect way to get in the fall spirit. Activities include a farm arcade, mini-farm putt-putt, meeting animals, different types of mazes, and so much more.

More Agritourism Events Along the Trace

Beyond markets and pumpkin patches, fall along the Trace offers unique community events that celebrate both agriculture and local culture.

Don’t miss these additional fall experiences:

• Mississippi
  • Howl-o-ween at the Bark Park, Clinton: Dog-lovers are invited to dress up their dogs and themselves in their best Halloween costumes. There will be a customer contest that has 4 categories, as well as a doggie trick-or-treat.
• Alabama
  • Haunted History or Florence Ghost Walk, Florence: An annual tradition guiding you through the eerie streets of downtown Florence, where you’ll learn about the spooky tales of the city’s haunted past. The ghost walk is a great way to get in the Halloween spirit.
• Tennessee
  • Fall Festival at Oak Grove Lavender Farm, Hohenwald: Celebrate the fall season at Oak Grove Lavender Farm’s fall festival, where you can shop with artisan vendors, enjoy seasonal eats, visit a mini pumpkin patch, compete in a community bake-off, and listen to live music.

 Plan Your Harvest Adventure

This fall, let the Natchez Trace Parkway guide you to farms, festivals, and markets where the season’s best flavors and traditions come alive. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect pumpkin, savoring farm-fresh produce, or enjoying live music at a fall festival, the Parkway is brimming with agritourism experiences for every traveler.

Travel Tip: Each town along the Trace has its own seasonal events, so be sure to explore local calendars to make the most of your autumn road trip.