With summer winding down and the kids back in school, vacation season might be over. But the fun isn’t. Fall is the perfect time to take quick road trips that create lasting memories, and with three family-friendly festivals coming up this month, it’s sure to be a blast.
German Family Society Oktoberfest, Sept. 6-8
It’s all about authenticity at the German Family Society’s 46th Oktoberfest, where you’re warmly invited to come early, stay late and dance all day. Feast on German foods like schnitzel, cabbage roll, bratwurst and handmade pastries while enjoying German and domestic beer, and performances by youth dance groups, the Enzian Band, the Fred Ziwich band and more. “We don’t buy our sausage anywhere — we make our sausage," says Sandy Clark from the German Family Society. "We don’t buy our tortes anywhere — we make our tortes. It’s authentic from the minute you walk in.” 3871 Ranfield Road, Brimfield Twp., 330-678-8229, germanfamilysociety.com
Ohio Swiss Festival, Sept. 27 & 28
Head to the Little Switzerland of Ohio, home of the world’s largest cuckoo clock, for a weekend of Swiss dress, live polka music, unbeatable apple fritters and endless Swiss fun. A Sugarcreek staple since 1953, the festival features can’t-miss traditions like the Swiss cheese auction, the 5K and 10K Cheese Chases, wrestling, Steinstossen (competitive rock throwing) and a yodeling contest. Newer additions include wine and cheese tasting and a craft beer tent. “Sixty-seven festivals later, we’re still celebrating the cheese-making in our area and the entertainment that goes with it,” says Ohio Swiss Festival president Scott Gerber. Downtown Sugarcreek, 330-852-4113, ohioswissfestival.com
Ramseyer Farms Fall Fun, Sept. 3-Oct. 31
A new family tradition is waiting for you at Ramseyer Farms. Test your Ohio knowledge or go on a Hakuna Matata-themed adventure in the two eight-acre corn mazes — with a shorter option for families with young children. The 45 different activities include slides, corn barns, a hayride, you-pick pumpkins, miniature horses, chickens, bunnies, pigs, goats and a calf. And don’t miss the Sunflower Festivals on Sept. 7 and 14. “We’re all about bringing families and friends together to make these lasting memories here on the farm,” says operations manager Jenna Ramseyer. “We have things for all ages to enjoy.” 4000 Ramseyer Lane, Wooster, 330-264-0264, ramseyerfarms.com