A glorious fall adventure awaits in the Brandywine Valley
Follow our suggestions or choose your own path - and pumpkins!
Friday October 18 Check into cozy accommodations many of which offer special Longwood Gardens untimed tickets - more about that to come.
(Images from left to right) Inn at Whitewing Farm B&B, Kennett Farmers Market, The Kennett Creamery
Stop by Kennett’s Farmers Market located at 600 S. Broad St. in Kennett Square, just up the street from The Creamery of Kennett Square. The Creamery a unique community gathering space to enjoy food, beverages, and lots of fun. The market opens at 3pm and runs until 6pm. The Creamery opens at 4pm – enjoy cocktails around a fire-pit and delicious local fare. Did we mention to bring a cooler – to those guest driving in? You’ll want to fill up on regional specialties that may require storing.
Chadds Ford Pumpkin Carve
Tonight, it’s off to The Great Pumpkin Carve at Chadds Ford Historical Society. This three -day annual tradition takes place October 17-19, 2024. Watch as over 70 local artists carve giant pumpkins. The pumpkins will be lit after the carving is completed and then displayed all three nights-Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Treat yourself to great food and fall treats offered by area eateries; enjoy live music, craft breweries and wineries, and a haunted trail.
Saturday October 19 Today is all about artisans, apples, wine and the most glorious garden imaginable.
Start out this morning at Highland Orchards where fresh apple cider donuts are the perfect way to start the day! Plan a hayride and pick your own apples and the best pumpkins for carving or pie-making.
(Images from left to right) Highland Orchards, Artisan Exchange, West Chester Railroad, Chaddsford WInery's Adult Trick or Treat
Then it is off to explore West Chester's Artisan Exchange is a weekly treat for locals and visitors alike. A unique outdoor market Saturdays from 10am to 1pm where you can meet the makers: talented artisans- think fresh roasted coffee (enjoy a complimentary cup as you stroll); local honey; hand-poured soy candles; artisan spirits (gin, bourbon, vodka and custom cocktail blends); seafood, soul food and an array of international delights. Out of towners are encouraged to bring a cooler!
Take a 90-minute train ride through the glorious countryside on West Chester Railroad’s Fall Foliage Express. Book rides at noon or 2pm. PS – if you don’t catch the train today, they run on Sunday as well.
Stop by Chaddsford Winery for some Trick or Treating for grown ups! Adult Trick or Treat is such seasonal fun - visit five Halloween- themed pairing stations. The program takes about 45 minutes and includes a keepsake Halloween wine glass.
(Images from Longwood gardens)
Tonight, revel in the splendor of Longwood Gardens. Don’t miss the final fountain performances - tonight's is new for 2024, "Take Me with U" Artists inspired by Prince as well as his own songs - party like it's 1999!
Book accommodations that include untimed tickets to Longwood Gardens here.
Sunday October 20
Enjoy brunch in Kennett Square – the Mushroom Capital of the World! The region produces over 60% of the nation’s crop, hence the title,
so a visit to The Mushroom Cap and The Woodlands at Phillips is a must.
(Images from left to right) Mushroom Cap, Woodland at Phillips, The Clover Market
Then shop til you drop with an amazing array of artisans and crafters at Hagley's Craft Fair. This yearly event brings together talented artisans from the mid-Atlantic featuring fine arts, crafts and gourmet items from leather, pottery jewelry, metals and more. Vendors are situated along the gorgeous property. Refreshments available from a variety of local food trucks.
It’s never too early to shop for special holiday gifts and Chester County's Brandywine Valley is the perfect place!
