Ready to dive into the vibrant beauty of fall and enjoy a fun-filled family event? The 44th Annual Autumn Jubilee at Dan Nicholas Park is the perfect destination! This beloved festival celebrates everything autumn, offering a wide range of activities, mouthwatering food, live entertainment, and more. In this guide, you'll find all the key details to help you make the most of your visit to this unforgettable autumn experience.
44th Annual Autumn Jubilee
Dan Nicholas Park
October 4 & 5, 2025
10 A.M. - 5 P.M.
What to Expect at this Year's Autumn Jubilee
Craft Vendors & Shopping
One of the biggest draws of Autumn Jubilee is the wide array of craft vendors. Over 125 artisans from around the region showcase and sell their handmade goods. This is the perfect place to find unique gifts, home décor, and seasonal items. From handcrafted wreaths and woodworking to candles, body care, and sublimated pieces, you’ll discover something special to take home.
Food & Drinks
No festival is complete without delicious food, and Autumn Jubilee delivers with a variety of food trucks and drink booths located near the playground parking lot. Whether you’re craving fair classics like funnel cakes and kettle corn or savory bites like BBQ and sandwiches, you’ll have no shortage of options to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Live Entertainment
Enjoy live performances on the main stage throughout the day. The lineup features local bands, entertainers, and special acts. From bluegrass to rock, there’s music for everyone. See the main stage performance schedule below.
Saturday, October 4
Black Pearl | 11:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.
Darrell Harwood | 2:15 P.M. - 4:15 P.M.
Sunday, October 5
Rivermist | 11:30 A.M. - 1:30 P.M.
The Tonez | 2:15 P.M. - 4:15 P.M.
But that’s not all - keep an eye out for special guests and strolling performers throughout the festival, including:
-
Deane Arnold, award-winning pumpkin artist
-
Sandsational Sand Sculpting
-
Interactive Theater of Jef
-
Jugglers Pete Bogle & Jamie Williford
-
Soap Bubble Circus
Kids Zone
Autumn Jubilee is a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for the little ones. The Kids Zone features live shows and interactive fun:
- The Kazoobie Kazoo Show (includes FREE kazoos!)
-
Saturday & Sunday | 12:00 P.M., 2:00 P.M., 4:00 P.M.
-
- Rob Westcott the Magician
-
Saturday & Sunday | 11:15 A.M., 1:15 P.M., 3:15 P.M.
-
Plus, the park’s regular attractions - like the carousel, gem mine, and nature center - are also open during the festival.
Parking & Accessibility
Parking is free, but with the large turnout expected, you might want to arrive early. Shuttle services are available from on site parking lots to make it easier to access the event.
Tips for Your Visit:
-
Admission is free for all visitors.
-
Bring cash - many vendors may not accept cards due to limited Wi-Fi. ATMs will be available.
-
No pets allowed, except service animals.
-
Dan Nicholas Park is a tobacco-free and alcohol-free park.
-
The festival is held rain or shine, unless Rowan County Emergency Services directs cancellation due to severe weather.
-
Expect large crowds - approximately 20,000 people attend this popular event each year.
While you’re at Autumn Jubilee, take some time to enjoy the park’s other attractions, including hiking trails, a petting zoo, and paddle boats. The park itself is a gem in Rowan County, offering year-round activities for all ages.
Click the image below to check out our Instagram Reel to catch a glimpse
of what to expect at this year's Autumn Jubilee!
Book Your Stay for Autumn Jubilee
Make the most of your Autumn Jubilee weekend by turning it into a getaway! When you book an overnight stay in Rowan County, you’ll receive a VISA e-Gift Card - the perfect way to earn 50% of your stay back while enjoying all the fall festivities. Use the widget below to book your autumn stay and save!