Sep 15, 2025
Painted Pumpkins

Fall in North Carolina is something special — and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by attending one of the region’s most beloved events: the Autumn Jubilee at Dan Nicholas Park in Salisbury. Each October, thousands gather to enjoy the crisp air, colorful leaves, and vibrant community spirit that make this annual tradition a must-visit.

Whether you’re a local or visiting from nearby cities like Mooresville or Lake Norman, this is the perfect fall outing. With live music, artisan vendors, family-friendly activities, and some of the best food trucks around, the Autumn Jubilee offers something for everyone. And of course, getting there is half the fun — especially when you’ve got the comfort and reliability of a Honda Lake Norman or Honda Mooresville NC model to take you there.

What Makes the Autumn Jubilee So Popular?

Hosted at the scenic and spacious Dan Nicholas Park, the Autumn Jubilee has become a hallmark of the season in Rowan County. It will be during the first weekend in October (October 4 & 5, 2025). Parking and admission are free, and the schedule is packed with entertainment, shopping, and family fun.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Dozens of local vendors offering handmade crafts, seasonal décor, home goods, and gifts.
  • Live musical performances from regional bands.
  • Food trucks and concessions serving up Southern favorites, sweet treats, and fall specialties. 
  • Kid-friendly activities including a bubble circus, face-painting and kid-centric performances from magicians and jugglers.
  • Access to Dan Nicholas Park amenities.

It’s a great chance to support small businesses, soak up the season, and make unforgettable memories with your family or friends.

Getting There in Your Honda

If you’re coming from Mooresville, Lake Norman, or surrounding areas, the drive into Salisbury is both quick and scenic. With fall foliage at its peak, it’s the ideal time to enjoy the ride.

A Honda Lake Norman SUV like the CR-V or Passport gives you ample space for crafts, purchases, and passengers, while still delivering the efficiency and comfort you want on a longer drive. If you’re driving a Honda Mooresville NC sedan like the Accord or Civic, you’ll appreciate the smooth handling and top-tier fuel economy that makes festival-hopping more enjoyable and cost-effective.

Plus, many new Honda models offer features like heated seats, smartphone connectivity, and advanced safety systems — all of which come in handy for day trips like this one.

Tips to Make the Most of the Festival

Planning ahead can help you make the most of your Autumn Jubilee experience. Here are a few helpful tips:

  • Arrive early: Parking is available on-site but tends to fill up quickly, especially mid-morning. There will be shuttles available from the accessible parking lots, too.
  • Bring cash: While many vendors accept cards, some may be cash-only.
  • Dress in layers: Mornings can be chilly, but temperatures warm up in the afternoon.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: Dan Nicholas Park is large, and you’ll likely do a lot of walking.
  • Pack a tote or collapsible cart: You’ll probably leave with more than you planned!

Celebrate the Season with Honda of Salisbury

At Honda of Salisbury, we love being part of a community that knows how to celebrate — and the Autumn Jubilee is a perfect example. It’s events like these that make our region such a great place to live, drive, and explore.

Whether you’re loading up for the weekend in a spacious SUV or taking a fuel-efficient ride from Mooresville to Salisbury, your Honda is the perfect festival companion. From Honda Lake Norman road-trippers to Honda Mooresville NC locals, everyone’s invited to enjoy the season — and we hope to see you out there this October!