When temperatures begin to cool, leaves change colors, and fall arrives once more, it’s the ideal time of year to plan a well-deserved trip to scenic Big Bear, California. Whether you’re someone who loves admiring fall foliage, can’t wait to sip a pumpkin spice latte in between shopping stops, or has a heart for wildlife watching, Big Bear is a place that promises to impress. The following are a few of the many top things to do in Big Bear in the fall to add to your itinerary when travel plans bring you this way in the autumn.
Participate in the 2024 Bear Crawl in The Village
When you’re a fall traveler heading to Big Bear with a passion for a great brew and you want to sip your way through a stay for a good cause too, the annual Bear Craw in The Village is a must. This annual event will bring locals and visitors alike together on October 5 between 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm to enjoy an afternoon and evening of delicious drinks at top local stops as well as plenty of bonding and fun. Top destinations on the lineup for the crawl this year include Stella Luna and Session Retreat but there will be 10 stops in total to look forward to checking out. The last stop on the list is the Village Sports Bar where participants can linger to enjoy a bear costume contest and live music. Tickets to participate in the Bear Crawl in The Village are $50 each and proceeds go towards supporting the Big Bear Alpine Zoo as well as the Grace’s Place Foundation. That’s something everyone can feel good about!
Take Part in Big Bear Lakefest
If your travel plans bring you to Big Bear earlier in the fall and your itinerary corresponds with Labor Day Weekend, you can be a part of the Big Bear Lakefest that’s sure to thrill! This annual local event is hosted from August 30, 2024, through September 2, 2024, and will once again be held at the Swim Beach at 41218 Park Avenue. Big Bear Lakefest is a fantastic way to kick off fall with a weekend of events and activities to enjoy alongside family and friends. There are paddle and swim races built into the festival agenda as well as a beer garden to enjoy, live musical entertainment, and a film festival to attend as well. Whether you drop by for a day or stick around all weekend long, it might just end up being the highlight of your fall getaway.
Watch or Participate in the Grizzly 100 & MTB Gran Fondo
On October 5, 2024, those heading to Big Bear with a passion for endurance racing in place will find they can easily add the Grizzly 100 & MTB Grand Fondo to their list! This race highlights some of Southern California’s most iconic single tracks that run through the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains. Attending the event is a chance to enjoy a National Ultra Endurance Race course experience which draws in championship mountain bikers from across the globe. In total, there are four routes for competitors to pick from that are designed to suit varying skill levels. Whether you spectate or participate, this race is one that’s sure to thrill.
Try the Pumpkin Smash at Action Zipline
Those who are looking for unique routes to relishing a fall getaway to Big Bear will find one-of-a-kind options over at Zipline Action Adventures in town. No matter when you drop by this adventure center in Big Bear, you’ll find adrenaline-pumping moments aren’t hard to access but in autumn, the fun takes a turn for the seasonally themed with the arrival of the pumpkin smash option built into your ziplining adventures. Zipline Action Adventures typically offers this unique experience on Saturdays in October for a few hours each afternoon. It’s an opportunity for visitors to grab a helmet and hit the ziplines with a pumpkin in hand that they can then attempt to strategically toss at targets below and possibly win prizes for their success. If you and your traveling crew think you have the skills it takes to hit the target, this is a challenge you’ll want to be sure to try while zipping through the tree tops this fall.
Be Sure to Add Oktoberfest to the Itinerary
A must-attend fall event in Big Bear each year is always the highly anticipated Oktoberfest experience. This is a chance to grab your lederhosen and dirndls and celebrate all things German culture in good company. Oktoberfest in Big Bear runs for nine weekends between September and November and is hosted at the Big Bear Convention Center on Big Bear Boulevard. Attendees can count on enjoying great German food, beer, music, dance, and apparel no matter what weekend they choose to participate.
Book Your Stay in Big Bear Today
When travel plans bring you to Big Bear, the team at Big Bear Vacations is happy to help you find an ideal home-away-from-home to enjoy while you’re here. Reach out today to learn more about our luxurious and comfortable Big Bear family vacation rentals available including our fall rental selections that will take your trip to the next level of excellence with every booking!
