For those that don’t mind driving, here’s a few. Hickory’s Oktoberfest, Oct. 12-14, 828-322-1121. Autumn Leaves Festival, Mt. Airy, Oct. 12-14, call 336-786-6116 ext. 5. Asheville Art in the Park, Oct. 6, 13, 20th, 10-6pm, 828-253-8304. Waynesville Art and Crafts Show, Oct. 13, 10-5pm, 828-456-3517. Here’s a tip: Eat at The Chef’s Table, call 828-452-6210, DE-LISH!

Closer to home, kick back at Waxhaw’s Grill’n & Chill’n, BBQ Cook-off, Oct 13-14th. Sunday afternoon, jazz quartet and Eagles Tribute Band. Carolina Balloon Fest, Statesville, Oct. 19-21, 50 balloons, mass lift-offs! Bring your lawn chair. Oktoberfest in Old Town, Rock Hill, Oct. 20, 5-10pm, 803-802-1678. Steins of Suds!