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Just a short drive from the city of Philadelphia lies the picturesque Countryside of Philadelphia, a sanctuary of lush green nature with a rich legacy in arts. The vibrant fall seasonis celebrated across countless events and programs dedicated to the region’s natural beauty and creative culture.
This fall at the Brandywine Museum of Art presents Jerrell Gibbs: No Solace in the Shade from September 28 to March 1, 2026. It marks a prolific period of self-examination and thorough observation for contemporary artist Jerrell Gibbs (American, b. 1988). He is an intuitive painter, and oil is his medium of choice. The figure, as a living rather than static subject, appears as a recurring motif in his allegorical and autobiographical compositions, while Black masculinity, as a conceptual and existential rumination, grounds his oeuvre. “Jerrell Gibbs: No Solace in the Shade” is Gibbs’s largest exhibition to date and his first solo museum exhibition. Be sure to further explore this wonderful exhibition by planning a visit to the Brandywine Museum of Art, which is also celebrating the recent acquisition of a landmark painting by Gibbs.
Brandywine Museum of Art is also known for its unparalleled collection of works by three generations of the Wyeth family. The Wyeth’s were known for their love of Halloween and founded a seasonal artistic tradition in the Brandywine Valley. It began in the 1970s when Andrew and Jamie Wyeth began carving pumpkins to decorate a local restaurant. Decades later, the tradition continues, albeit outdoors, at Chadds Ford Historical Society’s Great Pumpkin Carve, October 16-18. Over 70 talented artists carve giant pumpkins, which will be lit and displayed all three nights. Great local fare, live music and hayrides add to the festive fall celebration.
Talented regional artisans take over Hagley Museum & Library as they host one of the finest craft fairs in the region, October 18 and 19. This annual marketplace draws acclaimed artisans selling fine arts, crafts, and gourmet specialities. Vendors are scattered throughout Hagley’s stunning grounds.
Uncover more treasures at Kennett Square’s Fall Clover Market on October 19 from 10 am to 4 pm. Shop a wide variety of handmade and vintage goods along with food trucks, live music, beer and wine, free kids’ crafts, and many additional shopping and dining options in the nearby downtown of Kennett Square.
Longwood Gardens’ crisp fall landscape comes alive and calls for slowing down and appreciating the astounding, colourful beauty. Main Fountain Garden performances will run through October 26. Booking a stay at one of the countryside’s fine accommodations includes 2 untimed tickets to Longwood Gardens and a reusable welcome bag with additional goodies for guests.
There is no shortage of spirits throughout the Countryside of Philadelphia. Locally sourced and crafted with care, the art of wine-making and brewing is celebrated in the countryside. Craft beer, artisanal wines and spirits are made with passion and pride, evident in each sip and available across many breweries, wineries, and distilleries throughout the region. Chaddsford Winery’s Adult Trick or Treat is a favourite way to celebrate the harvest season, happening every Saturday and Sunday through all of October. Guests visit five Halloween-themed stations situated throughout the winery grounds and receive a Halloween keepsake wineglass. Costumes are encouraged, and fun is guaranteed!
