Yes, it still feels like summer. But it’s officially FALL, and the last supermoon of the year has already appeared in the eastern sky. As the leaves start to change and the evening air turns crisp, Indianapolis comes alive with a vibrant array of fall events and activities. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the city, there are plenty of family-friendly options to celebrate the season. From festivals to pumpkin patches and corn mazes, the Indianapolis area has something for everyone to enjoy.
Heartland Film Festival: Experience the magic of cinema at the Heartland International Film Festival, which takes place in October. For several weeks, it is a perfect way to enjoy the arts while watching a variety of films. From Indy Shorts to full-length feature films, you will find something that you enjoy in the 120+ film offerings. Tickets may be purchased in several different ways–as single admission, packs, or fest passes. You can even view some from the comfort of your own home.
Dates: October 5-15; times vary by film and location
Beasley’s Orchard and Gardens: Every weekend is a reason to celebrate at Beasley’s Orchard in Danville. Take a drive in the country and spend the day immersed in a quintessential fall experience with apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and a corn maze. It’s a fantastic spot for families to create lasting memories.
Dates: October; Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Conner Prairie’s Headless Horseman: Conner Prairie, a living history museum, hosts the Headless Horseman event during the fall season. Visitors can enjoy a haunted hayride, a spooky puppet show, and a chance to meet the legendary Headless Horseman. Get your tickets early because this popular destination will sell out.
Dates: October 5-29; Thursday-Sunday, 6 to 10 p.m.
Irvington Halloween Festival: For a dose of Halloween spirit, don’t miss the Irvington Halloween Festival in the historic Irvington neighborhood. It features a range of activities, including a street fair, costume contests, and a Zombie bike ride.
Dates: October 21-28, times by event
Indianapolis Zoo’s ZooBoo: The Indianapolis Zoo offers a family-friendly Halloween celebration called ZooBoo. Kids can trick-or-treat throughout the zoo, enjoy Halloween-themed activities like the trick-or-treat trail and the Roller Ghoster, and see their favorite animals. Adults even have their own night on Saturday, October 7 for BrewFare.
ZooBoo-specific activities: September 27-October 31, Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday, 2 to 7 p.m., Friday & Saturday until 9 p.m.
A Glimpse in to Last Year’s Zoo Boo
Pumpkin Patches: Several pumpkin patches in the Indianapolis area, such as Waterman’s Family Farm on the southside of Indy and Stuckey Farm Market on the north, offer not only pumpkin picking but also fall-themed activities like corn mazes and petting zoos. Even local churches like St. Luke’s Methodist Church gets into the action with their own you-choose pumpkin patch in the parking lot.
Dates: Check each website for availability
Exploration Acres: Located just outside Indianapolis in Lafayette, Exploration Acres boasts one of Indiana’s largest corn mazes. It’s a fun and challenging way to spend an autumn day with family or friends.
Dates: September 15 to October 29; times vary by day
Fall Foliage Viewing: Ever wondered when is the best time to take a scenic drive to enjoy the breathtaking fall foliage in the surrounding areas of Indianapolis. This fall foliage website will help you find the optimal time to visit locations like Brown County State Park, which offers beautiful views and hiking trails.
State park hours: Most are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Check for specifics
Oktoberfest Celebrations: Various Oktoberfest celebrations in and around Indianapolis offer a taste of German culture with traditional music, food, and, of course, plenty of beer.
Dates: Varied, check websites for more information
Haunted Houses: – Indianapolis boasts several haunted houses and attractions for those seeking spooky thrills during the Halloween season. Some popular options for teens and adults include the House of Trepidation, Hanna Haunted Acres, and the Asylum House. For the smaller members of your group, the Children’s Museum Haunted House is an annual favorite.
Dates: Varied, check websites for more information
Trying to squeeze that last bit of fun out of fall? Indianapolis comes alive with the spirit of autumn, offering a wide range of fall events and activities that cater to all ages and interests. So, gather your family and friends and immerse yourself in the vibrant fall traditions of this charming city. And if you are new to the city, your REALTOR® at the Yosha Snyder Group would love to share their favorite suggestions.