Best Kids Fall Activities in the Triangle: Farms, Festivals, and Fun Events 🍁

Page Farms – Raleigh

Page Farms is a quintessential fall spot in Raleigh. Their autumn fun includes pumpkin picking, a Corn Maze, Hayride, Playground, Cow Train, Farm Animals, and much more! There’s also a super cute farm store bursting with fall goodies. Opening Day September 20th!

Location: 📍6100 Mount Herman Road, Raleigh, NC 27617

Hours: (Late September through October): Tuesday through Thursday 9AM-1PM
Friday through Sunday 9AM – 6PM

Pricing: Tuesday – Friday 9AM-1PM – $12.00 per person | Friday 1PM-6PM, Saturday and Sunday 9AM-6PM – $18.00 per person (includes 1 pumpkin!)

Age 2 and under Free (no pumpkin included with free admission); Senior Citizen 65+ and Military discount – $1.00 off admission

Hill Ridge Farms – Youngsville

Hill Ridge Farms will open their Fall Pumpkin Festival this year on September 24th. There is so much to do at this family-friendly farm, including play areas, a carousel, a train, a covered wagon ride (with pumpkin included), hot cider donuts, apple cider, animals, and more.

Location: 📍703 Tarboro Road Youngsville, NC 27596

Hours: Wed-Sun 9:30-6:30

Pricing:

General Admission Pass (Includes Covered Wagon Ride. Free Pumpkin. Farm park play areas. Picnic Areas)

$19.95 ages 2-64
Under age 2 Free.
Age 65+ $17.95 | Military $17.95

Add-Ons:
Train Ride: $4
Carousel: $4

Super Pass: $29.95 per person (Includes unlimited fun! Train Ride, Covered Wagon Ride w/pumpkin, Carousel, Duck Race, Gem Mining Bag! Farm park play areas. Picnic Areas.

Naylor Farm – Fuquay-Varina

Naylor Family Farm is among our personal favorites for fall activities in the Triangle. This sprawling farm in Fuquay-Varina is such a treasure during the fall season. Naylor will open this fall starting September 13th and run until November 2nd.

There’s plenty to do here to keep the kiddos busy, like giant slides, pedal carts, a corn crib, corn maze, lots of playground options, farm animals, and even a 120-foot pirate ship!

But the best part of visiting Naylor Farm is their spooky hayride. The wagon takes you through the woods to the pumpkin patch and there’s lots of spooky, clever surprises along the way. (PS: I didn’t think it was too scary for my son last year, but there are a few elements like giant spiders that fall from above, so it’s worth noting if your child would enjoy this or not).

Location: 📍6016 US-401 Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Hours:
September Hours (beginning September 13th): Saturday: 9am – 6pm & Sunday: 1 – 6pm

October Hours – Monday – Friday: 11am – 4pm, Saturday: 9am – 6pm + Sunday: 10am – 6pm

November Hours – Saturday: 9am – 6pm & Sunday: 1 – 6pm

Only day closed: Tuesday – October 21st, 2025 (scheduled maintenance day)

Pricing: Farm Pass – $20 (for ages 3+)

Phillips Farm – Cary

Phillips Farm is another iconic fall spot in the Triangle. This family-owned farm offers fun throughout the summer, too, but the autumn is very special here. This property is huge, and offers everything from a corn maze (plus one for little kids) to a cow train. And if you like spooky, Phillips Haunted Farm, at night, will be right up your alley!

Their recently expanded family fun park will offer a treasure trove of fun this fall season, and they’ve teased that more is coming soon. The 2025 season kicks off 9/13.

Location: 📍 6720 Good Hope Church Road Cary, NC 27519

Hours:
Family Fun Park Hours of Operation:
Thursdays: 3PM-6:30PM
Fridays: 3PM-6PM
Saturdays: 10AM-6PM
Sundays: 1PM-6PM

Pricing: $20 per person

Cary has so many great things to do for kids in every season.
Check out our full list here!

Ken’s Korny Corn Maze – Garner

Ken’s Produce & Garden Center in Garner, North Carolina, is known for it’s huge annual corn maze. Covering 5 acres and offering 3 different sections, Ken’s Korny Corn Maze offers a-maze-ing fun!

But the maze isn’t the only attraction here. There’s also a big Adventure Zone with activities such as slides, a rope maze, mini golf, duck races, and other games. Fall fun begins September 27th, 2025 and runs until November 10th.

Location: 📍 3175 Benson Road Garner, NC 27529

Hours:

Friday | 4pm – 9pm
Saturday | 10am – 9pm
Sunday | 12pm – 8pm

Pricing: Ages 3-5 | $10 cash / $11 card; Ages 6+ | $17 cash / $18 card
This includes entry into the Corn Maze AND the Adventure Zone. Hayrides are available as an add-on.

Adventure Zone ONLY
Ages 3+ | $10 cash / $11 card

Hayride
Ages 3+  |  $5 cash / card

Hayride Schedule
Friday’s – No hayrides
Saturday’s – 11 am – 5 pm
Sunday – 1pm – 5 pm

Vollmer Farm – Bunn

While Vollmer Farm is a little outside the Triangle proper, it is a beloved spot for many North Carolina families in the fall months.

Activities take place on the Back-40 of the farm. An admission ticket includes a ton of things to do: playground, cow train, corn maze, jumping pillow, farm animals, and more. And there are additional activities available for purchase like gem mining. Fall fun will be 9/27-111.

Location: 📍 677 NC Hwy 98 E Bunn, NC 27508

Hours: Saturday & Sunday 10:00am-6:00pm

Pricing:
$16 – Ages 4-54
$12 – 55+
$10 Scouts in uniform/photo in uniform
Free – Ages 3 and under. Military, first responders, teachers, healthcare workers.

Spring Haven Farm – Chapel Hill

Spring Haven Farm in Chapel Hill is one of our favorite places. They offer animal encounters and other cool activities year-round, but fall is extra awesome at this goat farm. The Fall Fest will run from September 3rd, 2025 through September 28th, followed by “Pumpkin Carving with Goats” (which is as cute as it sounds) from October 1st. We did this last year, and it was delightful carving our pumpkins while petting the sweet goats and letting them eat some of the pumpkin scraps!

In addition to events like this, the farm goes all out with its fall decor and is such a cute spot. They’ve got other activities too, like gem mining and a tractor ride.

Location: 📍 5306 Homer Ruffin Road Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm

Pricing:
$14.95 per person for a ticket to the farm plus whichever size pumpkin you choose. 
$9 to $17 Pumpkin size of your choice
You can choose from small, medium, and large pumpkins to carve. 

McKee Cornfield Maze – Hillsborough

McKee is one of the biggest corn mazes around, with a maze to get you “corn-fused” over 12 acres! And for the little ones, there’s a smaller, simpler maze to explore. Opens End of September.

Additional fall fun is also on the menu, including pumpkin patch, hayrides, animals, a barrel train, corn hole, and more.

Location: 📍 5011 Kiger Road, Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278

Hours: Friday 3 PM – 8 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 8 PM, Sunday 1 PM – 7 PM

Pricing: General Admission $15.00 – includes all activities | Children 0-2 Free

The Family Farm on Avent Ferry – Holly Springs

This is a classic fall farm, where you can go to grab pumpkins perfect for decorating and carving. This is a very photogenic spot with lots of fall photo opps. Visit the farm animals, climb on the hay bales, and have an old-fashioned day of fall family fun.

Location: 📍 1719 Avent Ferry Road Holly Springs, NC 27540

Hours: PUMPKIN SEASON​​​
Saturdays 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
Sundays 1:00 PM-6:00 PM
Weekdays 4:00 PM-6:00 PM

Pricing: No cost for admission

Gross Farms – Sanford

Gross Farms is a 7th generation North Carolina Century Farm. Their fall fun is popping, with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and one of the largest corn mazes in the region.

Similar to other farms on this list, they offer other activities, too, such as slides, a play area, pedal karts, and a giant jumping pillow! But the top spot just might be their Pumpkin Barn which is just screaming for you to take your kids’ photos there. The fall season for 2025 runs September 13th – November 2nd!

Location: 📍 1606 Pickett Road, Sanford, NC 27332

Hours:

CORN MAZE & PUMPKIN PATCH
September-November

Fridays (October only): 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Saturdays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sundays: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Pumpkin Patch ONLY (October only):
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
All other activities are closed on weekdays, except Friday evenings in October.

Pricing: $20 for a single visit All-access pass. Ages 2 and under are FREE with a Parent’s/Guardian’s paid All Access Pass admission.

You can also pay $5 for just a visit to the Pumpkin Patch.

For Garden’s Sake – Durham

If you’re looking to grab a pumpkin and some mums and maybe relax for a bit, For Garden’s Sake in Durham is a perfect choice! While they don’t offer the many activities of some of the other fall destinations, they are a beautiful space with some swings, animals to visit, and great vibes.

Location: 📍9197 NC Hwy 751 Durham, NC 27713

Hours: Mon – Sat: 9am – 5pm, Sun: 10am – 5pm

Pricing: varies based on purchase, no admission fee

Smiths Nursery – Benson

Come fall time, Smiths Nursery (a great spot for summer berry picking) offers hay rides to the pumpkin patch. This is a beautiful scenic farm with sweet animals to visit, too!.

Location: 📍 443 Sanders Rd. Benson, NC 27504

Hours: Farm Market & Garden Center and Ice Cream Shack are now open Monday – Friday 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday 9 am to 4 pm,
Sunday: CLOSED

Pricing: No charge to visit the farm. Some events are ticketed.

Smith’s Family Fun Farm – Hillsborough

Looking for a true pumpkin patch where you can pick your gourd right off the vine? You’ll find that at Smith’s Family Fun Farm in Hillsborough.

One great thing about this spot is they don’t charge admission to visit. They just ask that you purchase a pumpkin when visiting the patch. You can pick from the vine or from their selection of pre-picked pumps.

And of course, there’s more fun to be had here! They have a play area with an exciting giant slide, Spookley the Square Pumpkin storyboards throughout the farm to read, and numerous fall photo ops.

Location: 📍 1715 St Marys Rd Hillsborough, NC 27278 

Hours:
Saturday-Sunday 10am-6pm
Tuesday-Friday 3pm-6pm

Pricing: Free admission, please support the farm by purchasing a pumpkin!

Grasshopper Farms – Knightdale

 A lovely farm market located in Knightdale, Grasshopper Farms has great fun for kids like a playground, big sandbox, and ice cream. But in the autumn months, they also have a massive corn maze and a huge pumpkin patch. Be sure to add this spot to your list for fall family adventures!

Location: 📍 8004 Poole Rd., Knightdale, NC 27545 | (Entrance off Grasshopper Rd)

Hours:

Fall fun starts mid September

Farm Market: Monday – Friday 10:00am – 6:00pm; Saturday 9am – 6:00pm
Pumpkin Patch: Dates: 10am – 6pm
Corn Maze: 11 am – 7pm (or dark)

Pricing: General Admission – $13, Ages 4-12 – $11, Group Rate – $11 (Includes admission to corn maze, fall fun playground, and free small pumpkin)

Holder Hill Farm – Durham

Holder Hill Farm is a newer farm in the Triangle and it is serving up the fall fun! They will open for the fall season Friday, September 19th, 2025 and run into November.

Here you can pick pumpkins right off the vine, and your admission includes one pumpkin to take home, in addition to all the other activities like the corn crib, hay mountain, hay ride, corn maze, nature trail, barnyard bounce, and farm animals.

Location: 📍4822 Holder Rd., Durham, NC 27703

Hours: Open Daily

Pricing: $16 (2 and older)

Perkins Orchard – Durham

This lovely farm stand is a great place to grab fresh apples, pumpkins, and more for the season. Grab a cup of their apple cider, and then join in their Pumpkin Painting. This perfect Halloween kids activity includes everything you need to paint and decorate your own pumpkin to take home.

This is also a fantastic black-owned local business, and the owner, Donovan, has accomplished so much. Go support them!

Location: 📍5749 Barbee Rd, Durham, NC 27713

Hours: Daily 9:00am-8:00pm

Pricing: $10 for pumpkin painting

Hubbs Farm – Clinton

You’ll have to travel a bit outside of the Triangle for this one, but Hubbs Farm is home to an epic fall festival, corn maze, and pumpkin patch. With the many activities they offer, it could be a great day trip. Their fall fun starts in September, date TBA, and includes things like wagon rides, animals, tire mountain, gem mining, corn hole games, live duck races, and more.

Location: 📍 10276 US Hwy 421 North Clinton, NC 28328

Hours:

Wed – Fri 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturdays in Sept/Nov 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays in October 10 a.m. to 9.pm.
Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m

Pricing: $12.95

Haven Farm – Knightdale

Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11am to 5pm, enjoy the best of fall at Haven Farm! Your ticket includes a fun-filled hay ride, a pumpkin to take home, goat snuggles, bounce house access, and lawn games for the whole family. Kids 2 and under are free, so bring everyone along for a perfect autumn day!

Location: 📍 8521 Buffaloe Rd. Knightdale, NC 27545

Hours: September-November, exact dates TBD

Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11:00am-5:00pm

Pricing: Tickets purchased online in advance are $15
Tickets on site are $18

Hidwell Family Farms

Hidwell Farms has some fun fall offerings. Free admission to the pumpkin patch! Come and pick your perfect pumpkin, visit the animals, play in the corn crib, and walk through the corn maze. Opening dates for 2025 TBA.

Location: 📍 7621 Blaney Franks Rd, Apex, NC 27539

Hours: . Fridays 4:00pm-7:00pm
Saturdays 10:00am-4:00pm

Pricing: Free

DJ’s Berry Patch

While this spot doesn’t offer some of the fall activities the larger farms do, it’s a perfect spot to pick out a pumpkin and experience some happy fall vibes. DJ’s Berry Patch is a great place to stop and purchase some local produce, and they have some cute photo opps!

Location: 📍 1223 Salem Church Rd Apex, NC

Hours: Monday through Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm
Sunday 11:00am-6:00pm

Pricing: Free

Crossroads Corn Maze

Crossroads Corn Maze is located in Wendell, and offers a 5-acre corn maze, a whimsical hay maze, and more. Kids 5 and under are FREE, which is a great deal. Tickets include a hay ride, one pumpkin, and access to the mazes and other farm activities. They will be open October 3-November 2.

Location: 5712 Watkinds Road, Wendell, NC

Hours:
Friday: 1pm-9pm
Saturday: 10am – 9pm
Sunday: 1pm – 7pm

Check their website also for info on their evening activity, “When the Stalks Go Dark.”

Fall Events in the Triangle: Fall Festivals + Seasonal Fun – 2025

This list is continuously being updated as more events are announced, so check back for more as fall gets closer!

NOTE: FREE events are shown in GREEN!

PS: Scroll down to the next section if you’re looking specifically for Halloween Events!

Oktoberfest 2025 – Bull McCabe’s (Durham)

Saturday September 6 | 2:00pm-10:00pm

It’s COMING! Can you feel it?!?! This year on Saturday September 6th we’ll be hosting the Appalachian Freunde Polka Band from 2-5, and 6-10pm, and they’ll be leading us on in songs, dance, and games! We’ll have all our favorite Festbiers & Marzens, with a crazy good Bavarian menu!!! The event is FREE and FAMILY FRIENDLY, and festive attire is encouraged!

Neighbor Boy Fall Fest – Neighbor Boy Farm and Country Store (Apex)

Friday September 12 – Sunday September 14

Welcome Fall at Neighbor Boy Farm! There’s no better way to welcome fall than a day full of simple, old-fashioned fun. Bring the family out for a farm scavenger hunt, a bounce in the bouncy house, pumpkins galore, and plenty of fresh fall veggies. Face painting and pumpkin painting available. Slow down, soak up the season, and make memories

Fall Open House – Smith’s Farm Market & Garden Center (Benson)

Saturday September 13 | 9:00am-6:00pm

Celebrate the season (my favorite) with us at our Fall Festival on Saturday, September 13th from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM! This family-friendly day kicks off the first hayrides of the season and is filled with festive fun for all ages.

Here’s what you can enjoy: Hayride, Pumpkin Patch, Farm Animals, Homemade Ice Cream, Fresh-Cut Flowers, Nursery Plants & Mums, Unique Gifts & Market Finds, Product Samples, Yoga on the Farm, Face Painting & More.

It’s the perfect way to welcome fall, spend time outdoors, and make memories with family and friends.

Annual Fall Festival & Plant Sale – Briggs Avenue Community Garden (Durham)

Saturday September 13 | 10:00am-2:00pm

 You’re Invited to the 2025 Briggs Ave Community Garden Annual Fall Festival & Plant Sale!  Join us for a fun-filled day at the garden as we celebrate the changing seasons with our Annual Fall Festival and Plant Sale! Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just getting started, there’s something for everyone.

 Plant Sale – Stock up on fall and winter vegetables, herbs, and flowers for your garden
 Pepper Tasting – Sample a variety of peppers, from sweet to spicy
 Raffle Prizes – Enter for a chance to win garden goodies and local treats
 Free Seeds & Compost – Take home what you need to grow your own!
 Kids’ Activities – Family-friendly fun for all ages

Fall in Stars Hollow – The Studio (Apex)

Saturday September 13 | 10:30am-3:30pm

Join us for a day full of celebrating all things Gilmore Girls by drinking Luke’s coffee, Trivia, shopping Rory’s Bookshelf, get your custom hand drawn portrait made of YOU in Stars Hollow and so much more fall fun!

2025 Farmers Fall Festival – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Saturday September 20 | 9:00am-2:00pm

The Farmers Fall Festival is back for our 8th year on September 20th and this time we will be hosting from inside the Downtown Cary Park! We will have farmers, food, crafts, kids’ activities, live music, and more!

Oktoberfest & Wiener Dog Races – Lafayette Village (Raleigh)

Saturday September 20 | 1:00pm-5:00pm

Put on your lederhosen and join us for a German-inspired festival filled with fall brews, delicious German cuisine, live music, shopping, and plenty of fun throughout the Village!

 Event Highlights:

Savor authentic German-inspired foods and seasonal brews.
Enjoy live music that will get your feet tapping.
Explore unique finds from our Village shops.
 Annual Wiener Dog Races: Cheer on the speediest dachshunds in town at our beloved Wiener Dog Races

Fall Festival with Bluey – We Rock the Spectrum Cary (Morrisville)

Saturday September 20 | 1:00pm-3:00pm

Calling all Bluey fans!!! Just in time for Fall (Autumn Equinox, Sept 22nd – who’s looking forward to the cooler weather??), come and meet Bluey (and snag some pics!!) on Saturday, September 20th from 1-3pm. After hanging out with Bluey, each child gets to take home a TY Bluey Beanie Bouncer to commemorate the occasion

Mickey & Minnie’s Falltastic Skate – United Skates of America (Raleigh)

Sunday September 21 | 11:00am-1:30pm AND 2:00pm-4:30pm

Get ready for the ultimate fall party on wheels! 🍂🎉

📅 Sunday, September 21
⏰ TWO Sessions: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM & 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
🎟️ Admission: $13 | Skate Rental: $6
🌟 Don’t miss your chance to skate, laugh, and make magical memories with Mickey & Minnie!
🎉 Great Group Rates available — bring the whole crew!

Movies Under the Stars: Frankenweenie – Carolina Square (Chapel Hill)

Friday September 26 | 6:30pm-9:30pm

Get ready for spooky season with a fun, free movie screening in Downtown Chapel Hill. We’re celebrating fall and spreading love to our 4-legged friends. Join us to play with some pups and then watch Frankenweenie! Independent Animal Rescue, Orange County Animal Services, and Paws4ever will be sharing resources and they’ll have adoptable dogs onsite. This event is family-friendly and open to all.

Pumpkin Patch Express – Museum of Life & Science (Durham)

Sayurdays and Sundays September 27-October 26 | 10:00am-5:00pm

All Aboard! Join us as we celebrate fall with a trip to Pumpkin Patch Express! Pick the perfect pumpkin to decorate, race through our Hay Maze, and enjoy a variety of games and activities inspired by autumn. Then climb aboard the train for a relaxing ride back to the station on the Ellerbe Creek Railway! Museum admission is not included. Non-members will need to purchase Museum admission at the door.

Fall Kickoff Vendor Market – Southern Village (Chapel Hill)

Saturday September 27 | 11:00am-5:00pm

Join Cozy Panda Event Co for our Fall Kickoff Vendor Market in collaboration with Southern Village- Check out what’s in store!🍁 Entry is completely FREE! Grab your sweaters because it’s time to celebrate the cozy season!🧡

Local Vendors, food trucks, lawn games, face painting, pottery painting, live music, and more.

Pumpkin Party! – Haven Farm (Knightdale)

Sunday September 28 | 10:30am-12:00pm

Get ready for a magical autumn adventure like no other! Join The Glass Slipper Princess and her two absolutely hilarious step sisters for a day full of laughs, creativity, and fairytale fun. Here’s what’s in store:

 Pick & Paint Your Own Pumpkin – make it spooky, silly, or sparkly!
 Mini Bibbidi Bobbidi Makeup – a touch of magic to make you shine!
 Sweet Treats – because no party is complete without goodies!
 Live Performances & Dancing – sing, twirl, and giggle the day away!

And SO much more – surprises fit for royalty! Grab your little pumpkins and join us for an unforgettable fall celebration filled with magic, mischief, and memories! 

SPOOK-tacular Fall Festival – Method Road Community Park (Raleigh)

Friday October 3 | 5:00pm-7:00pm

Get ready for an evening of fun with carnival games, music, healthy treat bags, and so much more! This free event is designed just for kids ages 4 to 11. Mark your calendar for Oct. 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. You won’t want to miss it!

97th Annual Wendell Harvest Festival – Downtown (Wendell)

Saturday October 4 | 9:00am-9:00pm

Join us for the 97th Annual Wendell Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 4th 9am-9pm in downtown Wendell! There will be 25 food trucks and over 150 vendors! The Parade starts at 10am. The Band of OZ takes the Main Stage from 6-9pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fall Sensory Play Party – RUMAH (Raleigh)

Saturday October 4 | 9:30am-11:00am, 11:30am-1:00pm, and 1:30pm-3:00pm

🍂 It’s official! Our Fall Sensory Play Event is happening on October 4th! Bring your little pumpkins for a day packed with 10+ sensory stations designed to spark creativity, learning, and fun.

🎟 Tickets: $10 per child | $7 for siblings
✨ For ages ~1–10 (but you know your child best!)

Falling for Local – Dorothea Dix Park (Raleigh)

Saturday October 4 | 11:00am-6:00pm

This family friendly event is open to the public and free to attend! Enjoy live music from local talent and demos from local businesses all day long as well as loads of FALL FUN with hay rides, inflatables, lawn games, kids activities, photo ops, and a pumpkin patch all FREE of charge! 

Fall on First Avenue – Knightdale Station Park (Knightdale)

Saturday October 4 | 11:00am-2:00pm

Celebrate the season with festive fun for the whole family! Enjoy pumpkin painting, hayrides, and live music, browse unique finds at the craft fair, savor delicious bites from local food trucks, and pick up beautiful mums from the Two Green Thumbs Garden Club.

Durham Bulls Fall FestiBull – DBAP (Durham)

Saturday October 11 and Sunday October 12 | 12:00pm-3:00pm, 4:00pm-7:00pm

Step into the fall season at the Durham Bulls Fall FestiBull, presented by NC Eat & Play, where classic traditions meet one-of-a-kind fun! The Durham Bulls Athletic Park will be transformed into a vibrant autumn celebration — the perfect place to enjoy everything you love about fall.

Enjoy Pumpkin Batting Practice, climb to the top of Hay Mountain, hop aboard the Wool E. Hay Wagon, paint your own pumpkin, and savor seasonal food and drinks that capture the flavors of the season. Plus, don’t miss the fall-themed photo ops scattered throughout the stadium — perfect for making and capturing memories with family and friends.

Fall Festival Pop Up Event – Tavern 42 (Clayton)

Saturday October 11 | 11:00am-4:00pm

Join us for our awesome Fall Festival with a large Pop Up Shop, Live Music, Pumpkin Painting and More!

Family Fall Festival – Fortnight Brewing (Cary)

Sunday October 12 | 12:00pm-4:00pm

Get ready for an afternoon filled with fall vibes, local flavor, and fun for the whole family! Free Admission | Family-Friendly | All Ages Welcome! Perfect for families, friends, and neighbors looking to celebrate the season together. Grab a pint, browse local vendors, and let the kids enjoy all the activities while you relax and soak up the fall atmosphere. Bounce house, arts and crafts zone, face painting, local vendor market, and more.

Friday Night Lights: Fall Style – Neighbor Boy Farm (Apex)

Friday October 17 | 5:00pm-8:00pm

Join us under the lights for a cozy fall evening filled with music, local vendors, and autumn flavors you won’t want to miss. From treats to family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect way to spend a Friday night on the farm. Bring your friends, bring your appetite, and soak in all the sights, sounds, and tastes of fall.

Harvest Fest – Good Hope Farm (Cary)

Saturday October 18 | 12:00pm-4:00pm

Come out and celebrate Cary’s agricultural heritage with an afternoon of free fun down on the farm! Join us for live music, local food and beverages, farm tours, and craft vendors. Don’t miss a chance to chat with environmental experts, free kids’ activities and more on our historic working farm

Toddler Tuesday: Pumpkin Paint Party – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Tuesday October 21 | 10:00am-11:00am

Celebrate Fall fun with your little one! Join us for a special Toddler Tuesday where kids and grown-ups team up to paint mini pumpkins together. We’ll provide all the supplies (including the mini pumpkins!)—just bring your creativity and get ready for some hands-on, seasonal fun in the Park! Register in advance: Registration opens at 10 a.m. 2 weeks before the program start date.

Holly Fest 2025 – Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park (Holly Springs)

Saturday October 25 | 10:00am-4:00pm

A Holly Springs tradition! HollyFest celebrates the people, places, and services that make Holly Springs a great place to live. Enjoy yummy food from more than 25 vendors, play on free inflatables and rides, shop from more than 50 local artisans, learn about local businesses at the business expo, and more!

Renaissance Faire – Spring Haven Farm (Chapel Hill)

Saturday November 15 | 10:00am-6:00pm

Join us for a magical day at our Ren Faire! Costumes encouraged, goats guaranteed. Step into a day of magical fun with activities for the whole family! Enjoy archery, sword duels, pig racing, baby goats, and a lively costume contest. Dance to live music from Nemeton, get your tarot read, and watch dazzling fire spinning performances.

Browse a bustling marketplace featuring 20+ North Carolina vendors offering handmade treasures like mushroom lamps and magic crystals. Refuel with giant turkey legs, local beer from Steel String Brewery, and delicious mead from Starrlight and MoonDog Meadery.

Kid-Friendly Halloween Events in Raleigh & the Triangle

Tour of Frights – Various Locations (Apex)

October | Dates TBA

The Tour of Frights is an annual program that features Apex homes and business with some of the very best Halloween or fall-themed decorations. How it works: Every year in September, residents and businesses can sign up for the Tour to showcase their spooky displays. After registration closes, we create a Tour of Frights map to share with the community!

Movie in the Park – Morrisville Community Park (Morrisville)

Friday October 3 | 8:00pm-10:00pm

 Morrisville’s Fall Movie in the Park is set for Friday, October 3 at 8 p.m. at Morrisville Community Park. This year’s feature film is the Halloween favorite Hocus Pocus! Arrive early to grab a great spot on the lawn, and don’t forget your chair or blanket. Costumes are encouraged—come ready for a fun, spooky night under the stars!

The Witch’s Haunted Barn & Pumpkin Patch 2025 – Firefly Farm (Hillsborough)

Saturdays October 4, 11, 18, 25 | 12:00pn-7:00pm

icket good for one day’s visit to The Witch’s Haunted Barn – Saturdays in October (4,11,18,25) You choose which day works best for you but you are not locked into this date. Come any Saturday in October. Gates open at 11 am and close at 7 pm. Entry into the barn begins at noon and ends at 7 pm. Ticket for the Barn allows access to all activities on the farm, including multiple entries through the barn on the same day. Children 2 and under get in free.

Fall Film Series in the Park: Ghostbusters – Durham Central Park (Durham)

Saturday October 4 | 8:00pm-10:00pm

Durham Parks and Recreation presents a FREE Fall Movies in the Park series at Durham Central Park! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and your favorite people for a fun movie night in the heart of downtown Durham. This family-friendly series features films for all ages.

Local food trucks will be on site serving up tasty bites, and DPR will offer FREE popcorn! So come early, grab some dinner or a snack, and settle in for a memorable night outdoors. There’s no better way to spend a cool fall evening than with great movies, good food, and community vibes—all for free!

Movie Night: The Nightmare Before Christmas – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Friday October 10 | 6:00pm-10:00pm

join the Pumpkin King for a screening of The Nightmare Before Christmas (PG), curated by The Cary Theater. Come early to enjoy themed pre-screening activities for all ages, making it a perfect night out for everyone. Prescreening activities are from 6 – 7:30 p.m., with the film will beginning at 7:30 p.m. Stay tuned for more details.

Holly Springs Family Spooktacular – Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park (Holly Springs)

Saturday October 11 | 1:00pm-4:00pm

Geared for ages 3-11, this free event includes games, activities, a costume contest, and our Trunk-or-Treat section! Gather around the fire to roast marshmallows to perfection for smores or learn some spooky nature facts. Our Family Spooktacular is your one-stop Halloween shop!

Haunted Trolley Tour – Moredecai Historic Park (Raleigh)

Friday-Sunday | October 17, 18, 19, and 24, 25, 26 | 7:00pm-9:30pm

Discover history, mystery, and lore with your ghost host on the Haunted Trolley, if you dare, for a special late-night tour of downtown Raleigh’s most haunted places. Jump aboard and keep your eyes open for ghostly visitors of years past… they’ve just been dying to have you. Recommended for ages 6 and up due to frightening elements. The trolley departs from Mordecai Historic Park

Boo Bash – Morrisville Community Park (Morrisville)

Saturday October 18 | 3:00pm-6:00pm

Get ready for a fun-filled Halloween celebration in Morrisville! Put on your favorite costume and enjoy am afternoon packed with candy, music, Halloween-themed activities, and more. Stick around of the costume parade at the end and show off your spooktacular costume!

Bull City BOOs Fest 2025 – Durham Central Park (Durham)

Saturday October 18 | 4:00pm-11:00pm

Join The MAKRS Society for our 4th annual Halloween Festival at Durham Central Park! Costumes Encouraged!! Our 4th annual Bull City BOOs Fest (Halloween Festival) is set and we have A TON of new additions this year!

Geek and Grub Market: Halloween Edition – The Optimist Farm (Apex)

Saturday October 18 | 4:00pm-9:00pm

Join us for the return of our most popular event of the year – the HALLOWEEN Edition of the Geek and Grub Market! This free event features fun activities, 40+ geektastic vendors, food trucks and a FREE horror hayride! Grab your FREE tickets and come out and join us!

Halloween Prep Party – Cardinal ABA Clinic (Cary)

Saturday October 18 | 4:00pm-6:00pm

Celebrate Halloween with us at the Cary Clinic on October 18th from 4–6PM! This autism-friendly event gives kids the chance to practice trick-or-treating, enjoy crafts, music, the playground, and a bounce house—all in a safe, welcoming space. Families, siblings, friends, and community partners are invited to join the fun. Costumes welcome!

Haunted Trail: Family Trail – Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Education Park (Fuquay-Varina)

Saturday October 18 | 5:00pm-6:00 pm

The Family Trail is a light-hearted, sun-lit, fun walk through the trail. Attendees are encouraged to wear their costumes and to interact with the characters they meet along the trail. This trail is appropriate for young children and their families.

Haunted Trail: Full Fright Trail – Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Education Park (Fuquay-Varina)

Saturday October 18 | 7:00pm-9:00 pm

Full Fright is designed to frighten. It is a terrifying walk in the dark through the woods with unexpected surprises around every turn. It is not recommended for children under the age of 10. Children between the ages of 10 to 12 should be accompanied by an adult.

Trick-or-Treat Downtown – Downtown (Fuquay-Varina)

Friday October 24 | 2:00pm-5:00pm

No tricks, just treats for everyone who loves costumes, candy, and having a Happy Halloween! This free annual event is sponsored by the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association and nearly 100 participating downtown businesses. You’re invited to bring your ghosts & goblins to visit the downtown businesses that display the Trick-or-treat here! poster.

Scarecrow Row – Apex Community Park (Apex)

Friday October 24-Friday October 31

Visit Apex Community Park’s Scarecrow Row from October 24 – 31 and check out all the community-decorated scarecrows! Bring a flashlight if you’d like to visit after dark – the park closes at 10 pm.

Apex Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources staff will host a scarecrow decorating event on October 22, 2025 for registered families. If you’d like to participate, check back soon for registration information. Registration is limited to the first 20 families to sign up.

Kooky Spooky Halloween Party – Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh)

Friday October 24 | 6:00pm-8:30pm

Come in costume for a ghoulish good time! Experience the magic of Marbles after dark at this family-friendly Halloween spooktacular. 

Boo Bash – Clayton Community Center (Clayton)

Friday October 24 | 6:00pm

Clayton Parks and Recreation invites you to a spooktacular night of family fun at Boo Bash, a Halloween celebration packed with games, costumes, and festive frights for all ages. This dance is specifically for individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities and their families, providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy Halloween traditions together.

Zombiepalooza – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Friday October 24 | 6:00pm-10:00pm

Zombiepalooza is The Cary’s annual ZOMBIE SHORT FILM competition that takes place every October in downtown Cary, NC. Short films (< 5 min.) must be zombie-themed and family-friendly (no excessive gore, violence or language) as they will be screened to an all-ages audience. 

Attendees are encouraged to dress in their favorite costumes for Cary’s favorite night of cosplay. Prizes will be awarded for best kid Halloween costume and best adult Halloween costume. Zombiepalooza is free to attend!

Kick or Treat the Trail – Knightdale Station Park (Knightdale)

Friday October 24 | 6:00pm-8:00pm

Put on your best costume and join us with Neuse River Futbol Alliance for a night of spooky fun! Enjoy trick-or-treat stations, games, activities, food trucks, and music. Don’t forget your candy buckets for this exciting evening of soccer and Halloween fun!

Boo-tique Bazaar – Triangle Town Center (Raleigh)

Saturday October 25 | 10:00am-8:00pm

Come join us on Sat, Oct 25 & 26, 2025 at during mall hours for a fun-filled day of shopping, entertainment, and spooky surprises! Explore a wide selection of unique items from local vendors at our Bazaar. From handmade crafts to delicious treats, there’s something for everyone! Don’t forget to dress up in your favorite Halloween costume and join in the festive spirit. There will be contests, games, and activities for all ages!

Spellbound at Mordecai – Mordecai House (Raleigh)

Saturday October 25 | 10:00am-3:00pm

A Children’s Halloween Market by Paper & Stars Studio at Mordecai Park. Costume Contest – Crafts – Music – Pumpkins – Handmade Goods

Magic, mischief, and mayhem abound at Spellbound at Mordecai. Encounter mysterious creatures and amazing magicians, have your fortune told, create spooky crafts, and decorate a pumpkin to take home for All Hallow’s Eve. Wear your best Halloween finery to enter the costume contest and parade.

23rd Annual No Scare Fair – Dennis B. Wicker Center (Sanford)

Saturday October 25 | 11:00am-4:00pm

Enjoy an afternoon of treats, kiddie crafts, games, vendors and food trucks, while supporting HAVEN in Lee County.

Downtown Scary Park: Haunted Hotel – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Saturday October 25 | 2:00pm-10:30pm

“Check in” for a full day of Halloween fun with our afternoon Family Pumpkin Carving Party, featuring costumed characters and festive activities at Downtown Cary Park.

As the sun sets, the spooky vibes continue with a hotel-themed movie double feature, starting with the family favorite Hotel Transylvania. Before the movies, enjoy “lobby-level” fun with themed activities and treats that will have you feeling right at home — if your home happens to be a haunted hotel! Later in the evening, brave adults can extend their stay for a screening of 1408 (PG-13), where you’ll discover that not every hotel offers a peaceful night’s sleep. Don’t miss this “suite” Halloween celebration!

Stay tuned for a full lineup of activities and schedule of the day! Remember, Halloween costumes are HIGHLY encouraged!

Market on Tap: No Tricks, All Treats Twilight Market – Oaklyn Springs Brewery (Fuquay-Varina)

Saturday October 25 | 3:00pm-7:00pm

3:00 – 7:00 : Shop Local Vendors
3:00 – 7:00 : B’Wiched Gourmet Sandwiches & Bright Beans Coffee Company
4:00 – 7:00 : Live Music by Clayton Sabine
5:00 – 7:00 : Trunk-or-Treat – Come in costume!

Purchase Make Your Own S’more kits benefiting our non-proft, Note in the Pocket. Make your S’mores with friends and family at one of our open fire pits.

Town of Angier Trunk or Treat – Jack Marley Park (Angier)

Saturday October 25 | 4:00pm-8:00pm

 Join us for an incredible Trunk or Treat!  It’s going to be a spooktacular time with:

 Tons of Candy
 Music from DJ Dennis Pritt
 Fun Inflatables
 Delicious Food Trucks
 Costume Contest
 Best Decorated Trunk Awards

Goblin’s Groove Family Dance – Halle Cultural Arts Center (Apex)

Saturday October 25 | 5:00pm-7:00pm

Love dressing up and celebrating Halloween? Don’t miss our Spooktacular Annual Goblin’s Groove Family Dance at The Halle Cultural Arts Center! Dance to groovy tunes from all decades—plus some spooky hits. Enjoy festive games, fun crafts, Halloween treats, and ghoulish punch. This is a parent/child event; youth and teens must be accompanied by an adult. Costumes are strongly encouraged, but not required. Come make haunting memories with us!

4th Annual Halloween Soiree – Haven Farm (Knightdale)

Sunday October 26 | 10:30am-12:00pm

Step into a world of magic and mischief as you join six of our beloved fairytale friends for a Halloween experience like no other! Brew your own enchanted potions, paint whimsical pumpkins, indulge in spooky treats, enjoy live performances, dance, play games, and so much more!

Don’t worry—while we’ll be joined by three of our more mischievous friends (who may have a wicked laugh or two), this event is all about fun, not fright. In fact, your little ones may just meet some new favorite characters! This not-so-spooky soirée is perfect for kids aged 4-10.

Sanrio Cuties’ Hello Halloween Market – Tap Yard (Raleigh)

Sunday October 26 | 12:00pm-5:00pm

Welcome to Sanrio Cuties’ Hello Halloween Market! Join us at Tap Yard Raleigh for a spooktacular event filled with all your favorite Sanrio characters. Get ready for a day of shopping, drinking, and fun with your favorite cuties like Hello Kitty, My Melody, and more! Dress up in your best Halloween costume and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this exciting in-person event where you can shop for unique Sanrio merchandise and enjoy delicious treats.

Fall Festival – Park West Village (Morrisville)

Thursday October 30 | 4:00pm-8:00pm

Join us for our annual Fall Festival on Thursday, October 30th from 4-8pm! It will be a fun filled night with spooktacular activities including center wide trick-or-treating, costume contests, an outdoor movie, food trucks, and so much more! 🍬 🎃 Get your costumes ready – see you there! 👻

Cary Police Department Trunk or Treat – Park Street/Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Thursday October 30 | 5:30pm-7:30pm

Wear your favorite Halloween costume and head down to the Park for some pre-Halloween trick-or-treating.  The Cary Police Department (Downtown Team) hosts this family-friendly trunk or treat along Park Street.

Downtown Clayton Trick-or-Treat – Main Street/Town Square (Clayton)

Friday October 31 | 1:00pm

This one-day event takes place along Main Street, where local businesses welcome preschool-aged trick-or-treaters with candy and smiles. The fun begins at Horne Square and continues to Town Square, creating a walkable and family-friendly Halloween experience in the heart of downtown.

After you’ve filled your treat bags, stick around in Town Square for games, activities, and a petting zoo that’s perfect for little ones. Costumes are encouraged, and the atmosphere is playful, colorful, and ideal for families with young children.

Trick or Treat the Trail – White Deer Park (Garner)

Friday October 31 | 3:00pm-5:30pm

Trick-or-treat around White Deer Park’s one mile loop trail, dressed in a great costume, and don’t forget the candy bucket! Local businesses and organizations will be passing out treats, a creepy crawlies exhibit will be featured in the Nature Center, and food trucks will be on site for purchase. Parents must accompany children at all times. Pets are not permitted. This is a free family-friendly event please, no horror or gore.

Hocus Pocus 2 + Trunk or Treat: Drive in Movie – MOSAIC at Chatham Park (Pittsboro)

Friday October 31 | 7:00pm-9:00pm

Lot opens + Trunk-Or-Treat starts at 6:00 pm. Movie starts at 7:00 pm. Food + Beverage available on-site for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket – Pets are welcome.

Discover Dance: Thriller Choreography – Downtown Cary Park (Cary)

Friday October 31 | 7:30pm-9:30pm

Get ready to unleash your inner zombie! Join us for Thriller themed Discover Dance with local Zumba dynamo and choreographer Tameka Pettigrew. She’ll lead you through the iconic moves of Michael Jackson’s Thriller—no graveyards required. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just want to shuffle like the undead, all are welcome. Keep your eyes peeled… there may be surprise pop-up performances haunting the park when you least expect it!

Ashley Belote | Witch & Wombat (HALLOWEEN STORYTIME) – Quail Ridge Books (Raleigh)

Saturday November 1 | 10:30am-11:00am

Join us for a special Halloween storytime featuring our friend, NC author Ashley Belote! Halloween costumes encouraged! Books will be available for purchase at storytime. Registration is free.

Fall Day + Weekend Trips

Raleigh is in such a wonderful location in North Carolina, but there are also some exciting options a little further out. These can make for great fall day trips as a family.

Millstone Creek Orchards

The closest apple orchard to Raleigh is Millstone Creek Orchards in Ramseur, NC. It’s a little over an hour drive from Raleigh, so it’s definitely doable for a day trip. Apple season is late August-September, so it’s right around the corner!

This year they’re also opening a brand new Cider House, serving hard cider, craft beer, and local NC wines, plus an array of food items. Sounds amazing!

Pilot Mountain State Park

Pilot Mountain State Park, about a 2-hour drive from the Triangle, is a great destination for a fall day trip. The park’s distinctive peak offers spectacular views, especially when the leaves are changing colors.

Enjoy a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and rock climbing opportunities. The Jomeokee Trail, a short trail which circles the base of the pinnacle, is a family favorite. For views of the rock itself, consider tackling Little Pinnacle Overlook trail.

Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock State Park is another perfect fall day trip from Raleigh. This scenic park is about a 2-hour drive from the Triangle. The park offers over 20 miles of hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and stunning rock formations.

For details on the best hikes here, check out this guide by my friends Carl and Christina from NC Tripping.

Carolina Renaissance Festival

We love the Ren Faire! My husband has been going here since his teens, and he brought me along after we met. It’s such a fall tradition for us and so many families. Games, shows, food, mead, costumes, rides. It’s everything you could want.

It’s definitely a day or even a weekend trip from the Triangle, however, as it is located in Huntersville, NC. This year’s dates for the Ren Fest are weekends October 4 – November 23.

Autumn at Oz – Land of Oz NC

Follow the yellow brick road…..er, I mean, the North Carolina highways, to the Land of Oz in Beech Mountain. It’s a trek at nearly a 4 hour drive, but if you are a Wizard of Oz fan, this is worth it. Autumn in Oz takes place over 3 weekends in fall. Please note: Autumn at Oz is not happening for 2025.

Tweetsie Railroad Ghost Train

This might be a good weekend trip for families with older kids. The Ghost Train looks pretty darn spooky! There are other attractions in addition to the train ride, such as carnival rides. It’s worth looking into!

Carolina BalloonFest

Head out to Statesville, NC, for the 50th annual Carolina BalloonFest. Hot air balloons fill the skies at this amazing festival, and there’s more to do, too, like evening balloon glows, live entertainment on two stages, a kids’ zone, marketplace and artisan village, NC wine and craft beer garden, aerialist circus performances, and even skydiving exhibitions. This year’s dates are October 17th, 18th, and 19th, 2025.