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Autumn Adventures: Top Fall Festivals to Experience in Indianapolis

Fall in Indianapolis is truly magical. The city and its surrounding areas come alive with vibrant colors, cooler temps, and a range of exciting festivals and events. If you’re looking to make the most of this season, we’ve rounded up some of the top Indianapolis fall festivals in and around Indy that you won’t want to miss! Grab your cozy sweater and pumpkin spice latte, and let’s dive in.


Irvington Halloween Festival

Date: October 19-26, 2024

Location: Irvington Historic District, Indianapolis

Activities: Parade, costume contests, street fair, live entertainment, Halloween-themed arts and crafts

Why It’s a Must-Visit: Celebrating over 70 years of spook-tacular fun, the Irvington Halloween Festival is one of Indy’s oldest and most beloved fall traditions. The entire neighborhood transforms with haunted houses, eerie decorations, and plenty of Halloween spirit. The annual parade is a highlight, featuring elaborate costumes and floats that showcase the creativity of the community. Whether you’re bringing the kids or just want to soak in the festive vibes, this festival offers something for everyone!


Pumpkin Harvest Festival at Dull’s Tree Farm

Date: Weekends from September 23 - October 27, 2024

Location: Dull’s Tree Farm, Thorntown, IN

Activities: Pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides, face painting, delicious food

Why It’s a Must-Visit: If you’re looking for a classic fall festival experience, head over to Dull’s Tree Farm. The Pumpkin Harvest Festival has everything you need to celebrate the season, from picking out the perfect pumpkin to navigating the 8-acre corn maze. With plenty of fall treats to sample and cozy spots to take in the autumn scenery, it’s an ideal spot for a family day or a fun outing with friends.


EXCLUSIVE BFF INDY OFFER! Get a $2 discount off regular admission during Dull's Pumpkin Harvest! Use code BFFINDY24 to redeem and enjoy a fall day out with your friends while saving a little extra.


ZooBoo at the Indianapolis Zoo

Date: September 25 - October 31st, 2024 (Wednesday through Saturday)

Location: Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis

Activities: Trick-or-treat trail, Roller Ghoster, Spook-Track-Ular Train Ride, ghoulish goodies

Why It’s a Must-Visit: ZooBoo combines the joy of visiting the zoo with the thrill of Halloween. During October weekends, the zoo gets a spooky makeover with pumpkin displays, fun decor, and even costumed animals! Kids will love the trick-or-treat trail, where they can collect goodies and see their favorite zoo residents up close. There’s also plenty for adults, including seasonal treats and photo ops with the incredible Halloween decorations. It’s an enchanting experience for all ages!



Headless Horseman Festival at Conner Prairie

Date: October 3 - 27, 2024 (Thursdays-Sundays)

Location: Conner Prairie, Fishers, IN

Activities: Hayrides, scarecrow contest, corn maze

Why It’s a Must-Visit: Step back in time and experience fall as it was celebrated in the 19th century at Conner Prairie's Headless Horseman Festival where you may see a headless horseman! With interactive activities for kids and adults, it’s a perfect way to embrace the fall spirit.

Bloomington Pumpkin Launch

Date: October 26, 2024

Location: Monroe County Fairgrounds

Activities: Pumpkin launching, live music, food vendors, family-friendly games

Why It’s a Must-Visit: For those looking for a unique twist on fall festivities, the Bloomington Pumpkin Launch offers an exhilarating experience! Watch as massive slingshots and catapults hurl pumpkins into the air, competing for distance and accuracy. This entertaining event is great for all ages, and the atmosphere is filled with excitement and laughter. With food vendors and family-friendly games, it’s the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon!

Halloweekends at Holiday World

Date: September 21 - October 27, 2024 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)

Location: Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, Santa Claus, IN

Activities: Hayrides, corn mazes, themed rides, trick-or-treating, drone shows

Why It’s a Must-Visit: If you’re seeking family-friendly thrills this fall, head to Holiday World for Halloweekends! The amusement park transforms into a Halloween wonderland, complete with spooky decorations and thrilling attractions. Experience heart-pounding rides by day and fright-filled haunted houses by night. Families can enjoy kid-friendly trick-or-treating and themed shows, making it a fun outing for everyone.

Harvest Nights at Newfields

Date: September 29th- November 2nd 2024

Location: Newfields, Indianapolis

Activities: Family activities, ghost train, Mischief Manor

Why It’s a Must-Visit: Celebrate the bounty of the harvest season at Newfields! This festival features various activities for families, including a walk through the beautiful gardens. Local vendors offer delicious seasonal foods, and the festival is set against the stunning backdrop of the museum’s grounds. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy art, nature, and community in one setting. Whether you’re into spooky thrills, pumpkin patches, or just enjoying the crisp autumn air, these fall festivals have something to offer to you and your friends from BFF Indy. Indianapolis has so much to explore, so gather your friends, bring the family, or plan a solo day of fun. Fall only comes once a year—make it a season to remember!

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