Fall Festivals in Indy

As the leaves don their vibrant autumn attire and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, Indy awakens with a flurry of fall festivities.

When the leaves change, Indy shows out with seasonal events designed to celebrate the season.

Use our Fall Festival Guide to explore the best of arts and culture, enjoy family-friendly fun, and immerse yourself in the seasonal splendor that graces the heart of Indiana.

Halloween ZooBoo

Indianapolis Zoo | Now-November 1

The zoo offers a flurry of family-friendly activities that feature the resident animals and include pumpkins everywhere. Bring your little ghouls and goblins as well as the bigger kids. Wear a costume!

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Harvest Nights

Newfields | Now-November 1

Journey through fog-filled forests along The Pumpkin Path of Peril (this time with a new surprise at the end) and feel the Ghost Train rumble beneath your feet, all the while taking in tens of thousands of gourdgeous pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns.

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Headless Horseman

Conner Prairie | Thursdays-Sundays, October 1-25

The annual haunted hayride includes spooky sights around every corner, not to mention the legendary Headless Horseman. In addition, there's a midway, a Trail of Terror through a corn maze, fortune telling, and fun for all ages.

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Proof: A Midwest Lit Fest

Harrison Center for the Arts | October 3

Guests can browse a lively book fair featuring local booksellers, join thought-provoking conversations about the literary Midwest, and enjoy readings from both local and regional authors. There will be chances to connect with publishers and literary magazines, take part in workshops led by seasoned writers, and dive into book-themed activities for all ages. The day will also be packed with food, drinks, music, games, and plenty of prizes to keep the celebration going.

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Original and Fabulous GermanFest

The Athenaeum | October 3

This is the place to discover your inner German! This all-day party includes games, wiener dog races, a strong man competition, German music, beer, food, and an area for the kiddos.

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Heartland Film Festival

Various Locations | October 8-18

Heartland connects audiences and filmmakers to experience the transformative power of film in an 11-day celebration showcasing more than 300 feature film screenings.

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Broad Ripple Oktoberfest

The Vogue | October 10

The Eight Eleven Foundation launches its Inaugural Oktoberfest in Broad Ripple, transforming the Vogue Theatre lot into a fall festival with food trucks, bier, live music, and a Kids Zone. Celebrate the season with family and friends—tickets include entry, food and drinks sold separately.

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World Food Championships

Indiana State Fairgrounds | October 15-18

The World Food Championships unite top chefs and culinary teams from around the globe to compete in mouthwatering categories like barbecue, dessert, seafood, and more. Guests can savor delicious tastings, watch celebrity chef demos, explore interactive food experiences, and enjoy family-friendly fun in this ultimate celebration of “food sport.”

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Historic Irvington Halloween Festival

Irvington | October 24-31

The 80th Historic Irvington Halloween Festival is a week of events including Spooky Organ Music, a run, a costume ball, contests, Halloween-themed movies, storytelling, ghost tours, live theater, bike rides, a haunted puppet show, and dozens of other events. The Festival culminates on Saturday, October 31, with a street fair which includes over 120 vendors, live music, and a costume parade.

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