Fall Festivals, Pumpkins & Hayrides
Columbus transforms into a cozy autumn wonderland each fall, offering families the perfect excuse to get outside and celebrate the season together. From glowing pumpkin displays to farm-fresh festivities and outdoor music celebrations, there's something magical waiting for kids of every age. We've rounded up the best fall festivals and seasonal activities happening right now in and around Columbus.
The Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow
Fall festival with decorated pumpkins and community attractions in Westerville.
Pumpkin Walk Around The Pond
Scenic autumn walk past decorated pumpkins around a pond at Three Creeks.
All Hallows' Eve
Historic Halloween fun with Sleepy Hollow stories, pumpkin painting & crafts at Ohio Village.
Paint and Sip: Pile of Fall Pumpkins
Paint and Sip: Pile of Fall Pumpkins at Pinot's Palette Short North
Spooky Pumpkin Patch
Paint a Halloween-themed pumpkin patch design with guided instruction at Brush Crazy.
Historic Trade Fair & Fall Festival
Step into 18th-century Ohio with costumed reenactors, period crafts, and local food at Ohio History Connection.
Circleville Pumpkin Show
Ohio's famous pumpkin festival in Circleville with seasonal fun for all ages.
Modern Calligraphy & Pumpkin Lettering for Beginners
Modern Calligraphy & Pumpkin Lettering for Beginners at Grove City Brewing Company
Pumpkin Welcome
Paint a welcoming pumpkin design at Brush Crazy's guided studio class.
Pumpkin and Broom
Paint a spooky pumpkin-and-broom canvas with step-by-step guidance at Brush Crazy.
Avalon Productions Presents... Spookley The Square Pumpkin: The Musical
Musical about a lovable square pumpkin at Avalon Theatre — family-friendly Halloween fun.
Pumpkin Painting & Movie Night
Paint pumpkins, sip cider, and watch Monsters University under the stars at DICK's House of Sport.
All Hallows' Eve
Halloween evening at Ohio Village with Sleepy Hollow storytelling and pumpkin painting.
Pantry Band live at Pumpkin Patch
Annual pumpkin patch fundraiser with live music from the Pantry Band.
Chunky Knit Pumpkin Blanket Workshop at Grove City Brewing Company
Chunky Knit Pumpkin Blanket Workshop at Grove City Brewing Company
Beggar's Night & Pumpkin Patrol
Upper Arlington's Beggar's Night brings safe, community-patrolled trick-or-treating to the neighborhood.
Spirit Stories at Spiegel Grove
Lantern-lit ghost tours and campfire gathering at historic Spiegel Grove estate.
Harvest Moon
Paint a harvest moon scene with easy step-by-step help at Brush Crazy.
Good to know
- When do fall festivals and pumpkin activities happen in Columbus?
- Most fall festivals and pumpkin events run from September through October, with peak activity in mid-to-late October. Check individual event pages for specific dates, as many are seasonal and run on weekends or extended fall weekends.
- Are fall festivals in Columbus free or do they cost money?
- Many fall activities have free admission or low entry fees, though some attractions like hayrides and pumpkin picking may have separate charges. Pricing varies by event, so it's worth checking ahead to budget for parking, activities, and any add-ons your family wants to enjoy.
- What ages are fall festivals and hayrides good for?
- Fall festivals typically welcome all ages, from toddlers to teens, though some activities like corn mazes or hayrides work best for kids 3+. Most farms and festivals have a mix of activities so families with young children and older kids can find something fun together.
- Can we pick pumpkins at Columbus-area farms?
- Yes, many farms around Columbus offer pumpkin picking as part of their fall experience, usually alongside hayrides and other seasonal activities. Call ahead to confirm availability and whether you need to purchase admission to the farm or just pay for the pumpkins you pick.
- What should we expect at a fall festival in Columbus?
- Most fall festivals feature hayrides, pumpkin patches, live music or entertainment, food vendors, and outdoor games or activities for kids. Dress in layers, bring snacks and water, and arrive early on weekends since popular events can get crowded in the afternoon.