Looking for fun things to do this October?
From pumpkin patches and Apple Hill outings to haunted attractions, family festivals, and Northern Nevada favorites, here are some of our top picks for fall fun in and around Greater Sacramento, Modesto, the foothills, and Northern Nevada.
Want even more ideas? Check back often — event details, hours, and admission can change.
Dates: Through November 15, 2026
Location: Wheatland, CA
Address: 1415 Pumpkin Lane, Wheatland, CA
Why go: A Northern California fall favorite with train rides, a corn maze, hayrides, a carousel, pumpkin picking, farm animals, and delicious homemade pies and treats.
Admission: General admission is free. Parking and some attractions may cost extra.
Official website: https://www.bishopspumpkinfarm.com/
Season: Fall harvest season
Location: Camino / Placerville, CA
Why go: Apple Hill is one of the region’s best fall getaways, with apple picking, fresh pies, cider, bake shops, pumpkins, wineries, and beautiful foothill scenery. Each farm has its own hours and specialties, so there’s always something new to explore.
Admission: Varies by farm and activity.
Official website: https://applehill.com/
Dates: October 16–18 and 23–24, 2026, 5–9 PM
Location: Fairytale Town, 3901 Land Park Drive, Sacramento, CA
Why go: A magical, family-friendly Halloween celebration featuring trick-or-treating, costumes, games, activities, and plenty of festive fun for little ones.
Admission: Ticketed event. Check the website for current prices.
Please Note: Advance Ticket Sales end on Thursday, October 15th at 11:59PM.
*Ticket prices go up Friday, October 16th to $18/person.
Official website: https://www.fairytaletown.org/
Dates: Select nights through November 1, 2026
Address: 2300 Mine Shaft Lane, Rancho Cordova, CA
Why go: Looking for a frightfully good time? Explore four interconnected haunted attractions, a Ghost Town scare zone, and live entertainment. A perfect outing for serious Halloween thrill-seekers!
Admission: General admission $39; priority tickets available. Online ticket purchase required.
Official website: https://heartstoppershaunt.com/
Dates: Through October 31, 2026
Address: 501 Manthey Road, Lathrop, CA
Why go: One of the Central Valley's biggest fall attractions! Explore the corn maze, take a hayride, enjoy farm-themed activities, and discover fun for the whole family. Haunted attractions offer additional Halloween excitement.
Admission: Paid admission; packages and attractions vary. Free parking.
Official website: https://www.pumpkinmaze.com/
Dates: Through November 1, 2026
Address: 2500 Santa Fe Avenue, Modesto, CA
Why go: A delightful family farm experience with pig races, a petting zoo, corn maze, wagon rides, jumping pillow, giant slides, pumpkins, and picture-perfect autumn displays.
Admission: Free entry to the pumpkin patch; paid attractions and activity passes available.
Official website: https://www.dutchhollowfarms.com/
Dates: Through October 31, 2026
Location: 8100 Pyramid Highway, Sparks, NV
Why go: Discover a five-acre corn maze, pumpkin picking, farm animals, play areas, and exciting nighttime experiences such as Corn Creepers and zombie paintball.
Admission: Ticket prices vary by activity and attraction.
Official website: https://www.andelinfamilyfarm.com/
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Location: Downtown Carson City, Nevada
Why go: Celebrate Nevada's birthday with one of the state's favorite annual traditions! Enjoy the 10 AM parade, floats, marching bands, balloons, festive decorations, and downtown activities.
2026 Theme: Pumpkins, Pioneers & Tall Tales
Admission: Parade viewing is free; some activities may have fees.
Official website: https://www.nevadaday.com/
Dates: Thursdays–Sundays through October, 5–9 PM
Location: Horseshoe Bar Road, Loomis, CA
Why go: Experience autumn after dark! Browse pumpkins, enjoy hot cider and cocoa, play cornhole, try pumpkin carving, and relax around a cozy firepit. A fun outing for families, friends, or date night.
Admission: General pumpkin patch admission is free on most nights. Private firepit reservations, pumpkins, and treats cost extra. Some evenings are reservation-only.
Official website: https://www.solsticefarmsca.com/pumpkinpatch
Season: Tours generally offered Saturdays; confirm October availability.
Location: Historic Downtown Grass Valley, CA
Why go: Discover the flavors and fascinating history of Gold Country! Enjoy a guided walking food tour through charming downtown Grass Valley, visiting local restaurants, bakeries, and specialty food shops. Sample delicious local specialties while learning about the area's rich Gold Rush history.
Duration: Approximately 2½–3 hours.
Tour Guides: Wendy and Heidi Quist
Admission: Paid guided experience. Contact the tour operator for pricing, availability, and reservations.
Website: https://foragefoodtours.com
Phone: (385) 499-9482
Instagram: @foragefoodtours