Fall is officially here, and Ottawa is bursting with activities to help you make the most of the season. Whether you’re looking for spooky thrills, stunning autumn landscapes, or cultural festivals, October in Ottawa has something for everyone. Here’s your guide to the top events happening this month!
1. Pumpkinferno at Upper Canada Village
Dates: September 29 – October 31, 2024
Kick off October with a magical trip to Pumpkinferno at Upper Canada Village. Stroll through this outdoor art exhibit featuring over 7,000 glowing, hand-carved pumpkins. It’s the perfect family-friendly fall outing, and the illuminated creations are sure to impress.
Find tickets and info here
2. Haunted Walks of Ottawa
Dates: Various dates throughout October
Get in the Halloween spirit with a Haunted Walk through Ottawa’s most haunted locations. Hear chilling ghost stories, visit eerie spots like the Ottawa Jail Hostel, and experience the city’s darker side. Nighttime tours under the fall moon add to the spooky atmosphere!
Book your haunted tour here
3. Fall Rhapsody in Gatineau Park
Dates: October 1 – 15, 2024 (peak fall foliage)
For nature lovers, Gatineau Park’s Fall Rhapsody is a must-see. With vibrant fall colors at their peak, it’s the perfect time for a scenic hike or drive. Explore the park’s trails and take in stunning views of the autumn leaves.
Plan your visit to Gatineau Park here
4. Saunders Farm FrightFest
Dates: Weekends, October 5 – 29, 2024
For those who love a good scare, Saunders Farm’s FrightFest is the place to be. During the day, Saunders Farm offers fun family activities, but at night, it transforms into a haunted experience with mazes, spooky attractions, and haunted hayrides that will leave you shivering!
Get tickets for FrightFest here
5. Beau’s Oktoberfest
Dates: October 4 – 6, 2024
Raise a stein and celebrate Bavarian-style at Beau’s Oktoberfest, just a short drive from Ottawa. Enjoy craft beer, traditional German food, and live music in a festive atmosphere. It’s the ultimate fall celebration for beer lovers!
Grab tickets for Beau’s Oktoberfest here
6. Ottawa International Animation Festival
Dates: October 2 – 6, 2024
If you’re into animation and film, don’t miss the Ottawa International Animation Festival, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Catch innovative animated films from international creators and take part in workshops, discussions, and screenings.
Learn more and get tickets here
7. Carleton Ravens Football Game
Date: October 12, 2024
Show your local pride and cheer on the Carleton Ravens football team as they take on their rivals at Ravens Perch Stadium. The game day atmosphere is electric, and it’s a great way to spend a fall afternoon with friends and family.
Check out the Ravens’ schedule and tickets here
8. ByWard Market Pumpkinfest
Date: October 26, 2024
For all things pumpkin, head to ByWard Market’s Pumpkinfest! From pumpkin carving contests to local seasonal food vendors and live entertainment, this event brings the best of fall to one of Ottawa’s most iconic areas.
Learn more about Pumpkinfest here
Final Thoughts
October in Ottawa offers a diverse range of activities for every interest. Whether you’re a fan of spooky thrills, beautiful fall colors, or cultural events, this month has something special in store for you. So grab your calendar, make some plans, and enjoy everything Ottawa has to offer this fall!
What’s on your October to-do list? 🍂
