As the leaves begin to turn red, orange, and umber and the air grows crisper, Northwest Indiana comes alive with a vibrant array of autumn events to delight all. From harvest festivals to spooky celebrations, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the region’s most exciting fall events.
1. Fall Harvest Festival – County Line Orchard, Hobart, Indiana (September-October)
This multi-weekend event offers apple picking, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides. It’s a perfect family-friendly attraction that draws visitors from across the region.
2. Fall Colors – Indiana Dunes State Park, Chesterton, Indiana (October)
The scenic beauty is at its most spectacular during peak fall foliage season in early to mid-October. You can take in the colors by hiking one of the many trails in the park or in the nearby national park. Additionally, you can also drive down picturesque Route 12, hug the Lake Michigan shoreline, and stop in at cute eateries and shops along the way. The foliage begins in Miller Beach (the far east side of Gary) and continues to the Michigan state line. There are also biking trails along the route and throughout the parks.
3. The Sunflower Fair- La Porte, Indiana
The Sunflower Fair, held annually in beautiful, in downtown La Porte, is one of the largest area festivals, featuring over 100 craft and nonprofit vendors, artisan wares, food, entertainment, and numerous activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy the La Porte Farmers Market, a kid’s fun zone, a rib cook-off, Artists Gallery Walk, and a sunflower growing contest. Mark your calendars for the 25th Annual Sunflower Fair on September 21, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the area of Michigan Avenue in downtown La Porte.
4. – Harvest Tyme- Lowell, Indiana (Late September through October)
Discover the ultimate autumn experience at this historic farmstead in Lowell, Indiana. Harvest Tyme Family Farm is celebrating their 17th year of fall fun! They are back with classic activities like corn mazes, hayrides, pumpkin picking, a petting zoo,
ten thrilling rides, and more! They also offer an After Dark Pumpkin Glow Trail where you can view festive Halloween lights and glowing pumpkins on this amazing walking trail.
5. Haunted Hills – Merrillville, Indiana
Haunted Hills Haunted Attractions invites families to their daytime Fall Festival, offering a range of activities for just $5 admission, with part of the proceeds benefiting St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The event features vendors, a midway, and attractions like the Fear Lab Haunt Experience, escape rooms, carnival games, and character meet-and-greets. On October 19th, children 12 and under can enjoy trick-or-treating through a family-friendly version of Haunted Hills Hospital. Additional activities, some with extra fees, include tarot card readings, face painting, and photo opportunities. The organizers encourage visitors to capture memories with a group photo and look forward to welcoming families for this festive autumn event. However, when the sun goes down, that’s when things get really spooky. Check out the website for all of the haunted activities for all ages.
6. Pumpkin Palooza At The Chesterton European Market- Chesterton, Indiana (October 26th)
The Chesterton European Market season draws to a close with its annual Pumpkin Palooza Festival. Guests are invited to take part in their costume contest, while children are invited to trick-or-treat at the many vendor’s booths. There’s even a pet costume contest and many fall activities for families to enjoy. This event also has live music and plenty of fall flavors for guests of all ages to enjoy.
7. The Haunted Forest- Cedar Lake, Indiana
The Haunted Forest is a unique attraction created by Knights of Columbus members. It combines spooky thrills with humor, offering an entertaining experience for visitors. Started on an unused acre behind their hall, the attraction has grown over the years, continually evolving to provide fresh scares and laughs. The creators take pride in crafting an interactive experience that balances fright and hilarity, making it a popular destination for those seeking a memorable and amusing Halloween season adventure.
8. Garwood Orchards – La Porte, Indiana
Garwood Orchards, a historic family farm, established in 1831, boasts sprawling apple orchards, and you-pick fields allowing guests to harvest their own assortment of seasonal vegetables and fruits. Their pumpkin patch provides the perfect backdrop for fall photos and selecting the ideal jack-o’-lantern candidate. After filling their baskets, families can enjoy scenic wagon rides through the picturesque grounds, browse the well-stocked farm stand for fresh produce and homemade goods, and unwind to live music on weekends. With its rich history and array of activities, Garwood Orchards creates lasting memories for generations of fall enthusiasts.
9. Town Planner of NWI’s Decorated Halloween Homes List! Across Northwest Indiana.
Each year we love to showcase the best of local NWI residents that go all out for Halloween decorations. From spooky to fun, this community-generated list allows local NWI residents to add their spooky homes to the list, making a fun trail of spooktacular family fun! Last year we had more than 55 homes across NWI sign up for their houses to be on the list, and we expect even more this year. Each entry is segmented by town, so driving by to tour is a breeze!
Our list has not opened yet for 2024 but should very shortly. Please keep an eye out for the list opening on our social media!
10. Elzinga Farm- Dyer, Indiana
Located in Dyer, Elzinga Farm is another treasure in our region for great fall festivities. This beloved family farmstand features pumpkin painting, a haunted house, hay rides, a corn maze, and a kid zone to celebrate the best of the fall harvest. Elzinga Farm opens its fall festivities on the spooky date of Friday, September 13th. Visit their website for opening hours and a schedule of events. Before you go, be sure to visit the farmstand loved by locals and visitors alike!
Northwest Indiana’s autumn events offer locals and visitors a wide array of autumn activities, from family-friendly to spine-tingling. Northwest Indiana fall weekends are filled with plenty of seasonal activities. Be sure to plan your weekends and buy tickets early where needed because many of these events sell out in advance.
What’s your favorite autumn event in Northwest Indiana? And business owners, we’d love to hear how you’ve successfully participated in these events in the past. Share your experiences in the comments below!