Melissa Donovan
As the sun dips lower in the sky and the temperatures begin to cool, Central Florida transforms into a vibrant canvas of fall colors and festive activities. While the region might not experience as dramatic of foliage as the northern climates, the charm of autumn in Central Florida is equally enchanting, offering a wide array of activities that promise fun for the whole family. From pumpkin patches to corn mazes, here’s your comprehensive guide to making the most of fall in this sunny paradise.
Fall Festivals
One of the best ways to celebrate autumn in Central Florida is by attending one of the many fall festivals that dot the region. These festivals are perfect for enjoying seasonal foods, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Southern Hill Farms Fall Festival: The 9th annual Southern Hill Farms Fall Festival will be held every Thursday-Sunday from September 28 to November 17. Festival goers can look forward to a petting zoo, farm wagon rides, pumpkin patches and even college or NFL football playing on their flatscreens. There will be plenty of photo ops to take the memories home with you. Tickets are required for the event and must be purchased online advanced.
Long & Scott Farms Fall Festival: Long & Scott Farms is known for its extensive pumpkin patch and corn maze. The festival begins September 28 and will run every weekend through November 24. This year, their Fall Festival promises excitement with a pumpkin patch, a variety of interactive games, and a giant corn maze designed for all ages. Kids will love the hayrides and the opportunity to meet farm animals.
Lukas Nursery’s 39th Annual Fall Festival
From October 19-20 Lukas Nursery will host families and children for days of seeing farm animals, enjoying live entertainment and exploring the gardens. Among the activities are face painting, bounce houses, and hayrides. Tickets are available for purchase online.
Pumpkin Patches and Farms
No fall experience is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Central Florida boasts several farms where families can enjoy pumpkin picking, hayrides, and more.
The Pumpkin Patch at Hagerty Farms
The grand opening of this free entry and pet-friendly pumpkin patch is on Saturday, September 28. Located right outside of Hagerty High School, the patch offers a variety of photo ops and games to enjoy with friends or family. All proceeds from the patch go to support the Hagerty High girl’s lacrosse team with new equipment to help them be more successful in the upcoming season.
Harvest Moon Fun Farm: Located in Masaryktown, this farm is a hub of fall fun. Their massive corn maze is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s designed to challenge and entertain. The farm also offers hayrides, a petting zoo, and a variety of other seasonal activities.
Fall-Themed Events and Activities
Central Florida’s mild autumn weather makes it an ideal time for outdoor events and activities. Fall is also a fantastic time to engage kids in seasonal activities that foster creativity and fun.
Fall Craft Fairs: Many fall festivals and events include craft fairs where kids can participate in fall-themed craft activities. From making leaf rubbings to creating pumpkin decorations, these crafts offer a creative outlet for children and a chance for them to make something special to take home.
Held in the picturesque town of Mount Dora, Mount Dora Craft Fair is a renowned event which transforms the streets into a bustling market filled with arts, crafts, and tasty treats. Held on October 26-27, this fair is just in time for visitors to enjoy the crisp fall weather while exploring a wide array of handmade goods and unique artisan creations.
Scenic Fall Hikes: While Central Florida may not have traditional autumn foliage, its natural parks and reserves offer beautiful trails perfect for a family hike. Places like the Black Bear Wilderness Area and the Wekiwa Springs State Park provide a peaceful setting for a fall nature walk.
Other Fall activities which are a bit more on the scary side include the Haunting Nights at Harry P. Leu Gardens. This spooky event is perfect for those who want to get into the fall spirit and experience the thrill of Halloween season amid the beautiful Central Florida weather. While watching out for crazy creatures, guests can enjoy live music, Dia de Los Muertos celebrations, and food and beverages. Haunting Nights will begin September 27 and run though Halloween.
Central Florida’s fall season offers a rich tapestry of activities that celebrate the essence of autumn in a unique way. From exploring pumpkin patches and corn mazes to enjoying festive fall events and crafts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these activities are sure to make your fall memorable and full of joy. So, gather your family, embrace the season, and make the most of fall in sunny Central Florida!
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