The Ultimate Guide to Fall Festivals in Canada 2025: Family Fun and Educational Adventures

Crisp air, colourful leaves, and the scent of apples and pumpkins in the air – autumn in Canada is a season full of magic. For families and educators, fall is also a time to celebrate learning outside the classroom. Festivals across the country bring communities together with food, music, cultural traditions, and nature experiences that double as educational opportunities for children. Keep reading for Teachers on Call’s educational roundup of fall events and festivals taking place from coast to coast.

If you’re searching for fall festivals near me or planning family outings this season, this guide highlights some of the best fall festivals in Canada in 2025. From pumpkin-lit trails to apple orchards and harvest fairs, these community events offer plenty of fun things to do in autumn while sparking curiosity and learning. The team behind the Teachers on Call online and in-home tutoring services recommends these experiences as wonderful ways for students to connect what they study in school with the world around them, from exploring nature and science firsthand to discovering local history, art, and community traditions. Keep reading for Teachers on Call’s educational round-up of fall fun from coast to coast.

British Columbia

Fall Fun Near Vancouver: Pumpkin Patches, Mazes, and Garden Displays

Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland offer plenty of fall magic without venturing too far. Laity Pumpkin Patch in Maple Ridge is perfect for children of all ages, with its North location (21145 128 Ave, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2R9) geared toward younger kids and its South location (12725 Laity Street, Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2P2) offering a mini corn maze, wagon rides, farm animals, and pumpkins to pick. Richmond Country Farms (13060 Steveston Hwy, Richmond, BC V6W 1A3) is another family favourite where you can wander through pumpkin fields, try out the corn maze, ride the farm train, and enjoy seasonal snacks while breathing in autumn air. For a gentler experience, VanDusen Botanical Garden’s Harvest Days (5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1) brings hay bales, pumpkin displays, fall crafts, and garden walks, a great place for younger children to explore nature, colour changes in leaves, and seasonal plant life.

These fall-festivals near Vancouver combine outdoor activity, sensory experiences, and small lessons in agriculture, ecology, and seasonal change. Whether you are seeking a dramatic pumpkin find for carving or a quiet walk among autumn gardens, there is something in the region to match your family’s pace and interest.

Magic of Fall at Taves Family Farms (Abbotsford, BC)

For families looking for classic autumn fun, Taves Family Farms in Abbotsford (333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford, BC V2S 8A7) is a must-visit. Running from mid-September through October, the Magic of Fall celebration offers something for everyone,  from apple and pumpkin picking to hayrides, jumping pillows, and corn mazes of all sizes. Children can visit the petting barn, meet friendly farm animals, and enjoy freshly made cider and seasonal treats.

Beyond the excitement, the farm provides hands-on learning about agriculture and nature. Families can explore how crops grow and are harvested, learn about pollinators and ecosystems, and see firsthand how food moves from farm to table. It’s the perfect blend of fun and education, set against the beautiful Fraser Valley countryside.

Alberta

Pumpkins After Dark (Edmonton, AB)

From September 26 to October 31, 2025, Borden Park (7727 Borden Park Rd NW, Edmonton, AB T5B 4W8) glows with thousands of hand-carved pumpkins in themed displays. Families can walk through illuminated trails, enjoy seasonal treats, and marvel at the artistry behind the carvings. Beyond the fun, children can learn about design, storytelling through art, and the history of pumpkins in cultural traditions.

ScreamFest (Calgary, AB)

For families with older children and teens who love a good scare, ScreamFest transforms Calgary’s GMC Stadium at Stampede Park (2200 Stampede Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2G8) into a thrill-filled Halloween experience from October 10 to November 1, 2025. With seven haunted houses — including the daring Zombie Outbreak — along with monster trucks, rides, and a spooky midway, it’s the largest Halloween event of its kind in Western Canada.

While ScreamFest is designed for braver audiences, it can also spark conversations about storytelling, design, and the creative process behind immersive experiences and special effects. (Note: Tickets are required and October 23 is an adults-only evening.)

Harvest Pumpkin Fest at Butterfield Acres (Calgary, AB)

For a true taste of the harvest season, families can head to Butterfield Acres (254077 Rocky Ridge Rd NW, Calgary, AB T3R 1A6) for the Harvest Pumpkin Fest, taking place on select weekends from October 4–26, 2025. Children can choose their perfect pumpkin, meet farm animals, take a pony ride, and travel through Scarecrow Alley on a wagon ride. The festival is a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about farm life, animal care, and the autumn harvest cycle while enjoying hands-on outdoor fun.

(Please note: Tickets are required and are valid for specific 2-hour window)

YMM Pumpkins & Planes (Fort McMurray, AB)

For a festive and aviation-themed Halloween event, YMM Pumpkins & Planes takes place at Fort McMurray International Airport (100 Snowbird Way, Fort McMurray, AB) on October 25, 2025 from 12-3 pm. Families can enjoy a fun day of pumpkin-themed games, crafts, and exploring aircraft up close - a great way to combine seasonal excitement with a bit of STEM curiosity!

Tickets are required and all proceeds support the United Way Fort McMurray & Wood Buffalo.

Ontario

Ontario has some of the country’s most popular fall festivals, blending history, science, agriculture, and cultural learning with autumn fun.

Haunted ROM Tour (Toronto, ON)

For families and students who enjoy a little mystery with their museum visit, the Haunted ROM Tour (100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON  M5S 2C6) is a one-of-a-kind way to experience the Royal Ontario Museum after dark. Step inside the historic galleries to uncover eerie stories, hidden corners, and ghostly legends that blend art, culture, and natural history. Guides share intriguing tales of the museum’s past while inviting visitors to look at artifacts and exhibits in a whole new light.

This tour is an engaging way to explore storytelling, folklore, and history in an interactive setting — perfect for curious minds who love both learning and a good ghost story.

Visitors can join the public tour for a small $5 fee in addition to regular Museum Admission.
Use code TEACHERSONCALL online at checkout to save 15% on ROM Museum Admission.

Tricks, Treats ‘n’ Tunes with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra (Toronto, ON)

Music lovers of all ages can celebrate Halloween in symphonic style with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s Tricks, Treats ‘n’ Tunes concert at Roy Thompson Hall (60 Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 2H5). This lively event invites families to enjoy spooky and spirited orchestral favourites performed by the TSO. Children are encouraged to dress in costume and experience the thrill of live music in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.

Beyond the entertainment, the concert offers an engaging introduction to classical music and the instruments of the orchestra, making it a memorable and educational outing for students and families alike. 

Tickets are required for this event, and prices vary based on seating.

Pumpkinferno at Upper Canada Village (Morrisburg, ON)

From October 3 to November 1, 2025, Upper Canada Village (13740 County Rd 2, Morrisburg, ON K0C 1X0, Canada) transforms into a glowing wonderland with thousands of illuminated pumpkins. Families explore the historic village while learning about pioneer life and Canadian history, making Pumpkinferno both a visual and educational experience.

The Great Pumpkin Trail at the Royal Botanical Gardens (Burlington, ON)

The Royal Botanical Gardens’ The Great Pumpkin Trail (​​680 Plains Rd. W. Burlington, ON L7T 4H4) is a fall tradition that takes place from October 16-19 and 24-26, 2025. Visitors walk through pathways lit with hundreds of jack-o-lanterns while enjoying seasonal food, live entertainment, and the gardens after dark.

“Pumpkin Trail is one of RBG’s signature fall traditions, offering guests a chance to experience the gardens in an entirely new light. From the glow of hundreds of jack-o-lanterns to the seasonal food, live entertainment, and festive atmosphere, it’s an evening that truly captures the magic of autumn and remains one of our most anticipated events of the year.” – Adrienne Lister, Events Producer

This event highlights the beauty of nature in autumn and encourages children to connect with plant life, ecosystems, and seasonal traditions.

Apple Orchards and Harvest Festivals (Niagara Region and GTA)

Ontario farms come alive with apple picking, wagon rides, and corn mazes in September and October. Family favourites include Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm in Milton (9528 Regional Rd 25, Milton, ON L9T 2X7) and Warner Ranch and Pumpkin Farm (7705 Schisler Rd, Welland, ON L3B 5N4) in Niagara. These outings provide children with hands-on learning about agriculture, ecosystems, and nutrition while enjoying fun outdoor play.

Kustermans Fall Festival & Pumpkin Picking (London, ON)

Just outside London, Kustermans Fall Festival & Pumpkin Picking (23188 Springwell Rd, Mount Brydges, ON) runs daily from September 6 through October 31, 2025. Families can choose pumpkins from the patch, explore corn mazes, enjoy inflatables and face painting (on weekends), and catch special live performances on select dates (for example, children’s musician Dan the Music Man and magician Ricky Magic).

It’s a full day of fall fun mixed with educational moments. Kids learn about how pumpkins grow, ecosystems in the farm, and get creative with arts activities.

PumpkinFest at Saunders Farm (Ottawa, ON)

From September 20 to November 1, 2025, PumpkinFest at Saunders Farm (7893 Bleeks Road, Ottawa, ON K0A 3P0) invites families to enjoy classic autumn festivities. Expect hayrides through fields, kid-friendly haunted attractions, hedge mazes, farm animals, seasonal treats, and, of course, choose-your-own pumpkins.

This event blends fun, seasonal atmosphere, and opportunities to teach about agriculture, plant life, and the cycle of fall harvest.

Northern Ontario Highlights: From Farm Fun to the Arts

Northern Ontario offers a unique blend of fall experiences, from classic farm adventures to creative cultural celebrations. Families and educators alike can find wonderful opportunities for hands-on learning and autumn fun.

Leisure Farms Pumpkin Patch & Farm Tour (West Nipissing, ON)

Throughout October, Leisure Farms (744 Quesnel Rd, West Nipissing, ON P0H 2M0) invites families to embrace the harvest season with its popular Pumpkin Patch and Farm Tour. Visitors can pick pumpkins, wander through the corn maze, meet barnyard animals, and enjoy treats like warm cookies and hot chocolate around the bonfire. It’s a full afternoon of seasonal fun and learning — children can see how crops grow, learn about the importance of pollinators, and explore the science behind agriculture and food production.

Algoma Fall Festival (Sault Ste. Marie, ON)

Running from October 18 to December 11, 2025, the Algoma Fall Festival transforms Sault Ste. Marie into a hub of art, music, theatre, and culture. Families can attend live performances, explore visual art exhibits, and take part in creative workshops. It’s a wonderful way to combine cultural appreciation with classroom inspiration.

Looking for more fall attractions in Ontario? Enjoy Some Fall Fun in Ontario with these Activities!

Atlantic Canada

RiverBreeze Farm Fall Festival (Upper Onslow, NS)

From September 27 to October 19, 2025, RiverBreeze Farm (660 Onslow Rd, Upper Onslow, NS B6L 5L5) welcomes families for pumpkin picking, a giant corn maze, a petting zoo, and other farm attractions. It is a chance for children to connect with rural life and learn about farming while enjoying classic fall fun.

Canada-Wide Fall Traditions

No matter where you live, you can find fun things to do in autumn close to home. Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, apple orchards, and local harvest markets are staples across the country. Many communities also host smaller fall fairs, cultural festivals, and craft markets that celebrate local traditions and bring families together.

Fall Festival Tips for Families:

• Check festival websites for tickets, schedules, and age-appropriate programming.
• Dress in layers, since fall evenings can be chilly, especially for outdoor light trails.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds and give children time to explore.
• Use festivals as learning opportunities by talking with children about history, art, agriculture, or ecosystems they encounter along the way.

We hope you enjoy our educational round-up of fall fun across the country. From illuminated pumpkin trails in Ontario to harvest celebrations on the East Coast, Canada’s fall festivals in 2025 offer countless opportunities for family fun and learning. Whether you are a parent looking for weekend activities or an educator hoping to connect classroom lessons with real-world experiences, these events highlight the best of the season. Autumn is more than a time of colourful leaves, it is a season to explore, discover, and learn together. Happy learning!