As the fall season kicks off, Omaha becomes a hub of activities, festivals, and events perfect for families, friends, and solo adventurers. From pumpkin patches and haunted houses to art festivals and concerts, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Here’s a round-up of must-do events happening in and around Omaha this October!
Scarecrow Festival at Kimmel Orchard
Date: September 30 – October 13, 2024
Time: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Kimmel Orchard, Nebraska City
Description: Head to Kimmel Orchard for the Scarecrow Festival, a family-friendly event filled with crafts, games, hayrides, and of course, plenty of scarecrows! It’s the ultimate autumn celebration with a countryside charm.
More Info: https://www.kimmelorchard.org/tours-events/events/2024-scarecrow-festival
Junkstock
Dates: Oct. 4 – 6, 2024
Times:
- Friday: 11 AM – 6 PM (early bird starts at 9 AM)
- Saturday: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: 1150 River Road Drive, Waterloo, NE
Description: Located just outside Omaha, Junkstock is a massive festival celebrating vintage goods, handmade treasures, and live music. Explore dozens of booths offering everything from antique furniture to artisan creations while enjoying a fun, outdoor atmosphere with local food trucks and performers.
More Info: https://www.junkstock.com/#junkstock-2024
Omaha Fall Home & Lifestyle Show
Dates: October 4 – 6, 2024
Location: CHI Health Center Omaha
Description: Looking for fall home inspiration? The Omaha Fall Home & Lifestyle Show features exhibits on everything from home improvement and decor to wellness and lifestyle products. Get expert advice and ideas for your next project.
More Info: https://chihealthcenteromaha.com/event/omaha-fall-home-lifestyle-show-2024/
Friday Night Movies at Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard
Dates: Every Friday in October
Location: Ditmars Orchard & Vineyard
Description: Enjoy outdoor movie nights with seasonal classics!
- Hocus Pocus: October 4, 2024
- Beetlejuice: October 11, 2024
- The Pagemaster: October 18, 2024
- Dumb & Dumber: October 25, 2024
More Info: https://www.facebook.com/ditmarsappleorchard/events/
Lauritzen Gardens Fall Events
Dates:
- Wicked Plants: October 5 – November 2, 2024
- Spooky Spirits: October 18, 2024
- Dia de los Muertos Community Ofrenda: October 18 – November 3, 2024
- Ghoulish Garden Adventure: October 27, 2024
Location: Lauritzen Gardens
Description: Lauritzen Gardens turns into a spooky wonderland with events like the Ghoulish Garden Adventure for kids and the Spooky Spirits event for adults. Whether you’re looking for a playful adventure or a spooky evening, Lauritzen Gardens has it all this October.
More Info: https://www.lauritzengardens.org/Visit/Events_and_Exhibits/
Chili Crawl
Date: October 5, 2024
Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
Location: Midtown Crossing
Description: Warm up with some of the best chili in Omaha at the Chili Crawl in Midtown Crossing. Sample delicious chili recipes from local vendors and enjoy live music and entertainment while strolling through the vibrant area.
More Info: https://midtowncrossing.com/event/chilli-crawl-2024/
Baseballoween at Werner Park
Date: October 25, 2024
Location: Werner Park
Description: Celebrate Halloween with a baseball twist at Werner Park’s Baseballoween! Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating on the field, games, and a costume contest, all in a fun and safe environment.
More Info: https://www.milb.com/omaha/events/baseballoween
Explore Omaha’s Best Pumpkin Patches
Dates: Ongoing throughout October
Location: Various around Omaha
Description: Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of Omaha’s charming pumpkin patches! Perfect for families, you can pick pumpkins, explore corn mazes, take hayrides, and enjoy tasty fall treats.
More Info: https://blog.drivehh.com/best-pumpkin-patches-omaha/
Durham Museum’s The Lost Dragon Exhibit
Dates: Now – December 31, 2024
Location: Durham Museum
Description: Discover the magic of mythical creatures through the “Lost Dragons” exhibit, a fascinating exploration of dragons in mythology and culture. A fantastic adventure for all ages, this exhibit blends art, history, and a little bit of fantasy!
More Info: https://durhammuseum.org/current-exhibits/
Haunted Cemetery Tours with Ollie the Trolley
Dates: Now – November 17, 2024
Times: 2 PM – 5 PM
Location: Omaha
Description: Experience Omaha’s spooky side with Ollie the Trolley’s Haunted Cemetery Tours. Explore eerie cemeteries as you learn about the haunted history of Omaha with engaging stories and plenty of frights.
More Info: https://www.olliethetrolley.com/haunted-cemetery-tour
Arbor Day Farm Fall Attractions
Dates: All of October
Location: Arbor Day Farm, Nebraska City
Description: Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City is a beautiful escape in the fall. Enjoy apple picking, wine tastings, hiking trails, and seasonal events like their fall festivals, making it a perfect day trip from Omaha.
More Info: https://www.arbordayfarm.org/activities/events.cfm
Haunted TreeRush Adventures
Dates: Weekends in October
Times:
- Friday: 2 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: TreerRush Adventures, Fontenelle Forest
Description: Combine thrills and chills at Haunted Treerush Adventures! This spooky ropes course adventure will have you navigating treetop challenges, ziplines, and haunted trails.
More Info: https://treerush.com/hauntedtreerush/
Fun For All This October!
October in Omaha is packed with something for everyone. Whether you’re into the arts, outdoor fun, or spooky thrills, these events are sure to make your fall memorable. So grab your favorite cozy sweater and pumpkin spice treat, and start exploring all the city has to offer!
