Best Things To Do With Families & Friends This October 2024 (Ontario)

Planning a family getaway or a fun-filled outing with friends this October in Ontario? We’ve curated a list of the best things to do with families and friends this October 2024. From vibrant fall festivals, scenic outdoor spots, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes to food markets, apple picking, and Halloween events, there are endless ways to make the most of the season. Explore everything from weekend getaways to autumn hikes and cozy fall fairs, and enjoy autumn to the fullest with your favorite people.

Top Activities in Ontario for Family & Friends This October 2024

Cranberry Harvest 2024 (Ongoing, Until October 27)

How to start your week? You can plunge into a sea of cranberries and feel that satisfying squish beneath your feet. Then, hop on a wagon tour to learn all about cranberry farming (with the perfect fall views, of course). If you’re feeling peckish, warm up with wine tasting or grab farm-fresh goodies.

• Date & Time: September 21 – October 27, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Location: Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery (1074 Cranberry Road, Bala) 
• Admission: 
  • All Access Pass – $60 per person
  • Cranberry Plunge – $20 per person
  • Wagon Tour – $15 per adult and $10 per kid under 12
  • Tutored Wine Tasting – $15 per adult
  • Farm & Trail Access – $5 per person
• Website: www.cranberry.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Date

Camp Spooky (Ongoing, Until November 2)

But if you’re after a more family-friendly Halloween adventure, join Camp Spooky. Every weekend, Canada’s Wonderland is packed with fun activities for the little ones, including trick-or-treating and meeting Halloween characters. There are also live shows with the PEANUTS gang.

• Date & Time (for this week): September 28 – November 2 (Weekends). Park opens at 10:00 AM
• Location: Canada’s Wonderland, Vaughan, Ontario 
• Admission: Fall daytime ticket starts at $44.99, Bring-a-friend ticket starts at $29.99
• Website: www.canadaswonderland.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Kids

Halloween Haunt (Ongoing, Until November 2)

Heard that Canada’s Wonderland is turning into a massive scream park? So, bring someone to scream with as you explore haunted mazes that’ll keep you on your toes or scare zones that will give you chills.

• Date: September 27 – November 2 (select nights)
• Location: Canada’s Wonderland (1 Canada’s Wonderland Drive, Vaughan)
• Admission: Ticket price varies. More info here.
• Website: www.canadaswonderland.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, or Date
• Please note: Not suitable for children younger than 13.  Please don’t wear costumes or makeup to Halloween Haunt. You must arrive before 11:00 PM (10:00 PM on Thursdays and Sundays).

Milton October Festival (October 6)

A short drive from Toronto and you’re in the heart of the Milton October Festival. This cozy fall festival features local artisanal crafts, seasonal treats, and handmade goodies. It also allows you to support local creators.

• Date & Time: October 6, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Milton Fairgrounds (136 Robert St, Milton) 
• Admission: Free 
• Website: www.experiencemilton.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Date

Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show (October 8-14)

Kick off the 2025 Four-Horse Hitch season with an exciting qualifier event. But that’s not all—the Norfolk County Fair boasts carnival rides, live music, local food, and plenty of agricultural displays.

• Date: October 8-14
• Location: Norfolk County Agricultural Society (172 South Drive, Simcoe)
• Admission: 
  • Ride ALL DAY ANY DAY pass: $40
  • 1- Day Youth (6-13) Admission: $10
  • 1- Day General Admission: $13
  • 7- Day General Admission: $60
  • 7- Day Parking: $40
  • 1- Day Parking: $10
  • 5 and Under: FREE
• Website: www.norfolkagsociety.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends

Celtic Colours International Festival (October 11-19)

Cape Breton’s Celtic Colours Festival offers live traditional music, tea, and treats. Also, check out the hands-on dance demos.

• Date & Time (for this week): October 11-19, Click here to see the schedule. 
• Location: Multiple venues in Cape Breton Island, click here for the list.
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.celtic-colours.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Date

Ball’s Falls Thanksgiving Festival (October 11-14)

Fall fun for the whole family? Ball’s Falls has it all: face painting, mini train rides, a live birds of prey show, plus a craft market, local food, and live music for the adults. Plus, you can explore historic buildings or enjoy a guided nature hike to take in the autumn colours.

• Date & Time (for this week):
• October 11 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM), October 12 (10:00 AM – 7:00 PM), October 13 (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Location: Ball’s Falls Conservation Area (3292 Sixth Ave, Lincoln)
• Admission: Check ticket prices here. 
• Website: www.thanksgivingfestival.ca 
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends

Spooktacular Light Show (October 11-31)

Why not switch up your Halloween plans with a drive-thru light show? The Spooktacular Light Show dazzles with over 2 million twinkling lights, spooky scenes, and festive Halloween displays.

• Date & Time (for this week): October 11-31, Thursdays & Sundays (7:00 PM, 7:30 PM. , 8:00 PM , 8:30 PM and 9:00 PM), Fridays & Saturdays (7:00 PM, 7:30 PM , 8:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 9:00 PM, 9:30 PM, 10:00 PM and 10:30 PM)
• Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
• Location: Ajax Casino (50 Alexander’s Crossing, Ajax)
• Admission: Check ticket prices here. 
• Website: www.spooktacularlightshow.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Date, 19+ for bar access 

Vineland ARTFest 2024 (October 12-14)

Vineland ARTFest lets you spend a fall day browsing handcrafted goods, home décor, and original artwork, all set to the sounds of live music. What’s more, you can try local food and drinks.

• Date & Time (for this week): October 12-14, 10:00 AM  – 5:00 PM
• Location: Twenty Valley Public School (4057 Victoria Ave, Beamsville)
• Admission: Free
• Website: www.artfest.dsbn.org 
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Date

Woodbridge Fair (October 12-14)

Since everyone deserves a fun-filled weekend, The Woodbridge Fair offers giant pumpkins, vintage cars, carnival rides, and contests for all ages. Moreover, grab a bite from the food trucks or a drink from the bar featuring autumn-inspired cocktails.

• Date & Time (for this week): October 12-14, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Woodbridge Fairgrounds (100 Porter Avenue, Woodbridge)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.woodbridgefair.ca 
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends

Dussehra Mela (October 13)

So, what awaits at the Dussehra Mela? You can explore beautiful ethnic wear, dazzling jewelry, and delicious Indian food. Live music, henna stations, and a magic show keep things lively while every child gets a special gift.

• Date & Time: October 13, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Swagat Banquet Hall ( 6991 Millcreek Drive, Mississauga)
• Admission: Free
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends

Seniors Pumpkin Fest (October 17)

Is there any more exciting way to welcome fall than with a cozy Pumpkin Fest? Grab some pumpkin pie, make new friends, and soak in those autumn vibes.

• Date & Time: October 17, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
• Location: Sanctus Church Ajax (599 Bayly Street East, Ajax)
• Admission: $5 per person. Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.sanctuschurch.com
• Category: Family-friendly, Seniors

The Great Pumpkin Trail (October 18-20 and 25-27)

Bring your family and friends to Hendrie Park to embrace the spooky season. Wander through a glowing path of intricately carved jack-o-lanterns, enjoy live entertainment, play pumpkin-themed games, and savour delicious fall treats. Don’t miss out on this magical autumn event—costumes are highly encouraged!

• Date & Time: October 18-20 and 25-27, starts at 11:00 AM 
• Location: Hendrie Park (680 Plains Rd W, Burlington)
• Admission: Get your tickets here. 
• Website: www.rbg.ca
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends, Date

Grimsby Chili & Cheese Fest (October 19-20)

After busy weekdays, fill your weekend with comfort food overload. The Grimsby Chili & Cheese Fest has everything you love—hearty chili, gooey cheese, and a side of live music. Plus, there are bouncy castles and games for the little ones.

• Date & Time: October 19 (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM),  October 20 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Location: West Niagara Fairgrounds (7436 Mud St W, West Lincoln)
• Admission: $5 per person, Free for kids 12 and under. Book your tickets here.
• Category: Family-friendly, Friends

Glow Halloween Party (October 19)

The Glow Halloween Party is perfect for families with kids looking for a spooky (but not too creepy) time. And yes, there are grab bags full of treats waiting for them.

• Date & Time: October 19, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Location: Grimsby Museum (6 Murray Street, Grimsby)
• Admission: $15 per child. More ticket info here. 
• Website: www.grimsby.ca 
• Category: Family-friendly, Kids

Black Pearls Gala 2024 (October 26)

The Black Pearls Gala celebrates trailblazing Black women with live entertainment, tasty bites, and inspiring stories. So, bring your friends for a night of glitz, glam, and empowerment

• Date & Time: October 26, 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM 
• Location: Pearson Convention Center (2638 Steeles Avenue East, Brampton)
• Admission: Get your tickets here.
• Website: www.cibwe.ca  
• Category: Date, Friends

PumpkinPalooza at St. Jacobs (October 26)

PumpkinPalooza is another exciting event this month where you carve your own pumpkin, trick-or-treat through the village, and join the Pumpkin Parade. And remember to show off your costume for a chance to win prizes.

• Date & Time: October 26, Halloween events throughout town: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM,  King Street Pumpkin Parade & Trick or Treat: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: St. Jacobs Village
• Admission: Click here for updates. 
• Website: www.stjacobsvillage.com
• Category: Family-friendly