Last Updated On – 28th September, 2025
Jump to: Fall Festivals | Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes | Halloween Events for Kids | Halloween Events for Adults | Foodie Fall Events | Free Fall Activities
The moment the Texas heat finally takes a step back, Austin comes alive in a whole new way. Fall here means festival season in full swing, patios packed with local brews, cultural celebrations, and streets buzzing with live music and cultural celebrations.
If you’re looking for the most unforgettable things to do this fall in Austin, this roundup will take you straight to the heart of what makes autumn here so legendary (and just a little weird, in the best way).
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Additionally, a few links in this article may help The Austinot earn a small commission if you make a purchase using those links.
Also, check out our articles on Pumpkin Patch Austin, Corn Maze Austin, October 2025 Events in Austin for Adults, and Kids Events in Austin in October 2025!
Austin Fall Festivals & Major Events (2025)
Uhland Fall Fest
Head over to the second annual Uhland Fall Fest for an array of fall-themed activities for all ages. This year’s festivities are a blast, with six distinct themes to experience: Bubble Extravaganza, Pumpkin Jamboree, Indigenous Traditions, It’s A Polka Party!, Pioneer Palooza, and Butterfly Jubilee.
Where: UHLAND FALL FEST 2400 Cotton Gin Rd, Kyle, TX 78640
When: September 27 – November 2, 2025
How Much: Starts at $15
Austin City Limits
Image credit: Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)
Party at the legendary Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival! Inspired by the famous, longest-running music TV series in history, this premier event will take over Zilker Metropolitan Park this fall. Catch over 100 performances across nine stages from October 3-5 and October 10-12.
The 2025 lineup features a mix of international superstars and local talent, with headliners like Hozier, Luke Combs, Cage The Elephant, Sabrina Carpenter, The Strokes, and Doja Cat.
Apart from the music, enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with delicious food and drinks from Austin’s best eateries and food trucks at the ACL Eats area. The festival will also have an Art Market, an Artist Merch tent, and a dedicated Austin Kiddie Limits zone with family-friendly activities, performances, and more.
Where: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, TX 78746
When: October 3 – 12, 2025
How Much: Starts at $170
Austin Horror Film Festival
For those seeking thrilling things to do this fall in Austin, don’t miss the Austin Horror Film Festival (AHFF) 2025. Get ready for an exclusive look at a wide range of horror films, from psychological and supernatural to slasher and comedy.
Over two days of screenings, the festival will showcase approximately 66 new short and feature-length horror films from around the world. Dive into specially curated film blocks like “From Dawk Till Dusk,” the B-movie style “Friday Night Schlock Block,” and the chilling “Midnight Grindhouse Theater” for a late-night scare.
Where: 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St, Austin, TX 78705
When: October 9 – 11, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.54
Austin Film Festival
The Austin Film Festival 2025 is one of the best things to do this fall in Austin for all kinds of cinephiles out there! This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the festival, featuring an extensive writers conference with over 150 sessions and talks from award-winning filmmakers like Christopher McQuarrie.
The event also hosts a screenplay competition judged by industry leaders, giving emerging writers a chance to shine.
You can also dive into the world of screenwriting and filmmaking at the world’s largest screenwriters conference, where you can learn from Hollywood talent and industry professionals. It’s the perfect opportunity to see incredible new films and network with professionals and other storytellers.
Where: Multiple locations throughout Austin
When: October 23 – 30, 2025
How Much: Starts at $80
Austoberfest
Image credit: Austoberfest
Step into a day of authentic German tradition and lively fun at Austoberfest 2025, the premier Oktoberfest celebration in Central Texas. Get ready for a full day of live music, from rock and swing to traditional German tunes, plus a thrilling sausage-tasting competition where you get to vote for your favorite.
The first 500 guests to arrive will even receive a complimentary half-liter glass stein to fill with seasonal German beers.
There will also be other fun activities like a stein-holding contest, which is a qualifier for the Texas Steinholding Championship Tournament, and bowling on six historic lanes. The kids can also enjoy games and face painting in the North dining room, with free admission for children under 12.
Where: Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: October 25, 2025
How Much: Starts at $40
Viva la Vida Fest
Image credit: Mexic-Arte Museum kids
The Viva La Vida Festival 2025, presented by Mexic-Arte Museum, is Austin’s largest Día de los Muertos event and one of the best things to do this fall in Austin. The day kicks off with a spectacular Grand Procession down historic Sixth Street, featuring lively music, costumed dancers, and decorated floats.
Then, the festivities continue with a bustling street festival where you can enjoy a variety of activities. Explore the marketplace for unique art and crafts from local artists, and get hands-on with art demonstrations in the Education Pavilion.
There will also be live performances entertaining you throughout the day and a distinct low-rider exhibition to enjoy.
Where: Mexic-Arte Museum, 419 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: October 25, 2025
How Much: Free
Austin Celtic Festival
Celebrating its 29th year of authentic Celtic traditions, this family-friendly event offers a captivating mix of music, dance, and history, featuring performances from international stars and local bagpipers.
You can also witness the legendary Highland Games as competitors show off their strength in classic athletic events like the caber toss and hammer throw, with competitions running all day Saturday and Sunday.
The festival also offers workshops and sessions on Celtic history and crafts for a deeper dive into the culture. Be sure to see the Celtic animals, which add a unique touch to this unforgettable event.
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: November 8 – 9, 2025
How Much: $25 per day | $10 for kids 5 – 16 years old | Free for kids below 5
Texas Book Festival
Celebrate literature at the Texas Book Festival 2025, one of the biggest and most exciting things to do this fall in Austin. Now in its 30th year, this beloved literary celebration will feature a massive lineup of over 300 authors from diverse genres with programming that includes engaging presentations, book signings, and lively panels.
The festival also offers something for everyone, with cooking demonstrations and a host of children’s activities. With plenty of food trucks and vendor booths on-site, it is a can’t-miss event for anyone who loves books and a great time.
Where: Texas Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: November 8 – 9, 2025
How Much: Free
Panda Fest
Get ready for a vibrant cultural experience at Panda Fest Austin 2025, a major outdoor Asian food and culture festival. Come hungry because there will be over 40 Asian food vendors serving more than 100 authentic street food dishes and fusion bites. After you get your fill, you can explore the marketplace with unique artisan crafts and panda-themed products.
Beyond those, get ready for a full schedule of live entertainment and interactive fun. Enjoy captivating cultural performances, including thrilling lion dances and exciting K-pop showcases.
You can even try your hand at traditional arts like calligraphy and sugar painting. Be sure to check out the panda attractions, featuring a giant 15-foot inflatable, themed games, and panda face painting.
Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: November 14 – 16, 2025
How Much: $14 – $25
The Austin Powwow
Celebrate Native American culture at the 32nd Annual Austin Powwow and Native American Heritage Festival. This is the largest one-day powwow in the United States, bringing together hundreds of Native American dancers, singers, artists, and craftsmen for a full day of traditional and contemporary celebration.
The event, presented by Great Promise for American Indians, features a grand entry procession, gourd dances, and various dance competitions. You can also explore a marketplace with over 100 native artists and vendors offering authentic indigenous cuisine.
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX 78724
When: November 22, 2025
How Much: $8 for early bird tickets | $10 for general admission | Free for kids under 12
Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes Around Austin
Sweet Eats Fruit Farm Fall Festival
Get ready to explore a massive 4.5-acre corn maze and wander through a Texas-sized pumpkin patch with over 40 unique varieties of pumpkins. Your general admission ticket gives you full access to a petting zoo, pony rides, wagon rides, and over 30 other fun, farm-themed activities.
The fun doesn’t stop there! Enjoy daily pig races and try your aim at the apple cannons. On Friday and Saturday nights throughout October, you can stick around for thrilling fireworks displays. The weekends in October also feature special shows, including Floki Fire, Sky Kings Falconry, and Zoofari.
Where: Sweet Eats Adventure Farm and Petting Zoo, 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: September 20 – November 7, 2025
How Much: Starts at $20.49
Texas Pumpkin Fest
The Texas Pumpkin Fest 2025 is one of the best things to do this fall in Austin, especially with the family or a special person, with a massive pumpkin patch and tons of activities for everyone.
Discover a variety of seasonal attractions, including live music on weekends, a classic train ride, and the “Hall of Monsters” scare zone with high-tech animatronics.
The festival also features a 65-foot super slide, a petting zoo, magic shows, pumpkin smashing, and pumpkin pie-eating contests. For the thrill-seekers, there’s axe throwing, rock climbing, and rides like the pumpkin spinner and Tasmanian devil spinner.
Where: Texas Pumpkin Fest, 8760 FM 2243, Leander, TX 78641
When: October 3- November 1, 2025
How Much: $15 | Free for veterans, active military, and 1st responders every Friday
Indian Springs Ranch Fall Fest
Image credit: Indian Springs Ranch
The Indian Springs Ranch Fall Fest is transforming a sprawling property in the Manchaca neighborhood into a vibrant autumn wonderland.
Discover all the exciting activities, including a large pumpkin patch with over 30 varieties for carving and decorating. You can also meet and feed a variety of exotic animals like camels, zebras, and llamas.
For the kids, there’s a new “Barnyard Twister” game, a sensory corn pit, a spider web climber, and a new low ropes course with tunnels and climbing walls.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the beautiful photo opportunities, relax in the shady picnic areas, and check out the authentic Native American tipi for a unique cultural experience.
Where: Indian Springs Ranch, 403 Elm View Way, Manchaca, TX 78652
When: September 27 – November 1, 2025
How Much: Starts at $19.02
Halloween for Families: Kids & Daytime Events
The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail
Image credit: Texas Performing Arts
Step into the magical world of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Austin is one of only two cities in the entire country to host this innovative, walk-through experience, giving you a rare chance to see beloved characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero brought to life right here in Texas.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: September 25 – November 30, 2025
How Much: Starts at $31
Pioneer Farms presents Pumpkin Nights
Image credit: Pumpkin Nights
Get ready to explore a magical world at Pumpkin Nights! Grab your friends or the family and venture through a half-mile walking path that winds through fantastical lands like the Forbidden City and a Pirate’s Cove.
With over 5,000 hand-carved real and artificial pumpkins, this one-of-a-kind exhibit is the perfect spot for an amazing fall adventure.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Once you finish the trail, celebrate in The Village, the festival area, with a variety of exciting entertainment acts and games.
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: September 18 – October 31, 2025
How Much: Free – $36
Boo at the Zoo
Get ready for a spooky and wild time at Austin’s Boo at the Zoo 2025, where the entire zoo will be decorated to create a festive and fun atmosphere. Be sure to wear your favorite costume for the full experience.
Take a ride on the spooky Haunted Train and venture through a terrifying Haunted House, both of which are included with your admission. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance for the train rides, as they are subject to availability.
You can also wander through the zoo to see the animals at night and enjoy Halloween-themed games and activities scattered throughout the grounds.
Where: Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
When: October 3- 25, 2025
How Much: $24
Halloween Carnival at Neill-Cochran House Museum
Get ready for a festive and family-friendly afternoon at the Halloween Carnival at the Neill-Cochran House Museum. It’s packed with exciting activities for all ages. Kids can go trunk-or-treating, take part in scavenger hunts, and play a variety of games.
You can also explore one of Austin’s most historic houses with interactive tours and see a traditional ofrenda honoring Día de los Muertos.
Where: The Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St, Austin, TX 78705
When: October 26, 2025
How Much: Free
Halloween & Nightlife: Haunted, Spooky & Grown-Up Events
Scream Hollow Wicked Halloween Park
This fall, Scream Hollow is a must-visit. It’s a full-on Wicked Halloween Park packed with thrills for everyone.
Get ready to brave one of the haunted attractions, including the spooky hayride, or wander through the eerie museums. And face your fears in one of the four chilling haunted houses: Mansion of Terror, Coven, Sinister Circus, Lost Pines Asylum, and Encounter. You can also visit with mystics and feel the unsettling energy that surrounds you.
When you need a break from the scares, grab a drink by the fire, enjoy some sinister eats, and let the live music pull you deeper into the night.
Where: Scream Hollow, 149 Split Rail Ln, Smithville, TX 78957
When: September 26 – November 2, 2025
How Much: Starts at $22.95
House of Torment
Image credit: House of Torment
Gear up for an unforgettable night with three terrifying haunted attractions at the House of Torment. Brace yourself for an evening of thrilling scares as you make your way through Torment ’99, The Arrival, and The Abandoned.
If you’re seeking even more action, test your skills at the mini escape games or try your hand at axe throwing. You can also team up with friends for a zombie shooting experience. Once you’re done, grab a drink at the Neon Coffin Secret Bar, exclusively for guests 21 and older.
Where: House of Torment, 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: September 13 – November 9, 2025
How Much: Starts at $19.99
LEVITATION Halloween Freakend
Experience a unique Halloween weekend filled with electrifying music at LEVITATION Halloween Freakend 2025! This two-night psychedelic and garage rock music event is presented by KUTX, KVRX, Levitation, and Resound, bringing a thrilling lineup of artists to The Far Out Lounge.
The lineup for October 31 features bands like VIAGRA BOYS, STEREOLAB, and BLACK LIPS. On November 1, you can catch sets from MACHINE GIRL, CLOWN CORE, and BLACK MOTH SUPER RAINBOW, ensuring a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere that perfectly fits the Halloween spirit.
Where: The Far Out Lounge & Stage, 8504 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: October 31 – November 1, 2025
How Much: Varies
Bat City Scare Grounds
Image credit: Bat City Scaregrounds
For those looking for things to do this fall in Austin, prepare for an unforgettable and terrifying experience at Bat City Scaregrounds 2025. Located just outside of the city, this 15-acre Halloween-themed complex is the place to be, offering three horrifying haunted attractions that have been praised for their “Gore-tastic frightful good time.”
But the fear is only half the fun. The event also features live music from local bands every Friday and Saturday, along with incredible performances by multidisciplinary artists like a theatrical fusion belly dancer, a circus performer, and an aerial artist known for their creepy Halloween acts.
Where: Bat City Scare Grounds, 14101 S Turnersville Rd, Buda, TX 78610
When: September 27 – November 1, 2025
How Much: Starts at $33.27
Food, Drink & Seasonal Flavors
Austin Oktoberfest 2025
Image credit: germantexans
Get ready for the city’s most traditional and longest-running Oktoberfest celebration! Come experience the beautiful terraced gardens in this well-kept secret of the Red River Cultural District and enjoy an authentic German cultural experience.
This family-friendly event embodies the German concept of “Gemütlichkeit,” promising a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
You can enjoy traditional Oktoberfest beers from famous brewers like Paulaner, Hofbräu, Hacker-Pschorr, and Stiegl. And live music will fill the air all day with performances from bands like Yodel Blitz, the Walburg Boys, and Off the Grid.
Where: German-Texans Heritage Society, 507 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: October 11, 2025
How Much: $20
Austin Coffee Festival
Image credit: Austin Coffee Festival
This exciting event brings together the city’s top roasters and coffee shops for a vibrant celebration, giving you unlimited tastings of unique beans and diverse flavor profiles. Non-coffee drinkers are welcome too, with plenty of non-coffee options available.
Beyond the delicious drinks, get ready for a lively party with live entertainment from some of Austin’s best local bands and performers. You can also check out engaging “Coffee Convos” with Texas legends and watch an intense Latte Art Competition for cash prizes.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: October 25 – 26, 2025
How Much: Starts at $31.50
Art & Beer Night Market Austin
The annual Art & Beer Night Market Austin is one of the best things to do this fall in Austin, celebrating the city’s amazing local art and craft beer scene. Discover unique paintings, jewelry, pottery, and more from over 70 local artists.
As you browse the one-of-a-kind art, grab a craft beer from The Brewtorium or other local breweries and enjoy delicious food from the on-site food trucks.
Where: The Brewtorium Brewery & Kitchen, 6015 Dillard Cir A, Austin, TX 78752
When: November 8, 2025
How Much: No cover
Free & Budget-Friendly Fall Activities
Catch Free Concerts and Movies Outdoors
You can catch family-friendly outdoor concerts and movies at iconic parks across the city with friends or family. The Pan Am Hillside Summer Concert Series, for instance, is a cherished tradition in East Austin, uniting the community through live music, children’s art activities, and delicious refreshments from on-site food trucks.
Meanwhile, movie lovers can grab a blanket and enjoy free, family-friendly films under the stars in Austin parks, like Metz Park, with showtimes starting at sunset.
Where: Various locations around Austin
When: September – November 2025
How Much: Free
Bike, Hike, or Trek Austin’s Beautiful Parks and Trails
Austin’s parks and trails offer the perfect way to enjoy the crisp autumn weather, whether you’re a serious athlete or just looking for a peaceful stroll.
One of the city’s most beloved spots is the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, a scenic 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake that provides stunning views of the Austin skyline.
For those craving a more rugged adventure, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is a local favorite. This expansive 12-mile stretch features dramatic limestone cliffs, tranquil swimming holes like Sculpture Falls, and varied terrain to challenge all skill levels. If you want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, you can also head to McKinney Falls State Park.
For the ultimate escape, consider extending your visit with an overnight adventure. Many state parks, including McKinney Falls and Pedernales Falls, offer camping options, allowing you to truly unwind and reconnect with nature.
Where: Various locations around Austin
When: September – November 2025
How Much: Free
Take a Free Self-Guided Tour Around the City
One of the best things to do this fall in Austin is to take a free, self-guided tour to explore the city’s rich culture and history. This activity lets you move at your own pace and discover the unique personality of Austin’s neighborhoods.
For a fun, interactive challenge, try the Austin Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour. This flexible and budget-friendly option transforms your sightseeing into a game with clues that lead you to iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
If you’re interested in a more structured historical journey, the Tejano Walking Trail is a must. This 4.9-mile cultural route winds through East Austin’s Cesar Chavez and Holly neighborhoods, guiding you through 24 significant historical sites.
Alternatively, you can download one of the many curated GPS-enabled historic Austin tours, which use your phone’s GPS to trigger stories and information about heritage sites as you approach them.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful fall weather while diving deep into what makes Austin so special.
Where: Various locations around Austin
When: September – November 2025
How Much: Free
Looking for fun things around ATX? Check out our weekly updates with the best picks for cool events and amazing activities — all curated by a local.
Once you’ve chased leaves in Austin, loop down to San Antonio for al fresco festivals or push east to Houston for haunted houses and harvest fun.
