Autumn in Northeast Ohio is full of crisp air, colorful leaves, and the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy seasonal fun. From pumpkin patches to live music, there’s something for everyone this October. Our team at Cardinal Moving has rounded up five of our favorite fall festivals (plus one bonus grown-ups-only event) in Akron, Cleveland, and surrounding towns—perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to make the most of 2025’s spookiest season.
Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime local, these festivals are a fantastic way to explore the community and soak up the fall spirit. Come join the fun!
Medina Fall Festival
September 27, 2025 | Medina, OH
Medina Fall Festival is the kind of classic small-town event that makes you want to get out and enjoy the season. Streets are lined with local vendors selling food, crafts, and treats, so you can grab a snack while you browse. There’s music playing, kids’ activities like hayrides and pumpkin decorating, and plenty of space for the family to wander around. It’s simple, relaxed, and full of fall energy. Perfect for a weekend afternoon. If you’re new to the area or just want a low-key start to your festival season, this is the spot.
Cost: Free | Explore the Medina Fall Festival
Fall Fest at Stonewater
October 3, 2025 | Highland Heights, OH
Stonewater Golf Club’s Fall Fest is all about family fun without overthinking it. You’ve got pumpkin painting, putt-putt golf, crafts, and all-ages games to keep the kids busy while you grab a bite or check out local vendors. There’s live music that makes the day feel festive without being overwhelming. It’s a solid stop early in the month if you want a mix of activities, snacks, and some good old-fashioned fall vibes. Bring the kids, bring friends, or just come to see what the fuss is about!
Tickets: Free | Learn more about Fall Fest at Stonewater
Ohio City Oktoberfest
October 4, 2025 | Cleveland, OH
Oktoberfest here is loud, lively, and totally fun. Beer for the adults, German food for everyone, and a bunch of family-friendly areas where kids can play games and enjoy snacks. The music sets the scene—think polka and festive tunes—and the crowds are full of people just enjoying the day. Whether you’re looking for a casual stroll through local booths or a full-on Oktoberfest experience, this event has a little something for everyone. It’s energetic, easy to get around, and a great way to see the city in a different light.
Tickets: Free | Check out Ohio City Oktoberfest
Akron Independent Horror Film Festival
October 10-11, 2025 | Akron, OH
If you like a little thrill, the Akron Independent Horror Film Festival is a must. Short films from local filmmakers give you everything from suspense to full-on scares, all in a fun, packed theater setting. The crowd is lively, the energy is high, and you’ll probably laugh, jump, and cheer along with everyone else. It’s a different kind of festival than your pumpkin patch or street fair, but that’s exactly why it’s worth checking out. A perfect stop if you want something creative, local, and a little spooky for your October calendar.
Tickets: $18.80 | More info on the Akron Independent Horror Film Festival
Downtown Akron Fall Fest
October 18, 2025 | Akron, OH
Downtown Akron Fall Fest is your all-in-one fall street party. Food trucks, music, trick-or-treat stations, costume contests, and local vendors fill the streets, so there’s always something to see or try. Kids can enjoy the games and treats while adults browse crafts, grab a snack, or just enjoy the live music. The festival has an energetic downtown that’s fun, easy to navigate, and perfect for friends or family. If you want a true festival experience with a bit of everything, this one should be on your list.
Tickets: Free | See Downtown Akron Fall Fest details
Bonus Event: All Hale’s Eve (18+)
October 25, 2025 | Akron, OH
All Hale’s Eve is for adults looking for something a little different to cap off the month. It mixes ghost tours, historic storytelling, and beer tasting into one evening that’s fun, a little spooky, and unique. The Western Reserve Historical Society provides the perfect backdrop, and the whole event feels like a grown-up version of fall fun. You’ll learn a bit of history, get a few scares, and probably laugh along the way. If you want to do something seasonal that’s off the usual path, this is the event to hit.
Admission for the full experience is $60 ($50 for members) and includes 15 beer sampling tokens and a commemorative glass. For those who want to enjoy the village without drinking, entrance is just $25.
Tickets: $25 – $60 | Learn more about All Hale’s Eve
Plan Your Fall in Northeast Ohio with Cardinal Moving
Northeast Ohio is full of fall fun—food and crafts, tricks and treats, horror films, and all the historic traditions that make this season special. We’ve put together this guide to some of our favorites, so bookmark it, grab your friends and family, and get out there to enjoy everything our hometowns have to offer!
Moving to the area? Cardinal Moving can help you settle in so you can experience life in Northeast Ohio—starting with these fall festivals! Our Ohio team handles everything from packing to unloading, leaving you to explore your new community. From the team at Cardinal: welcome home, neighbor.
Check out our full blog for more moving tips, and don’t forget to download our free moving checklist to stay organized during your move. Explore our local Ohio moving services and get a free, no-obligation estimate today!
