As the fall season unfolds, Sarasota comes alive with festive events that embrace the spirit of Halloween and the charm of autumn. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, spooky adventures, or creative activities, there's something for everyone. Here are ten exciting fall activities to enjoy in Sarasota this October!
1. Fruitville Groves 36th Annual Pumpkin Festival
When: Every Weekend in October (October 5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27)
Where: Fruitville Grove Farms Hours: Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Kick off the fall season with the beloved Pumpkin Festival! Enjoy a walk-through haunted house with live actors at the Hollow Graves Haunted Manor (recommended for ages 8+). Admission, petting zoo, playground, live music, and more are free! Individual rides and activities are available for a small fee.
2. Halloween Trolley Tour
When: October 25, 26, 27, and 29, 2024
Where: Downtown Sarasota Hours: 6:30 PM to 7:15 PM
Hop on board for a magical 45-minute trolley tour featuring Witchy as she searches for her missing pumpkin. Costumes are encouraged, and complimentary soft drinks are provided before the tour.
3. Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival
When: Daily, October 2024
Where: Hunsader Farms
Experience the ultimate fall festival with a craft show, live music, pumpkin games, hayrides, and more! Enjoy homemade ice cream, farm-roasted sweet corn, and activities like face painting and a petting zoo. Pumpkins are available while supplies last.
4. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
When: October 24-26, 2024
Where: Sarasota Polo Club (8201 Polo Club Ln)
Join Ichabod Crane in this festive play that includes ghost stories, romance, and the legendary Headless Horseman. Wear your best costume for a chance to win in the costume contest!
5. Candlelight Halloween Concerts
When: Select dates in October
Where: St. Boniface Episcopal Church
Enjoy a magical musical experience under candlelight with Halloween-inspired music. This family-friendly event is perfect for ages 8 and up. Tickets are selling fast, so grab yours before they’re gone!
6. BooFest on Main Street
When: Friday, October 25, 2024
Where: Lakewood Ranch Hours: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Join in the family-friendly fun at Boo Fest! Enjoy entertainment, food vendors, and plenty of treats. Children are encouraged to bring their trick-or-treat bags to collect goodies from local sponsors!
7. Boo at the Bay
When: October 25, 2024
Where: Bayfront Park
This not-so-scary event features trick-or-treating, free pumpkin picking, yard games, and a movie screening of Despicable Me 4. Costumes are encouraged, and the first 1,500 kids get a free pumpkin!
8. UTC Pumpkin Patch
When: October 8-27
Where: The Green at UTC
Visit the pumpkin patch to pick your perfect pumpkin while supporting Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue. Enjoy visiting hours Monday through Sunday, with all proceeds benefiting the rescue.
9. Halloween Mini Pumpkin Making Workshop
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When: Thursday, October 24, 2024
Where: 3 Daughters Brewery
Get creative at this mini pumpkin flower-arranging workshop! Enjoy a guided session where you can create a beautiful arrangement while sipping craft beers and seasonal beverages.
10. Halloween Bar Crawl
When: October 26, 2024, Where: Various Bars & Restaurants Hours: 3 PM to 6 PM Join the 4th Annual MEGA CRAWL for a night of fun! With one ticket, access over five participating bars, enjoy complimentary shots, and drink specials, and participate in a costume contest for a chance to win prizes.
Get ready for a fall filled with fun, creativity, and a dash of spookiness! Mark your calendars, grab your friends, and enjoy all that Sarasota has to offer this October!
