Falling for Fall: Autumn Events in Tampa Bay

As the summer heat dissipates, Tampa Bay becomes a vibrant autumn wonderland. Featuring pumpkin patches, corn mazes, arts festivals and culinary delights, there is genuinely something for everyone to enjoy. Experience the magic of autumn at local farmers’ markets, enjoy live music at festive events or indulge in delicious fall-inspired dishes. Tampa Bay offers diverse options this season from family-oriented activities to intimate getaways. Get ready to fully embrace the charming spirit of autumn in this beautiful city. 

Howl-O-Scream
Friday, September 6 – Saturday, November 2
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Howl-O-Scream showcases haunted houses, scare zones, and performances, all centered around unique horror themes. Unimaginable terror lurks in every shadow, even on Busch Gardens’ exhilarating thrill rides. Howl-O-Scream elevates the experience of fear, and once you step inside, the only thing to fear is everything.

Creatures of The Night
Sunday, September 8 – Thursday, October 31
ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Join the excitement at ZooTampa for Creatures of the Night, Tampa Bay’s leading family Halloween event, promising an evening brimming with thrilling and spooky activities for all ages. Visitors can expect an array of outdoor experiences every Friday and Saturday from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., and Sundays from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. These events promise to deliver a thrilling atmosphere for ghouls and goblins of all ages, complete with spooky characters, eerie culinary offerings and a variety of engaging activities. ZooTampa members, along with individuals holding Pay For A Day tickets, enjoy exclusive access to seasonal events, notably the much-anticipated Creatures of the Night.

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail
Friday, September 27 – Saturday, November 2
Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail, Plant City

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail is an outdoor haunted attraction located in Plant City, nestled in the heart of Central Florida between Tampa and Orlando. Established in 2014, this 501(c)(3) operates as a Halloween haunt and also features haunted mazes during the Christmas and Valentine’s Day seasons. Visitors can experience multiple haunted houses, escape games, laser tag, food vendors and more.

Grand Concourse Railroad Scary Trails and Spooky Train
Fridays and Saturdays between September 27 – October 26,
Grand Concourse Railroad, Shady Hills

Take a 10- to 15-minute train ride through the eerie, haunted woods, or venture down two quarter-mile-long Scary Trails for a spine-chilling adventure. Enjoy food vendors, face painting, and a petting zoo for even more fun!

Harvest Moon Fun Farm

Harvest Moon Farm Pumpkin Patch
Thursday, October 10 – Thursday, October 31; Saturday, November 2 – Sunday, November 3
Masaryktown

Choose from a variety of pumpkins in the pumpkin patch, such as a charming pie pumpkin or a large jack-o-lantern to carve together as a family. The cost of pumpkins varies based on size. The patch is open exclusively Wednesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout October. In November, the Pumpkin Patch is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Other activities include hayrides, a candy cannon and a flashlight maze.

St. Pete Pier Fall Festival
Saturday, October 12 – Sunday, October 13; 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
The St. Pete Pier

Embrace the spirit of autumn by exploring the pumpkin patch to select the perfect pumpkin to bring home for carving. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of live, local music while savoring the tastes of the season. Food vendors will be on hand, and the children’s area will offer a variety of activities, including games, face painting, bounce houses and more, ensuring the little ones have a delightful time.

A Night At The Museum
Sunday, October 27, 4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Tampa Bay History Center

As the museum doors close, the enchantment unfolds! Join the museum for a Halloween event the whole family can enjoy, where exhibits come to life. Visitors can wander through the galleries while trick-or-treating, participating in an exciting costume contest and enjoying crafts, games and photo opportunities. Keep an eye out for special characters roaming the halls, adding an extra touch of magic to your evening. With timed entry and limited capacity, your family can enjoy the event at a comfortable, leisurely pace. Reserve your spot today for an unforgettable night of Halloween fun!

The Heights District’s Annual Fall Fest

The Heights District’s Annual Fall Fest
Tuesday, October 22, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Armature Works

The stunning riverfront pumpkin patch and delightful autumn treats will evoke all the fall vibes, despite the 80-degree Florida weather. Fall Fest, one of Armature Works’ most significant events of the year, offers activities for the entire family. Prepare your plaid skirts and pumpkin spice lattes, and enjoy bounce houses, face painting, live entertainment, a pumpkin patch, holiday-inspired treats, a petting zoo and much more.

Savor St. Pete
Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3
Vinoy Park

Savor St. Pete is an annual weekend event that highlights a diverse array of foods, wines and craft beers, promising a memorable culinary experience for all attendees. Tampa Bay is widely recognized as a haven for food enthusiasts, and the local appreciation for breweries is equally notable. This event serves as an ideal opportunity to satisfy your taste buds in the lead-up to Thanksgiving. Your admission grants you access to unlimited tastings! The ticket price encompasses an all-inclusive experience featuring beer, wine and food sampling. Additionally, it’s worth noting that a portion of the ticket sales from the event will support local charities in the Bay area! 

Looking for more fun ideas? Check out our Event Calendar. Or if you’re looking to advertise, click here.

Grace Gallowitz

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