Looking for a way to celebrate the fall season? Visit some of Bloomington’s local pumpkin patches or take part in one of the several fall activities happening in the community in the coming weeks. Information
Pumpkin Patches
Fowler Pumpkin Patch
Open Friday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Location: 4865 S. Leonard Springs Road.
Celebrating its fifth season, the Fowler Pumpkin Patch offers a petting zoo, pick-your-own pumpkin patch and hayrides, according to the group’s Facebook page. Hayrides are $5 per person and children ages 3 and under are free.
Freeman Family Farms
Open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Location: 6220 South Victor Pike.
After closing last season because of I-69 construction, Freeman Family Farms is back with hayrides and pick-your-own pumpkins. Hayrides are $5 and pumpkins are 39 cents per pound. Also available is a mini train ride on a seven-car miniature train for the littlest pumpkin pickers, according to the farm’s website.
Upcoming fall events
Haunted Hayride and Stables
Open Fridays and Saturdays 7:30-11 p.m. Location: 8308 S. Rockport Rd.
Located south of Bloomington, the Haunted Hayride features ghouls and goblins. Though the Stables are currently under construction, hayrides will continue running throughout the month of October. Cost is $10 and children ages 3 and under are free. Cash only.
Parks and Recreation trick or treat
1-4 p.m. Oct. 18 Location: 1400 W. RCA Park Drive.
The annual event, geared toward children ages 10 and younger, offers little ones the opportunity to trick or treat through enchanted woods. One adult is admitted free with a paid child’s admission of $4. Additional adult entrance is $2.
Festival of Ghost Stories
7-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 Location: Bryan Park, 1020 S. Woodlawn Ave.
A local Halloween tradition for more than 30 years, the Festival of Ghost Stories features live storytelling from the Bloomington Storytellers Guild. This free event may not be suited for younger children, but older elementary school-aged children, teens and adults are encouraged. Bring blankets and lawn chairs and dress warmly.
Boys and Girls Club Fall Festival
4-8 p.m. Oct. 24. Location: 1037 N Summitt St,
Visit the Crestmont Boys and Girls Club as they turn their club into a haunted house for their Fall Festival. There will be games and activities for children of all ages as well as the opportunity for families to shop from clothing donations from the Mr. Rogers Sweater Drive from 5-8 p.m.
Pie Fest
2-4:30 p.m. Oct. 25 Location: Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, 1100 W. Allen St.
This free afternoon of food events benefits Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, a local food kitchen. The event features pie baking demonstrations, a community food summit and fruit tree care demonstrations. Hot apple cider will be provided.
