Celebrate Fall Across Northeast Kansas
- NEKS Tourism
- Sep 25
- 3 min read
October in Northeast Kansas is a season of color, community, and celebration. From small-town gatherings to lively citywide events, fall festivals bring people together with music, food, art, and tradition. Here’s a look at some of the can’t-miss events happening this October across the region:
Seneca
Seneca Oktoberfest returns to historic downtown on Saturday, October 11, 2025. This all-day celebration kicks off with a scenic Volksmarch walk before rolling into a festive lineup of artisan vendors, live music, and family-friendly fun at Kinderfest. As evening arrives, the Biergarten opens with regional brews, hearty snacks, and plenty of good company. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and small-town charm.
Overland Park
Take a horse-drawn hayride down to Pumpkin Hollow at Deanna Rose Children’s Farmstead on select dates in October. Families can enjoy the spider web maze, pedal cars, Slingshot Alley, and the Kidz Corral before picking a pumpkin to take home—all included with admission. Open October 1–26 (Tues–Thurs 10am–3pm; Fri–Sun 10am–4pm). Be sure to purchase tickets online ahead of time.
Merriam
Save the date for Merriam Drive Live! Join us on Saturday, October 4, from 2–8 p.m. as downtown Merriam comes alive with classic rock hits from some of the best local tribute bands. Savor delicious bites from food trucks, sip on your favorite beverages, and cheer on the action at the Midwest Elite Cornhole Tournament—it’s the perfect way to celebrate fall with friends, family, and neighbors!
Leavenworth
The Kaw Valley Farm Tour (Oct. 4–5) is a weekend-long celebration of agriculture and harvest. Explore 33 working farms, meet local producers, and experience everything from cattle ranches to pumpkin patches, flower mazes, craft wineries, and even donkey rescues. The event kicks off Friday, Oct. 3, with a special farm-to-table dinner fundraiser.
Topeka
October in Topeka is filled with festivals: Prince of Peace Oktoberfest (Oct. 4): A free family-friendly event with music, food trucks, and a German feast.
Nightmare Festival (Oct. 17–Nov. 1): Thrill-seekers will love this haunted house and immersive scare experience at the Stormont Vail Events Center.
All Hallows Renaissance Festival (Oct. 25–26): Step back in time with jousting, live entertainment, and a Viking village.
Holton
Holton’s Fall Fest on Saturday, October 11, is a celebration of small-town charm. Explore downtown vendors, live demonstrations like glass blowing, and hands-on activities at the Jackson County Museum. Highlights include the chili cook-off, scarecrow contest, and a pepper-eating challenge with cash prizes. It’s a perfect fall getaway for the whole family.
Lenexa
The Lenexa Chili Challenge (Oct. 10–11) is back for its 38th year. Nearly 200 teams will compete with chili, salsa, and wings, while visitors sample their way through the contest. Kids can join the Kornbread Contest, and live music, balloon art, and family entertainment keep the fun going all weekend.
Lawrence
On October 4–5, head to Haskell University’s Powwow Grounds for the Haskell Indian Art Market, the university’s largest event of the year. This market features handmade jewelry, paintings, pottery, and sculptures from Native American artists across the country. Traditional food vendors and cultural performances round out this unique celebration.
Atchison
Autumn comes alive in Atchison with experiences that capture the season’s spirit. On October 4, downtown hosts Oktoberfest with delicious food, local vendors, live music, and stein-holding contests. By nightfall, Atchison transforms into one of Kansas’s most spirited destinations, offering haunted trolley tours, paranormal investigations, and mystical card readings.
Miami County
With 35 acres of pumpkins to choose from, Powell Pumpkin Patch offers families the perfect spot to make new memories this fall. A corn maze, hayride, and playground add to the fun, creating traditions that will last for years. Open daily September 28 through October 31.
Olathe
Celebrate art and creativity at the Olathe Arts Festival, happening downtown October 10–11. This vibrant event showcases local and regional artists, live music, interactive experiences, and delicious food vendors. With handcrafted goods and family-friendly performances, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the fall season.
Ottawa
Downtown Ottawa comes alive on Friday, October 4, with the Harvest Moon Street Dance from 4–8 p.m. at 2nd & Main. This free community event brings neighbors together under the autumn sky with music, food, and fun. Whether you’re ready to dance or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, it’s a night of small-town magic.
Plan Your Fall Adventure
There’s no better time to hit the road in Northeast Kansas. Pair these fall festivals with a scenic drive through the region’s byways and backroads, where autumn foliage frames rolling hills, charming towns, and historic sites. Whether you’re chasing the colors of the season or stopping for a festival along the way, October is the perfect month for a road trip you’ll remember long after the leaves have fallen.
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