Parents: Your Guide for Fall Family Fun in Lawrence

Fall is one of the best times of year for families in Lawrence. From pumpkin patches and nature hikes to community festivals and fun runs, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Here’s a look at local events, activities, and outings your family won’t want to miss.

Fall Events Calendar

September Events

September 6

• Archery at Prairie Park Nature Center

• BC Fashion Show + Garden Party at the Lumberyard Arts Center

• Scavenger Hunt Saturdays at Watkins Museum (recurring event)

• Lawrence Farmers Market (held every Saturday through Nov. 22)

September 13

• Wild Nocturnal Hike at Prairie Park

Early to Mid-September

• Sunflowers at Grinter Farms
  Typically in peak bloom from Labor Day weekend through mid-September. Best times are early weekday mornings to avoid crowds.

Late September–October

• Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch
  Free admission, hayrides, a hay maze, animals, and over 100 pumpkin varieties

• Meuschke Farms Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
  Family-friendly farm with a free corn maze, hayrides, games, and live music

• Garrett’s Haunted Farm & Pumpkin Patch
  Includes haunted attractions, zombie paintball, bounce houses, rides, and more

October & November Events

October 3–5

• Haskell Indian Art Market

• Kaw Valley Farm Tour Harvest Party

• Kaw Valley Farm Tour
  Self-guided tour of 30+ local farms offering pumpkins, animals, crafts, and fall produce

October 12

• Autumn Harvest Festival: Free community festival at Broken Arrow Park from 1–5 PM with hayrides, pumpkin decorating, games, and treats.

October 18

• Heartland & Panda Pediatrics Trunk or Treat
  A free family event with decorated trunks, costumes, and games. More info coming soon on HeartlandHealth.org

• Imagination Movers Live at the Lied Center

October 19

• Halloween Paint-a-Pumpkin Party – Lawrence Parks & Rec event

October 26

• Enchanted Forest at Prairie Park
  Nature trails, storytelling, and campfires

November 2

• Kansas Half Marathon & 5K
  Includes a Kids Fun Run. All proceeds support accessible healthcare in our community.

Ongoing Fall Programs for Kids

Offered through Lawrence Parks & Rec:

• Tiny Tutus Ballet (ages 3–5)

• Little Picassos Art Class (ages 4–6)

• Lil’ Kickers Soccer (ages 3–5)

• Nature Nuts Preschool Programs

Explore more programs in the Fall 2025 Activity Guide (PDF)

Looking for More? 

The Lawrence Kids Calendar is a great place to find even more local events, classes, and family-friendly things to do throughout the season.

Whether you’re picking pumpkins, hiking through trails, or dancing in a Halloween costume, there’s something for every family this fall in or around Lawrence, Kansas.