October in Richland and Crawford Counties is filled with vibrant fall festivals, arts events, and local celebrations that cater to families, art lovers, and those seeking classic autumn fun. Signature traditions blend with creative showcases and community concerts, ensuring options for all interests throughout the region.
Mansfield and Richland County Highlights
The Great Pumpkin Glow at Kingwood Center Gardens in Mansfield (October 18): Experience brilliant garden paths lit by thousands of carved jack-o-lanterns, “Scarecrow Row,” a children’s carnival, and stunning fall displays.
Autumn Fiber Festival (October 18-19, Richland County Fairgrounds): Watch artisans demonstrate spinning, felting, weaving, and more with fiber animals on display. Unique handmade items, demonstrations, and vendor booths make this event a favorite for crafters and families alike. Admission and parking are free.
Honey Haven Farm Fall Festival (through October 26): A local fall classic with a corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a seasonal farm market, perfect for families and kids.
Fall Birding Hike (September 27) and Annual Fall Festival (October 11) at the Ohio Bird Sanctuary, with games, crafts, and bird programs for all ages.
Free Family Fall Festival (October 5): Community fun featuring games, trunk-or-treat, and prizes.
Galion’s Haunted Stroll
Eerie Galion Walk (October 3 and 10): Participants walk the streets of Uptowne Galion hearing stories about the past in places where tragic and unique events took place. The guided walk mixes history with mystery, making it a seasonal favorite for those who enjoy an evening with a spooky twist.
Crawford County Events
Apple Bash Weekend & Fall Activity Days at The Pickwick Place in Bucyrus: Enjoy apple picking, food trucks, wagon rides, and a corn maze every weekend, along with a bustling outdoor market.
Crawford County Community Concert Association presents “UPTOWN” (October 9, Bucyrus): Experience a lively evening of R&B and contemporary hits at the Bucyrus Elementary School Auditorium.
Crawford County Fairgrounds Flea Market (October 11-12): Shop 70+ vendors for crafts, antiques, and fall treats.
Halloween-themed camping weekend (October 10): Pet costume contests, campsite decorating, and trick-or-treating for residents and visitors.
Nature and Seasonal Learning
Lowe-Volk Park programs in Crawford County offer fossil talks, wildlife feeding opportunities, canoeing at Neff Reservoir, and Little Explorers nature walks for young children.
October brings out the best of fall across the two counties, blending bold autumn colors, hands-on activities, eerie nighttime strolls, and warm hometown traditions.
