October Happenings and Events

October Happenings and Events

Posted on by Natalie Snyder

October kicks off with a whirlwind of excitement and a calendar packed with events you won’t want to miss. Whether it’s harvest festivals, haunted happenings, or something in between, there’s activities for everyone to enjoy this fall. Here are some of the can’t-miss events that promise to make your October unforgettable, but keep in mind this is only a sampling of things you can do in Mansfield and beyond.

Make sure you check out our calendar of events for the complete and most up–to-date list.

Don’t miss annual highlights like the Prairie Peddler Festival (here one last weekend), the Great Pumpkin Glow at Kingwood Center Gardens, the 3rd Annual Dogs, Donuts and Drinks at the Phoenix Brewing Company, and the much anticipated Escape from Blood Prison for those who prefer a little autumn fright. Plus, you still have time to experience the Mansfield Art Center’s Proximity of Fate exhibit that runs through October 20th.

Prairie Peddler Festival
Prairie Peddler Festival

The Prairie Peddler Festival wraps up on Oct. 6th. Over 200 artisans from around the region peddle their wares during this happening event in Butler. You’ll find live music, delicious food, and craft demonstrations in a great family-friendly atmosphere.

The Dogs, Donuts and Drinks (October 12) promises to be a fan favorite for all whether you walk on two legs or four. Start with a .5k walk then celebrate your accomplishment with dogs, doughnuts and beer (or root beer for non-drinkers). You’ll find raffles, a caricature artist, and plenty of dogs so bring yours and support The Humane Society of Richland County.

Over 1,000 pumpkins transform into glowing Jack O’ Lanterns during the annual Great Pumpkin Glow (Oct. 18-20). Plenty of photo ops located throughout the beautifully decorated estate, like the 15-foot Mum Tree and Scarecrow Row. Enjoy a children’s carnival, food trucks and live music. Timed tickets are required and do sell out, so purchase those now; you don’t miss this family favorite event. Ready to create your own Jack O’ Lantern masterpiece? A free Community Pumpkin Carving will be held on Oct. 16 & 17 for those able to lend a hand. No creativity required, all tools and templates will be provided.

Thrill-seekers flock to Escape from Blood Prison, one of Ohio’s most terrifying haunted attractions at the Historic Ohio State Reformatory. Face the terrifying spirits of deranged inmates and disfigured guards within the world’s largest free-standing steel cell block. Then, plunge into the oppressive darkness of The Hole. This event is open on weekends during the month of October for those who dare.

Harvest & Halloween Crafting

Join other crafters at Alpaca Meadows for a Witch Needle Felting Class (October 5). You’ll learn skills that will allow you to create other needle felting projects too.

Turn a gourd into a Jack-O-Lantern or Skeleton Head at this Halloween Gourd Workshop at Shady Lane Alpaca Farm (Oct. 15).

Autumn Hikes

Embrace the beauty and mystery of fall with these fun hikes!

Enjoy an Autumn Nature Hike for Seniors at Gorman Nature Center (October 10).This gentle walk will allow you to appreciate the fall colors while learning about the seasonal changes within the park.

All ages can enjoy a Fall Hike for Health at Malabar Farm (October 12). Meet at the Visitor Center for a map and refreshments. Plan a thrilling night and join a Ghost Hike at Malabar Farm State Park (October 13, 20, 27) to hear chilling local legends, Native American folklore, pioneer history, and supernatural myths from the valley.

Harvest Happenings and Fall Festivals

From Halloween treasure hunts and spooky parties to family-friendly festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall!.

  • Immerse yourself in the 18th and 19th centuries through hands-on crafts, demonstrations, military reenactments and other activities at the American Heritage Days (Oct. 5) at South Park.
  • The Traveling Acres Petting Zoo will host a Fall Harvest Festival in Bellville the last three weekends of October. Experience apple and pumpkin slingshots, pony rides, petting zoo, pumpkin picking, caramel corn, apple cider slushies, and more exciting surprises to come! Save money by purchasing tickets before October 1st!
  • The 6th Annual Food Truck Festival will be back at South Park on Oct. 4th to delight the community with tasty culinary offerings.
  • Fall Harvest Craft & Vendors Show at New Life Bellville Church (Oct. 12) features 60 artisans, bakers, crafters and direct sales.
  • Enjoy keeper talks, games, activities, a bonfire and more family-friendly fun at the Fall Family Festival at the Ohio Bird Sanctuary (Oct. 12).
  • Autumn Fiber Festival (Oct. 19,20) at the Richland County Fairgrounds is a two-day event where local fiber producers, artisans, and craftspeople showcase and sell their handmade items. Watch live demonstrations, explore fiber-related products, and stock up on supplies for your own projects.
  • The 3rd Annual Crowfest kicks off at the Mansfield Art Center on Oct. 26. Celebrate the migration of the crows with food trucks, craft beer, fall festivities and an Art Awards Presentation. This event runs through Nov. 16.
  • Dress up and participate in the family-friendly Sluss Realty Halloween Treasure Hunt at the Ontario Center (Oct. 26) where you can enjoy a trick-or-treat walk, bounce houses, inflatables and find a gold coin for a $500 prize.
  • The 2024 Spitzer CARnival (Oct. 26) offers music, face painting, free hot dogs, food trucks, and a trunk or treat decorating contest.
  • Experience the 70’s & 80’s Disco-themed Halloween Party at DLX (Oct. 26) for potions and a fang-tastic feast.
  • Spend an afternoon with Edgar Allen Poe in the Spirit Room of The Phoenix (Oct. 27). Enjoy drinks, alcoholic and non alcoholic while listening to some of Edgar Allen Poe’s passages. Tickets are required.
  • Masquerade Murder Mystery Dinner (Oct. 29) at The Wishmaker House. Dress in your best masked ball attired and attend this unforgettable four-course dinner and show.

Trick or Treat

Get ready for a spook-tacular time with these community trick-or-treat events!!

On Stage

October is full of must-see performances.

Escape to the warm, balmy breezes of the South Pacific in Theatre 166 at the Renaissance Theatre (Oct. 4, 5, 6, 11, 12,13). South Pacific is a World War II-era musical that follows two love stories challenged by racial tensions and cultural differences. Set on a tropical island, it explores themes of love, tolerance, and acceptance, all set to a memorable score with classic songs like “Some Enchanted Evening” and “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa my Hair.”

Deathtrap, playing at the Mansfield Playhouse (Oct. 18, 19,25, 26, 27), introduces the story of   playwright Sidney Bruhl, who struggles with failure and financial woes, and hatches a plan to steal a brilliant script from a student, leading to a suspenseful and twist-filled thriller. The play is full of shocking twists and dark humor, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats until the final moment.

The Mansfield Symphony presents The Music of John Williams at the Renaissance Theatre (Oct. 19), featuring themes from Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Indiana Jones. With sweeping symphonic arrangements, this concert offers an unforgettable journey through Hollywood’s most iconic soundtracks.

“The Spooky Old House” is a free, fun-filled Teddy Bear Halloween concert (Oct. 26) at the Main Library for children ages 2 to 10, featuring interactive storytelling, audience participation, and live music from the Mansfield Symphony.

Live Music

The Phoenix, Brewing Company and 1285 Winery offer live music this month. View the Live Entertainment page for a complete listing.

Whether you love the outdoors, art, or a good scare, we’ve got something for you. Let’s make this October unforgettable! Don’t forget to tag Destination Mansfield on social media so we can share the fun!

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