Here in the heart of Middle Tennessee, fall is full of festivals, field trips, frightening (and funny) shows and more—many of them right in our own backyard. Here are some from our “don’t miss” list.

FALL FESTIVAL: PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE, OCT. 2-31

Image: Patrick Fore, Unsplash

Voted middle Tennessee’s “BEST – Fall Festival” in 2024—and named the “#1 Pumpkin Patch” in the state,” by the Travel Channel—Lucky Ladd’s Pumpkin Festival is the ‘don’t miss’ event of the season. Pick your perfect pumpkin from the thousands available, get lost in the 4-acre corn maze, and explore acres full of fun family entertainment. Oct. 2-31 at Lucky Ladd Farms.

Tip: Buy tickets online to save as rates at the gate can be up to 60% higher and this popular event may sell out.

FALL FAMILY FIELD TRIP

Image: Morning Glory Orchard

Go on an adventure through Morning Glory Orchard’s apple orchard! Learn about tree life cycles, pollinators and the different animals you might see in an orchard and more. These guided tours include a guided tour through the apple orchard, samples of honey, apple cider and apples (yum!), a cider press demonstration, goody bags and parking. Dates and tickets.

Tip: Adult members of the family might also enjoy some of Morning Glory’s other events, including guided cider tastings, mixology classes and personalized “Sunsets & Cider” experiences for small groups.

TWO FALL-TASTIC PLAYS

Image:  Tima Miroshnichenko, Pexels

A night of pure suspense: Dracula, Oct. 9-26

What better way to celebrate the Halloween season than an action-packed, blood-soaked classic tale of horror featuring the Transylvanian Terror: Dracula! Based on Bram Stoker’s classic novel, this gripping stage adaptation tells the story of Count Dracula’s arrival in England—and the trail of terror he leaves in his wake. Learn more and get tickets.

Or something a little lighter: Lucky Stiff, Oct. 3-18

Mistaken identities, $6 million in diamonds, and a dearly departed uncle in a wheelchair—who goes on vacation to Monte Carlo! What? Why? Find out in this offbeat, hilarious murder-mystery farce based on the novel The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo by Michael Butterworth. Tickets and info.

BONE FROG HEROES BENEFIT, OCT. 25

Image: Uncommon Grit Foundation

A night of entertainment, connection, and community with live music by the Davisson Brothers Band and comedy with Chris Porter. Meet Navy SEALS, special operations veterans, and VIPs. Enjoy Southern cuisine, beer, and wine. Experience a K-9 dog demonstration and more

This event is designed to create meaningful experiences that fund real-world solutions: mental health treatment, food insecurity, K-9 support, and more. Part of the proceeds from the benefit will benefit Baden K-9 Kares, an organization that understands the transformative power of the human-animal bond for military and first responders, and Operation Song, a nonprofit using the power of music to heal.

Sunday, Oct. 25, at the Moore-Morris History and Culture Center. Sponsorships and tickets.

FRANKLIN FARMERS MARKET, EVERY SATURDAY

Image: FranklinIs.com

Bring the farm-to-table experience home with Tennessee farm fresh food from real farmers at the Franklin Farmers Market. From produce, fruit and dairy to baked goods and meats, it’s all local, fresh and delicious. Don’t miss the local crafters and their unique and beautiful goods. It’s all waiting for you, every Saturday morning at the Franklin Farmers Market.