October is starting off with a bang in Michigan with loads of fall fun across the state this weekend.
Highlights include fall celebrations, fudge Up North, and even a zombie walk in our capital.
As always, I’d love to hear your suggestions! If you know of an upcoming event you’d like me to highlight, please send me a note here (suggestions should be submitted at least one week before the event).
West Michigan
Oct. 1-3
Main St. and State St., Zeeland
“Zeeland’s Pumpkin Fest Gone Country is an annual fall festival featuring downtown activities such as live music, food vendors, a parade, kid-friendly events (face painting, tractor pulls, pumpkin roll), and family fun with horse-drawn rides and performers, organized by Zeeland Festivals.”
Oct. 1-4
1740 Lake St., Niles
“Come join us and celebrate 54 years of Apple Festival! We have rides & carnival games, great food, and daily entertainment!”
Oct. 2-3
Downtown Holland
“With two days packed full of fall-themed activities for the entire family in beautiful Downtown Holland, Fall Fest is one fall festival you won’t want to miss! Mark your calendars and read on for more details, including the complete schedule of events below!”
4. Beer City Brewers Festival 2026
Saturday, Oct. 3, 3-8 p.m.
Calder Plaza (300 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids)
“This FREE, family-friendly event features local brewers, food trucks, and beer samples, including ProAm competition entries.”
Northern Michigan/UP
Oct. 1-4
Downtown Houghton
“Canal Colors Festival hits downtown Houghton October 1-4, and it’s all about that U.P. fall vibe — flannels, good beer, fresh air, and a reason to celebrate the season. This weekend mash-up pulls together Brew Street, Plaidurday, the Color Run, and Houghton’s Fall Fest into one big celebration along the waterfront.”
6. Mackinac Island Fall Fudge Festival
Oct. 2-3
Mackinac Island
“Experience the magic of autumn at the Fall Fudge Festival on Mackinac Island! This festival blends the island’s iconic fudge with fall-themed festivities sure to delight the biggest fall and fudge fanatics. Wander the charming streets lined with fall decor, enjoy scenic bike rides through vibrant foliage, and savor the sweet flavors that make Mackinac Island famous.”
7. Fort Fright
Oct. 2-3
Colonial Michilimackinac (102 W. Straits Ave., Mackinaw City)
“Lanterns light your way through an 18th-century fort and fur trading village overrun by werewolves, witches, goblins and ghouls. Storytellers weave spooky folktales near bonfires and treats such as hot mulled cider, cookies and candy can be found throughout the site. Most stops are suitable for all ages, but a haunted house, demon walk and werewolf walk will give thrills and chills to adults and children alike.”
Mid/South Michigan
Oct. 2-3
Showboat Park (805 S Front St., Chesaning)
“Created by and for the love of music and community, we bring the highest-caliber musicianship to Mid-Michigan — a family-friendly weekend of handpicked bluegrass, psychedelic folk, Americana, and soul. A portion of every festival’s proceeds is donated to a local charity.”
Oct. 2-3
601 Weiss St., Frankenmuth
“Grab your plaid shirt and slip on those cowboy boots! It’s time for the annual MI’s Big Country Fest in Frankenmuth. Enjoy a bar, food trucks, vendors, free line-dancing lessons, cornhole, and more. Don’t worry about the weather, it’s indoor!”
Saturday, Oct. 3, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Jaycee Park (525 E River St., Grand Ledge)
“Celebrate the magic of fall with a full day of family-friendly fun at Jaycee Park! The entire stretch between the park and W. River Street will come alive with seasonal activities, local creativity, and hands-on experiences, all FREE and open to the public.”
Saturday, Oct. 3, 3-8 p.m.
Fitzgerald Ball Field (110 S Bridge St., Grand Ledge)
“This event is being held in conjunction with the Grand Ledge Fall Festival, so bring the family to Fall Fest, then walk to the Beer Fest and enjoy craft beer and cider on Fitzgerald Field (the ball field under the bridge). Food trucks will be in the parking lot.”
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2-7 p.m.
142 W Michigan Ave., Grass Lake
“Join us for a fall afternoon of Bavarian-inspired fun featuring a selection of 25+ craft beers, wines, and ciders, food trucks, live music, and arts and crafts vendors, all in the heart of downtown Grass Lake.”
13. Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk
Saturday, Oct. 3, 3-5:30 p.m.
200 Museum Drive, Lansing
“Join the unstoppable undead takeover of the Capital City once more for the 17th Annual Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk! Whether you are a seasoned stumbler or a freshly bitten beginner, you’ll fit right in with our rotten crowd. Gather with us for a frightfully fun time where Zombies ‘Feed Folks, NOT Eat Folks!’”
Southeast Michigan/Thumb
14. Tuscola County Pumpkin Festival Festival
Through Oct. 4
440 N State St., Caro
“We are excited to bring you the best of music, food, and entertainment at this year’s Tuscola County Pumpkin Festival Festival. This is a Free Festival. Come join us for a weekend full of fun and celebration!”
15. Elmwood Alight
Oct. 1-3
Elmwood Cemetery (1200 Elmwood St., Detroit)
“Elmwood Alight, the awe-inspiring after-dark experience, returns October 1-3, illuminating Detroit’s historic Elmwood Cemetery with light, sound, and art, all designed to evoke reflection and wonder. Walk the grounds as night descends and experience this 180-year-old landmark in a new light.”
Oct. 3-4
Ralph Wilson Park (1801 W Jefferson Ave., Detroit)
“Bring your family and friends and enjoy live entertainment, delicious food, local vendors, seasonal activities and plenty of opportunities to make memories together. Kids and families can enjoy trick-or-treating, fall-themed activities, and opportunities to play and explore throughout the park. Adults can find grown-up fun with live entertainment, brand activations, full bars with adult beverages and dozens of food trucks to satisfy every craving.”
