It is finally here – fall in Minneapolis! This great northern location turns into a beautiful canvas of autumn foliage this time of year. With the dropping temperatures come fantastic harvest festivals to enjoy. Come and experience the plethora of things to do in Minneapolis during the season’s change and stay at the luxurious vacation homes provided by MINNeSTAY. Nothing is better than a fall-time northern getaway! Do yourself a favor, pack layers and explore all the brilliant fall festivals Minnesota has to offer.
Here are our favorite events in October that you should experience this fall in Minneapolis, and beyond.
SEVER’S CORN MAZE & FALL FESTIVAL
Dates: Open weekends through October 26, 2025
Location: Sever’s Festival Grounds, Shakopee, MN
Celebrate fall at Minnesota’s beloved Sever’s Corn Maze & Fall Festival. In addition to the iconic corn maze, families can enjoy a pumpkin patch, an exotic petting zoo, jumping pillows, zip lines, live music, and delicious fall treats. This year’s theme is “Mayan Maze”, offering an adventurous and historical puzzle-solving experience.
Tickets & Parking:
- Tickets can be purchased online at Sever’s Fall Festival.
- Free on-site parking is available.
TWIN CITIES HARVEST FESTIVAL & MAZE
Dates: Weekends through October 26, 2025
Location: Brooklyn Park, MN
Home to Minnesota’s largest corn maze, this 20-acre maze is perfect for adventurous families. Additional activities include a petting zoo, corn pit, hayrides, pumpkin slingshots, and a sunflower field. Proceeds from the festival benefit local charities, making it a fun way to give back while enjoying the season.
Tickets & Parking:
- Tickets are available at Twin Cities Harvest Festival.
- Free parking on-site.
ANOKA HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL
Dates: October 10-31, 2025
Location: Anoka, MN (The Halloween Capital of the World!)
Anoka’s Halloween Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the state. Enjoy a month-long celebration with parades, pumpkin carving contests, haunted houses, costume contests, and more. Do not miss the Grand Day Parade on October 25, featuring elaborate floats and spooky characters.
Tickets & Parking:
- Most events are free, but some activities require tickets. Visit Anoka Halloween for details.
- Free and paid parking options are available throughout Anoka.
STILLWATER HARVEST FEST
Dates: October 11-12, 2025
Location: Lowell Park, Downtown Stillwater, MN
Head to downtown Stillwater for the Stillwater Harvest Fest, a celebration of fall with giant pumpkins, a pumpkin drop from a 100-foot crane, a pumpkin regatta on the river, live music, and a chili cook-off. This family-friendly event also features a vendor market and kids’ activities.
Tickets & Parking:
- Admission is free. Keep in mind that individual activities may require tickets. Check Stillwater Harvest Fest for details.
- Free parking is available in public lots and on the street.
JACK-O-LANTERN SPECTACULAR
Dates: September 26 – November 2, 2025
Location: Minnesota Zoo, Apple Valley, MN
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is a breathtaking display of over 5,000 intricately carved pumpkins illuminated along an enchanted trail at the Minnesota Zoo. Each pumpkin features unique designs, from pop culture icons to intricate landscapes. This event is perfect for all ages and offers a magical autumn experience.
Tickets & Parking:
- Tickets can be purchased at Minnesota Zoo.
- Parking is available at the zoo for $7 per vehicle.
TWIN CITIES FILM FEST
Dates: October 16-25, 2025
Location: ShowPlace ICON Theatre, St. Louis Park, MN
Celebrate the art of cinema with the Twin Cities Film Fest, featuring a curated selection of feature films, documentaries, and shorts. The event also includes filmmaker Q&A sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities. It’s a perfect outing for movie lovers looking to immerse themselves in the creative storytelling of local and international filmmakers.
Tickets & Parking:
- Tickets and passes can be purchased at Twin Cities Film Fest.
- Free parking is available at The Shops at West End parking ramp.
FALL COLORS CELEBRATION AT LAKEWOOD CEMETERY
Date: October 19, 2025
Location: Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN
Enjoy a day of live music, art activities, and guided walking tours at the Lakewood Cemetery Fall Colors Celebration. This unique event highlights the cemetery’s stunning fall foliage and rich history, making it a peaceful and inspiring way to celebrate the season. Cider and cookies are available free of charge.
Tickets & Parking:
- Admission is free. No RSVP required.
- Free parking is available on-site.
GLASS PUMPKIN PATCH
Dates: October 11-12, 2025
Location: Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts, Minneapolis, MN
Visit the Glass Pumpkin Patch to explore a stunning collection of handcrafted glass pumpkins. Watch live glassblowing demonstrations and even participate in hands-on glass activities. It is a unique way to celebrate the season and pick up a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Tickets & Parking:
- Admission is free. Check Foci Glass Arts for activity pricing.
- Free parking is available on-site.
PUMPKIN NIGHT IN THE PARK
Date: October 25, 2025
Location: Brooklyn Park, MN
Get into the Halloween spirit with Pumpkin Night in the Park, featuring hundreds of glowing jack-o-lanterns, a trick-or-treat trail, hayrides, and a bonfire. This family-friendly event is perfect for kids and adults alike.
Tickets & Parking:
- Tickets are $5 per person and can be purchased at the event.
- Free parking is available at the park.
MINNeSTAY this FALL IN MINNEAPOLIS!
Plan a trip to the Twin Cities this October and immerse yourself in everything the season has to offer. From colorful foliage to exciting festivals, Minneapolis provides the perfect autumn getaway. Book one of the luxurious vacation rentals offered by MINNeSTAY and experience Minnesota living in comfort and style.
