The Greater Akron area comes alive in fall, when colorful trails, harvest traditions and Halloween celebrations give visitors and locals plenty of reasons to get out and explore.
From historic farms and artisan shows to family festivals and haunted attractions, choose from a variety of fall events in Summit County to fill an autumn weekend.
Whether you’re visiting for the season or planning a local getaway, these autumn events in Akron are a great place to start.
Celebrate the Season at Hale Farm & Village Harvest Festival
Step back in time and discover 19th-century harvest traditions at Hale Farm & Village during its annual Harvest Festival. The living history museum celebrates the season with historic cooking demonstrations, apple butter making, corn shucking, fall games, storytelling and a pumpkin patch.
The 2026 festival takes place Oct. 3-4 and Oct. 10-11. Enjoy seasonal bites and live music, along with a visit from Johnny Appleseed.
Shop Local at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens Ohio Mart
Blend autumn scenery with shopping at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens during Ohio Mart. The 2026 event runs Oct. 1-4 and draws more than 140 juried artisans to the historic estate. Discover handcrafted goods, seasonal food, vintage finds and a variety of family-friendly activities.
The setting is a key part of the experience, with the historic Manor House and gardens lending a colorful backdrop for the event. Ohio Mart is also an excellent opportunity to find one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting independent artists and makers.
Enjoy Family Fun at Downtown Akron Fall Fest
For a Halloween celebration in the heart of Akron, look no further than Downtown Akron Fall Fest on Oct. 17. The free, family-friendly event takes place along Main Street and includes trick-or-treating, crafts, activities, food and music.
Pair the event with an afternoon exploring downtown Akron. Check the Downtown Akron events calendar for additional happenings during your visit.
Explore the Fall Hiking Spree with Summit Metro Parks
Trade crowded festivals for colorful trails with the annual Summit Metro Parks Fall Hiking Spree. The 63rd Annual Program runs Sept. 1-Nov. 30, giving visitors the entire season to explore designated trails throughout the park system.
Complete at least eight designated hikes to earn a commemorative reward. With trails across Summit County, it’s one of the most flexible Summit County fall activities for enjoying cool weather and changing leaves at your own pace. Fun Fact: The Fall Hiking Spree is the longest-running event of its kind in the nation – that Summit Metro Parks is aware of. It began in 1964.
Experience Boo at the Akron Zoo
Weave Halloween fun into a day at the Akron Zoo during Boo at the Zoo. The 2026 celebration takes place Oct. 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25, with themed areas, trick-or-treating, seasonal snacks and beverages, character meet-and-greets, and a spooky dance performance.
With activities for all ages, it’s a fun choice for families searching for fall festivals in Akron, Ohio that visitors can enjoy together.
Dare to Visit Akron's Haunted Schoolhouse & Laboratory
For a seriously spooky Halloween experience, head to Akron’s Haunted Schoolhouse & Laboratory. The long-running attraction features two distinct haunted experiences, the Haunted Schoolhouse and Haunted Laboratory, along with a Monster Midway. In case you didn’t know, this is one of the longest-running, continuously operating haunted house attractions (at the same location) in the country.
The 2026 regular season runs into early November, giving thrill-seekers plenty of opportunities to visit after dark. Be sure to check the current admission and age information before planning a visit.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Summit County this fall, from harvest traditions and outdoor adventures to family Halloween celebrations and after-dark thrills.
Explore must-do fall activities in Akron and Summit County for even more seasonal inspiration, then browse the events calendar to build a memorable fall itinerary throughout the Greater Akron area.