Fall is one of my favorite times of year in Memphis. The temperatures finally begin to cool down, football season returns and our calendar quickly fills with pumpkin patches, festivals and outdoor family activities. After a long Memphis summer, we are always ready for more reasons to spend time outside together.
Our family loves this season, and there is no shortage of fall things to do with kids around Memphis. Younger children can enjoy hayrides, train rides and daytime Halloween events, while tweens and teens may prefer corn mazes, ziplining and haunted attractions. I’ve rounded up our favorite activities and some of the biggest family events happening around Memphis in fall 2026.
1. Visit a Memphis-Area Pumpkin Patch
No Memphis fall is complete without visiting a pumpkin patch. Our family goes to Priddy Farms every year, and it has become one of our favorite traditions. The kids can pick pumpkins, ride the train, take a hayride, visit the animals and explore the farm’s play areas.
Priddy Farms now has two locations with different attractions at each one. Its 2026 pumpkin-patch season runs from September 19 through November 8. Check the details for both locations before visiting so you can choose the one that is best for your children.
There are several other pumpkin patches within driving distance of Memphis, including Cedar Hill Farm, Jones Orchard, Payne Farm, Falcon Ridge Farm, Menagerie Farm and Tom’s Farm. Each offers a different experience, from simple pumpkin picking to full days with corn mazes, playgrounds, animals and farm activities. Younger children may enjoy Priddy Farms most, while older kids may prefer a larger corn maze or nighttime attraction.
2. Get Lost in a Corn Maze
A corn maze is one of those classic fall activities that is fun for both kids and adults. We have taken the kids to Jones Orchard, and they had such a good time finding their way through the maze together. It is a fun way to get everyone outside and working together without making the day too complicated.
The Mid-South Maze at Agricenter International is another convenient option within Memphis. Its 2026 season runs from September 18 through October 31, with classic maze hours available during the day and early evening. The Haunted Maze is a separate experience offered on select Friday and Saturday nights in October.
Jones Orchard’s 2026 corn maze opens October 2. The farm also offers pumpkins, hayrides and other seasonal activities. Its scarier haunted attractions are offered separately, so families should check the schedule carefully before visiting with younger children.
3. Spend a Day at the Fair
The Mid-South Fair returns to the Landers Center in Southaven from October 1 through October 11, 2026. Our kids always love the rides, games and food, and visiting the fair brings back so many childhood memories for me too. It is easy to spend several hours there without running out of things to do.
The fair includes rides for different ages, midway games, live entertainment, youth competitions and plenty of classic fair food. If you have children of different ages, look at the ride requirements before purchasing wristbands because they may not all be able to ride the same attractions. Planning ahead can help you decide whether individual ride tickets or unlimited-ride options make more sense for your family.
Admission prices increase as the fair approaches, so purchasing tickets in advance may save money. There are also select free-admission periods during the event. Keep in mind that the Landers Center has a clear-bag policy and weekend evenings may have the largest crowds.
4. Attend the Pink Palace Crafts Fair
The Pink Palace Crafts Fair returns to the Pink Palace Museum and Mansion from September 25 through September 27, 2026. This is the fair’s 54th year, and its return to the museum grounds makes it an especially fun addition to the fall calendar. The event is one of the Mid-South’s largest and longest-running juried arts and crafts fairs.
More than 150 artisans from around the country will be there with pottery, jewelry, glass, woodwork, leather goods, fiber art and other handmade pieces. Families can also enjoy demonstrations, food and children’s activities throughout the weekend. It is a good way to introduce kids to different types of art while still enjoying a relaxed festival atmosphere.
A ticket to the Crafts Fair includes admission to the Pink Palace Museum and Mansion’s permanent collections on the same day. Families may also purchase discounted add-ons for the planetarium, Giant Screen Theater and special exhibits. This makes it possible to combine the outdoor fair with an educational indoor activity.
5. Celebrate Fall at Memphis Botanic Garden
Memphis Botanic Garden’s Halloween Hike will be held October 17, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It gives families a safe daytime alternative to traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating. This is an especially good choice for younger children who want to celebrate Halloween without attending a dark or frightening event.
The garden is always one of our favorite places to visit seasonally because the experience changes throughout the year. During the fall, families can explore the grounds, enjoy the cooler weather and let the kids play in My Big Backyard.
Tickets for Halloween Hike may be sold for specific entrance times, so plan ahead instead of waiting until the morning of the event. The garden is also offering Fall Tram Tours on select dates throughout October and November along with a Food Truck Garden Party on October 14 and other seasonal programs for younger children.
6. Dress Up for Zoo Boo at the Memphis Zoo
Zoo Boo is one of our family’s annual Halloween traditions. The kids can wear their costumes, trick-or-treat throughout the zoo and enjoy the lights, decorations and entertainment. It gives them the excitement of Halloween without being overly scary.
The 2026 Zoo Boo season runs on select dates from September 18 through November 1. Because it is a nighttime ticketed event, Zoo Boo admission is separate from regular daytime zoo admission. Check the calendar carefully before visiting because it is not held every night.
Some dates will be busier than others, especially the weekends closest to Halloween. Purchase tickets in advance, arrive early and choose comfortable shoes because you will still do plenty of walking. If your children are younger, consider choosing an earlier date or time before the largest Halloween crowds arrive.
7. Celebrate at Halloween Spooktacular at CMOM
The Halloween Spooktacular at the Children’s Museum of Memphis is another fun way to celebrate Halloween with younger kids. The daytime event includes a costume walk, corn maze, face painting, pumpkin crafts, glow-in-the-dark spin art, a scavenger hunt and plenty of candy.
Halloween Spooktacular runs from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., making it a good alternative for families who prefer a daytime Halloween event. There are also special performances and activities throughout the day, including “Five Wacky Witches,” Spooky Science and Villain Lairs.
The event requires regular museum admission plus an additional $5 for nonmembers or $3 for members. Dress the kids in their costumes and check the event page before visiting for the current date and any updated details.
8. Enjoy Fall Fest Memphis
Fall Fest Memphis will be held October 16 and 17, 2026 at Catholic Church of the Incarnation in Collierville. The two-day festival includes carnival rides, food, live music, games, shopping and family activities. It offers the excitement of a fall fair later in October after the Mid-South Fair has ended.
Fall Fest can work well for families with both younger children and tweens because there is more than one type of entertainment. Kids can enjoy the rides and games while parents listen to live music, shop and visit the food vendors. Check the daily schedule before visiting because Friday and Saturday hours and entertainment may differ.
9. Try a Fall Adventure at Go Ape
Go Ape at Shelby Farms is one of the best fall activities for adventurous kids. Leighton tried ziplining there, and she talked about the experience long after we left. It is a fun choice for older children who may have outgrown some of the smaller pumpkin-patch activities.
The Treetop Adventure is designed for ages 10 and older with a minimum height requirement. The Treetop Journey is available for younger or smaller children who meet its height requirement, while Gorilla Golf works for children as young as two. Parents should review all age, height and supervision requirements before booking.
From September 19 through October 31, Go Ape offers Frights at Height on select nights. The nighttime event adds lights and Halloween atmosphere to the treetop course. Reservations are recommended because these seasonal sessions are only offered for a limited time.
10. Attend a Free Concert at Overton Park Shell
The Orion Financial Free Concert Series at Overton Park Shell continues into the fall with outdoor performances from local, national and international artists. We love bringing blankets and chairs and enjoying live music outside. The relaxed lawn seating makes attending with children much easier than a traditional indoor concert.
Families may bring picnic baskets and beverages, and food and drinks are also available for purchase at the venue. Check the performance schedule before visiting because the dates and musical styles vary. Arrive early if you want a good spot on the lawn, especially when a popular performer is scheduled.
11. Cheer on the Memphis Tigers
A Memphis Tigers football game is such a fun way to spend a fall day with the family. Even if younger children do not watch every play, there is plenty of excitement between the band, cheerleaders, mascot and stadium food. The game-day energy makes the experience memorable even for children who are not serious football fans.
You can turn the game into a full family day by tailgating before kickoff. Bring food, play games and let the kids enjoy being part of the atmosphere before entering the stadium. An earlier kickoff may be easier for younger children than an evening game that runs past bedtime.
September games can still be very warm in Memphis, so check the forecast and plan accordingly. Bring sunscreen, stay hydrated and choose clothing that will be comfortable throughout the day. Later fall games may require layers because the temperature can drop after sunset.
12. Cheer on the Memphis Grizzlies
A Memphis Grizzlies game at FedExForum is always a fun family outing once basketball season begins. The energy inside the arena is exciting for kids, and there is plenty happening between plays to keep them entertained throughout the game.
Check the official Memphis Grizzlies schedule to find a home game that works for your family. Weekend games are often the easiest with kids, but weeknight games can also be a fun way to break up the usual school-week routine.
Tickets and game times vary, so check the schedule and purchase seats in advance. Arrive early to find parking, grab something to eat and give the kids time to take in the atmosphere before tipoff.
13. Attend Boo at the Ballpark
Boo at the Ballpark is a free, family-friendly Halloween event at AutoZone Park. This year’s event will be held Saturday, October 17 from noon to 4:00 p.m. Kids can wear their costumes and enjoy trick-or-treating, hayrides, a dance party, costume contests and activities throughout the ballpark.
The Kids Zone will have inflatables, face painting, balloon animals and yard games. Kids ages 12 and younger can trick-or-treat throughout the event, and the batting cages will be transformed into a kid-friendly dance party with an LED dance floor.
Families can also pick out a pumpkin from the on-field pumpkin patch and decorate it at the event. Admission is free, but pumpkins are available for purchase. Hayrides run from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., so plan your visit around the activities your family wants to enjoy most.
14. Roll into Halloween at Spooky Skate
Spooky Skate is a family-friendly daytime skating event under the Sunset Canopy at Tom Lee Park. It will be held Saturday, October 24 from noon to 3:00 p.m., and costumes are encouraged.
The event includes a live DJ, a skate dance lesson and giveaways while supplies last. It is open to all ages and skill levels, so both new and experienced skaters can join the fun along the riverfront.
A limited number of free 30-minute skate rentals will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but bringing your own skates is recommended. Protective gear is not provided, so bring your own pads, wrist guards or helmets. The event is weather-dependent, so check for updates before heading downtown.
15. Visit the Harvest Moon Fall Festival
The Harvest Moon Fall Festival at Bobby Lanier Farm Park is a family-friendly celebration with plenty of classic fall activities. Past festivals have included a corn maze, hayrides, inflatables, games, a pumpkin patch, spooky stables, a petting zoo and live music.
Food trucks are typically available for an additional purchase, making it easy to spend several hours at the festival. Tickets are required, and advance purchase is recommended once registration opens.
The City of Germantown has not announced the 2026 date and ticket details yet. Check the event page before visiting for the latest schedule, pricing and weather information.
16. Celebrate Halloween at Carriage Crossing
The Shops at Carriage Crossing has two family-friendly events planned for Halloween week. Carriage Crossing’s Spooktacular Stroll will be held Saturday, October 24 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Kids can wear their costumes, bring a treat bag and trick-or-treat at Candy Crossing.
On Friday, October 30, head back to the Center Green for a free showing of The Addams Family. Friday Flicks begins at 8:00 p.m., with popcorn, music and more fun before the movie.
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs for the movie and arrive early to find a good spot. Since both events are held outdoors, check the Carriage Crossing event pages for any weather-related updates before visiting.
17. Listen to Live Music at GPAC
The Fall Concerts in The Grove series at Germantown Performing Arts Center is a fun way to enjoy live music outdoors as the weather begins to cool down. Concerts are held on Thursday evenings through October 29, with performances beginning at 6:30 p.m. and gates opening at 5:30 p.m.
Families can enjoy music from local Mid-South artists on the TruGreen Lawn. Food trucks will be on-site, drinks will be available for purchase and guests may bring outside food and beverages.
General admission lawn tickets are $13, tickets for children ages 5 to 18 are $8 and children ages 4 and younger are free. Reserved table seating is also available beginning at $23. Check the concert schedule before visiting to see who is performing that week and purchase tickets in advance.
18. Hear Terrifying Tales at the Morton Museum
Older kids and teens can hear three scary stories inspired by Collierville’s history during Terrifying Tales at the Museum. The event will be held Tuesday, October 27 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Morton Museum of Collierville History.
Admission is free, but the program is recommended for ages 13 and older because of the frightening subject matter. This is a good option for families with teens who have outgrown younger Halloween activities but still want to do something festive together.
Space may be limited, so check the event page for any updated information before attending. Because it is designed for an older audience, parents should use their judgment before bringing younger children.
19. Celebrate Halloween at Scare on the Square
Head to Collierville’s historic Town Square for Scare on the Square on Friday, October 23. This annual event brings families together for a festive evening in downtown Collierville and is an easy way to add another local Halloween celebration to your calendar.
Make an evening of it by visiting the shops or having dinner near the Square while you are there. The complete 2026 schedule has not been announced yet, so check the official event page closer to the date for the time, planned activities and admission details.
20. Spend the Afternoon at Harvest in the Park
The Junior Auxiliary of Collierville will host its first Harvest in the Park on Sunday, September 27 from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at H.W. Cox Park. The new event is designed to give families a safe and fun way to kick off the fall season together.
Kids can enjoy balloon animals, games, crafts and face painting while parents browse booths from local vendors. Food trucks will also be on-site, so families can grab something to eat and spend the afternoon at the park.
Check the official event page before attending for any schedule updates or additional information. Proceeds from participating sponsors and vendors will support Junior Auxiliary service projects in Collierville.
Tips for Planning Fall Family Activities in Memphis
Memphis can still be very warm in September and early October, so check the forecast and dress in layers. Bring water and sunscreen for daytime festivals, fairs and pumpkin patches. Closed-toe shoes are also helpful at farms, corn mazes and outdoor events where the ground may be dusty or muddy.
Purchase advance tickets for popular events such as Zoo Boo, Halloween Hike and nighttime attractions. Some events use timed admission and may sell out as Halloween approaches. Buying early can also give you more choices and may save money.
Check age and height restrictions before promising children a particular ride or experience. This is especially important at the Mid-South Fair and Go Ape. Knowing the requirements in advance can prevent disappointment once you arrive.
Outdoor events may change their hours because of rain, wind or muddy conditions. Always check the organizer’s website or social media before leaving home. This is particularly important for pumpkin patches, corn mazes and nighttime attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall in Memphis
What Are the Best Fall Activities for Younger Children in Memphis?
Priddy Farms, Zoo Boo, Halloween Hike and Memphis Botanic Garden are all good choices for younger children. Woodland Discovery Playground and a daytime visit to the Mid-South Fair also offer plenty for little ones to enjoy. Choose daytime events if your child is sensitive to darkness, loud noises or scary decorations.
What Are the Best Fall Activities for Tweens and Teens?
Older kids may prefer the Mid-South Maze, Jones Orchard’s corn maze, Go Ape or Frights at Height. A Memphis Tigers football game and the larger rides at the Mid-South Fair are other good options. Tweens and teens who enjoy being scared may also want to try one of the separate nighttime haunted attractions.
What Fall Events Are Happening in Memphis in 2026?
Major family events include the Pink Palace Crafts Fair from September 25 through 27 and the Mid-South Fair from October 1 through 11. Fall Fest Memphis is October 16 and 17, while Halloween Hike takes place on October 17. Zoo Boo, pumpkin patches and corn mazes operate on select dates throughout the season.
Are There Free Fall Activities for Families in Memphis?
Yes, there are several ways to enjoy fall without purchasing tickets for every outing. Families can attend select concerts at Overton Park Shell, explore local parks, take a hike or have a picnic. You can also create your own fall scavenger hunt or outdoor movie night at home.
When Does Fall Weather Usually Arrive in Memphis?
September can still be very hot, and cooler temperatures usually arrive gradually throughout October. Morning and evening activities are often more comfortable during the first part of the season. Always check the forecast because temperatures may change significantly from one day to the next.
Final Thoughts
Fall in Memphis gives families so many ways to spend time together. You can pick pumpkins, get lost in a corn maze, ride fair rides, attend a football game or simply pack a picnic and enjoy the cooler weather. There is something for every age, schedule and budget.
Our calendar gets busy this time of year, but these are the activities the kids remember and ask to do again. Whether your family prefers festivals, outdoor adventures or quiet traditions at home, there is plenty to enjoy throughout the season. Which fall activity does your family look forward to most each year?
