As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp scent of autumn fills the air, Eau Claire, Wisconsin transforms into a hub of seasonal celebration. From vibrant harvest festivals and pumpkin patches to spooky haunted trails and cozy apple orchards, Eau Claire offers something for everyone to embrace the fall spirit. Whether you're looking to explore local traditions, find the perfect pumpkin, or simply enjoy a weekend of cider and color, here are some of the best fall events and activities happening around Eau Claire this season located near Hillcrest Estates.
Festivals
Downtown Eau Claire Fall Festival
Experience the 36th annual Fall Fest in Downtown Eau Claire from 10 AM to 4 PM. This free community celebration showcases live music, family-friendly performances, artisan vendors, local food trucks, and fun for all ages.
- Where: Downtown Eau Claire (~10 min)
- When: September 13th
- Price: Free!
River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival
This is a lively, free community festival where giant pumpkins take center stage alongside fun family activities, contests, and seasonal entertainment. These include family-friendly races, a pumpkin drop, and of course the giant pumpkin weigh off!
- Where: River Prairie Park in Altoona, WI (~10 min)
- When: September 27th
- Price: Free!
Haunted Attractions for the Brave
Field of Screams Haunted Trail and Barn
This year’s theme is “HUNTED.” Dare to venture through the haunted trail and chilling barn experience—an hour-long journey of fear and thrills. All proceeds support local youth organizations and Feed My People.
- Where: Rockin’ T-R Ranch - 8020 Curvue Road, Eau Claire, WI 54703 (~15 min)
- When: October 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 24th, 25th, and 31st
- Price: $30 General Admission; $40 Fast Pass Timed Entry
- Purchase Tickets Here: https://fieldofscreams.afkhosting.win/
Wicked Haunted Oz House
Dare to follow the twisted Yellow Brick Road this Halloween season as the Ski Sprites present “Wicked Oz” - a haunted house experience like no other. Enter a dark and haunting version of the Land of Oz, where beloved characters have turned sinister, and the only escape is to face your fears head-on.
- Where: 15 S Dewey St, Eau Claire (~10 min)
- When: Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday October 16th - November 1st
- Price: $14/person or $13/person with Feed My People Donation or $12/ person at Eau Claire & Altoona Kwik Trips
- Purchase Tickets Here: https://www.skisprites.com/haunted-house
Races
The Great Pumpkin Run
Celebrate all things giant pumpkins at River Prairie’s Great Pumpkin Run, a family-friendly 5K open to participants ages 9 and up. Younger runners can join the fun too with the Lil' Pumpkin 1/2-Mile Run for ages 9–12 and the 1/4-Mile Run for ages 5–8. Even the tiniest tots can take part in the excitement with the 75-Yard Pumpkin Trot, designed just for ages 1–4. It’s a fun-filled day for the whole family!
- Where: River Prairie Park in Altoona, WI (~10 min)
- When: September 27th, Check in starts at 8:30 am
- Price: $20 for 5k. $8 for ½ Mile Run, $ for ¼ run - T-shirts included
- Register here: www.rpgiantpumpkinfest.com
Hall‑EAU‑ween 5K
A Halloween-themed 3.1-mile night run through beautifully lit downtown streets and bridges. Costumes encouraged - perfect for spooky fun!
- Where: Phoenix Park, Eau Claire (~10 min)
- When: October 24th at 6:30 PM
- Price: $35 or $25 for participants 12 and under
- Register here: https://register.hakuapp.com/?event=8691eb83e3fb3e930177
Farmers Markets
Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market
The Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market runs through October in Phoenix Park. It’s perfect for fresh produce, live music, and artisanal goods.
- Where: Downtown, Eau Claire (~10 min)
- When: Now through October
- Price: Free!
Apple Orchards and Pumpkin Patches
Fergerson Orchards
Ferguson’s Orchards in Eau Claire is a family-friendly fall destination offering apple picking, a pumpkin patch, and dozens of seasonal attractions like corn mazes, hayrides, and a country bakery. With activities for all ages and delicious autumn treats, it’s a must-visit spot for making lasting fall memories.
- Where: 6470 Balsam Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701 (~10 min)
- When: Season starts August 2025 Price: Admission required.
- Prices: $18 per person (ages 2 and up); seniors and military receive discounted rate of $15; children under 2 are free. Each ticket includes a free season pass valid daily through November with extended hours.
Glass Orchard
The Glass Orchard is a creative fusion of apple orchard and glass art studio just south of Eau Claire. Visitors can enjoy picking apples (or choosing pre‑picked ones), sipping fresh cider, and exploring a retail space stocked with hand‑blown glass, fused art, local crafts, and home goods. They can even try their hand at glass‑making through classes and live demos
- Where: 130 Deerfield Rd Eau Claire, WI 54701 (~10 min)
- When: Season starts September 13th through December
- Price: Varies based on activity
Leffell Roots
Just outside Eau Claire at Leffel Roots offers sprawling rows of pumpkins - big, small, round, and quirky-shaped. Visitors can wander the corn maze, try launching apples, savor a slice of apple pie, or sip cider in a serene autumn setting
- Where: W2369 Maple Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54701 (~15 min)
- When: Opens September 10th
- Price: Varies based on activity
Bushel a Peck
Located in nearby Chippewa Falls (just a short drive away) this charming orchard features a pumpkin patch, apple and berry picking, a three-acre corn maze, an on-site bakery, and a country store stocked with fall goodies like jams, crafts, and pies.
- Where: 18444 Co. Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls (~20 min)
- When: Fall 2025
- Price: Varies based on activity
At Hillcrest Estates, we believe your home is more than just a place, it’s the foundation for how you experience life. That’s why we’re passionate about highlighting local events and opportunities that bring neighbors and families closer together. We’re proud to be part of a welcoming, family-focused community and remain committed to helping our residents stay connected to what matters most.
Be sure to check back for more seasonal guides and local recommendations!
