October In Manchester: Fall Fun, Festivals & More

Fall is officially here in Manchester, and there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of it. From festivals and farmers markets to pumpkin patches, live music and other seasonal fun, October brings plenty of reasons to get out and enjoy what’s happening close to home.

Here are some events and activities happening in and around Manchester this October.

Dates, hours and other event details can change. Check with organizers before heading out.

2nd Saturday Open House

When: Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Downtown Manchester

Downtown Manchester comes alive for October's 2nd Saturday with a mix of art, music and seasonal activities, including the kickoff of the Downtown Manchester Scarecrow Contest. Visitors can also stop by WORK_SPACE for poetry, a writers' gathering for ages 16 and older, pumpkin painting, a puzzle exchange, family-friendly crafts and live music. The building is ADA accessible, and visitors with specific accessibility needs can contact WORK_SPACE ahead of the event.

Pumpkin Carvings

When: Oct. 13-14, 2026, 5 to 7 p.m.
Where: Northwest Park | 448 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester

Help set the scene for Manchester's Fall Fest during two evenings of pumpkin carving at Northwest Park. Participants will receive pumpkins to transform into spooky creations that will decorate the park and line the Haunted Trail during the festival. Registration is recommended to reserve a pumpkin.

Eastside Farmer Market Fall Pop Up

When: Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, 4 to 7 p.m.
Where: Northwest Park | 448 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester

The Eastside Farmer Market is embracing the season with a special fall pop-up event at Northwest Park. Shoppers can browse more than 25 vendors while enjoying pumpkin carving and fall-themed crafts during the three-hour market.

Fall Fest 2026

When: Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, 5 to 8 p.m.
Where: Northwest Park | 448 Tolland Turnpike, Manchester

Costumes, performances and plenty of Halloween fun are headed to Northwest Park for Manchester's Fall Fest. The Oct. 16 celebration will feature haunted trails, dance performances, food trucks, market vendors, trunk-or-treating and more throughout the evening. All festival activities will take place at Northwest Park.

Candle Making Workshop

When: Thursday, Oct. 20, 2026, 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: Urban Lodge Brewing Co. | 47 Purnell Place, Manchester

Get crafty over a fall beer during a candle-making workshop at Urban Lodge Brewing Co. on Oct. 20, 2026. Participants will create their own fall-inspired candle, choosing from a selection of scents and natural ingredients, with one beer included in admission. Tickets are $60 plus a $1.50 service fee.

Looking for more things to do in Manchester this fall? Check out the Patch events calendar for more local events and activities.

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