Fall in Tampa Bay means pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and family traditions that bring the season to life. From historic schoolhouses to small-town streets and sprawling farms, these five festivals each offer their own unique way to celebrate autumn.

Old Miakka Fall Hootenanny & Schoolhouse Benefit

Step back in time and celebrate country fun at the Old Miakka Fall Hootenanny & Schoolhouse Benefit. This lively festival raises funds to preserve the historic 1914 Old Miakka Schoolhouse, a treasured landmark at the crossroads of Miakka and Wilson Roads.

Highlights include:

Hog callin’ and rooster crowin’ contests
Broomstick pony races for the kids
Bubble gum blowin’ showdown
Unique paintings, crafts, and handmade cards from local artists
Guided tours of the century-old schoolhouse

When: Sunday, October 5 | 10 am to 3 pm
Where: Old Miakka Schoolhouse | 15800 Wilson Road, Sarasota
Admission: Free entry and free parking

*Photo Credit: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village*

Scarecrow Festival at Pioneer Florida Museum & Village in Dade City

The Scarecrow Festival returns to Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, bringing a full day of fall fun for the whole family. Spread across the museum’s 6+ acres, the event combines hands-on activities with local history.

Highlights include:

Build-your-own scarecrow station
Pumpkin painting and pumpkin patch photo ops
Pony rides and petting zoo
Live entertainment and family-friendly performances
Arts and crafts activities
Blacksmithing demonstrations and historic displays

When: Saturday, October 11 | 9 am to 4 pm
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village | 15602 Pioneer Museum Rd, Dade City
Admission: $10 adults, $5 students, free for kids under 5

Crystal River Scarecrow Fest

The Crystal River Scarecrow Fest returns to the “Manatee Capital of the World” after a pause in 2024 due to storm damage. Locals are thrilled to see this community favorite back in historic downtown.

Highlights include:

Family-friendly fall costumes and games
Local vendors serving food, beer, and wine
Live music to keep the party going

When: Saturday, October 11 | 10 am to 5 pm
Where: Heritage Village, 657 N Citrus Ave, Crystal River
Admission: Free

*Photo Credit: Harvest Holler Corn MAze & Pumpkin Patch*

Harvest Holler Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch in Polk City

Since 2013, Harvest Holler Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch has been a Central Florida fall tradition. This family-run event lets kids play for hours, parents unplug, and everyone enjoy simple country fun.

Highlights include:

Wander through the corn maze or play in giant corn bins
Pick the perfect pumpkin in the patch
“See the Animals” adventure hayride
Hop aboard the Cow Barrel Train
Climb Hay Mountain
Slide down the famous Frank-n-Slide

7th Annual Pumpkin Ponderosa & Haunted Monster Truck Rides at The Showcase of Citrus

Celebrate Old Florida fall fun at The Showcase of Citrus in Clermont. The 7th Annual Pumpkin Ponderosa features traditional seasonal activities, and the Haunted Monster Truck Ride makes its debut this year.

Pumpkin Ponderosa highlights include:

Seasonal treats and beverages
Decorative photo ops
Carving pumpkins
Jumbo pumpkins

When: Daily Sunday through Wednesday from 9 am to 7 pm | Thursday through Saturday from 9 am to 10:30 pm | Haunted Monster Truck Rides select nights through November 1st
Where: 15051 Frank Jarrell Rd, Clermont
Admission: Free parking and free admission for the Pumpkin Ponderosa | Tickets required for the Haunted Monster Truck Rides (recommended for ages 12+)

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