Des Moines Family-Friendly Fall Activities 2026

Celebrate Halloween with a unique blend of spooky and science at the Science Center of Iowa. This family-friendly event features thrilling experiments, fascinating creatures, and a festive atmosphere. Costumes are encouraged, making it a perfect outing for all ages to...

Celebrate the spooky side of plants at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden's Trick or Trees event. This family-friendly Halloween weekend celebration features festive entertainment, educational activities, and seasonal treats. Bring your costumes and explore the garden for a day...

Join the Historic Valley Junction for their annual Pumpkin Walk, a free, family-friendly event perfect for all ages. Little goblins and ghouls can enjoy trick-or-treating at local businesses, exciting kids' activities, and festive dance performances. Free pumpkins are available while...

Step into a world of wonder at Night Eyes, where life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and enchanting light displays transform the zoo. This family-friendly event features a 'merry-not-scary' treat safari, a fun zone with carnival games, and captivating live entertainment. It's a...

Bring the family for a spooktacular evening of Halloween fun at Copper Creek Lake Park. Local businesses line the lake, offering treats and goodies for kids. Come in costume and enjoy the crisp fall air while supporting community businesses.

Valley Church hosts The Great Pumpkin Party, a free community celebration filled with family-friendly fun. Attendees can enjoy giant inflatables, barrel train rides, carnival games, and complimentary popcorn. Special activities include face painting, a petting zoo, and opportunities to meet...

Step back in time at Living History Farms for their annual Applefest. This vibrant celebration of the apple harvest offers a delightful day of family fun. Explore historic farm sites and the 1876 town, witness traditional apple preparation, and enjoy...

Step back in time for a delightful Halloween experience at Living History Farms. Children can trick-or-treat in the charming 1876 town, enjoy captivating stories, and participate in festive games and crafts. A magical twilight wagon ride adds to the enchantment.

Join the Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce for their annual Business Trick or Treat event. This family-friendly gathering invites attendees to collect treats directly from participating local businesses set up around Civic Plaza. It's a fantastic opportunity for the community...

Get ready for a spooktacular time at Halloween In Uptown! This beloved event expands with four blocks of trunk-or-treating, offering plenty of candy. Enjoy festive tunes from DJ Big Lare, participate in a thrilling costume contest with great prizes, and...

Experience Halloween fun on the farm with Trick or Treat on the Farm! This event invites families to scavenge for treats, participate in a lively costume contest with prizes, and enjoy the unique activity of pumpkin smashing. It's a perfect...

Experience the quintessential fall at Wills Family Orchard! Wander through thousands of pumpkins, pick your own apples, and savor homemade treats like cider donuts. Enjoy farm fun activities, hayrides, and a corn maze, making it a perfect autumn outing for...

Step into a world of enchantment at Reiman Gardens' popular 'Spirits in the Gardens' event. Wander through a breathtaking 3/4-mile path adorned with over 1,000 hand-carved Jack-O'-Lanterns, creating a truly magical Halloween experience. Be mesmerized by glowing orbs, captivating Hollusion...

Bring the little ghouls, ghosts, and goblins to Downtown Ames for a delightful trick-or-treating adventure. This family-friendly event invites children and parents alike to don their most creative Halloween costumes and explore the charming streets. Over 30 local businesses open...

Immerse yourself in a quintessential fall experience at Deal's Orchard Apple Acres. This family-friendly destination offers a delightful escape with over 25 attractions, including exciting jumping pillows and giant slides. Stroll through vibrant flower fields, discover the perfect pumpkin in...