Illustration of a fall festival scene (Applefest at Living History Farms)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

Applefest at Living History Farms

Celebrate the bounty of the harvest season at Living History Farms' Applefest. This family-friendly event immerses visitors in the traditions of Midwestern rural heritage, showcasing how apple treats like butter, cake, and pie were prepared in historic times. Guests can also print recipes in the Print Shop and enjoy delicious offerings from local food vendors, making it a perfect autumn outing.

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What to Expect

Historical apple harvest celebration with traditional food preparation.

Event Details

Duration

9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Living History Farms

Food & Drink

Local food vendors will be available, offering apple goodies and tasty treats.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families, history enthusiasts, autumn celebrations

Vibe

Festive, educational, historical, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Accessibility: Paths are boardwalk or dirt/gravel. Step Saver tours are available to reduce travel between farm sites. Accessible entrances are available for most buildings, though the second floor of the Flynn Mansion is not accessible. Modern restrooms are available at the 1900 Farm house and Flynn Mansion.
  • Pets: Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a standard leash, but must remain outside buildings and away from livestock.

Tips & Advice

  • Consider purchasing advance tickets, especially for special events, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
  • Arrive before 2:30 PM, as this is when the last tractor cart departs for the farm sites.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on boardwalks and dirt/gravel paths.
  • If mobility is a concern, inquire about the 'Step Saver' tour option to minimize walking between farm sites.
  • Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but remember they must stay on a leash and outside of buildings and away from animals.

Special Events & Promotions

  • All activities included with General Admission
  • Advance tickets recommended

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

You may buy General Admission tickets online in advance or at the door. Advance tickets are recommended for special events.

Is this a guided tour?

Guests visit at their own pace. Historic interpreters are available at many sites, but it is not a guided tour.

Where should we start our visit?

Begin at the Kemin Cultivation Center and choose to start with the tractor cart to the farm sites or explore the 1876 town of Walnut Hill.

Is the museum accessible?

Paths are boardwalk or dirt/gravel. Accessible entrances are available for most buildings, and special tour options can reduce walking. The second floor of the Flynn Mansion is not accessible.

Can we bring our dog?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome on a leash, but must remain outside buildings and away from livestock.

Tags

fall festivalfamily friendlyharvest festivalpumpkin festivalcommunity eventfood trucksapple orchardcider tasting

More Halloween Events Near Urbandale

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 3, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team