Richmond sure shows off in the fall – colorful leaves line the streets, children don adorable costumes, and every weekend is full of opportunities to make the most of this time of year.
Whether you’re a grandparent hoping to cultivate new memories with grandchildren, a parent of a toddler, or a family with teens – we’ve got you covered with our guide to this fall’s activities and events around RVA.
Here are a few of my family’s favorite RVA fall places and events:
Pumpkin Patches Galore
RVA has no shortage of pumpkin patches, and each offers a unique celebration of fall.
Swift Creek Berry Farm
For young children, head to Swift Creek Berry Farm. This family-owned farm has photo ops, yard games, a pumpkin patch, and picnic tables. I also recommend SCBF for grandparents as there is limited walking.
Berkeley Plantation
For a beautiful venue, head to Berkeley Plantation. In addition to the pumpkin patch, explore the river shore, and find your way out of the corn maze.
Ashland Berry Farm
For older children, consider Ashland Berry Farm. A hayride, and play area, including the 3D Boo House are popular for children 12 and under. For teenagers and adults, Terror on the Farm begins at 7PM. This “haunting event” includes music, concessions, and…a good scare!
Local Apple Picking Options
Hanover Peaches also has apple orchards! They are the sweetest family, and they are right in Mechanicsville, so no need to drive far and battle huge crowds to experience fall apple-picking. Stay tuned to their Facebook page for the official announcement of the weekends they will be open for picking.
Hikes with Fall Foliage
Whether your kiddo is strapped to you in a carrier, or a teen carrying his/her own backpack, hiking during the fall is an excellent way to make memories and enjoy our beautiful RVA trails this season.
Try these hikes to see vibrant, autumnal colors:
Dutch Gap Conservation Area
Hike or bike on these trails, which are adjacent to Henricus Historical Park. There are docks, benches, picnic tables, and the best tree for kids to explore. The packed gravel surface is stroller-friendly. There is no parking fee.
Leakes Mill Park
Start at the playground and wind your way to the trails which ultimately lead to water, and historical ruins. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water. The entire path is stroller-friendly, and there is no parking fee.
One-of-a-Kind Outdoor Events
Sure, you’ve spent time at Richmond’s popular venues, but have you experienced these special, fall-only events?
Lewis Ginter HarvestFest
On October 27th, bring the entire family for crafts, pumpkin carving, a family story time, and more.
Maymont Garden Glow
This annual event offers visitors a spectacular view of the historic gardens lit from within. Held after sunset, Garden Glow is a walking tour of Maymont’s gardens, including interactive features, fire pits, and food trucks. Garden Glow runs Oct. 19 – Nov. 12.
Rassawek Autumn Festival
Celebrate the season at this family-friendly event on October 19th and 20th. Highlights include a petting zoo, antique machinery, professional rodeo, and skilled artisans showcasing traditional trade skills.
Trunk or Treat Fun
Trunk-or-treats events are an ideal alternative for those who do not live in a neighborhood, as these events are completely traffic-free, and safe. Further, trunk or treating allows us to connect with the community in a new way.
Virginia Museum of History & Culture Trunk or Treat
Join us at VMHC’s Trick or Treat on Friday, October 25. Not only does this event include free admission, kids will also love crafts, games, and of course plenty of yummy treats.
How lucky are we to live where our hardest decision of the weekend may be which fall event to attend? As you make your fall plans, refer back to this guide, and be sure to check RFM’s calendar as new events are added daily. For Halloween events, refer to our Halloween event calendar, and check back often, as events are added daily.
