As the vibrant colours of fall take over Ottawa, the city becomes a hub of Halloween activities and events. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a lover of the arts, or just someone looking to enjoy the spooky season, Ottawa has something special in store for you this Halloween.

Here are 11 fun things to do this Halloween season in Ottawa!

1. Pumpkin After Dark

Pumpkin After Dark is an enchanting event that brings over 10,000+ hand-carved pumpkins to life in a mesmerizing outdoor display located at Wesley Clover Parks. Walk through a glowing trail of intricately designed jack-o’-lanterns and displays, with music, sounds and special effects. With classic Halloween characters, dinosaurs and dragons, movie and pop culture icons – this family-friendly event has something for everyone.

2. Saunders Farm’s Haunting Season

Saunders Farm’s Frightfest is a must-visit for those who crave intense Halloween thrills. This event features some of the most terrifying haunted attractions in the area, including the eerie Haunted Hayride, the horrifying Barn of Terrors, and the Sawmill. Frightfest transforms Saunders Farm into a Halloween wonderland with frighteningly fun experiences that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

3. Cannamore Acres of Terror

Cannamore Acres of Terror is another top destination for Halloween fun. Located just outside Ottawa, this spooky attraction offers a variety of haunted experiences, including the eerie Spooky Wagon Ride, House of Terror, and Spooky Village. It’s the perfect spot to get your adrenaline pumping and enjoy some seasonal scares.

Read More: The Acres of Terror at Cannamore Orchards is a Spooky Halloween Experience You Can’t Miss!

4. Apple Picking at a Local Ottawa Orchard

Nothing says fall like a day spent apple picking at a local Ottawa orchard. Head to one of the many orchards in and around the city to gather your own fresh apples. Whether you prefer sweet or tart, you’ll find a variety of apples perfect for snacking, baking, or turning into homemade cider.

Many orchards also offer additional activities like hayrides, corn mazes, and farm markets, making it a full day of fall fun.

Here are a few local favourites:

• Cannamore Orchards – Crysler, ON
• Apple Stock Orchard – Winchester, ON
• Mountain Orchards – Mountain, ON
• Avonmore Berry Farm –  Avonmore, ON
• Farm Dagenais – Embrun, ON
• Hall’s Apple Market – Brockville, ON

5. Saunders Farm’s Sawmill at Lansdowne

For a haunting experience right in the heart of the city, visit The Sawmill at Lansdowne. This immersive Halloween attraction takes you through a chilling story of a haunted sawmill, filled with terrifying characters and scenes that will make your skin crawl. It’s one of Ottawa’s top-rated haunted attractions and a must-visit for those who love a good scare.

6. Visit the ByWard Market

The ByWard Market is a year-round attraction, but it takes on a special charm in the fall. Stroll through the market and enjoy seasonal treats like freshly baked apple pies, pumpkin-flavoured goodies, and warm drinks. During the fall, the market also hosts a vibrant celebration of the Day of the Dead, with colourful altars, traditional music, and delicious Mexican food. It’s a cultural experience that adds a unique touch to your autumn adventures.

7. Autumn Tree Tour at Friends of the Central Experimental Farm

Explore the stunning fall foliage with an Autumn Tree Tour! This guided tour takes you through one of the oldest arboreta in Canada, where you can admire a wide variety of trees showcasing their vibrant autumn colours. It’s a peaceful and educational way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the season.

Please Note: Although the tours are free and open to the public, you must register in advance. Space is limited to 40 people per tour.

8. Discover the Diefenbunker Museum and Escape Room

For a different kind of fall adventure, visit the Diefenbunker Museum, Canada’s Cold War Museum. This underground bunker offers a fascinating glimpse into Canada’s history during the Cold War era. For those looking for an interactive experience, try the museum’s escape room, “Escape the Diefenbunker,” where you’ll work against the clock to solve puzzles and prevent a nuclear disaster. The museum also hosts a special “Haunted Walk” during October, adding a spooky element to your visit.

9. Take an Ottawa Haunted Walk Ghost Tour

Ottawa’s rich history is filled with ghost stories and eerie tales, making a ghost tour the perfect fall activity. The Ottawa Haunted Walk takes you through the city’s most haunted spots, including the Old Carleton County Jail and the Bytown Museum. With tales of paranormal encounters and spine-chilling histories, this tour is both informative and thrilling, offering a unique way to explore Ottawa’s darker side.

10. Pumpkin Fest at Proulx Farm

Pumpkin Fest at Proulx Farm offers a delightful fall experience for the whole family. Spend the day picking pumpkins, enjoying wagon rides, and navigating through the corn maze. This festival captures the essence of autumn and is an excellent way to celebrate the season in Ottawa.

11. Explore Fall Festivals and Fairs

Ottawa is home to several fall festivals and fairs that celebrate the season:

• The Carp Fair, one of the oldest agricultural fairs in Canada, takes place in late September and features livestock shows, a midway, and local crafts.
• For a more intimate experience, the Metcalfe Fair, held in early October, offers traditional agricultural exhibits, horse shows, and a demolition derby.
• In late September, the Richmond Fair is another great option, providing a mix of carnival rides, agricultural displays, and live entertainment.

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Ottawa’s Halloween season is brimming with activities that capture the spirit of the spooky season. Whether you’re seeking thrills, cultural experiences, or just a chance to enjoy the festive atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in the nation’s capital.

Safe travels,

Carina