From Fairs to Farms, It’s Pumpkins, Playtime and All the Fall Feels This October
October is my favorite month in North Carolina. The weather is usually perfect, the leaves are beautiful and there is so much family fun to be had outside. That is why this month’s Adventure Awaits column is focusing on all things fall.
Forsyth County, and slightly beyond, provide some of the ultimate fall activities for the entire family. Here are some of our family’s favorites.
Smith Hollow Farm
This destination is a full day outing for the family! Some of the many activities here include a corn maze, outdoor games, apple launcher (a must), hayrides and so much more. There are endless photo opportunities, too.
It’s typically open every Saturday and Sunday in October from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but be sure to check their website to confirm operating hours before visiting.
Location: 5920 Smith Hollow Road, Kernersville
Website: smithhollowfarm.com
Kersey Valley’s Maize Adventure
While this destination sits just outside Forsyth County, it is well worth the extra few miles. It’s also another full day trip location. Activities include a massive corn maze, corn pit (this was our toddler’s favorite spot), kiddie zip line and so much more. Plus, don’t miss the Apple Cider Donut Shop and coffee and festive cocktails from Endora’s Brew.
Kersey Valley is open every Saturday and Sunday in October from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; however, last ticket sales are usually at 5:00 p.m. Please visit their website to confirm hours prior to visiting.
Location: 1615 Kersey Valley Road, Archdale
Website: maizeadventure.com
Carolina Classic Fair
Thrills, games and endless entertainment await at the Carolina Classic Fair every year. In our family, it wouldn’t really be fall without a trip to the fair. Be sure to check out my other article in this issue about navigating the fair with infants and toddlers!
Carolina Classic Fair operates October 3-12 for the 2025 season. During the fair, the fairgrounds are open Sunday-Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Fireworks are set off nightly at 9:45 p.m.
Location: 2825 University Parkway, Winston-Salem
Website: carolinaclassicfair.com
Pumpkin Patches
You’ll find pumpkin patches set up increasingly more and more throughout the city and county as October progresses. There tend to be many at local churches. Many have fun photo prop opportunities for families, as well. Be sure to check their fall event list, as many places also have various events during the month, like fall festivals. One of my family’s favorite local pumpkin patches is Hawks Pumpkin Patch off Clemmonsville Road.
Location: Throughout Forsyth County
While October usually hosts perfect weather, the end of the month is typically the gateway to winter and colder temperatures. That makes it the best month to end my Adventure Awaits series as most of us plan to retreat indoors during the winter! I hope this series has brought you and your family many fun outdoor adventures!
