Fall Things to Do in Bowling Green, KY: October 2026 Guide

October might be the best month to live in Bowling Green. The weather finally cools off, the leaves start turning, and there's something going on almost every weekend. Whether you've lived here your whole life or you're thinking about moving to the area, here's my list of fall things to do around town this month.

Jackson's Orchard Pumpkin Festival

Jackson's Orchard has been a Bowling Green tradition for over 60 years, and the Pumpkin Festival is a big reason why. It runs every weekend through Oct 25: Saturdays from 9 to 5 and Sundays from 1 to 5.

Take a wagon ride out to the pumpkin patch and corn maze, pick your own apples, and let the kids loose at the petting zoo, pony rides, straw castle and goat ranch. There's no admission or parking fee. You pay only for the activities you do, so it's an easy, affordable family day.

It's at 1280 Slim Island Rd. Heads up: during Warren County fall break (Oct 5 to 9), they're open with limited activities. Check their Facebook page for weather updates before you head out.

Chaney's Dairy Barn Corn Maze

If you haven't done the Chaney's corn maze, put it on your list. This year's design celebrates America's 250th birthday with stars, a flag and a birthday cake cut into the field. There's also a Presidential Ice Cream game to play as you work your way through.

It's $10 a person, and that includes a coupon for a scoop of their ice cream, which might be the best part. The maze is open during regular business hours, weather permitting. While you're there, check out their farm tours to see where the milk for that ice cream comes from.

Scarecrow Trail at Lost River Cave

All month long, Lost River Cave hosts its Scarecrow Trail. It's an easy walk for little ones, and a good excuse to get outside and enjoy one of the coolest spots in town.

Downtown Bowling Green Events

Downtown is busy this month. A few dates to save:

• Fri, Oct 9: Halloween (1978) screening at The Capitol
• Sat, Oct 10: Open Cockpit Day at Aviation Heritage Park
• Sat, Oct 17: Downtown BGKY Harvest Fest across downtown parks and venues
• Sat, Oct 17: RailPark Rendezvous at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum
• Fri, Oct 23: Spirit of Riverview at Riverview at Hobson Grove
• Fri, Oct 23 to Sat, Oct 24: Boos & Brews Movie Marathon at The Capitol
• Sat, Oct 24: Scare on the Square, Downtown
• Sat, Oct 31 to Sun, Nov 1: BG 26.2 and Half Marathon, Downtown

Times and details can change, so check each event's page before you go.

Why fall is a great time to look at homes here

This is one of the things I love about Bowling Green. You can spend Saturday morning picking apples on a farm and still be downtown for dinner in 15 minutes. Communities like Alvaton, Plano and Rockfield give you that country feel with room to spread out, and you're still close to everything in town.

Fall is also a smart time to buy. There's usually less competition than in spring and summer, and sellers who list now tend to be serious. If you're curious what's on the market or what your own home might be worth, I'm happy to help. You can check your home's value here or reach out to me anytime.

Fall in Bowling Green FAQ

When is the Jackson's Orchard Pumpkin Festival in 2026?

Every Saturday and Sunday through Oct 25. Saturdays are 9am to 5pm and Sundays are 1pm to 5pm.

How much is the Chaney's Dairy Barn corn maze?

$10 per person, and that includes a coupon for a scoop of ice cream.

Is there an admission fee at Jackson's Orchard?

No. Admission and parking are free. You pay only for activities like hayrides, pony rides and pick your own apples.

When is Downtown Harvest Fest in Bowling Green?

Saturday, Oct 17, 2026, across downtown parks and venues.

Sources: Jackson's Orchard, WBKO, Chaney's Dairy Barn, Downtown BGKY