Family-Friendly Events in Chattanooga This October 🍂
As the leaves shift from green to gold and crisp mountain air fills the Tennessee valley, Chattanooga transforms into a vibrant hub of seasonal charm. If you’re searching for family-friendly fall events in Chattanooga this October, you’re in for a treat, quite literally.
From pumpkin patches to pet costume contests and community festivals packed with laughter, this guide highlights the top 10 can’t-miss events designed to bring families (and furry friends) together. Whether you’re new to town, a lifelong local, or visiting for the weekend, these events showcase the warm, welcoming spirit of Chattanooga and what it means to live beautifully here
Planning your next family adventure? Jay Hudson Homes is more than your home expert. We’re your connection to the best of Chattanooga living.
🍁 Paws, Pumpkins & Photo Ops: Top 3 Family-Friendly Events
Celebrating pets, pumpkins, and playful costumes for the whole family.
🐾 1. Paws & Pics in the Park – Hosted by Jay Hudson Homes
📍 Where: Heritage Park, 1428 Jenkins Rd, Chattanooga
📅 When: Sunday, October 19, 2025 | 🕑 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Sunday, October 26, 2025 Due to Weather
💵 Cost: Free
📸 Dress up with your four-legged family members and join us for festive photos, tasty treats (for people and pets!), and a community celebration like no other.
🦁 2. Boo in the Zoo
📍 Chattanooga Zoo, 301 N Holtzclaw Ave
📅 Weekends in October (Evenings)
💵 $17.95 Non-Members | $11.95 Members
🎃 Trick-or-treat stations, scavenger hunts, and costume contests make this a “merry, not scary” experience for even the littlest ones. A perfect addition to your list of family-friendly fall events.
🔗 More Info
🎃 3. Enchanted Pumpkin Patch at Rock City
📍 Lookout Mountain
📅 Throughout October
💵 $43 Adults | $33 Kids
✨ Wander enchanting trails, create crafts, and explore pumpkin-themed adventures. This iconic destination transforms into a magical fall escape.
🔗 Visit Rock City
🍂 Festive Fall Fun & Community Gatherings:
Live music, games, and hometown charm your family will love.
🚗 4. YMCA Fall Festivals & Trunk or Treat
📍 Across 5 YMCA locations in Chattanooga
📅 Various dates in October
💵 Free to Members and Non-Members
🍬 Celebrate community with games, face painting, trunk-or-treat fun, and seasonal snacks. These gatherings are the very definition of family-friendly fall events that connect neighbors and create lasting joy.
🔗 YMCA Events
🎯 Looking for a neighborhood where community feels like family? Let’s find the right fit Jay Hudson Homes is here to help.
🧺 5. Family Fun Day in the Park
📍 Outdoor Chattanooga, 200 River St.
📅 Saturday, October 12, 2025 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
💵 Free
🎨 Crafts, nature games, and outdoor play for all ages make this a great way to unplug and reconnect.
🔗 Event Info
🎸 6. Family & Founders Fall Festival
📍 INCubator @ Hamilton County BDC
📅 Wednesday, October 16, 2025 | 🕔 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
💵 Free
🎤 Featuring local food trucks, games, and live music, this is where Chattanooga’s entrepreneurial spirit meets fall family fun.
🔗 Event Details
🎪 Seasonal Festivals with Flavor & Flair
For the foodies, music lovers, and craft fair fanatics.
🍎 7. Chattanooga Apple Festival
📍 Camp Jordan Park, 323 Camp Jordan Pkwy
📅 October 18–19, 2025 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
💵 Free
With over 175 vendors, fresh apples, music, and kid-focused entertainment, this event is bursting with family-friendly fall events energy.
🔗 Full Info
🍺 8. Chattanooga Oktoberfest
📍 First Horizon Pavilion, 1826 Reggie White Blvd
📅 October 11–12, 2025
💵 Free
Pretzels, polka, pumpkin painting—this multicultural celebration is designed for all ages, with plenty of family-friendly activities.
🔗 More Info
👻 Thrills & Chills for the Bold
For families who love a little thrill with their fall magic.
🔥 9. Fire Up the Fields
📍 Sculpture Fields at Montague Park
📅 Friday, October 25, 2025 | 🕔 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
💵 Tickets start at $12.51
Watch towering sculptures ignite while catching the big game on an outdoor screen. This one-of-a-kind event is one of Chattanooga’s most electric family-friendly fall events.
🔗 Event Info
🚂 10. Haunted Depot – Ringgold
📍 Downtown Ringgold Depot
📅 Weekends in October
💵 Haunted Depot: $15.00, Ghost Tour : $7.00, Hayride : $5.00, Combo (all activities): $23.00
Ghost stories, a haunted house, and a spooky train ride make this event the perfect pre-Halloween adventure.
🔗 Explore More
Fall in love with Chattanooga one memory at a time.
Explore neighborhoods near your favorite fall festivals with Jay Hudson Homes.
🏡 Why Jay Hudson Homes Loves Fall in Chattanooga
At Jay Hudson Homes, we believe that fall is more than just a season it’s a celebration of home, family, and the joy of living well. Halloween is Jay’s favorite holiday. These family-friendly fall events don’t just entertain; they root us in our neighborhoods, inspire new traditions, and offer a glimpse into what makes Chattanooga such a special place to call home.
✨ From hosting events like Paws & Pics in the Park to helping families find their dream homes, we’re honored to be part of the fabric of this vibrant community.
Ready to Fall in Love with Chattanooga?
Let’s find the neighborhood and the home that fits your lifestyle and your family’s dreams. Reach out to Jay Hudson Homes today and step into your best season yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my lizard to Paws & Pics in the Park?
Yes, all pets are welcomed! Whether your companion has fur, feathers, or scales, they’re part of the family and we’d love to see them join in the fun at Heritage Park.
Are these events suitable for young children or toddlers?
Absolutely. Each of these family-friendly fall events includes activities and spaces designed for younger guests from pumpkin crafts and pet parades to gentle trick-or-treating at the zoo. Always check each event’s website for stroller accessibility and age-specific activities.
Is parking available at the major festival locations?
Yes. Most venues like Heritage Park, Camp Jordan, and the First Horizon Pavilion provide free or low-cost parking on-site or nearby. For popular weekends, it’s best to arrive early to secure your spot and make the most of these family-friendly fall events.
