As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing like a weekend trip to enjoy pumpkins, corn mazes, farm animals, and all the seasonal charm. If you’re in Edmonton (or close by), here are some fall festivals and harvest events happening soon to plan for. Pack your jacket, grab the kids (or just your adventurous self), and hit the road.
Smoky Lake Great White North Pumpkin Weigh-Off & Fair
Dates: October 3–5, 2025
Where: Smoky Lake, Alberta
What to expect:
- Giant pumpkin weigh-off
- Pumpkin drop (yes, they drop them from great heights)
- Corn maze, artisan and farmers’ markets, food vendors, live carving, entertainment
- Family Day on Sunday at Métis Crossing
Why it’s worth the drive:
Smoky Lake is known as the Pumpkin Capital of Alberta for good reason. The festival is big, festive, and full of rural charm. It’s a great escape from city hustle.
Tips:
- If possible, go Saturday to experience the weigh-off, drop, and full festival vibes
- Check the weather and dress in layers
- Book accommodations early if staying overnight
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Fall-O-Ween and Haunted Pumpkin Festival at Prairie Gardens
Dates: September 20–21 & 27–28, 2025
Where: Prairie Gardens & Adventure Farm, Bon Accord (~25 km north of Edmonton)
What to expect:
- Over 15 acres of pumpkins
- Hayrides, corn mazes, scarecrow making, and farm animals
- Pumpkin-themed carnival games and a gem mine for kids
- Sunflower maze, bale maze, ghost town features, and fall displays
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Why it’s worth the drive:
Very close to Edmonton, so it’s great for a quick half-day or full-day outing. Lots of variety so even if one activity is crowded, there are others. Perfect for families with younger kids.
Tips:
- Weekend tickets are more expensive; weekdays are quieter and cheaper
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the most out of daylight
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Edmonton Corn Maze
Fall Hours: September 2 – October 27, 2025
Where: Just outside Edmonton, near Spruce Grove
What to expect:
- A massive corn maze with a new design each year
- Farm market, pumpkin patch, local snacks, and fun activities for kids
- Jumping pillows, mini games, and photo ops
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Why it’s worth staying close:
If you don’t want to travel far, this is the top pick. Easy drive, short travel time, and plenty of things to do for an afternoon outing or evening maze walk.
Tips:
- Bring flashlights if you go in the evening — the maze gets dark quickly
- Check for group or school booking options if going with a crew
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Kraay Family Farm Corn Maze & Fall Fun
Fall Season: Through to October 18, 2025
Where: Lacombe, Alberta
What to expect:
- 15-acre corn maze with a new design each year
- Over 40 attractions including animals, games, jumping pillow, and concession stands
- U-pick pumpkins and scenic photo spots
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Why it’s a longer drive that pays off:
If you’re up for a road trip, Kraay Family Farm packs in a full day of fall fun. It’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone wanting to explore Central Alberta for a day.
Tips:
- Buy tickets ahead of time, especially on weekends
- Wear good shoes — the fields can get muddy
- Pack snacks and water, especially if you’re travelling with kids
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Missed Alberta Open Farm Days? Here’s What to Do Instead
If you didn’t make it to this year’s Alberta Open Farm Days, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy rural Alberta this fall:
- U-pick pumpkin patches: Many farms near Edmonton have open pumpkin fields into October
- Sunflower fields: Some are still in bloom in early fall (though fading fast)
- Farm markets: Pick up pies, preserves, fresh veggies, and handmade goods
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Check each farm’s social media or website before heading out. Hours change fast in fall depending on weather and harvest.
Weekend Planning Suggestions
Here are a few itinerary ideas to help you make the most of these events:
| Itinerary | Distance / Travel Time | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Cruise Close to Home | Edmonton → Bon Accord (~25 km) | Head out in the morning for Prairie Gardens’ Fall-O-Ween. Stop for lunch in Bon Accord or pack snacks. Great for a spontaneous trip. |
| Full-Day Pumpkin Festival Trip | Edmonton → Smoky Lake (2–2.5 hours one way) | Leave early to hit the weigh-off and festival crowds. Return home late or make it an overnight rural escape. |
| Farm Maze + Local Eats | Edmonton → Lacombe (2 hours) | Kraay Family Farm in the morning, lunch in Lacombe, and maybe explore the town or a local café before heading back. |
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Final Tips
- Check the weather and bring layers. Alberta fall weather can be all four seasons in a day
- Buy tickets in advance when possible — fall weekends can sell out
- Wear waterproof shoes or boots if it’s rained recently
- Plan ahead for food — some events have great food trucks, others don’t
- If going with little ones, aim for quieter times (early mornings or late afternoons)
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Fall in Alberta is short — make the most of it while it’s still crisp, colourful, and pumpkin-scented. Whether you’re after a quick corn maze or a full-blown pumpkin fair, there’s something out there worth the drive. 
