As the leaves change and the crisp autumn air sets in, Durham Region comes alive with fall activities that capture the beauty and spirit of the season. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, or local festivities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a roundup of the best fall activities to experience in Durham Region in 2024!
1. Apple Picking at Maple Grove Farm
Kick off the season with a classic fall activity—apple picking! Maple Grove Farm in Bowmanville is the perfect spot for a family day out. The orchard offers a variety of apples ready for picking, including Honeycrisp, McIntosh, and Gala. After filling your baskets, stop by the farm store for fresh apple cider, pies, and other local treats. Be sure to check their website for specific picking dates as apple availability changes throughout the season.
2. Hiking Through Fall Foliage
Durham Region is home to some of Ontario’s most picturesque hiking trails, which become even more breathtaking as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Explore Heber Down Conservation Area in Whitby or the Ganaraska Forest in Clarington for scenic trails that offer stunning fall views. Don’t forget your camera—you won’t want to miss the photo ops along the way!
3. Harvest Festival at Pingle's Farm Market
For a full day of fall fun, head to Pingle's Farm Market in Hampton for their annual Harvest Festival. Running from late September through October, this event features everything from a giant corn maze and wagon rides to pick-your-own pumpkins. Kids will love the farm animals and pumpkin cannon, while adults can enjoy a pumpkin spice latte from the café. Harvest Festival is a beloved local tradition that captures the essence of the fall season.
4. Oshawa's Autumn Arts Festival
For art lovers, the Oshawa's Autumn Arts Festival is a must-visit event in mid-October. This year’s exhibit will feature over 50 talented artists showcasing works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and pottery. In addition to browsing the incredible artwork, visitors can enjoy live art demonstrations and learn more about different techniques from the artists themselves. With free entry, a snack bar to keep you fueled, and hourly draws for paintings, this exhibit is the perfect way to spend a fall day while supporting the local art scene. Don’t miss your chance to take home a beautiful new piece of art!
5. Haunted Walks and Ghost Tours
Get into the Halloween spirit with a spooky ghost tour! The Downtown Whitby Haunted Walk offers a thrilling journey through some of the town’s most haunted spots, where local legends and eerie tales come to life. For an even spookier experience, check out Pickering Museum Village’s Haunted Ghost Walks, where you’ll explore historic buildings said to be haunted by spirits of the past lead by lantern-light.
6. Fall Markets and Fairs
This fall, experience the best of both worlds with two of Durham Region’s most popular seasonal events: Bowmanville Applefest and the Parkwood Estate Fall Fest Market. At Bowmanville Applefest, enjoy a day filled with everything apple-related, from freshly baked pies and cider to candy apples and gourmet treats. The downtown streets come alive with live entertainment, local vendors, artisans, and family-friendly activities, making it a fun-filled celebration of the harvest season. Meanwhile, the Parkwood Estate Fall Fest Market in Oshawa offers a more relaxed, yet equally festive atmosphere. Set against the stunning backdrop of the historic Parkwood Estate, this market showcases local vendors selling handmade crafts, seasonal décor, and specialty foods. The beautiful fall foliage around the estate adds to the charm, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful autumn day.
7. Durham Region Fall Colour Drives
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the season, consider taking a fall colour drive through the countryside. Durham Region is known for its scenic backroads, and a leisurely drive through rural areas like Scugog or Brock offers beautiful views of the changing leaves. Pack a thermos of hot local apple cider, and take in the stunning landscapes from the comfort of your car.
8. Explore Durham’s Local Cideries
For a true taste of fall, visit Slabtown Cider in Uxbridge, Applewood Farm Winery in Sunderland, or Archibald’s Estate Winery in Bowmanville. Each offers handcrafted, locally made ciders perfect for the season. Whether you’re enjoying a tasting flight on Slabtown’s cozy patio, strolling through Applewood’s orchard, or sampling cider at Archibald’s, these spots are perfect for embracing the flavors of fall!
Plan Your Fall Adventure!
Whether you’re apple picking, hiking through fall foliage, or exploring a local festival, Durham Region has no shortage of fun and festive activities to enjoy this fall. Be sure to mark your calendar and gather your friends and family for a season filled with autumn delights!
What are your favorite fall activities in Durham Region? Let us know in the comments below!
Posted by Dan Plowman on
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