As autumn settles in and the trees glow with shades of gold and crimson, the Chippewa Valley becomes the perfect place to celebrate the season. From festive pumpkin weigh-offs and lively concerts to haunted adventures and cozy apple orchards, Eau Claire and Altoona offer countless ways to enjoy fall. Whether you’re searching for family fun, a unique seasonal tradition, or just an excuse for warm cider and fresh donuts, here are some of the top fall happenings near Villa Diann.

Festivals

Downtown Eau Claire Fall Festival
Celebrate community spirit at the 36th annual Downtown Fall Festival, running from 10 AM to 4 PM. This free event fills the streets with music, kids’ entertainment, artisan booths, local food vendors, and plenty of activities for all ages.

• Where: Downtown Eau Claire (~10 min)
• When: September 13
• Cost: Free

River Prairie Ginormous Pumpkin Festival
A local favorite that draws crowds every year, this festival is all about giant pumpkins and seasonal fun. Families can enjoy contests, a pumpkin drop, races, live entertainment, and of course the giant pumpkin weigh-in.

• Where: River Prairie Park, Altoona (~10 min)
• When: September 27
• Cost: Free

Haunted Attractions

Field of Screams Haunted Trail & Barn
This year’s chilling theme, “HUNTED”, takes brave guests on a one-hour haunted trek through dark woods and a terrifying barn. Proceeds support local nonprofits including Feed My People.

• Where: Rockin’ T-R Ranch, 8020 Curvue Rd, Eau Claire (~15 min)
• When: Oct 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25 & 31
• Cost: $30 GA; $40 Fast Pass
• Tickets: Field of Screams

Wicked Haunted Oz House
Follow a twisted Yellow Brick Road this Halloween season. Hosted by the Ski Sprites, this haunted house transforms the Land of Oz into a nightmare with frightening characters and eerie sets.

• Where: 15 S Dewey St, Eau Claire (~10 min)
• When: Thursdays–Saturdays, Oct 16 – Nov 1
• Cost: $14/person, discounts available with donations or Kwik Trip purchase
• Tickets: Ski Sprites Haunted House

Races

The Great Pumpkin Run
Kick off pumpkin fest with a fun 5K open to runners ages 9+. Younger kids can join the Lil’ Pumpkin Run or the Pumpkin Trot. It’s a great way to celebrate fall and get moving together.

• Where: River Prairie Park, Altoona (~10 min)
• When: Sept 27, check-in 8:30 AM
• Cost: $20 (5K), youth runs $8+
• Register: rpgiantpumpkinfest.com

Hall-EAU-ween 5K
This Halloween-themed night run takes participants through downtown Eau Claire’s bridges and glowing pathways. Costumes encouraged!

• Where: Phoenix Park, Eau Claire (~10 min)
• When: Oct 24, 6:30 PM
• Cost: $35 adults; $25 ages 12 & under
• Register: Register Here

Farmers Market

Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market
Running through October, this market in Phoenix Park is ideal for stocking up on fresh produce, enjoying live music, and browsing handmade goods.

• Where: Downtown Eau Claire (~10 min)
• When: Through October
• Cost: Free

Orchards & Pumpkin Patches

Ferguson’s Orchards
A seasonal staple featuring apple picking, pumpkins, corn mazes, hayrides, and baked treats. Admission includes a season pass, making it a perfect fall destination for families.

• Where: 6470 Balsam Rd, Eau Claire (~10 min)
• When: Aug–Nov 2025
• Cost: $18 adults/kids 2+; $15 seniors/military; under 2 free

The Glass Orchard
Blending orchard charm with glass art, The Glass Orchard offers apple picking, cider, and art demos. Guests can shop handcrafted glass and even try a class themselves.

• Where: 130 Deerfield Rd, Eau Claire (~10 min)
• When: Sept 13 – Dec 2025
• Cost: Varies

Leffel Roots
This farm near Eau Claire offers pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, a corn maze, apple launching, fresh pie, and cider.

• Where: W2369 Maple Rd, Eau Claire (~15 min)
• When: Opens Sept 10
• Cost: Varies

Bushel and a Peck Orchard
Located in Chippewa Falls, this family-friendly orchard has pumpkins, apples, a bakery, corn maze, and a charming country store filled with local goods.

• Where: 18444 Co Hwy OO, Chippewa Falls (~20 min)
• When: Fall 2025
• Cost: Varies

At Villa Diann, we love celebrating the vibrant community we’re part of. Sharing local events helps bring neighbors together and makes this area an even better place to call home. Stay tuned for more seasonal spotlights and local recommendations throughout the year!