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Fall in Northwest Arkansas: Your 2026 Guide to Pumpkin Patches, Festivals & Local Favorites
There’s something about fall in Northwest Arkansas. The cooler mornings, the changing leaves, the return of craft fair weekend, and the annual debate over which pumpkin patch to visit.
And while October is already underway, there’s still plenty of fall fun ahead!
From family-owned farms in Bentonville and Hindsville to Halloween celebrations, craft fairs, and scenic drives through the Ozarks, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite ways to enjoy the season.
Whether you’ve lived in Northwest Arkansas for years or you’re still getting to know the area, here are some local spots and seasonal traditions worth checking out before fall is over.
Northwest Arkansas Pumpkin Patches & Fall Farms
Some of the best fall memories are made at our local farms. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin, planning an afternoon with the kids, or just want an excuse to get outside, these Northwest Arkansas favorites have something to offer.
Turnbuckle Farm | Bentonville
Location: 821 McNelly Road, Bentonville, AR
For a more relaxed fall outing, Turnbuckle Farm is a great place to start.
This family-run farm brings a little bit of the countryside right into Bentonville. Stop by to browse seasonal pumpkins and farm-fresh produce, take in the fall atmosphere, and check out what’s happening around the farm.
It’s a nice option when you want to enjoy a little fall fun without committing to an entire day of activities. And if you haven’t visited before, it’s a great opportunity to get to know another locally owned Northwest Arkansas business.
In the Pines Pumpkin Patch | Hindsville
Location: 1836 U.S. 412, Hindsville, AR
2026 Season: Opened September 1
If you’ve never visited In the Pines Pumpkin Patch, this one deserves a spot on your fall bucket list.
Tucked beneath tall pine trees just outside of Huntsville, this family-owned pumpkin patch has been a local fall tradition for decades.
With more than 60 varieties of pumpkins and gourds, there’s plenty to choose from, whether you’re searching for the perfect carving pumpkin or something a little different for your front porch.
The seasonal gift shop is also worth a stop, with locally made goodies, handmade items, and other fall finds.
Admission is free, and visitors pay for the pumpkins and items they purchase.
Visit In the Pines Pumpkin Patch
Rivercrest Orchard | Fayetteville
Location: 2991 Dead Horse Mountain Road, Fayetteville, AR
Fall Festival: September 12–November 1, 2026
If you’re looking for a full afternoon of family fun, Rivercrest Orchard has plenty to keep everyone busy.
Operated by the McGarrah family, whose farming roots in Northwest Arkansas date back generations, Rivercrest has become a favorite fall destination for families across the area.
Visitors can enjoy pumpkin picking, a corn maze, sunflower and zinnia fields, hayrides, play areas, and a variety of other seasonal activities.
There are also plenty of opportunities for fall photos, so don’t forget your camera!
Admission is required for most visitors, and some activities and purchases cost extra.
Plan your visit to Rivercrest Orchard
Farmland Adventures | Springdale
Location: 5355 Parsons Road, Springdale, AR
Fall Season: Through November 1, 2026
Farmland Adventures is another Northwest Arkansas favorite for families who love a traditional fall farm experience.
Spend some time exploring the corn maze, take a wagon ride, visit the farm animals, pick out a pumpkin, or enjoy the other seasonal activities around the property.
With plenty of room to explore, it’s a great place to get the family outside and enjoy a fall weekend together.
Fall Craft Fairs & Festivals in Northwest Arkansas
If you’ve lived in Northwest Arkansas for any length of time, you know that October means craft fair season!
Every fall, artists, makers, and shoppers come together for one of the area’s most popular traditions. And with several major fairs happening October 15–18, there’s still time to enjoy the 2026 festivities.
War Eagle Fair | Hindsville
October 15–18, 2026
Location: 11037 High Sky Inn Road, Hindsville, AR
The War Eagle Fair is one of the most recognizable fall traditions in Northwest Arkansas, and for good reason.
Set along the War Eagle River near the historic War Eagle Mill, the fair brings together talented artists and craftspeople offering everything from handmade pottery and jewelry to woodworking, artwork, and seasonal décor.
The beautiful setting is part of the experience, especially when the fall colors start making an appearance.
Admission is free, with $5 parking per vehicle.
Plan your visit to War Eagle Fair
It’s Fall Y’all Craft Fair | Bentonville
October 15–18, 2026
Location: Benton County Fairgrounds, Bentonville, AR
If you love shopping for handmade gifts, boutique finds, and fall decorations, It’s Fall Y’all is another great stop during craft fair weekend.
Held at the Benton County Fairgrounds, this event features a variety of vendors and plenty of opportunities to discover something unique.
It’s also conveniently located for anyone planning to explore multiple craft fairs around Bentonville and Bella Vista.
Wishing Spring’s Fall Arts & Crafts Festival | Bentonville/Bella Vista
October 15–17, 2026
Location: McNelly Road area
Wishing Spring is another familiar name during Northwest Arkansas craft fair season.
This long-running arts and crafts festival features handmade goods from local and regional artists, making it a great place to shop for gifts, home décor, and one-of-a-kind creations.
If you’re already spending the day in Bentonville or Bella Vista, it’s an easy addition to your craft fair plans.
Heart of the Ozarks Craft Fair & Fall Festival | Fayetteville
October 15–17, 2026
Location: Washington County Fairgrounds, Fayetteville, AR
Head to Fayetteville for another weekend of shopping, food, and fall fun.
The Heart of the Ozarks Craft Fair & Fall Festival features hundreds of vendors, handmade goods, live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities.
It’s a great option for anyone looking to spend a few hours exploring local and regional businesses while enjoying the fall weather.
Halloween Fun Around Northwest Arkansas
Whether you love Halloween or just enjoy seeing everyone in costume, there are plenty of ways to celebrate around Northwest Arkansas.
Trick Art Treat at Crystal Bridges | Bentonville
October 31, 2026 | 11 AM–3 PM
Location: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR
Crystal Bridges is bringing back Trick Art Treat for another afternoon of Halloween fun!
Families can enjoy trick-or-treating along the North Forest Trail, meet costumed characters, listen to live music, and participate in hands-on art activities.
Costumes are welcome, but not required, and the event is free with no tickets needed.
Treat Street at the Springdale Public Library | Springdale
October 17, 2026
Location: Springdale Public Library
Looking for a family-friendly Halloween activity? Treat Street at the Springdale Public Library offers a fun way to celebrate the season close to home.
Check the library’s event information for activity details and any admission or donation information before heading out.
Nightmares Haunted House | Bentonville
Select dates through October 31, 2026
For those who prefer their Halloween activities a little scarier, Nightmares Haunted House is a longtime Northwest Arkansas attraction.
With a haunted house experience designed to deliver plenty of scares, it’s a popular option for older teens and adults looking for something spooky to do in October.
Check the attraction’s schedule and ticket information before visiting.
The Asylum Haunted House | Cave Springs
Select dates through Halloween
If one haunted house isn’t enough, The Asylum in Cave Springs offers another option for thrill-seekers.
Expect spooky scenes, unexpected surprises, and plenty of Halloween atmosphere.
Be sure to check current hours, tickets, and age recommendations before planning your visit.
The Best Fall Scenic Drives in the Ozarks
Not every fall outing needs a ticket or a reservation.
One of the best things about living in Northwest Arkansas is having beautiful scenery just a short drive away. And when the leaves begin changing, the Ozarks put on quite a show.
Pig Trail Scenic Byway
The Pig Trail is one of Arkansas’s most well-known scenic drives, especially during the fall.
Winding through the Ozark National Forest along Highway 23, this route offers beautiful wooded scenery, mountain views, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the changing leaves.
If you enjoy a good drive with a few scenic stops along the way, this one is worth adding to your list.
Boston Mountains Scenic Loop
For another beautiful fall drive, explore the Boston Mountains Scenic Loop between Fayetteville and Alma.
The route includes portions of Interstate 49 and U.S. Highway 71, offering different perspectives of the mountains and surrounding forests.
Pack a few snacks, put on your favorite playlist, and enjoy the scenery.
Highway 7 & the Buffalo River Area
If you’re up for a longer day trip, head toward Jasper and the Buffalo National River region.
Scenic Highway 7 takes you through some of Arkansas’s most beautiful mountain landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.
Late October is often a great time to catch the changing colors, although peak foliage varies depending on the weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall in Northwest Arkansas
What are the best pumpkin patches in Northwest Arkansas?
Some popular pumpkin patches and fall farms include Turnbuckle Farm in Bentonville, In the Pines Pumpkin Patch in Hindsville, Rivercrest Orchard in Fayetteville, and Farmland Adventures in Springdale. Each offers a different experience, from shopping for pumpkins to enjoying a full day of family activities.
When are the Northwest Arkansas craft fairs in 2026?
Several major fall craft fairs take place October 15–18, 2026, including War Eagle Fair, It’s Fall Y’all, Wishing Spring’s Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, and the Heart of the Ozarks Craft Fair & Fall Festival.
Where can you see fall foliage in Northwest Arkansas?
Popular fall foliage destinations include the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, Boston Mountains Scenic Loop, and the Buffalo National River area near Jasper. Peak fall color typically occurs in late October or early November, depending on weather conditions.
What are some free fall activities in Northwest Arkansas?
Free or low-cost options include visiting In the Pines Pumpkin Patch, browsing local craft fairs with free admission, taking a scenic drive through the Ozarks, and attending Crystal Bridges’ free Trick Art Treat event on October 31.
What are some family-friendly Halloween activities in Northwest Arkansas?
Families can enjoy Trick Art Treat at Crystal Bridges in Bentonville, seasonal activities at local pumpkin patches, and community Halloween events throughout Rogers, Springdale, Fayetteville, and surrounding communities.
There’s Still Plenty of Fall Left to Enjoy!
Whether you’re visiting a pumpkin patch you’ve loved for years, discovering a new local farm, shopping the fall craft fairs, or taking a drive to see the changing leaves, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this time of year in Northwest Arkansas.
And that’s one of the things we love most about calling this area home. Every community has its own traditions, favorite places, and little things that make it special.
At Coldwell Banker Harris McHaney & Faucette, we’re proud to be part of the Northwest Arkansas community, and we love sharing the places and experiences that make living here so special.
So get out, explore a little, and enjoy the rest of fall in the Ozarks!
Event schedules, admission prices, and activities are subject to change. Please check directly with each location before visiting.
