Now that we’ve settled into more of a traditional, back-to-school routine, check your calendar for some free space and consider joining us this fall for a wide selection of programs and activities tailored to residents of all ages. Pick a favorite and enjoy some family fun!
Get started by checking out these upcoming 10 events, or visit our calendar pages for a full lineup of fall adventures.
Wine & Canvas
Pinot Noir meets the palette as an instructor guides you through your own custom canvas creation. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine, snacks, a few friends and enjoy a lively, social and creative night out. All materials included. Paintings are posted monthly on our Blackberry Farm Facebook Page.
When: Wednesdays, September 15, October 6, November 17
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
Ages: 18+
Register online
Pumpkin Weekends
Each weekend in October, including Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 11), you’re invited to enjoy family-friendly, pumpkin-themed festivities at our living history museum. Enjoy the park decorated for the fall season, play in the Corn Crib in Farmer’s Junction, visit the Carriage Museum to purchase pumpkins, take pictures throughout the park at various photo-op locations and enjoy the park’s established attractions, such as train, carousel, hay wagon and pony rides.
When: Weekends in October + Columbus Day (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Where: Blackberry Farm – 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
Ages: All
Register online
Cantigny Trip
With gardens, museums, hiking trails, educational opportunities – and more – Catigny Park offers something for everyone. You’ll be given a docent-led tour of the sprawling gardens. Cost includes tour, lunch and transportation.
When: Wednesday, October 6 – 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Avenue, Aurora
Ages: 21+
Register online
Fall Stage: ‘Moana Jr.’
Disney’s Moana Jr. is a musical adaptation of the 2016 animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within.
When: Friday, October 15 (7 p.m.); Saturday, October 16 (2 p.m. & 7 p.m.); Sunday, October 17 (2 p.m.)
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Avenue, Aurora
Ages: All
Purchase Tickets
The Great Pumpkin Hunt
The Great Pumpkin is hiding in our woods again! Grab your list of clues from the front desk and investigate our forest to find it! Snap pics of yourself with the Great Pumpkin and receive a small prize. (Adults must accompany children during this self-guided activity, but do not need to register.)
When: Saturday & Sunday, October 15-16 – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Red Oak Nature Center – 2343 S. River Street (Rte. 25), Batavia
Ages: All (children must be accompanied by an adult)
Register online
Bounce with Batman
Come have a blast with Batman with a morning of bouncing! Participants will get to meet and interact with Batman while they bounce and play in our inflatable jump houses and obstacle course. All participants must be accompanied by a paying adult. Register early for a discounted rate!
When: Saturday, October 16 – 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Vaughan Athletic Center – 2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora
Ages: 3+
Register online
Forest of Fright & Delight
Explore the woods of Red Oak through a spooky self-led trail hike. Listen for the shrilling sounds that always seem to surface in the darkness. Then, sit by the campfire and listen to haunted tales. (Due to the thematic elements, children younger than 8 years old are encouraged to stay inside the nature center for crafts, music and games.)
When: Saturday, October 23 – 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Red Oak Nature Center – 2343 S. River Street (Rte. 25) , Batavia W. Indian Trail
Ages: 8+
Register online
Oktoberfest
The annual Oktoberfest features a traditional German meal with all the trimmings. Enjoy lively German music throughout and receive a beautiful mum plant if you’re a lucky raffle winner at the event. Register by Wednesday, October 20.
When: Thursday, October 28 – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Prisco Community Center – 150 W. Illinois Avenue, Aurora
Ages: 55+
Register online
Trick-or-Treat Tango
Trick-or-treat, then twist and shout! Come celebrate Halloween by joining us for an evening of dancing, crafts games and lots of candy. Winners of the costume contest will be awarded prizes. Be sure to register early to snag the discounted rate.
When: Friday, October 29 – 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Vaughan Athletic Center – 2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora
Ages: 3+
Register online
Fall Festival of Lights
Come join in the family fun for a fall-themed celebration, featuring the harvest and the Diwali traditions! Take part in a variety of games, crafts and activities your little ones are bound to enjoy.
When: Saturday, November 6 – 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Eola Community Center – 555 S. Eola Road, Aurora
Ages: 2+
Register online
