25 Things to Do in Chattanooga in October

Fall-themed activities really kick into high gear this month, which means you’ll have tons of exciting things to do in Chattanooga in October.

From adorable orchards and pumpkin farms to craft fairs and Halloween festivals, you’ll be able to fill your whole month with fun family adventures. Of course, the list below contains tons of regular events too.

October in Chattanooga TN is truly a month to remember.

Happy family smiling with a kite on an autumn day representing things to do in Chattanoooa in October

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Things to Do in Chattanooga in October

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Plan an action-packed day of outdoor adventure at one of Chattanooga’s adorable pumpkin farms. From jump pillows and corn mazes to hayrides and playgrounds, you’ll be able to entertain the kids all day long.

Go Apple Picking

This is the last month of apple season in TN and its neighboring states. Whether you are looking for a farm with tons of pre-picked options or a u-pick adventure, our neighboring orchards have got you covered.

Plan an Awesome Halloween

Discover all the best events, activities, and haunted attractions to enjoy this Halloween in Chattanooga.

Fall Festivals

If you are looking for events with festive fall flair, that aren’t necessarily related to Halloween, you can find them all right here.

October Events in Chattanooga TN

Peter Pan

September 28 – October 8, 2023 (Select Dates)
Chattanooga Theatre center
$27-$32

See Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, and all the lost boys come to life on stage.

Make Break Art Activities

Weekends in October 2023
Michael’s Craft Stores (All Locations)
FREE

This month kids can make a variety of crafts, including a pumpkin painting, a friendship bracelet, a witch painting, and a ghost box. These activities are free and all supplies are included.

Empty the Shelter

October 1-15, 2023
Mckamey Animal Shelter

To help the Mckamey Animal Shelter find homes for its adorable critters, adoption fees are being waived for ALL adoptable dogs and cats ages 6 months and older.

Sensory Night at Creative Discovery

October 5, 2023
Creative Discovery Museum
FREE Admission (Pre-Registration Required)

Children with special sensory needs can enjoy a low-stimulus evening of play in the children’s museum. Admission is capped at 100 visitors.

Hello Chattanooga

October 6-8, 2023
Chattanooga Convention Center
$12 Admission

The area’s most popular vintage market is at a new location. Come on out to shop for all the antique and distressed goodies you can find.

Moth Sheet Demonstration

October 7, 2023
Red Clay State Historic Park
FREE

Learn how to attract and identify different species of local moths.

DIY Rescue Float Plane

October 7, 2023
Home Depot (All Locations)
FREE

Kids will use real tools to build a fun toy rescue plane. This activity is free and all supplies are included.

FREE Family Night

October 12, 2023
Creative Discovery Museum, Chattanooga
FREE Admission

Enjoy free admission to the Creative Discovery Museum. Pre-registration is required.

Chattanooga Motorcar Festival

October 13-15, 2023
801 Broad Street, Chattanooga
$44-$120/Adults FREE/Kids Under 12

Is there a boy in your life who loves racecars, vintage cars, or all of the above? Come on out to the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival for a fun-filled day of display cars, races, concerts, and more.

DIY Fire Truck

October 14, 2023
Lowes (All Locations)

Kids will build their very own firetruck toy using real tools. This event is free and all supplies are included. Pre-registration is required.

Collectable Toys Show

October 14, 2023
Camp Jordan Arena

Admire and shop for tons of vintage & collectible toys. There will also be a vintage car cruise-in.

Chattanooga VegFest

October 14-15, 2023
Coolidge Park, Chattanooga
FREE Admission

This tasty food festival celebrates everything vegetarian and vegan.

Shoot Like a Girl Chattanooga

October 14-15, 2023
Bas Pro Shops
FREE

There will be an interactive mobile shooting range for women and gun safety demonstrations for the kids. Shooters must be 18+.

Between the Bridges Art Festival

October 14-15, 2023
Coolidge Park, Chattanooga

There will be 40 local artists and live music throughout the weekend.

Chattanooga Comic-Con

October 21-22, 2023
Chattanooga Convention Center

$30-$160

Meet and greet tons of awesome comic book creators and the stars of your favorite animated series.

Parent-and-Child Fall Sugar Cookie Class

October 21, 2023
Cutting Edge Classroom, Chattanooga
$94 Per Pair

Make delicious from-scratch sugar cookies in adorable fall shapes. You will also get to decorate them with icing.

Mushroom Foraging

October 22, 2023
Chattanooga Audobon Society
$35 Per Participant

Learn how to forage for wild edible and medicinal mushrooms. Depending on the varieties found, there may be a tasting experience included.

Adventure Fays

October 22, 2023
Chattanooga Zoo

Visit the Chattanooga Zoo for FREE with a Chattanooga Public Library Card.

Family Canvas Painting: Stunning Sunflowers

October 22, 2023
Painting With a Twist, Chattanooga

This sunflower canvas art project is designed to be easy enough for kids. Come out together for a fun parent-and-me adventure.

Spiderman Meet and Greet

October 24, 2023
Play Palz Chattanooga
$13 Per Person

Come on down to Play Palz for a fun meet and greet with Spiderman. This event includes admission to the playground.

Chattanooga Buddy Walk

October 28, 2023
First Horizon Pavilion Chattanooga
$10-$20 Per Person

The Buddy Walk supports Chattnooga’s local Downe Syndrom community and aims to promote acceptance understanding, and love.

Photo of author
Written By
Erica Cardinal
Erica is a long-time resident of East TN and the founder of East TN Family Fun. She's also a sucker for a good adventure. Together with her hubs and kiddos, she spends her time exploring, homeschooling, and making memories.

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