As the temperature finally drops with the breezes of autumn right around the corner, it’s enticing to head outside, enjoy the weather and partake in activities to truly get into the fall spirit. Luckily for North Carolinians, Raleigh takes these events very seriously, acting as the host of various autumn-related festivities ranging from taking a relaxing hike on a trail to going to an amusement park. Check out the following events in and around Raleigh to get inspired and enjoy fall in North Carolina.
Panic Point
When looking for the best haunted house around Raleigh, one has to go no further than Panic Point. Operating every weekend in October from the hours of 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. (and from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Sundays), this spooky outdoor attraction is famous for featuring a walk on a dark trail, hayride, maze and of course their famed haunted house, all fitting for those that are ages12 and up wanting a good scare near Halloween. General admission ranges from 34 dollars to 44 dollars with fast passes being 74 dollars. Some of the features at Panic Point include numerous monsters performing jump-scares and chasing after the attendees. For crowds who aren’t big on being scared, there is plenty of food, music and games present to keep the night alive.
SCarowinds
Roller coasters can play an integral role in getting fresh air and enjoying the autumn breezes with family and friends. If looking for an eventful day trip, driving over to Carowinds located in Charlotte may be the perfect plan. For the sake of the season, Carowinds turns into SCarowinds every weekend in October from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Fridays, 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sundays for a haunting twist in the park. There are numerous events within SCarowinds, such as the sinister live shows featuring “afterlife” performances, frightening mazes, scare-zones and monsters all throughout the park on the walk to the roller coasters. The general ticket prices for SCarowinds is 50 dollars and the “Fright & Fast Lane” is an extra 89 dollars.
North Carolina State Fair
The annual North Carolina State Fair is another lively event right here in Raleigh, taking place from Oct. 17 to Oct. 27. The fair welcomes over one million visitors every year, making it one of the most popular seasonal attractions in the state. The advance sale prices are 10 dollars, while the general gate prices after the fair officially opens is 13 dollars, so people are encouraged to pre-purchase their tickets before then. The abundance of a unique blend of deep-fried foods, games, competitions, vendors, prizes and rides make it an eventful day filled with tons of fun for everyone. A few of the fan-favorite ride attractions include Super Cyclone and Techno Jump, both elevating heart-rates for an experience filled with thrill.
Park West Village Fall Festival
This famous outdoor festival taking place on Oct. 24 from 4 to 8 p.m. is free, requiring absolutely no admission ticket. People in attendance have the opportunity to participate in hay rides, Halloween costume contests and indulge in delicious food trucks for dinner. There will also be an outdoor movie playing, so people will be able to snuggle up wrapped in a blanket and enjoy the movie as an ideal way to end the night. This event is perfect for those wanting a relaxing, yet memorable way to spend an autumn evening.
Page Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze
Located on Mount Herman Road in Raleigh, Page Farms is renowned for producing fresh vegetables and fruits to North Carolina yearlong; it is also famous for their vibrant pumpkin seasons that come out in fall for visitors to take their pick. The pumpkins are perfect for painting, carving, or as simple decoration. Along with the pumpkins, Page Farms also offers their visitors the chance to spend time with farm animals, take on a five-acre maze and go on a hayride to explore the farm further. This farm is open on Tuesdays through Sundays up until Nov. 2. To be admitted into the farm, a ticket must be bought ranging from 12 dollars to 15 dollars.
Lake Johnson Park
Looking to enjoy a brisk fall jog, walk or to have a picnic with loved ones? Lake Johnson Park is a great location to conquer all of those activities. It’s located right beside North Carolina State University and Dorothea Dix Park in downtown Raleigh. This park includes a couple miles of both paved and unpaved trails and a short hill drawing in hikers to explore. The 150-acre lake in this park houses kayaks and pedal boats for people as well. There is also a 700-foot-long boardwalk cutting across the lake, offering a breathtaking view with the scenery of both the lake and the fall-colored leaves present amongst the numerous trees surrounding the park.
There is truly a fall activity present around Raleigh for everyone. Be sure to gather some family and friends and venture out to see what this beautiful city has to offer, all while soaking in the fall atmosphere.
