From apple picking and Oktoberfest to football rivalries and ghost walks, Toledo has it all this fall.
Written by: Eric Strayer
Updated: 9/17/2025
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or just looking to experience something new, Northwest Ohio offers a full lineup of events running now through Thanksgiving. From festive family days to unexpected cultural happenings, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of fall in Toledo.
Classic Fall Festivals & Apple-Filled Fun
MacQueen’s Apple Butter Festival
Oct. 4–5 | MacQueen Orchards
A seasonal staple for families, MacQueen’s Apple Butter Festival is all about the classics: pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, pony rides, a petting zoo, carousel rides, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect way to kick off October with a warm cup of cider and a basket full of fall memories.
Apple Butter Fest – Grand Rapids
Oct. 12 | Downtown Grand Rapids
One of Northwest Ohio’s most beloved traditions, the Apple Butter Fest features artisan crafts, historical reenactments, and hearty local food—drawing more than 30,000 attendees each year. Don’t leave without a jar (or two) of fresh apple butter made on-site.
Sylvania Fall Festival
Oct. 18–19 | Centennial Terrace
Craft booths, live music, food vendors, and the annual Sunday parade make this the largest annual community event in Sylvania. It’s a family-friendly celebration of everything local, perfect for visitors who want to see the town’s spirit in action.
Roche de Boeuf Festival – Waterville
Sept. 27 | Downtown Waterville
This day-long street fair kicks off with a morning parade and features over 200 craft vendors, a car show, kids’ activities, and live music. It’s a great excuse for a scenic drive and a full day of small-town charm.
Cider, Beer & Oktoberfest Celebrations
Ciderfest419
Sept. 20 | Glass City Metropark
Enjoy stunning riverfront views while sampling more than 50 varieties of hard cider, mead, craft beer, and wine. Nashville country artist Teddy Robb provides the soundtrack to an evening of fall flavors and adult fun.
Oktoberfest at Maumee Bay Brewing Co.
Sept. 21 | Maumee Bay Brewing Co.
Grab a stein and join the party with live music by The Polka Floyd Show, German dancers from the Bavarian Sports Club, and plenty of authentic brews and bites.
Oastoberfest
Oct. 3–4 | Twin Oast Brewing
This two-day Bavarian bash features stein-holding contests, brat tosses, food trucks, and performances from the Bavarian Sports Club of Toledo—all in a scenic lakeside setting.
Oktoberfest at Oak Shade Grove
Sept. 27 | Oak Shade Grove
Known for its cultural performances and authentic German beer tasting, this Oktoberfest also includes traditional music, dancing, and even friendly competitions like Schleuderball and beer stein holding.
ZOOtoberfest at the Toledo Zoo
Oct. 3 | Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
Sample seasonal brews under the stars, meet the animals, and enjoy live music at this after-hours event at the Toledo Zoo. Includes 15 drink samples, snacks, and a souvenir glass. VIP options available.
Football, Rivalries & Campus Spirit
University of Toledo Homecoming
Sept. 27 | Parade at 10 AM, Game at 3:30 PM
Celebrate with a morning parade through Old Orchard and cheer on the Rockets as they face the Akron Zips at the Glass Bowl. A full day of campus pride and gridiron action.
Battle of I-75: UT vs. BGSU
Oct. 11 | Doyt Perry Stadium, BGSU
Just 20 miles apart, these two rivals bring intensity and tradition to one of the MAC’s fiercest matchups. Expect big crowds and bigger bragging rights.
Art, Literature & Culture You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Glass Harvest at the Toledo Museum of Art
Sept. 27–28 | Glass Pavilion
Wander through a field of over 300 hand-blown glass pumpkins, all created by TMA artists. A beautiful, free event perfect for art lovers and fall photo ops.
Romance-Con at the Main Library
Nov. 8 | Main Library
Calling all book lovers—Romance-Con brings together romance authors, fans, and industry insiders for panels, signings, and a full author fair across the entire library. It’s a one-of-a-kind literary love fest.
Maumee Film Festival
Sept. 26-28 | Maumee Indoor Theatre
This small-town celebration of indie cinema brings local filmmakers and audiences together for screenings, workshops, and Q&As. A hidden gem for film buffs visiting Northwest Ohio.
History, Haunts & Honoring the Past
Garrison Ghost Walk at Fort Meigs
Oct. 17 | Fort Meigs
By lantern light, follow guides through the historic grounds of Fort Meigs and hear eerie tales of unexplained sightings and strange sounds. Its local legend meets living history.
Edmund Fitzgerald 50th Anniversary Tribute
Nov. 7–10 | National Museum of the Great Lakes
Toledo honors its deep connection to the SS Edmund Fitzgerald with a weekend of remembrance.
Looking for more fall fun? Find Top Fall Activities in Toledo HERE
