INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — As autumn brings cooler breezes to the Sunshine State, families are seeking fall events to embrace the season’s charm. From medieval adventures to seafood feasts and spooky celebrations, Florida’s fall festivals offer kid-friendly fun.
Here are five family-oriented events perfect for a weekend getaway:
Hoggetowne Medieval Faire, Gainesville
When: January 24-25, 2026
Where: Depot Park, 874 SE 4th St., Gainesville
The Hoggetowne Medieval Faire, an annual festival, will transform Depot Park, 874 SE 4th St., into a medieval village on Jan. 24-25, 2026. Marking its 31st year, the event features more than 160 artisans displaying crafts like pottery, jewelry, and leatherwork, along with nine stages of entertainment, including jugglers, musicians, and jousting knights.
Families can explore the Kid’s Kingdom, offering camel rides, games, and a corn maze. Food vendors will serve items such as turkey legs and spinach pie. The event attracts thousands for a weekend of historical entertainment.
Pensacola Seafood Festival
When: September 26-28, 2025
Where: Seville Square, Pensacola
The Pensacola Seafood Festival, a three-day celebration of Gulf Coast maritime heritage, runs Sept. 26-28 in downtown Pensacola. Hosted by Fiesta Pensacola, the free event takes place at Historic Seville Square, Fountain Park and Bartram Park.
Attendees can enjoy Gulf-to-Table dishes such as shrimp, crab cakes, lobster rolls and jambalaya from local restaurants, including Flounder’s Chowder House and Café NOLA. The Fiesta Seafood Grille showcases live cooking demonstrations by Pensacola chefs, offering tapas-style samples and recipes. Non-seafood options, including burgers, corn dogs and funnel cakes, are also available.
Admission is free, though food, drinks and crafts are available for purchase. Parking is first-come, first-served in downtown lots, with fees set by private owners. Handicapped parking is available at the Port of Pensacola after 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. City ordinances prohibit pets, but service animals are permitted.
Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts & Goblins, Orlando
When: October 11-12, 18-19, 25-26, 2025
Where: Gatorland, 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando
Gatorland in Orlando turns into a festive Halloween haven during its Gators, Ghosts & Goblins event. Families can meet characters like Skunk Ape and Cyrus the Gravedigger, and kids can join a costume parade to gather treat bags. The event features hands-on animal encounters, a live DJ, and vendors selling candy and crafts. Standard park admission included.
McIntosh 1890s Festival
When: November 8, 2025
Where: 5835 Avenue G, McIntosh
The McIntosh 1890s Festival, held in a historic town 20 miles south of Gainesville, marks its 50th year, attracting 25,000 visitors. The event features 280 vendors showcasing arts, crafts, and antiques. Children can enjoy free musical performances in Van Ness Park’s shaded areas, along with face painting and a petting zoo. Proceeds benefit the preservation of McIntosh’s natural and historic charm.
Indian River County Harvest Markets
When: Various weekends, September-November 2025
Where: Multiple locations, including Vero Beach Farmers Market
Indian River County shines with local harvest markets that capture the essence of fall. The Vero Beach Farmers Market is held on Saturdays at 2300 Ocean Drive and features seasonal produce, as well as pumpkin-themed treats. There will be plenty of kid-friendly activities. The market offer fresh citrus and live music, which adds to the festive atmosphere.
