October in Rowan County, North Carolina, ushers in the magic of autumn as vibrant foliage paints the landscape and the cooler air invites us to embrace the season. Our nook of the state truly comes alive during this time, offering a variety of exciting activities that capture the heart of fall. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is the perfect time to explore the charm and beauty of Rowan County. In this blog post, we highlight the must-attend October events that promise a memorable and scenic autumn experience.
Patterson Farm Fall Fun on the Farm
Now - November 1, 2025
It's that time of year again for Patterson Farm's Fall Fun on the Farm in the beautiful Mount Ulla, North Carolina! If you're looking for a fantastic way to celebrate the autumn season with your family, this is the place to be. From pumpkin patches to corn mazes and everything in between, Patterson Farm offers a wide range of exciting activities that will make your fall unforgettable.
Busker's Bash in Downtown Salisbury
October 3, 2025
Buskers’ Bash is an annual event that celebrates the best local talent from solo musicians to fire-tossing jugglers and every other type of street performer in between. Downtown shops stay open later and offer various discounts! The eclectic crew of sidewalk artists, typically amounting to over 30 acts, perform in front of participating downtown businesses.
Day Out With ThomasTM
October 3-5, 2025
All aboard! Thomas the Tank Engine™, everyone’s favorite #1 blue engine, is rolling into the North Carolina Transportation Museum for a special celebration of Thomas & Friends™ 80th Anniversary. Day Out With Thomas: The Party Tour takes place September 26-28 and October 3-5, 2025, bringing railway fun to families from near and far.
Day Out with Thomas Stay & Play Package
Offer ends September 30th at 4 P.M.
If you're traveling from out of town, consider booking a stay in Rowan County using the booking widget below. As an added bonus, you can receive FREE Day Out with Thomas tickets or even a VISA gift card by staying at participating accommodations! Learn more about the Day Out with Thomas Stay & Play Package.
Bell Tower BREWFEST
October 4, 2025
Mark your calendars for Bell Tower BREWFEST 2025, happening on Saturday, October 4th, in Salisbury, N.C.! This annual event promises an exciting celebration of North Carolina's vibrant craft beer scene with over 15 local breweries, serving up their finest creations at the beautiful Bell Tower Green.
Bell Tower BREWFEST Stay & Play Package
Offer ends September 30th at 4 P.M.
Rowan County Tourism would love to get you to the Bell Tower BREWFEST this year for FREE! If you're looking to stay overnight in our area, or are considering making it a weekend getaway, book your overnight stay in Rowan County using the booking widget below for free tickets before September 30 at 4 P.M.
The 44th Annual Autumn Jubilee
October 4 & 5, 2025
Ready to dive into the vibrant beauty of fall and enjoy a fun-filled family event? The 44th Annual Autumn Jubilee at Dan Nicholas Park is the perfect destination! This beloved festival celebrates everything autumn, offering a wide range of activities, mouthwatering food, live entertainment, and more. In this guide, you'll find all the key details to help you make the most of your visit to this unforgettable autumn experience.
Fall Festival at Lazy 5 Ranch
October 4 - 26, 2025
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, there's no better way to embrace the fall season than by attending the Lazy 5 Ranch Fall Festival. Nestled in the scenic countryside of our county, Lazy 5 Ranch is not just a working exotic animal farm, but also a fantastic destination for families and animal lovers. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Fall Festival, from animal encounters to pumpkin picking and more.
The 50th Annual OctoberTour
October 11 & 12, 2025
Each October in the charming town of Salisbury, North Carolina, home and business owners open their doors for you to take in the town's rich character for yourself at OctoberTour. This annual event celebrates the city's architectural heritage and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some of its most stunning historic homes.
OctoberTour Stay & Play Package
Offer ends October 7th at 4 P.M.
Book your overnight stay in a Rowan County lodging property during the event weekend (October 10-13, 2025) and receive 2 FREE tickets to Historic Salisbury Foundation’s 50th Annual OctoberTour of homes. The deadline to book this package is October 7, 2025 at 4 p.m.. Learn more about this package here.
Hurley Park Monarch Butterfly Release
October 12, 2025
Join Hurley Park & All-a-Flutter Farms for the annual Monarch Butterfly Release at Hurley Park! They will be releasing 50 butterflies and having an educational presentation from All-a-Flutter farms about Monarch migration, host plants, and habitat! Hurley Park Advisory Board members will be giving away 250 packets of Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) seeds to attendees.
Boo at the Zoo
October 18, 2025
Family fun for everyone! Dress up the kids and visit Tiger World as they transform the zoo into a spooky Halloween extravaganza. They’ll have Trick or Treating with the Animals, face painting, hot cider, tattoos, free mini golf, and a costume contest. Adults will also be able to visit our beer station.
Granite Fest
October 18, 2025
Granite Fest is a festival for the community and surrounding area of Granite Quarry with free admission. Granite Fest is held at Civic Park and includes a craft fair, live music, dancing, inflatable amusement, games, lots of great food and various other entertainment.
Halloween Train at the N.C. Transportation Museum
October 18, 19 & 25, 2025
Some Fun is Brewing! Bring your little monsters and ghouls for our Halloween event! The Halloween Trains will be offered Saturday, October 18, Sunday, October 19, and again on, Saturday Oct. 25. The train ride will be decorated for Halloween, with music to match.
Halloween Fun Fest in Downtown Salisbury
October 25, 2025
The annual Halloween Fun Fest in Downtown Salisbury will bring tons of Fall Fun to residents and visitors of Salisbury and beyond. Downtown Salisbury & the Bell Tower Green will transform into a Halloween carnival. Come join us for the excitement!
Hippie Fest
October 25 & 26, 2025
Hippie Fest returns to the Rowan County Fairgrounds October 25-26, 2025, with a weekend full of colorful fun for all ages. Enjoy live music, bohemian shopping, a vintage hippie car show, DIY tie-dye, drum circles, kids’ activities, and delicious food in a groovy, family-friendly atmosphere. With vibrant entertainment at every turn, it’s the perfect way to celebrate peace, love, and good vibes.
Whether you're riding the Halloween Train, exploring historic homes, or enjoying family festivals, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate. Don't miss out on the many opportunities to make lasting memories this fall. Be sure to visit our event calendar to discover even more happenings throughout the month, and come join us for all the autumn fun!
#VisitRowanCountyNC