Whether you’re into arts, music, literature, or family fun, October in Fredericksburg has plenty to offer. Here are the top events to mark on your calendar — and be sure to check our events page for updates.
Scarecrow Contest — October 1-31
Scarecrows have taken over downtown! Grab a map and find all the scarecrows. Vote for your favorites through October 31. Ballots are available at participating businesses or at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center. Learn more about Scarecrow Fest.
Mary’s Ribbons — October 1-31
Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, guests are encouraged to tie a pink ribbon to the fence in front of the historic Mary Washington House. This simple, heartfelt gesture raises awareness and offers a space for personal remembrance. Stop inside to receive a ribbon, or reserve one online.
Participation is free and open to the public. Let’s come together in support, remembrance, and hope—honoring Mary Washington and all those who have faced this disease with courage.
Scarecrow Fest Fall Fest / First Friday — October 3
Kick off the month with a fall sip and stroll in Fredericksburg! Enjoy normal First Friday festivities along with spooky activities for the whole family:
- The Scarecrow Fest Fall Fest at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center – Bring your families to enjoy seasonal activities, food, and fun.
- Ghost Art Gallery Opening Reception at the Visitor Center – See second-hand art pieces come back from the dead with ghostly additions!
- Scarecrow Fest Opening Weekend – Check out the scarecrow window displays set up by local businesses (you can vote for your favorites)!
Art Attack + Independent Book Festival — October 4
A double-whammy of creative energy:
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Art Attack transforms Caroline Street into a street gallery and creative zone from 10am to 4pm, where local artists paint, perform, and display works for the public to see.
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At the same time, the Fredericksburg Independent Book Festival runs at Riverfront Park (starting at 10am). Expect over 60 authors, panel discussions, children’s books, and more.
Fall Opening at the St. James House — October 6–11
Tour the beautiful home and garden of one of Fredericksburg’s early attorneys, James Mercer. The house is particularly noted for its fine collection of antique furniture and decorative arts acquired by Daniel Breslin and William Tolerton. Together, they restored St. James’ in the mid-1960s and eventually bequeathed it to Preservation Virginia. St. James’ House now serves as the headquarters for Washington Heritage Museums.
- More information:
- Only open twice a year!
- October 6 – 11, 2025
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- 1-4pm daily
- 1300 Charles St.
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Halls of Hysteria — October 10–November 1
Step into your darkest nightmares at the Halls of Hysteria, located at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. This isn’t your average Halloween scare — it’s a twisted labyrinth of terror designed for the brave (and the foolish).
Age Recommendation: Strongly suggested for ages 13+ — some scenes may be too intense for younger audiences.
Alpine Chef Oktoberfest — October 11
Enjoy food, games (like stein holding, keg tossing/bowling), live music and beer under a covered tent. Free to attend and fun for everyone!
Fall Arts & Crafts Show — October 11–12
A staple for lovers of handmade goods, décor, and local artistry. Held at the Fredericksburg Convention Center, the Fall Arts & Crafts Show features over 200 artisans offering jewelry, textiles, woodwork, candles, and more.
Canal Quarter Cat Tour — October 11
Halloween Movies in the Park — October 11
- 6:45ish – short 20-minute kids classic
- 7:15ish – Hocus Pocus
Girlfriend Getaway — October 17 – 19
Whether you can getaway for a few hours or the entire weekend, FXBG Girlfriend Getaway is the perfect blend of spooky history and modern indulgence. It offers a fun mix of activities to create lasting memories with your favorite people.
Dead Whispers — October 23 – November 1
FredNats Fall Fest — October 24
- Come dressed in your favorite costume, and trick-or-treat around the entire concourse! Make sure to stop by the photo booth for a commemorative family photo, and check out arts and crafts tables along the way.
- Start thinking about the jack-o-lantern contest! Carve your own pumpkin and drop it off at the stadium, and see it lit up during the night! Make sure to attach your name, phone and age on the back. Attendees will also be able to vote on their favorite, with a kids winner and adult winner taking home a prize pack. Winners must be present to claim their prize.
- The petting zoo will also be back with a special surprise animal this year, attendees can stop in the Total Property Services Club Level to play bingo, and also, check out the bounce houses set up on the concourse.
- Additionally, there will be face painting and a balloon artist on site, and those will require a fee
Costume Stroll & Treats on the Streets — October 25
Halloween at the Market — October 25
Patawomeck Halloween Festival & Craft Fair — October 25
Get into the spooky spirit with this family-friendly festival at the Patawomeck Museum & Cultural Center. Expect crafts, treats, and Halloween fun for all ages.
FXBG VegFest — October 25
If you’re plant-based or just curious about veggie-forward living, this festival at Strangeways Brewing is for you. It features delicious eats, vegan/vegetarian vendors, food trucks with vegan/vegetarian menus, inspiring speakers, and a VIP tent fit for the ultimate veggie lover.
Halloween After Hours at FunLand — October 31
Come dressed in your best costume and enjoy an adult only night with unlimited premium attractions, unlimited video games and two drink tickets per person. There will be a limited number of wristbands available and ID’s will be required at the door.
Looking for more Halloween fun? See what’s going on for Halloween in Fredericksburg. Looking for something scarier? See what frights await you.
See all Scarecrow Fest Events.
Updated 9/29/2025