photos via Byward Market / Little Canada
At datenight, we always welcome October with open arms! Seasonal drinks and treats, date ideas galore whether you love everything spooky or everything cozy, and so many fun things to do before the weather turns and a long winter arrives.
We’re bringing you the ultimate list of events, festivals, fairs, and farms to check out with your date this spooky season!
See below for the ultimate fall date ideas round-up:
Deadwood Ottawa
This spooky season, check out Ottawa’s haunted drive-thru that takes you into a dark forest… you’ll want to make sure to lock your doors. You’ll experience seven spine-chilling, hair-rising horror sets. With live actors, dazzling special effects, coordinated lighting and sound and unforgettable scares all from the discomfort of your vehicle.
Located: Wesley Clover Parks Campground
When: until October 31
Apple picking at local orchards
Maybe a total 180 from the above date idea, apple picking is a classic date idea and there’s so many cute farms and orchards around Ottawa for you to explore!
We love Pinewood Orchards, Log Cabin Orchard, Lansdowne Orchard, Apple Stock Orchard and Urban Farm, and Harvest Moon Orchard!
Located: Various Farms in and near Ottawa
When: While they’re in season – check local orchards for what’s picking when
Saunders Farm
This award winning family farm is 100 acres of aMAZEing fun and food this fall season.
FrightFest at Saunders is now on until October 31 bringing new haunts, a haunted hayride, a new live show, and farm-fresh food to Ottawa this fall.
For the little ones, Pumpkin Days is a Canadian family tradition. With tons of outdoor attractions available, including pumpkin picking from our amazing pre-picked selection of pumpkins, hedge mazes, jumbo jumpers, play structures, a puppet show, Stage Show, a parade and so much more
Located: 7893 Bleeks Rd, Ottawa
When: FrightFest until October 31, Pumpkin Days until October 30
See massive pumpkins
Stop by and see these massive pumpkins that made the perfect pre-date night out photo opp in Byward Market. You can find them:
1. Located in front of Irving Rivers, ByWard Market, across Le Moulin de Provence.
2. Located in front of Café 55, George Street plaza.
Located: Byward Market, Ottawa, ON
When: All October Long
Little Canada
It’s just a short trip to Toronto, and if you find yourself there this year, check out Little Canada and see a miniature version of Ottawa!
Situated just off of Yonge-Dundas Square and marked with a colourful entryway, Little Canada takes you off the streets and throughout Canada (with even more locations to come) and into a miniature version of landmarks and cityscapes from all over the country.
Located: 10 Dundas St E., Basement2, Toronto
When: Permanent attraction, open daily 10:30am-7:30pm
See the fall foliage with ease
If you plan on visiting the parkway sector in Gatineau Park on a weekend this fall, this is a greta idea! Early to mid-October is a popular time to hike in Gatineau Park when Fall Rhapsody is at its peak.
You can take the National Capital Commission’s free shuttle to the park and enjoy the fall colours without worrying about parking.
Located: Eight stops in the Ottawa-Gatineau region
When: Weekends and holidays October 1 to 23, 2022
Fall Shop at this iconic Bazaar
You can browse unique, handmade gifts and decor from around the world at One World Bazaar. It’s only open for eight weekends during the fall season and feels like you’re travelling to a faraway land. This market gives the ultimate fall vibes!
Located: 6100 Mitch Owens Rd, Manotick ON
When: Weekends between Sept 29-Nov 20
Citrouilleville
About an hour and a half from Ottawa’s city centre, Citrouilleville is standing in all its glory, full of pumpkins and festive displays. Some things you can find include a pumpkin church, saloon and other quirky houses as well as a corn maze to navigate, food trucks, tractor rides and other games!
This is the most original of pumpkin villages and the drive is so worth it!
Located: 560, 69th Ave., Saint-Zotique, QC
When: Until October 31
Snack on fall-themed treats
If they’re not already, turn your date into a pumpkin lover! The Merry Dairy has tons of festive flavours including pints and scoops of Pumpkin Cheesecake. You can take your favourite person for a fall ice cream date, because there’s no season that ice cream dates aren’t the best in.
The rest of their fall line-up includes Vegan Earl Grey & Fig, Cinnamon Sugar, Earl Grey & Shortbrea, Vegan Pumpkin Spiced Pepita, and Vegan Chai. YUM!
Located: Order online for free delivery anywhere in Ottawa or pickup at 102 Fairmont Avenue
When: Tue-Sun 12pm – 9pm; the last weekend for soft-serve is Oct 7 & 8th!
We’re sharing date ideas from all over Ontario and Canada throughout this season from all things haunted, to all things pumpkin spice, and more. Stay tuned and keep your eyes peeled here for the best!
