What’s Happening in Raleigh October 2025: Pumpkins, Fairs & Fall Air
It’s the BEST season in Raleigh (in our opinion)!! Whether you’re looking for something crafty to do, ready to hit the NC State Fair, or have a laid-back market stroll, this month’s lineup has a little something for everyone.
Here’s your guide to what’s happening in and around Raleigh this October — grab your sweater, your besties, and your fall bucket list!
Week of October 6th - October 12th
images from Thriving in Raleigh
When: Tuesday, October 7th, 6-7:30pm
Where: Incendiary Brewing Co
Cost: $30
Description: Add a spooky twist to your creativity! Choose your pottery piece and decorate it with Halloween flair — think ghosts, pumpkins, and black cats.
Outdoor Movie Night - Halloweentown
When: Thursday, October 9th, 7pm
Where: Dix Park, Raleigh
Cost: Free
Description: Join Dix Park for a classic Halloween favorite! Bring a blanket, snacks, and your favorite people to enjoy Halloweentown on the big outdoor screen. Food trucks will be on-site.
When: Saturday, October 11th, 11am-4pm
Where: Raleigh Iron Works
Cost: Free
Description: Shop small and support local! This outdoor market features handmade goods, art, and fall-inspired décor from local artisans and makers.
Bonus: you can easily make a whole day of it by exploring the art trails or grabbing lunch nearby.
When: Saturday, October 11th, 11am-5pm
Where: Downtown Wake Forest
Cost: Free
Description: Celebrate love, acceptance, and community at the annual Wake Forest Pride Festival. Enjoy live entertainment, vendors, and family-friendly activities that bring everyone together.
Week of October 13th - October 19th
images from Thriving in Raleigh
When: Wednesday, October 15th, 6:30-8:30pm
Where: Fenton, Cary NC
Cost: $40
Description: Join fellow mahjong lovers for an evening of tiles, laughter, and cocktails! Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new to the game, it’s a relaxed and social night out.
When: Wednesday, October 15th - Thursday, October 16th
Where: Goodnights Comedy Club
Cost: $26+
Description: A weekend full of laughs! This festival brings comedians from across the country for stand-up shows, improv, and sketch performances at venues all over the city.
When: Thursday, October 16th - Sunday, October 26th
Where: NC State Fairgrounds
Cost: $13 adults | $7 youth | Kids 5 & under free
Description: The fair returns with all your favorites — rides, deep-fried treats, live music, livestock, and fireworks! It’s a Raleigh tradition that captures the magic of fall.
International Wine, Beer, & Food Festival
When: Saturday, October 18th 12-8pm
Where: Downtown Raleigh
Cost: FREE
Description: Sample wines and beers from around the world while enjoying live entertainment and local eats. A perfect fall outing for those who love to sip, savor, and socialize.
Week of October 20th - October 26th
left image from Raleigh NC | right image from Canva Gallery
41st Annual ‘A Shopping Spree’
When: Friday, October 24th - Sunday, October 26th
Where: Raleigh Convention Center
Cost: $12+
Description: A Raleigh shopping tradition! Discover local boutiques, home décor, clothing, and gifts all under one roof — just in time for early holiday shopping.
When: Saturday, October 25th, 4-7pm
Where: North Carolina Symphony
Cost: Free
Description: Celebrate Halloween with fa-BOO-lous family-friendly ghostly favorites from your North Carolina Symphony
When: Saturday, October 25th - Sunday, October 26th
Where: Mordecai Historic Park
Cost: $15
Description: Hop on the haunted trolley for a guided ride through Raleigh’s spookiest historic spots. Hear tales of local ghosts and legends — if you dare!
Week of October 27th - November 2nd
left image from Thriving in Raleigh | right image from Crawl with Us
When: Monday, October 27th, 6:30pm-8:30pm
Where: Pimiento Tea Room
Cost: $90
Description: Join Chef Christy and Sommelier Matt Weiss for a one-of-a-kind dining experience at this month’s Supper Club.
When: Friday, October 31st, 3-5:30pm
Where: White Deer Park
Cost: Free
Description: A safe, family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween! Kids can trick-or-treat along the trail!
When: Friday, October 31st - Saturday, November 1st
Where: Downtown Raleigh
Cost: $20
Description: Throw on your best costume and hit the town! Enjoy drink specials, costume contests, and spooky fun across Raleigh’s favorite bars and pubs.
When: Saturday, November 1st, 11am-4pm
Where: Rolesville, NC
Cost: Free
Description: Keep the fall fun going! Enjoy local vendors, food trucks, live entertainment, and kid-friendly activities to celebrate the season.
October in Raleigh is packed with ways to enjoy the season — from neighborhood markets to fairground nights. Save this list, share it with friends, and tag us @thrivinginraleigh when you explore these local favorites.
For even more events to explore in Raleigh this October be sure to check out our full events calendar!
Is there something we’ve missed? Please let us know here!
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