The Autumn Itinerary

Fall at the beach is an unsung hero. On the Emerald Coast, it’s a pretty great time of year—clear blue skies, mild temperatures and humidity, less bugs, and plenty of fun activities, events, and festivals for the whole family.

Here’s our roundup of the best autumnal activities across the region. Whether you prefer the beach or the farm, looking for jump scares or baby animals to snuggle, there’s plenty to look forward to this season.

Fall Fun at Nixon Farms

Saturdays and Sundays, late September through the end of October 486 Martin Mill Road, Baker

If you’re looking for an idyllic slice of fall, Nixon Farms—an hour northeast of Pensacola—has it all.

Relax and stroll the corn maze, take your pick from the pumpkin patch, enjoy a hay ride, or stop by the petting zoo. You can even race down a 150-foot mega slide, bounce on the jumping pads, and test your sharpshooting skills with the corn cannons. Ziplines and pedal carts may make their debut this year.

The farm is perfect for families with children of all ages and is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Panama City Beach Oktoberfest

Oct. 16–18, Aaron Bessant Park, 500 West Park Drive, Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach Oktoberfest returns for three days of authentic German-inspired fun, great food, live music, and ice-cold beer.

Enjoy traditional Oktoberfest brews, delicious German cuisine, stein hoisting competitions, games, and even more activities throughout the weekend. The bounce houses, face painting, and photo booths make the event great for all ages, and kids 12 and under get in free.

Featuring live entertainment from both local and regional acts, the festival unites the community and visitors alike to celebrate one of Panama City Beach’s favorite annual traditions. Raise a stein with friends, enjoy the food, and dance to live music.

Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch and Fall Activities

Photos courtesy of Holland Farms Pumpkin Patch and Sunflower Fields

Sept. 26 to Nov. 1, 2055 Homer Holland Road, Milton

Holland Farms is bringing back its popular pumpkin patch and fall festivities for another season. Activities include a corn maze, hay rides, gem mining, food vendors, and even a miniature train (which is actually not so mini).

With its picturesque sunflower field, it’s no wonder Holland Farms served as an opportune backdrop for engagements last year. The farm will be open every day of the week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $18, and kids 2 and under get in free.

The Scare Spot

Fridays and Saturdays, Oct. 2–31 5407 Pipeline Road, Pensacola

Be there or be scared: For the past seven years, this highly rated haunted house has boasted the top spot among walk-through haunted mazes in Pensacola.

Visitors love the detailed and creative scenes, unpredictable jump scares, and friendly actors. The maze features a series of rooms inspired by popular characters and movie franchises like Five Nights at Freddy’s, as well as original spooky scenes straight from the creators’ nightmares. Whether you’re screaming or laughing, the atmosphere is thrilling and is best experienced with friends.

The attraction is open from 8 p.m. to midnight every Friday and Saturday in October, including Halloween night. Admission is $20 per person and all ages are welcome, though children 10 and under must be accompanied by a parent.

Festival of Fears

Photo courtesy of Festival of Fears

Oct. 2 to Nov. 13, Holt and Mary Esther (two locations)

Festival of Fears is back with double the thrills. The Wentz Brothers will launch their main event at a new location in Holt, where visitors can explore multiple haunted attractions built for a full night of Halloween fun. The Holt site runs 7 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and 7 to 11 p.m. on Saturdays from Oct. 2 through Nov. 13.

A second experience—a haunted trail—will also operate in Mary Esther at Oak Tree Nature Park. That attraction is open Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 9 to 31, with the same 7 to 10 p.m. Friday and 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday schedule.

The scares are recommended for ages 13 and up, but younger children may attend with an adult. Three family nights at the Holt location on Oct. 11, 18, and 25 offer a gentler experience, with toned‑down sound effects and spooky, but not scary, actors from 6 to 9 p.m.

More information, ticket details, and updates are available at wbfestivaloffears.com.