A list of October events across Midland County

As fall kicks into gear, Midland County has plenty of family-friendly events lined up for October. From car enthusiasts to nature lovers and pet fans, there’s something for everyone. Here's a roundup of what's happening:

Northwood University International Auto Show

The annual Northwood University International Auto Show returns this weekend, offering a free, family-friendly experience for car lovers. The show features a diverse lineup of classic and modern vehicles for attendees to admire. Event hours are:
  • Oct. 4: Noon to 8 p.m.
  • Oct. 5: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Oct. 6: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free parking will be available for all visitors.

Traditions Apiary & Produce Greenhouse

Coleman Fall Fest

When: Oct. 5
Where: 5135 W Pere Marquette Road, Coleman

The Coleman Fall Fest, hosted by Traditions Apiary & Produce Greenhouse,  promises a day filled with autumn activities and community support. Highlights of the event include:
  • 10% of sales will be donated to the Coleman School AgriScience/ STEM program
  • Free half-peck of Honey Crisp apples for the first 144 families
  • Far Out Food Truck offering a full menu, donuts, and warm apple cider
  • Local vendors selling homemade baked goods and crafts
  • Discounted mums for sale, with prices $10 or less
  • Hay wagon set up for festive fall photos
  • Free "cut your own flowers" station

Brooks Estates Fall Festival

When: Oct. 11, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Brooks Estates Apartments at 2414 Swede Ave 

Brooks Estates is excited to host its first-ever Fall Festival. The free event is open to the public and will feature an Open House for those interested in viewing available apartments while also celebrating the community with a small artisan market. Enjoy free cider and donuts, and bring the kids for some pumpkin painting fun!

Visitors can enjoy delicious offerings from local food trucks such as Sweet Manila and Smokin' 7s BBQ, with additional samples from Flying Trout Catering. Treat yourself to sugar cookies from Chunky Chicken Cookie Co. and indulge in nuts, breads, and more from Ku Candied Creations..

Community Cat Shelter Workshop

When: Oct. 12, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Emerald Fire Farms & Provisioning Center at 4980 N Dickenson Road, Coleman

Emerald Fire Farms & Provisioning Center is hosting its 3rd Annual Community Cat Shelter Workshop in partnership with Midland County Pit Stop. Visitors can learn how to build cat shelters and meet adoptable dogs from the shelter. The event will also feature local vendors and food from the Good Times Griddle food truck.

Midland Brewing Company

When: Oct. 19, 2 p.m.
Where: Midland Brewing Company at 5011 N Saginaw Road

Celebrate the beauty of fall at Midland Brewing Company's Fall Fest. The event will feature live entertainment by The Fröhliche Musiker Blasorchester German Brass Band, bringing the sounds of traditional German music to the celebration. Enjoy great food, craft beer, and fall-themed festivities. Check out the band's site for a preview of their music!

Furever Homes Festival

When: Oct. 20, Noon to 6 p.m.
Where: Midland Mall at 6800 Eastman Ave

The Midland Mall and the Humane Society of Midland County are partnering to host the Furever Homes Festival, an adoption event aimed at finding forever homes for pets. Families will have the chance to meet adoptable animals and enjoy games, live entertainment, snacks, and pet-related vendors. This fun-filled event aims to help pets find loving homes while bringing the community together.
To become a vendor at the event, visit the sign-up link provided by the Humane Society.

Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt at Riverview Natural Area

When: Oct. 1 - Nov. 3
Where: Riverview Natural Area, North Homer Road

Enjoy the fall season by participating in the Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt at Little Forks Conservancy Riverview Natural Area. This family-friendly adventure takes place along the 1.5-mile south loop, where scarecrows are hidden for participants to discover. The hunt is open throughout October, and those who complete it will be entered into a drawing for a nature gift pack featuring prizes from local Midland businesses.

To enter the drawing, simply email a photo of your group to ecianek@littleforks.org after completing the scavenger hunt. Trail maps will be available at the trailhead.

Nature at Night at Chippewa Nature Center

When: Oct. 25, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: 400 South Badour Road

Explore the fascinating world of Michigan’s nocturnal wildlife at Nature at Night, a family-friendly event at Chippewa Nature Center. Kids can dress up as their favorite animals and enjoy a variety of activities, including crafts, games, an outdoor obstacle course, fireside stories, and a puppet show. The event also features a special Jack-o'-lantern trail, open from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a magical evening walk.

 
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Read more articles by Misty Barron.

Misty Barron is a Mid-Michigan native who has proudly called Midland her home for the past six years. She served as Editor-in-Chief for the Delta Collegiate, where she earned various awards for her writing, including Journalist of the Year in 2023 from the Michigan Community College Press Association. In her free time, Misty enjoys spending time with family and friends and enjoying all our beautiful state has to offer.