10 must-attend fall events in Cartersville: Festivals, Halloween fun and more

As the leaves turn vibrant hues and the air becomes crisp, Cartersville beckons with a delightful array of fall festivities that promise fun for all ages. Just a short drive from Atlanta, this charming town offers a rich tapestry of seasonal events celebrating community, culture and creativity. From lively festivals filled with food and music to enchanting activities that showcase the beauty of autumn, join us as we explore 10 must-visit fall events that will make your spooky season truly unforgettable!

Witches Night Out - Downtown Cartersville

Get ready for a spellbinding evening at “Witches Night Out” in Downtown Cartersville! This magical shopping extravaganza promises extended retail hours, spooky giveaways, wickedly good sales, and enchanting food and drink specials. With free admission, it’s the perfect excuse to grab your broomstick and fly into town for a frightfully fun night of shopping, sipping, and snacking.

Location: Downtown Cartersville - 1 Friendship Plaza; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Thursday, Oct. 3; Time: 5 - 8 p.m.; Admission: Free

56th Annual Great Locomotive Chase Festival - Historic Downtown Adairsville

All aboard for the 56th Annual Great Locomotive Chase Festival in Historic Downtown Adairsville! This family-friendly tradition, dating back to 1968, offers a whistle-stop tour of fun with arts and crafts, delicious food vendors, live entertainment, and classic Southern amusements. From the vibrant parade to the excitement of the beauty pageant, this festival is a must-see on your fall calendar.

Location: Downtown Adairsville - 116 Public Square; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Dates: Friday, Oct. 4 - Sunday, Oct. 6; Admission: $5

Cemetery Tour - Oak Hill Cemetery

Step into the past with a twilight tour of Oak Hill Cemetery, hosted by the Bartow History Museum and The Grand Theatre. As the sun sets, uncover the fascinating stories of Bartow County’s most notable citizens, resting in this historic cemetery dating back to 1838. Each hour-long tour brings history to life as you explore legacies etched in stone.

Location: Oak Hill Cemetery - 319 N Erwin St.; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Saturday, Oct. 5; Time: 5 - 7 p.m.; Admission: $15

Euharlee Covered Bridge Fall Festival - Frankie Harris Park (Euharlee)

Mark your calendar for the Euharlee Covered Bridge Fall Festival, a two-day celebration filled with autumn fun! Start the weekend with a special Friday evening, followed by a full day of festivities on Saturday at the picturesque Frankie Harris Park. Explore over 75 vendors offering unique arts, crafts, and delicious treats, while the kids enjoy free activities.

Location: Frankie Harris Park - 112 Covered Bridge Rd.; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Dates: Friday, Oct. 11 - Saturday, Oct. 12; Admission: Free

Heavy Metal in Motion - Tellus Science Museum

Brace yourself for an adrenaline-fueled day at the Tellus Science Museum’s “Heavy Metal in Motion.” This action-packed fall event brings big machines to life, from helicopters and firetrucks to massive construction equipment, all ready for families to explore. Kids will love the hands-on activities, geode cracking, and the rare opportunity to witness helicopter landings and take-offs up close.

Location: Tellus Science Museum - 100 Tellus Dr.; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Saturday, Oct. 12; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Admission: $17 for Adults, $13 for Ages 3- 17, Free for kids under 3

BBQ, Brews and Boos - Downtown Cartersville

Savor the flavors and festive spirit at the BBQ, Brews, & Boos! This exciting community gathering features mouthwatering BBQ and locally brewed beers, alongside Halloween surprises, including trick-or-treating for the little ones! With live music, engaging kids’ activities, and a variety of retail vendors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Location: Downtown Cartersville - 1 Friendship Plaza; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Saturday, Oct. 19; Time: Noon to 8 p.m.; Admission: Free

Halloween Pub Crawl - Downtown Cartersville

Embrace the spirit of the season at the Halloween Pub Crawl, where a night of thrills and chills awaits! Participants can embark on a spirited adventure through 12 participating bars, each offering a complimentary beverage to keep the festivities flowing. Admission includes a stylish Silipint cup and a punch card to mark your journey.

Location: Downtown Cartersville - 1 Friendship Plaza; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Dates: Friday, Oct. 25 - Saturday, Oct. 26; Admission: $55

West Fest - Booth Western Art Museum

Saddle up for an unforgettable experience at the Booth Western Art Museum’s West Fest! This lively celebration of Western heritage is packed with family-friendly activities, including thrilling reenactments, captivating Native American dance performances, and a spectacular Birds of Prey show. Young cowboys and cowgirls will love the pumpkin painting contest, petting zoo, and pony rides, while adults can explore artisan booths featuring unique handcrafted treasures.

Location: Booth Western Art Museum - 501 N Museum Dr.; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Saturday, Oct. 26; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Admission: $16 for Adults, Free for kids 12 and under

Supper Club Series: Swine and Wine Barbeque - Barnsley Resort (Adairsville)

Indulge in a mouthwatering evening at Barnsley Resort’s Supper Club Series: Swine & Wine Barbecue! Guests will savor a whole hog prepared by renowned Pitmaster Carey Bringle of Nashville’s Peg Leg Porker, alongside elevated sides, a fresh salad, and a decadent dessert. Set against the stunning Manor House Ruins, this open-air event features wine pairings from The Prisoner Wine Company, live music, and the warmth of Sea Island Forge fire kettles.

Location: Barnsley Resort - 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd. NW; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Saturday, Oct. 26; Time: 6 - 8 p.m.; Admission: $145

Halloween on the Square - Downtown Adairsville

Join the fun at Halloween on the Square in Downtown Adairsville! The Public Square will transform into a festive hub filled with ghoulish decorations, exciting activities, and plenty of candy for trick-or-treaters. With free admission, it’s the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a hauntingly good time together—dress up and make some fang-tastic memories!

Location: Downtown Adairsville - 116 Public Square; Website: onlyincartersvillebartow.com; Date: Thursday, Oct. 31; Time: 4 - 6 p.m.; Admission: Free