October is not over yet, and there are still plenty of exciting things to do in Lehigh Valley! From colorful fall festivals and delicious food events to spooky Halloween attractions and family-friendly activities, the second half of the month has something for everyone.
Whether you live in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, or a nearby community, you don't have to travel far to enjoy the season. Looking for a fun weekend with the kids? Planning a date night? Or just hoping to enjoy the fall weather before November arrives?
Here are some of the best upcoming events in Lehigh Valley from October 17 through October 31, 2026, based on the event listings and fall activity guides from Discover Lehigh Valley
1. Mack Trucktoberfest 2026
October 17, 2026 | Mack Trucks Historical Museum, Allentown
Love trucks or looking for a unique family outing? Mack Trucktoberfest is a great way to spend your Saturday.
Held at the Mack Trucks Historical Museum, this special event celebrates trucking history with impressive truck displays, activities, and a Ride & Drive experience for eligible guests.
It's a fun opportunity to learn more about one of the region's well-known industries while enjoying a day out with family or friends.
Good to know: Registration is required, and Discover Lehigh Valley lists an October 9 registration deadline. Check with the organizer about any remaining availability before planning your visit.
2. Coffee Festival at Blue Mountain Resort
October 17, 2026 | 10 AM–2 PM | Blue Mountain Resort, Palmerton
Calling all coffee lovers! The Coffee Festival at Blue Mountain Resort is the perfect excuse to enjoy your favorite drink while taking in the beautiful fall scenery.
Visitors can sample coffee from local shops, browse craft vendors, shop for coffee-inspired items, and enjoy live music by the Erin Kelly Band.
With the mountain's colorful fall views as your backdrop, this event makes for a lovely Saturday outing.
Admission: General admission is listed at $12, with a $22 combo ticket option.
3. ChiliFest in South Bethlehem
October 17, 2026 | South Bethlehem
What's better than a warm bowl of chili on a cool October day? Getting to sample many different kinds!
ChiliFest returns to South Bethlehem for its 30th year, bringing delicious chili to participating restaurants and businesses along Third and Fourth Streets.
Guests can walk between tasting stations, discover different flavors, and explore the local dining scene.
Tickets are listed at $35 per person and include a commemorative ChiliFest spoon.
This is a great event for food lovers and anyone looking for something different to do in Bethlehem this October.
4. Boo at the Zoo
October 17–18, 24–25, and 31, 2026 | Lehigh Valley Zoo, Schnecksville
Looking for a Halloween celebration that younger kids can enjoy? Boo at the Zoo is a wonderful choice!
Families are invited to dress in costumes, bring their candy bags, and enjoy trick-or-treating throughout Lehigh Valley Zoo.
The event also includes Halloween-themed activities, costume contests on select days, and opportunities to see the zoo's animals.
Trick-or-treating runs from 10 AM to 3:30 PM, and the activities are included with general daily zoo admission.
5. Bethlehem Running Festival
October 16–18, 2026 | Bethlehem
Ready to get moving? The Bethlehem Running Festival continues through October 18, giving runners a chance to explore historic Bethlehem while taking part in an exciting community event.
The festival features several race options, including a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and multi-race challenges.
Whether you're participating or cheering from the sidelines, this event is a wonderful way to enjoy the fall season and support local runners.
6. 20th Anniversary Celebration at Promenade Saucon Valley
October 17, 2026 | Promenade Saucon Valley, Center Valley
If shopping and community celebrations sound like your kind of weekend, head to Promenade Saucon Valley.
The shopping center is celebrating its 20th anniversary with Barktoberfest, giveaways, a display looking back at its history, and special anniversary gifts.
An anniversary ceremony is scheduled for 2 PM, followed by a giveaway drawing. Participating shops and restaurants are also offering special promotions as part of the center's October celebration.
It's a fun opportunity to explore local shops, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the festivities.
7. Lehigh Gap Nature Center 10K Trail Run and 2-Mile Scamper
October 24, 2026 | 9 AM–12 PM | Lehigh Gap Nature Center, Slatington
Want to enjoy some fresh air and beautiful fall scenery while staying active?
The Lehigh Gap Nature Center is hosting its 15th annual trail run, featuring a 10K course and a 2-mile option.
Participants can enjoy the area's natural beauty while supporting the center's conservation work. This year's event also features a new trail course.
It's a great choice for runners who want to challenge themselves while enjoying the outdoors.
8. The Mom Market Spooktacular Fall Fest
October 25, 2026 | Bethlehem Rose Garden, Bethlehem
Get ready for a day of shopping, seasonal treats, and Halloween fun at the Bethlehem Rose Garden!
The Mom Market Spooktacular Fall Fest brings together more than 100 local vendors, along with a Kids Market, handmade products, and fall-themed goodies.
Visitors can begin their morning with free yoga, browse unique items, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The event takes place alongside the Bethlehem Halloween Parade, making it a fun day to spend in the city.
Costumes are welcome, so feel free to get into the Halloween spirit!
9. Halloween Haunt at Dorney Park
October 17–18, 23–25, and 30–31, 2026 | Dorney Park, Allentown
Are you brave enough for a night full of Halloween scares?
Dorney Park's Halloween Haunt is back with haunted mazes, spooky entertainment, scare zones, and thrill rides after dark.
The 2026 event features six haunted mazes, including the new Blair Witch No Signal, along with five scare zones and live performances.
It's a popular option for teens and adults who enjoy a good scare.
Important: Halloween Haunt is not recommended for children under 13.
Check Halloween Haunt dates and tickets.
10. Tricks and Treats at Dorney Park
October 17–18, 24–25, and 31, 2026 | Dorney Park, Allentown
If Halloween Haunt sounds a little too scary for your kids, Dorney Park also offers a family-friendly daytime celebration.
Tricks and Treats features trick-or-treating, costume contests, Halloween-themed shows, seasonal treats, and favorite amusement park rides.
It's a great option for families who want Halloween excitement without the nighttime scares.
See Tricks and Treats event details.
11. The Children's Hour at Charter Arts
October 23–25, 2026 | Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts, Bethlehem
Looking for something different from the usual fall festivals and Halloween activities?
Enjoy a live theater performance of The Children's Hour, a drama by Lillian Hellman, presented by talented students at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts.
The story explores how a false accusation can change people's lives. It's a thoughtful performance for audiences who enjoy serious theater.
Evening shows are scheduled for October 23 and 24 at 7 PM, with an afternoon performance on October 25 at 2 PM.
Tickets range from $8 to $14. The production has a content advisory, so check the details before attending.
12. The Phantom of the Opera at Miller Symphony Hall
October 28, 2026 | 7:30–9:30 PM | Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown
Want a Halloween experience that's a little different from haunted houses?
Head to Miller Symphony Hall for a screening of the 1925 silent-film classic The Phantom of the Opera, starring Lon Chaney.
The film will feature live organ music performed by Dennis James, bringing extra drama and excitement to this classic story.
With its mysterious setting, unforgettable characters, and live music, this special screening is a great choice for movie lovers and anyone who enjoys the arts.
Admission: $25 per person.
13. Haunted Illusions at State Theatre
October 31, 2026 | 4 PM | State Theatre Center for the Arts, Easton
Celebrate Halloween with a little mystery and magic!
Haunted Illusions brings master illusionist David Caserta to the State Theatre for a family-friendly show full of surprises.
Watch as people appear to float, disappear, and return right before your eyes. The show also features comedy and audience participation, making it an entertaining option for both kids and adults.
If you're looking for a Halloween activity that doesn't involve haunted houses or scary rides, this could be a great choice.
Admission: General tickets are listed at $34.25, with tickets for children 12 and under at $27.95.
14. Fall Festival at Grim's Orchard & Family Farms
Weekends through November 1, 2026 | Grim's Orchard & Family Farms, Breinigsville
What's fall without pumpkins, hayrides, and delicious apple cider treats?
Grim's Orchard & Family Farms is celebrating the harvest season with its annual Fall Festival.
Families can enjoy hayrides, pedal carts, apple cider slushies, donuts, and other seasonal activities.
It's an excellent way to spend a fall afternoon with your children, take seasonal photos, or simply enjoy time outdoors.
Since the festival continues through November 1, you'll still have opportunities to visit during the final weekends of October.
15. Spirited Tales Pub Tour in Historic Bethlehem
October 17, 24, and 31, 2026 | 3–4 PM | Goundie House Welcome Center, Bethlehem
If you enjoy local history with a spooky twist, consider the Spirited Tales Pub Tour in Historic Bethlehem.
This guided experience explores mysterious stories, local legends, and Bethlehem's brewing history. The tour begins at the historic Goundie House and ends at the Sun Inn.
Participants can hear stories of unusual events and historic mysteries while learning more about the city.
Admission: $25 for adult members and $30 for non-members. Participants must be 21 or older with valid identification.
With so many Lehigh Valley events happening from October 17 through October 31, 2026, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the rest of the month.
Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, food festivals, live performances, or family-friendly Halloween celebrations, you can find activities across Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the surrounding communities.
Want to make the most of the final weeks of October? Choose a few events, invite your friends or family, and explore something new in Lehigh Valley!
Before heading out, be sure to check event dates, ticket prices, registration requirements, and possible schedule changes.
For additional activities and updated event information, visit the official Discover Lehigh Valley Events Calendar
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