Five Things To Do in the Northern Suburbs: October 3–5, 2025

From orchard visits to neighborhood fests, fall is full of reasons to get outside and soak it all in. We've rounded up a few local happenings to add to your list this weekend.

Bring the Family to Fall on the Farm.

This seasonal favorite brings a full day of family activities, from barrel train rides and rope making to pumpkin painting and fall crafts. Kids can climb aboard tractors, while adults browse samples of coffee, cider donuts, and treats from the Sugar Maple Country Store. With live music and games rounding out the schedule, it's a festive way to welcome October.

Date: Oct. 4
Time: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Cost: Children $10, Adults $5
Location: Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Rd., Libertyville
More Info: lambsfarm.org

  
Support Local Learning at Fall Farm Festival Fundraiser.

Celebrate fall traditions while supporting experience-based learning programs. Visitors can watch sheep shearing demonstrations, hop on wagon rides, or pick pumpkins straight from the field. A raffle, seasonal products, and animal visits add to the lineup, making the $10 suggested donation a small price for a day that's both fun and impactful.

Date: Oct. 4
Time: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Location: Liberty Prairie Farm, 550 Harris Rd., Grayslake
More Info: libertyprairie.org

See Thousands of Pumpkins at The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival.

Now in its 15th year, this sprawling three-day event draws thousands with live music on multiple stages, pumpkin carving stations, contests, carnival rides, and seasonal installations. Families can catch costume parades, race pumpkins at the Speedway, and watch the lighting of the massive Pumpkin Wall. Proceeds benefit SaLT, a nonprofit led by students and educators that supports families and communities in need.

Date: Oct. 3–4
Time: Fri. 3–10 p.m., Sat 12–10 p.m.
Cost: $12+
Location: Downtown Highwood, 17 Highwood Ave., Highwood
More Info: highwoodpumpkinfest.com 

Get Your Hands Dirty at The Great Mud Run.

Expect to get dirty at this 1.25-mile obstacle race featuring 12 challenges designed to push participants through mud, climbs, and crawls. Runners can choose between competitive heats or a family-friendly wave where kids and parents can take on the course together. With shirts and medals for all finishers, the mud is only part of the reward.

Date: Oct. 4
Time: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Cost: $35
Location: Watts Park, 305 Glencoe St., Glencoe
More Info: glencoeparkdistrict.com 

Join the Fun at Harvest Fest.

A fall celebration with something for everyone, this fest offers a petting zoo, face painting, mini pumpkin decorating, and Touch a Truck for kids. Families can build their own scarecrows (with supplies provided), snack on cider and popcorn, and shop for pumpkins, mums, and seasonal décor.

Date: Oct. 4–5
Time: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Chalet Home + Garden, 3132 Lake Ave., Wilmette
More Info: tickettailor.com