🎃 Fall in the Fort: Pumpkins, Play & Family Days

🍂 Fall in the Fort is here, and we’ve rounded up everything you need to make the season magical for your family! Inside this guide you’ll find all the best fall festivals, Halloween events (with more added as details come in), and our favorite pumpkin patches for a picture-perfect day. We’ve also included cozy coffee shops for parents, indoor activities and rainy-day ideas for kids, teen hangouts, and even the best spots for fall photography, changing leaves, and crafty fun. Whether you’re after adventure, a little family downtime, or those can’t-miss seasonal traditions, this guide has it all! 🍁

Bye-Bye Green, Hello Gold: Fall Drives You Can’t Miss

1. Talimena National Scenic Byway

This 54-mile National Scenic Byway (Oklahoma State Highway 1 and Arkansas Highway 88) runs along the ridges of the Ouachita Mountains from Talihina, OK to Mena, AR. It winds through old-growth forest, offering 22 scenic pull-outs and stunning panoramic views of fall color. Fall typically colors the Ouachitas brightest from late October to early November, though some reports suggest vibrant hues may appear as early as mid‑September.

Highlights include:

• Talimena State Park (western gateway)
• Horse Thief Spring (historic site)
• Rich Mountain Fire Tower (360° vistas)
• The Wonderhouse near Queen Wilhelmina (historic architecture)

Plan 2–5 hours to enjoy stops and hikes—or just soak in the views.

2. Boston Mountains Scenic Loop

This byway includes two routes—Interstate 49 and US 71—traversing the Boston Mountains between Alma and Fayetteville. The US 71 leg is particularly scenic, offering leisurely drives with small-town charm and plentiful foliage views.

Key points of interest along the loop:

• Devil’s Den State Park
• Lake Fort Smith State Park
• Fort Smith Historic District
• Ozark Highlands Trail access
• Buffalo National River and White Rock Mountain

3. Pig Trail Scenic Byway

Located in the Ozark National Forest, this byway features 318 curves and 72 switchbacks, weaving through vibrant hardwood forests. Stunning fall colors typically peak in October. A thrilling and beautiful drive—especially for the adventurous—and easily combined with other loops.

4. Devil’s Den State Park

Nestled in the Boston Mountains' Lee Creek Valley, this 2,500-acre park offers hiking, cabins, fossil hunting, and rustic CCC-made structures. Fall brings layers of color to the valleys and sandstone bluffs—a must-stop during a drive along the Boston Mountains Scenic Loop.

5. Ozark Highlands Trail

For the more outdoorsy, this 218-mile trail runs from Lake Fort Smith State Park across the Ozark National Forest and down to the Buffalo National River, passing scenic areas like Hurricane Creek Wilderness and White Rock Mountain. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in fall color — especially on a day hike or overnight trek.

6. Natural Falls State Park

This park features a stunning 77-foot waterfall surrounded by wooded bluffs—an excellent option for fall hikes and serene photo opportunities.

7. Mount Magazine State Park / Mount Magazine Scenic Byway

This drive leads up to Arkansas’s highest point, offering sweeping views of the surrounding valleys dyed in fall hues. The park is home to vibrant forests and overlooks perfect for leaf-peeking.

When to Go & Planning Tips

• Best time for peak color: Generally mid-late October through early November across these routes.
• Earlier color: Talimena may start turning as early as mid‑September.
• Crowds & travel: These drives are popular; aim to depart early in the day. Bring layers, water, and snacks — some byways offer limited services 

Week of September 6th

• Crawford County Fair - Mulberry, AR - Fair Parade September 6th at 11 am
• BBQ and Bingo Roundup - Fort Smith, AR - Methodist Village Senior Living - September 11th 
• Fall Brawl - Gladiator Championship Wrestling - Greenwood - September 6th

Capture the Magic of Fall with Matthews + Co Photography 

The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and it’s the perfect time to update your family photos! This fall, Matthews + Co Photography, owned by the talented and friendly McKayla Matthews of Spiro, OK, is offering cozy and colorful fall sessions that will make your memories last a lifetime.

 Fall Mini Sessions

Looking for a quick but beautiful way to capture the season? McKayla’s Fall Mini Sessions feature a stunning fall-inspired setup complete with warm tones, seasonal décor, and the gorgeous autumn backdrop of Oklahoma.

 Use code MACKID10 when booking and enjoy $10 OFF your mini session!

 Full Fall Sessions

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, golden-hour shoot where McKayla captures your family laughing, playing, and enjoying the beauty of fall, her full fall sessions are the perfect fit. These sessions give you plenty of time to settle in and capture a variety of moments you’ll treasure forever.

 Book a Silver Package and use code MACKID to receive $25 OFF!

Why Choose Matthews + Co?

McKayla has a gift for making families feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. As a young, creative photographer, she knows how to blend fun with professionalism—delivering not just photos, but true keepsakes. Whether you’re snapping that perfect Christmas card shot, celebrating your little one’s milestones, or just wanting to freeze the beauty of this season, McKayla has you covered.

 Based in Spiro, OK and serving the surrounding River Valley, she’s ready to help your family shine this fall.

 Book Your Session Today

Spots for fall photos go quickly, and you don’t want to miss these seasonal specials. Visit her facebook page to book your session and don’t forget to use your Macaroni KID discount code when checking out!

Local Photographers

Week of September 13th

• Cedarville School District Fall Festival - September 13th
• Van Buren Downtown Junk Fest - September 13th & 14th
• End of Summer 3rd Street Fair - September 13th
• Charleston Cruise Night - September 13th
• Petey's Haunted Island @ Parrot Island Waterpark - September 13th

🎮 Contender eSports Fort Smith: The Ultimate Teen Hangout & Family Gaming Spot This Fall

If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and exciting place where teens (and parents, too!) can gather, Contender eSports Fort Smith is the go-to hangout in the River Valley. With a state-of-the-art gaming lounge, high-speed PCs, and a family-friendly vibe, this is where competition meets community.

🍂 Fall Fun & Family Tournaments

• Mario Kart Deluxe Tournament - Saturday, Sept 6th – Race your way to the top!
• Minecraft Bingo - Sunday, Sept 7th – A creative, family-friendly twist on a classic.
• Fortnite Tournament - Saturday, Sept 13th & Friday, Sept 26th – Build, battle, and claim victory.
• Free Academy Training Session - Saturday, Sept 20th – Skill-building with guided practice.
• Rocket League Showdown - Sunday, Sept 28th – Fast cars meet soccer for high-energy play.

👩‍🎤 Ladies’ Night – Game FREE

Girls and women play free on select nights—bring friends, try new games, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.

🧭 Why Teens (and Parents) Love It

A safe, supervised space with comfy lounge seating, snacks, and a huge game selection across consoles and PCs. Teens can compete or just chill, while parents appreciate the positive, affordable fun.

📣 NEW: 2025 Academy Parents Meeting

Saturday, Sept. 20 at 12:00 PM • Ages 6–18

Parents & gamers are invited to an important meeting about the eSports Academy at Contender Fort Smith. Meet the coaching staff, learn how the program works, and discuss how Contender can support your child’s growth in eSports.

• Who should attend: Parents/guardians of players ages 6–18
• What to expect: Program overview, staff intros, Q&A, next steps for joining the Academy
• Where: Contender eSports, 6205 Rogers Ave., Suite 4, Fort Smith, AR 72903
• Info & updates: contenderesports.com/fort-smith-ar/
• Phone: 479-308-2108

📍 Plan Your Visit

Add Contender eSports Fort Smith to your fall calendar—tournaments, Minecraft Bingo nights, or casual play with friends—there’s always something happening.

Pro tip: Follow Contender eSports Fort Smith on social for event drops and registration windows.

Week of September 20th

• Crawford County Car Club Fall Car Show - The Current Church Van Buren - September 20th 
• National STOL Champtionship - Pocola - September 19th & 20th
• T.K.'s Cars Memorial at the Crossing - Fort Smith - September 20th
• Chaffee Crossing Food & Artisan Market - Fort Smith - September 20th
• 2nd Annual Boston Mountain Paw Paw & Fall Foraging Festival - Chester - September 20th
• Ducked Up Car & Jeep Show - Poteau - September 20th
• Dutch Oven Lid Lifting Competition - Alma - September 20th

Fall in Love with The Prairie: Spiro’s New Donut Shop

Fall has officially arrived in Spiro—and there’s one new spot you must cozy up to this season. Say hello to The Prairie, Spiro’s very own family-, veteran-owned donut and coffee shop, serving up fresh treats and warm community vibes in the heart of town.

Why Our Town Can’t Get Enough

• Authentic Local Vibes
  This isn’t your average chain. The Prairie is rooted in the community, run by local veterans who pour pride and passion into every donut they handcraft.
• Fresh Flair Every Day
  “Donuts are fresh, coffee is hot—or cold, depending on your preference!” says a loyal fan, and we couldn’t agree more. Whether you're starting your morning or winding down, The Prairie delivers the perfect pick-me-up.
• A Cozy Spot for Fall Moments
  As the weather turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, there’s something undeniably comforting about a warm cup of coffee paired with a freshly glazed donut. Imagine golden light streaming through the windows, the scent of something sweet in the air—The Prairie feels like fall in a cozy mug (or donut box).
• A Welcome for Small Businesses
  Betty’s Café shared the love, encouraging everyone to visit and support this new addition to Spiro:
  “To all our followers, please visit and like The Prairie. It is the new donut shop in Spiro. Small businesses need to stand together and support...

Visit & Warm Up This Season

• Where: 520 W Broadway St., Spiro, OK 74959
• When: Monday through Friday, 6:00 AM–1:00 PM (closed weekends)
• What to Expect: Handmade donuts, strong coffee, and hometown charm bundled into every visit.

A Fall Treat You Deserve

Whether you're grabbing a sweet start to your day, catching up with friends, or just craving a little seasonal magic, The Prairie is Spiro’s new go-to. Come for the donuts, stay for the spirit—and treat yourself to a little autumn comfort

Week of September 27th

• St. Michael's Day Community Festival - Van Buren, AR - carnival games, bingo, food and activities - September 27th
• Honeyhill Pumpkin Patch Opening Day - Poteau, OK - September 27th
• The Mane Event - Mountainburg - September 27th - groom and paint horses, refreshments
• Panama Community Day - Panama Rock Gym - September 27th
• Firefly Walk - Janet Huckabee Nature Center - Fort Smith - September 30th

The Patch at Lost Hwy Farms: A Fall Adventure for the Whole Family

Looking for the perfect fall outing that combines farm fun, family traditions, and photo-worthy backdrops? 🍂 Look no further than The Patch at Lost Hwy Farms, where autumn comes alive with pumpkins, sunflowers, and good old-fashioned country charm.

Seasonal Events & Special Days

This year, The Patch is planning some exciting themed weekends including Homeschoolers Day, Grandparents Day, and more! Each will offer unique opportunities for families to connect, learn, and celebrate together.

Pumpkins with a Purpose

One of the most unique features at The Patch is their late-planted pumpkin section. Visitors can take educational tours, learn about pumpkin growth stages, watch pollination in action, and get answers to all their farming questions. It’s hands-on agri-education that kids (and adults!) will remember.

Activities & Attractions

There’s something for every age at Lost Hwy Farms, including:

• 🌻 Sunflower Maze – wander through the golden blooms and even cut your own flowers to take home.
• 🎃 Pumpkin Patch – pick your perfect pumpkin for carving, baking, or decorating.
• 🚜 Vintage Tractor Display – check out the tractors still used on the farm today.
• 🕹️ Farm Games – from the corn pit to classic country activities, kids will stay busy for hours.
• 📸 Photo Arrangements – endless backdrops for those must-have fall family photos.

Community Support

The Patch is proud to be part of the Oklahoma Fosters Special Benefit program. Foster families receive $1 off admission per person, making this a more affordable fall tradition for those who give so much to the community.

🍁 Whether you’re planning a fun family weekend, a special homeschool field trip, or just want to soak up the beauty of fall, The Patch at Lost Hwy Farms is a must-visit destination this season.

👉 Mark your calendars for October and get ready to make lasting memories in the pumpkin fields and sunflower rows at The Patch!

Pumpkin Patches Near Us!

Week of October 4th

• Fall Fest + Oktoberfest - Fort Smith, AR - free admission, historical reenactments, sundae bar, kid friendly activities, food trucks
• RAM Fall Family Day 2025 - Fort Smith - October 4th - free hot dogs, goodie bags, chalk art, photo ops
• Junkin' Up the Farm - MackMazing Acres - Spiro - Fall Vendor Fest

_{Fall Into Creativity at Arts on Main}

^{If you’ve been looking for a place where your kids can get creative, make a little mess, and learn something new along the way, Arts On Main in Van Buren has you covered. Their Kids & Family Art Programs give children of all ages a chance to explore art in a fun, hands-on way—and the best part is that the galleries and Creative U Studio are always free for families to enjoy.}

Mini Makers (Ages 3-6)

Little hands and big imaginations come together every Monday morning at Mini Makers. These classes are designed for preschoolers to play with color, textures, and simple art projects while getting inspired by stories and famous artists. It’s the perfect way to let your youngest makers dive into art.

Fall Afterschool Program (Ages 6–14)

Older kids can join Arts On Main after school for a deep dive into drawing, painting, mixed media, and even a little art history. Classes run on Tuesdays this fall at the main campus, with additional sessions at local libraries in Alma, Mountainburg, and Cedarville—making it easier for families across the River Valley to participate.

Academy for Homeschoolers

For homeschool families, Arts On Main offers a special program during the week that’s both educational and creative. The Beginners group (ages 7–9) focuses on building basic skills, while the Advanced group (ages 10–12) gets to stretch their abilities and try more challenging projects. Classes meet on Wednesdays through the fall semester, giving homeschool students a structured place to learn and create.

3D Art Classes

If your child loves to build, sculpt, or design, the 3D Art Classes are a great fit. Students work with clay, paper mâché, cardboard, and recycled materials to create projects that go beyond the flat page. Classes meet on Thursday evenings this fall, and they’re always a hit with hands-on learners.

Character Design Workshop

This one’s a special treat! On Saturday, September 27, local artist and author Sean Fitzgibbon is teaching a workshop on character design. Kids will learn how to take their ideas from imagination to paper, using drawing skills to bring original characters to life.

Why It Matters

Arts On Main isn’t just about teaching art—it’s about giving kids the space to experiment and express themselves. Whether you’ve got a toddler who loves to paint with their fingers or a tween who’s ready to design their own characters, there’s a program waiting for them this fall. For more information on these programs and so much more, please check out the website. Arts on Main

Upcoming Events at Arts on Main

Week of October 11th

• Fall Fest at Potted Plants - Alma, AR - October 11th - fall open house with games, snack and warm fall drinks
• Van Buren Fall Festival - Downtown Van Buren - October 11 & 12th
• Sallisaw Main Street Fall Festival - Sallisaw - October 11th
• The Gathering Outreach Fall Festival & Car Show - Poteau - October 11th
• Ridin For the Rack - Fort Smith - October 11th - in support of Breast Cancer Awareness
• Poteau Fall Festival and Car Show - Tower Drive In - October 11th
• Crawford County Young Maker's Market - October 11th

Riggs Family Orchard: A Family’s Orchard, Cultivating Flavor and Community

Tucked just 1 mile east and 1 mile north of Spiro, OK, Riggs Family Orchard is a delightful, small family-owned orchard that offers an authentic farm experience for families and fruit lovers alike.

What You’ll Find

• Fresh, Local Fruit: Their summer produce lineup includes a variety of peaches, apples, blackberries, plums, and nectarines. When fall arrives, they switch gears—offering apples, pumpkins, grapes, and other seasonal treasures, but only on Saturdays.
• Seasonal Availability: Open from mid-June to mid-August for summer fruits, and Saturdays in the fall for autumn picks.
• Rustic Charm: Operating purely by cash or check, the orchard channels a down-to-earth simplicity, perfect for families looking to connect with nature—and with the growers themselves.

The Story Behind the Rows

Jody and Shauna Riggs have lovingly cultivated the orchard since 2000 (after purchasing it as an existing farm), nurturing it back to a vibrant 20-acre spread full of fruit trees and berry bushes. Their persistence is rooted in passion—despite humble beginnings (“a tin roof and one table”), they grew the orchard alongside their family, making it a place of community and authenticity.

Why It’s Worth a Visit

• Family-Run Charm: Supporting the orchard means supporting a local family and generations of dedication.
• Fresh & Seasonal: Enjoy produce picked at peak ripeness and explore a changing bounty by season.
• Scenic & Unhurried: Whether you're picking peaches in summer or pumpkins in fall, the laid-back vibe is perfect for a low-key, nature-filled outing.

Week of October 18th

• Mulberry Mountain Mini Market Fall Fest - Ozark, AR - October 18th - local vendors, live music, and seasonal treats
• Anderson Family Halloween Game Nights - Poteau - October 17th & 25th
• Poteau Balloon Festival - Poteau, OK - October 17th & 18th 

Week of October 25th

• Book or Treat - Trunk or Treat at the Library - Mountainburg Public LIbrary - October 24th
• Crawlin for Kids - Jeep Show - Ben Geren Park Fort Smith - October 25th
• Charleston Potato Hill Festival - October 25th
• Teal Pumpkin Halloween Bash - Fort Smith - October 25th
• Water Lantern Release Fall Festival - Carol Ann Cross Park Fort Smith - October 25th
• Anderson Family Halloween Game Night - Poteau - October 17th & 25th
• Spooktacular Softball Tournament - Fort Smith - October 25th

DIY Mason Jar Lanterns: A Cozy Fall Craft for Kids 🍂

Looking for an easy fall activity? Mason jar lanterns are simple, creative, and add the perfect cozy glow to your home or porch.

What you’ll need: Mason jars, tissue paper in fall colors, glue/Mod Podge, brushes, twine or ribbon, and battery tea lights.

How to make them:

1. Tear tissue paper into pieces.
2. Brush glue on the jar and stick the paper all over.
3. Add more glue on top to seal.
4. Decorate with twine or leaves, pop in a tea light, and watch them glow!

These lanterns make sweet night lights for kids’ rooms, porch decorations, or table centerpieces. Pair the craft with hot cocoa and music for the ultimate cozy fall memory. 🍁✨

Week of November 1st

• Greenwood Fall Festival - Bell Park - November 1st

DIY Hot Cocoa Bar = Cozy Fun for Everyone! ❄️☕

Turn chilly nights into sweet memories with a Do-It-Yourself Hot Cocoa Bar! 🎉 Set out mugs, cocoa, and toppings galore so guests can create their own perfect cup.

✨ Topping Ideas:
🍬 Mini marshmallows
🍭 Crushed peppermint
🍫 Chocolate chips & shavings
🍯 Caramel drizzle
🌈 Sprinkles for the kids (and kids at heart!)

It’s the easiest (and tastiest!) way to bring friends and family together. Perfect for parties, fall nights, or holiday gatherings. 🧡

Week of November 8th

• Hometown Market Days Co - Fort Smith Convention Center - November 7th & 8th - boutiques, treasures and holiday drinks 
• The Bakery District Fall Festival - Fort Smith - November 8th
• Sacred Pines Fall Festival - Boles, AR - November 6th-8th

.🍁 This guide will keep growing as more fall festivals, Halloween fun, and cozy family activities are announced — so check back often! The easiest way to stay in the loop? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and get the updated guide (plus plenty of other family-friendly events) delivered straight to your inbox. Don’t miss a thing this season!