October in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Posted on September 27, 2025

Autumn Colours, Thanksgiving Feasts, Halloween Thrills and More…

The crisp autumn air, leaves under foot, a cozy sweater—there’s nothing quite like October in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Forests erupt into shades of gold, amber, auburn, russet, crimson and scarlet; vineyards glow with golden vines ready for harvest; and the historic Old Town radiates charm as it gears up for Thanksgiving and Halloween.

Whether you crave outdoor adventure, seasonal indulgence or a touch of spooky fun, October in Niagara-on-the-Lake has something for the urban explorer and the outdoor adventurer alike.

AUTUMN ADVENTURES IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Fall is the perfect season to slow down, savour the scenery and explore nature at its most glorious. Hikers, walkers and cyclists are spoiled for choice with local trails that showcase the region’s breathtaking landscapes:

Niagara River Recreation Trail: Running parallel to the mighty Niagara River from Fort George to the Niagara Escarpment in Queenston, this world-famous walking and cycling route is lined with brilliant fall foliage.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Waterfront Trail: Popular for birding, running and walking, this trail meanders along the shores of Lake Ontario and features spectacular views and cool lake breezes.

Lakeshore Loop: A favourite for walkers and runners, this short loop winds through peaceful rural stretches.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Loop: This 43-kilometre Grand Loop takes you from Old Town to the Welland Canal, Queenston and the Niagara River Trail.

Niagara Glen Reserve: Deep in the Niagara Gorge, hiking paths wind through a pristine Carolinian Forest and past prehistoric geological formations, wild flora and fauna, down to the water’s edge and the natural phenomenon that is the Niagara River Whirlpool.

Upper Canada Heritage Trail: This easy route is perfect for those who enjoy a quiet saunter through fields and forested areas.

Bruce Trail (Queenston): As Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, this is a good choice with some steep inclines and declines as well as several off-trail adventures for those who seek a more challenging hike.

Queenston Kilns: Taking you through a mix of forested trails, meadows, farms and even some caves to explore, this is where art, history and nature converge in a beautifully restored cultural site.

Queenston Heights Walking Trail: Rich with history, this beautiful trail offers rewarding escarpment views as well as tons of historical interpretive signs, memorials and monument plaques along the way.

A HARVEST OF THANKSGIVING FLAVOURS
Canadian Thanksgiving weekend (October 11–13, 2025) is a time for gratitude and gathering—and what better place to celebrate than Niagara-on-the-Lake.

It’s apple-picking season until October 15 at Parkway Orchards where honey crispy apples are ready for picking. Friendly, helpful staff are on standby to direct you to areas where the best fruit can be found.

Local restaurants highlight farm-to-table menus inspired by the season’s bounty: roasted squash, buttery corn, spiced pumpkin, and, of course, perfectly paired Niagara wines. Bakeries tempt with homemade pies, breads and cranberry tarts, while wineries welcome guests with festive tastings.

It’s a wonderful weekend to reconnect with loved ones or enjoy a romantic getaway. Many STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake member cottages, B&Bs and inns prepare warm autumn touches—seasonal décor, cozy fireplaces or even Thanksgiving treats—so you can relax and feel right at home.

FROM SPOOKY TO SPIRITED
Throughout the month, Niagara-on-the-Lake embraces the playful spirit of Halloween. Whether you prefer eerie ghost stories or a lively masquerade, there are events for every mood:

Ghost Walks of Niagara-on-the-Lake: Wander through haunted corners of “Canada’s most haunted town” and hear chilling tales of paranormal activity based on real historical events and personalities.
Fort George After Dark: Candlelit tours of this haunted historic site reveal ghostly legends of soldiers past and provide special access to restricted buildings.
Theatrical Cemetery Tours: In partnership with the Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum, costumed actors bring stories of the past to life at St. Andrew’s graveyard.
Secrets of the Cellar at Colaneri Estate Winery: Step into the haunted depths of the Colaneri cellar to savour succulent spooktacular wines at this Halloween-inspired tasting experience with an atmospheric twist.
Spirit in Niagara Distillery Halloween Masquerade: Dress to impress for a spirited evening of costumes, cocktails, live music and fun.
Ravine of Shadows: This is no ordinary Halloween gathering. Ravine Vineyard dares you to come cloaked in your most haunting, dazzling or outlandish disguise. You could win a prize.
Old Town Pumpkin Displays: Stroll past shops and homes decked out in autumn’s best, from pumpkins to scarecrows, making every corner Instagram-worthy.

Be sure to book in advance as events and tours sell out. Also, tours operate in all weather conditions, so be prepared to dress for the weather.

COZY COMFORT AWAITS
With so much happening in October, you want to make the most of your time here. Why not stay overnight to fully immerse yourself in the season’s colours, flavours and festivities? STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake—the official marketing umbrella for the Niagara-on-the-Lake Bed & Breakfast Association—offers a wide selection of accommodation, ranging from historic homes filled with character to modern retreats designed for comfort.

When you reserve your accommodation through BookYourStay.ca, you’re booking directly with licensed local hosts who provide personalized service, insider tips and warm Niagara hospitality. Whether it’s a romantic room with a fireplace or a family suite steps from Old Town, you’ll find the perfect home base for your autumn adventure.

Between the fall foliage, Thanksgiving feasts and Halloween chills, October is an extraordinary time to experience Niagara-on-the-Lake. Take in the beauty of the outdoors, share a meal of harvest flavours, dare to explore the town’s haunted history, and then return to the welcoming comforts of your cottage, inn or B&B for a peaceful night’s rest.

SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO
Festivities and entertainment continue throughout the year in Niagara-on-the-Lake. (Our list grows day by day, so be sure to check back often for updates.)
Through October: Summer BBQ Series, Lakeview Wine Co.
September 19–October 12: Culture Days Festival, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Daily: Walking Tours of Old Town
October 1: Lynne Gaetz Solo Exhibit, Niagara Pumphouse
October 3: NSO Mozart & More—A Concert and Garden Party, St. Mark’s Anglican Church
October 4: Sip N Shop, Jackson Triggs Estate & Winery
October 4: Queenston Pottery Meet the Artist Day
October 4 & 5: Fall Pottery Harvest
October 5: Arts Unbound
October 6: Brock’s Birthday Bash, Brock’s Monument
October 6: Twilight Jazz & Blues, The Hare Wine Co.
October 9: Dotable Mandalas Workshop, Lakeview Wine Co.
October 11 & 19: Wine & Paint Experience, Konzelmann Estate Winery
October 13: Battle of Queenston Heights Commemorative Tour
October 16-November 30: Perspectives: NOTL Arts Collective Group Show
October 17 & 18: The Studio Gallery, RiverBrink Art Museum
October 18: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 19: We Step Together, Pink Pearl Canada
October 23: Knot & Create Macrame, Queenston Pottery
November 1 to December 21: Holiday Season at the Shaw Festival 2025
November Weekends: Taste the Season
November 29: Great Taste of Canada Fort George Experience, Navy Hall
December 5: Candlelight Stroll
December 5 & 6: Holiday House Tour
December 12: Niagara-on-the-Lake Christmas Tractor Parade – details to come
December 13: Christmas Parade
January 9-11, 16-18 & 23-25: Icewine Festival Discovery Pass
January 17-18 & 24-25: Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Village
January 31: Cool as Ice Gala – details to come

Helpful Tips
Lost & Found: Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

Summer Bus Service: The Niagara-on-the-Lake Shuttle connects to the Niagara Falls WEGO bus service from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Bus service departs every hour on the half hour from the Floral Clock in Queenston and every hour on the hour from Fort George in Niagara-on-the-Lake. All-day passes ($25/adult 13+ years, $15/child 3-12 years) can be purchased in person at the Floral Clock stop or at Fort George.

Living in or visiting Toronto? From June 26 through November 2, seasonal Flixbus service connects Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Old Town and Toronto Union Station’s Bus Terminal. Flixbus offers two trips per day, six days a week, Wednesdays excluded. Visitors have about eight hours to explore, dine and shop in Old Town between pick up and drop off.

Drive Safely: As part of Niagara Region’s Vision Zero program, automated speed enforcement cameras have been installed in school zones. Please pay attention to the speed limits posted throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake as more cameras are planned.

Metered Parking: General information on metered parking in Niagara-on-the-Lake is found here. Your STAY Niagara-on-the-Lake hosts feature complimentary on-site parking for guests and are happy to advise you on where to park for free in and around Old Town. (Remember, parking is free in Old Town during the month of December!)

Accessible Parking: Several accessible parking spaces are located throughout the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, both on the street and in municipal parking lots.

All vehicles parking in the accessible zone must display an original and current accessible permit. Any vehicle found parked in an accessible zone without the valid accessible permit will be ticketed. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has approved the use of accessible parking permits in the following areas only:

• Designated accessible zones/spaces; and

• At any meter free of charge, including municipal lots governed by pay-and-display parking meters. In these locations, a pay-and display permit is not required if the vehicle is displaying a valid accessible permit.

A Magical Time in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Posted on September 23, 2024

Autumn is always a magical time in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The Autumnal Equinox on September 22 heralded the arrival of Libra season — a time of balance between darkness and light.

Taking our cues from Mother Nature, how best might we incorporate balance and harmony into our daily lives? Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect spot to explore options, based on your personal interests — and star sign.

ARIES (MARCH 21 – APRIL 19)
With Libra as your polar opposite on the zodiacal wheel, your goal is to find a balance between living life on the edge and stability. Why not alternate every active day with a calm day?

Niagara-on-the-Lake features running and cycling trails, tennis courts as well as a fully equipped community gym to see your physical needs. Combine that with a fun-filled day that includes a goat yoga session or a laid-back guided cycling tour of Niagara-on-the-Lake wineries, breweries and distilleries. Better yet — hang back and let someone else lead the way.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 – MAY 20)
The Autumnal Equinox speaks right to your soul because you appreciate peace and equilibrium. However, comfort can lead to stagnation. A piece of advice is to seize the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone by making plans for new and unconventional experiences.

Challenge yourself by taking a calculated risk or learning a new skill. Sign up for a golf lesson at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club. Or why not try your hand at pickleball?

GEMINI (MAY 21 – JUNE 20
Summer is your season, so Autumn may bring a sense of solitude, which you dislike because, well, it’s just plain boring and too sensible for your liking. Do your best to reconnect with your inner child by keeping things fun and original.

Grab your besties and unleash your inner artists at a Y ou and I Paint event. Curious about winemaking? Book a tour at your favourite Niagara-on-the-Lake winery.

CANCER (JUNE 21 – JULY 22)
You’re a lunar creature, ruled by the Moon. As such, you may be more impacted by the Harvest Moon — a time of endings and resource gathering — on September 29, rather than the Autumn Equinox.

You’re likely more comforted by autumnal scents, movies and time spent with your loved ones. A little self-care is always in order for you. From the Brickwork Spa in St. David’s to Old Town’s opulent Spa at Q and the OSpa, Niagara-on-the-Lake is populated with restful havens. If you prefer the outdoors, spend time roaming through the aromatic fields at the NEOB Lavender farm.

LEO (JULY 23 – AUGUST 22)
Your planetary ruler is the Sun, so this celestial shift feelsl very impactful. The call to bid farewell to the joys of summer and embrace the muted tones of Autumn is strong.

Expect a powerful boost this season as the energetic shift taps into your curiosity and passion. Whether they admit it or not, Leos are born performers. Deepen your Shaw Festiva l experience by engaging with Shaw artists and the creative minds who bring you the plays.

VIRGO (AUGUST 23 – SEPTEMBER 22)
The Autumn Equinox hits us at the very end of Virgo season. Under the influence of Virgo, society as a whole has been organized and neat, shedding unnecessary baggage and investing in self-improvement, much like Virgo itself. So, when the Equinox asks, “Are you sure you’re done? Is everything in place?” You confidently answer, “Yes!”

Chances are your to-do list and your high standards are overly ambitious, so why not take a break to do absolutely nothing? Book your stay at a charming property in Niagara-on-the-Lake and let someone else worry about the routine daily chores while you sip your favourite beverage and simply watch the world go by. Holistic health is also important to you, and what better time than fall to explore the fascinating world of medicinal herbs, garden tours and workshops at the Apple Hill Apothecary?

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 22)
Get ready to feel right at home! No one enjoys this cozy season more than you. There is no shame in wanting to change into your pyjamas after a long day at work or play. Peaceful moments as leaves fall are the key to your happiness.

And there is no better place to enjoy Mother Nature’s vibrant foliage than in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Autumn stirs the artist within you, so pack a sketchbook or your camera to capture the splendour of the season on a hike along the many trails throughout the area.

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23 – NOVEMBER 21)
Secrets and mystery are your safety net — and your passion. You find comfort in the shadows of winter, and this is a refreshing time for you. Your inner detective is aroused as the veil between the visible and the invisible worlds gets thinner.

You love Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada’s most haunted town. Intrigued by history and unexplained events, you can revel in the darker side on a guided Ghost Walk of Old Town or on a Ghost Tour of Fort George.

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 21)
The end of summer hits you hard because you love travelling to foreign lands and experiencing different cultures so much. Sun destinations may be more your style, however it would do you good to be still for a few days. Put your phone and passport away and honour the Ontario fall season with a few deep breaths.

Enjoy other cultures by indulging in fine food and wine at the various restaurants and winery-sponsored culinary events in Niagara-on-the-Lake. From authentic Indian, Thai, Chinese and Japanese delicacies to hardy British and Irish fare, there is so much to savour. Or you can shop for treasures from near and far in the many shops along Queen Street and at the Outlet Collection at Niagara.

CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 19)
Being the business-minded soul that you are, you understand that change is a constant, cyclical aspect of life. So when the opportunity arises to enact change, you seize it with gusto. The Autumn Equinox serves as a reminder that what once worked may no longer be effective, signalling the need to adjust your routine or strategy.

Before you embark on a new tangent, you want to make sure you’re well rested and ready for the work ahead. This is the ideal time to reflect and review your goals. Meandering country walks, musical performances and browsing art galleries help you to create space and air your thoughts.

AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 18)
As a humanitarian, you’re always introspective. This Equinox encourages you to visit new places and learn new things. You especially enjoy being helpful but never in a conspicuous way. For you, it’s business as usual.

Engage in tourist activities that aim to support local charities and not-for-profit organizations. The Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum schedules historical walking tours as well as lectures and events throughout the calendar year. The Riverbrink in Queenston organizes fundraisers and walking tours of Queenston. The Friends of Fort George welcome you to participate in special events year-round. The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre holds classes, workshops and camps that attract more than 600 students a year. Enjoy a Thursday Fish Fry, live entertainment and nightly activities at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 124.

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20)
A romantic at heart, you hold high expectations for yourself. The Autumn Equinox’s call for balance and self-value is a message you need to hear.

For you, a soulful practice, experience or event holds so much meaning. It can be as simple as witnessing a majestic sunset or sunrise from the shores of Lake Ontario, participating in a communal meditative yoga session in a local vineyard or picking a bouquet of wildflowers by the roadside.

The magic of Autumn is here in Niagara-on-the-Lake waiting to be enjoyed.

THERE’S MORE TO COME
New events are always popping up:
October 1: Shaw Guild Autumn Soirée
October 5: Mom Market Niagara at Jackson-Triggs Estate Winery
October 5 & 6: NOTL Beer/Harvest Festival
October 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 & 31: Ghost Tours of Fort George
October 11: 30th Anniversary Harvest Concert at Château des Charmes
October 16: A Captivating Murder Mystery at The Irish Harp
October 19: Doors Open Niagara-on-the-Lake
October 19: Nightmare Before Hallowe’en at Colaneri Estate Winery
October 20: Wine Tasting & Paint Experience, Konzelmann Estate Winery
October 23: Brave Hearts Gala
October 25, 26 & 27: Off the Walls Art Sale Fundraiser at Riverbrink
October 26: Harvest Haunt at Queenston Mile Winery
October 27: 3rd Annual East Coast Kitchen Party
December 6: Candlelight Stroll
December 6 & 7: Rotary Club House Tour
December 14: Christmas Parade
January 10 -26: Niagara IceWine Festival
June 7 & 8: Second Annual NOTL Studio Tour

HELPFUL TIPS
Lost & Found: Did you lose something while you were in Niagara-on-the-Lake? Contact the lost and found centre at the NOTL Chamber of Commerce located at 26 Queen Street in the lower level of the building. Or call 1-905-468-1950 or email tourism@niagaraonthelake.com for more information.

Accessible Parking: Several accessible parking spaces are located throughout the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, both on the street and in municipal parking lots. All vehicles parking in the accessible zone must display an original and current accessible permit. Any vehicle found parked in an accessible zone without the valid accessible permit will be ticketed. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has approved the use of accessible parking permits in the following areas only:

Designated accessible zones/spaces; and
At any meter free of charge, including municipal lots governed by pay-and-display parking meters. In these locations, a pay-and-display permit is not required if the vehicle is displaying a valid accessible permit.