Find Some Free Fall Activities in Kalamazoo
As each day passes in late August, the little hints of fall start to appear.
Evenings now include a brisk breeze. Lake swimming is now too cold for comfort. And the last of summer’s perennials have bloomed, signaling the leaves changing is just around the corner.
While we pack up the swimsuits and shorts and find that all of our pants are now capri length, we prep for cooler weather, clothes shopping for longer pants, and fall activities.
With the seasons changing, we are ready for new adventures in Kalamazoo: try this list for free fall activities and events in Southwest Michigan.
In this Guide
Free Fall Events in SWMI
Organizations are starting to announce their seasonal events, and we are excited! Try these free fall events and check our calendar often as we continue to make updates:
1 – Kick off Fall at Schultz Fruitridge Farms
60139 County Road 652 Mattawan, MI 49071
Schultz’s Donut Depot opening is an unofficial sign of fall in SWMI. In addition to donuts, dine on food truck food, enjoy live music and pick some apples at this free event in Mattawan.
When: September 7
2 – Celebrate Oktoberfest in Portage
9010 S Westnedge Ave, Portage, MI 49002
Enjoy live music, dancing, food and a fun run with the Portage Park Foundations’ Oktoberfest. Admission is free; food and beverages are available for purchase.
When: September 14
3 – Visit the Creative Arts Festival in Otsego
Downtown Otsego
The Creative Arts Festival returns to downtown Otsego. Events include a tractor show, car show and pet parade.
You will also find activities for kids and teens, pygmy goats, music, dancing, a corn hole tournament, and food trucks.
When: September 28
4 – Trick or Treat Downtown
Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
Head downtown for Boos in the Zoo for trick or treating, games and costume contests.
When: October 12, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
5 – Get in the Halloween Spirit with Trick or Treat on the Trails
6225 N 39th St Augusta, MI 49012
This annual event returns to Sherman Lake. Trick or Treat on the Trails will begin at The Park and wind its way through the trails of Sherman Lake YMCA Camp. Be sure to bring a bag or bucket to collect your treats!
Trick or Treat on the Trails is a FREE event, but registration is required.
When: October 18, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
All Free Events
Use this mega list to find all of the free fun this fall season in SW Michigan.
Note: this list excludes recurring events like storytimes. Use our full event calendar to find these activities on repeat.
More (Unscheduled) Free Fall Activities
Need some activities with flexibility? Here are some free things to do that aren’t scheduled events:
6 – Visit the KVM Downtown
230 N Rose St, Kalamazoo, MI 49007
The Kalamazoo Valley Museum always offers free admission to all visitors. Walk in or reserve your tickets online.
The museum is open six days per week (closed Mondays).
Note: While the museum is free, you will likely have to pay for parking downtown.
7 – See Some Dinos
Rood Hall, 2101 Wilbur Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49006
Western Michigan University’s Dinosaur Park is worth the visit. There is no charge to hang out with these prehistoric pals, but be mindful of campus parking rules.
8 – Go for a Hike
Take in all of the beautiful fall colors on a local hike.
Suggested spot: watch the water squirt up through the planks at West Lake Nature Preserve in Portage. They have a great nature-themed playground at the trailhead too.
9 – Have Dinner Out with Free Kids’ Meals
Make dinner out more affordable with free or discounted meals for the kiddos.
Note: Kids Eat Free deals apply to dine-in customers only (no delivery or carryout).
10 – Try a New Playground
Visit a new-to-you playground! We’ve got the scoop on which ones have swings, mess-free surfaces and are toddler-friendly.
11 – Go on a Mural Crawl
Downtown Kalamazoo, surrounding communities
Kalamazoo’s buildings are covered in dozens of masterpieces. Take our map and go explore these artistic beauties outside.
mural: A Day in the Park by Ellen VanderMyde
12 – Feed the Fish at Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery
34270 County Rd 652, Mattawan, MI 49071
Admission is always free to this hidden gem in Mattawan, with walking trails, visitor center and fish feeding (bring quarters). Be sure to try their free kids’ programs too.
12 – Enjoy (Nearly) Free Admission to Local Museums
Museums for All
EBT cardholders can visit museums for $3/person or less, using the Museums for All program. Just bring ID and your EBT card to redeem.
What are your favorite free fall activities in SWMI?
Leave us a comment with your favorite free fall events, activities or other fun stuff to do in autumn in the Kalamazoo area.
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