Getting lost in a corn maze might be the one time parents actually encourage their children to take a wrong turn! From pumpkin patches and hayrides to underground trick-or-treating and Appalachian traditions, East Tennessee families have plenty of reasons to get out and explore this week.
Here are activities for Wednesday, October 21, through Tuesday, October 27.
Thursday–Friday, October 22–23
Fall Heritage Days bring history to life
The Museum of Appalachia in Clinton offers students and families an opportunity to experience Appalachian traditions through music, crafts, demonstrations and activities celebrating rural life.
The program returns October 29–30. School and homeschool groups should arrange reservations in advance.
Details: Museum of Appalachia
Thursday–Saturday, October 22–24
BOO! at the Zoo offers not-so-scary fun
Zoo Knoxville continues its Halloween tradition with a trick-or-treat trail, colorful decorations, entertainment and activities designed for children.
The event runs 5:30–9 p.m. on these dates. Advance tickets are recommended.
Details and tickets: Zoo Knoxville
Friday–Sunday, October 23–25
Trick or Treat in the Cave
Cherokee Caverns, 8524 Oak Ridge Highway, offers an underground Halloween experience where families can collect treats while exploring the cave.
This unusual seasonal outing provides a different setting for Halloween fun. Admission applies.
Details and hours: Cherokee Caverns
Saturday, October 24
Explore college possibilities at Pellissippi State
High school students and families can explore educational opportunities at Pellissippi State Community College during Pellissippi Preview, 9 a.m.–noon at the Hardin Valley Campus, 10915 Hardin Valley Road.
Students can learn about academic programs, admissions and financial aid. A virtual preview follows October 29 at 6 p.m.
Details and registration: Pellissippi State
Sunday, October 25
Free Fall in the Foothills celebrates agriculture
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture invites families to Little River Dairy, 3229 Ellejoy Road in Walland, for a free afternoon of agricultural discovery from 2–6 p.m.
Activities include a corn maze, wagon tours, milking demonstrations, farm equipment displays and children’s activities. Concessions will be available.
Families may register at the event. Those who preregister by October 21 can enter a door-prize drawing.
Details: UT Institute of Agriculture
Corn mazes and pumpkin patches to explore
Oakes Farm, Corryton
Looking for a fall adventure on your own schedule? These East Tennessee farms offer corn mazes, pumpkin patches, hayrides and seasonal family activities.
Click each farm’s name to visit its website for current hours, admission prices, available attractions and weather-related updates before visiting.
8240 Corryton Road. Families can navigate the corn maze, ride to the pumpkin patch, visit farm animals and enjoy slides, games and other outdoor attractions.
1126 Maple Lane. An eight-acre corn maze, hayrides, pumpkins and family activities offer traditional fall fun. Separate haunted attractions are available for visitors seeking a bigger scare.
938 Alder Branch Road. Families can explore multiple corn mazes, enjoy hayrides, select pumpkins and visit farm animals and play areas.
9567 U.S. 11. A pumpkin patch, corn maze, wagon rides, farm animals and outdoor play areas make this a popular destination for younger children. The farm accepts cash only.
Echo Valley Corn Maze – Jefferson City
915 Bethel Church Road. This working dairy farm offers corn mazes, hayrides, pumpkin picking, a children’s train, playgrounds and animal encounters.
More family adventures
Families can find additional activities and educational opportunities throughout the year at these local destinations:
- Muse Knoxville – Hands-on science, art and creative exploration.
- Ijams Nature Center – Trails, outdoor adventures and nature education.
- Zoo Knoxville – Animal encounters and conservation programs.
- Knox County Public Library – Storytimes, teen programs and family learning activities.
Looking for more to do? Explore Visit Knoxville’s events calendar for additional festivals, performances, family activities and community events throughout the area.
Have a youth event to share?
Youth Scoop highlights opportunities for children, teens and families throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee. Send upcoming activities to news@knoxtntoday.com.
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