Looking for fall events and things to do in North Bay, Ontario? From colourful fall hikes and scenic tours to harvest dining, farmers’ markets, live music, family fun and Halloween experiences, North Bay offers plenty of reasons to plan an autumn getaway. Explore some of the best things to do throughout September and October 2026, and discover why fall is one of the best times to visit Northern Ontario.
Now every season has its own charm but then comes the one where everything around you starts to feel a little unreal. In North Bay, warm summer winds turn into cool breezes and the leaves shift into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. Suddenly you’re craving a Cinnamon Latte and something warm to eat. Store windows fill with leafy decor and hints of Halloween magic, the days grow shorter than summer’s endless ones, and your cute, knitted sweaters finally come out of storage.
And somewhere in there, your mind starts wandering — to the Earth’s golden display all around you, a weekend road trip, and all the ways you can get outside before winter arrives.
If all that leads you to one perfect destination, just far enough north for fall to feel a little different, it’s this: the Gateway to the North, North Bay. A place that embraces fall and everything that comes with it.
Because fall in North Bay isn’t just the season. It’s something to taste, celebrate, listen to, and experience. It’s a like a festival all season long.
Looking for more ways to get outside and experience the fall foliage? From colourful hikes and scenic paddles to cycling routes, ATV adventures and breathtaking views from above, there are plenty of ways to experience autumn outdoors in North Bay. Check out Seven Ways to FALL in Love with North Bay for more outdoor adventures and colourful ways to make the most of the season.
Fall Events You Won’t Want to Miss
SEPTEMBER
Taste the Bay: Fall Harvest Experience
This autumn, the Fall Harvest Experience is back for its second edition — and it’s showing up with an even more diverse lineup of participating restaurants. Running from Monday, September 14th to October 31st, 2026, Taste the Bay invites you to savor the season’s harvest with a three-course prix-fixe menu at restaurants across the city.
It’s the easiest way to taste fall in North Bay, one plate at a time — a celebration of North Bay’s chefs, farmers, artisans, and vibrant food scene.
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- Cecil’s Kitchen
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- Average Joe’s
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- Farina’s
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- Marigold’s
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- The Block
Fall Colours Tour
If you’re already Googling “best fall colours near me,” let us in on a little secret: North Bay’s Fall Colours Tour is a spectacular way to experience the season. On select dates from September 18 to October 3, 2026, head to Laurentian Ski Hill for panoramic views of North Bay’s colourful fall landscape. After a short walk down the hill, enjoy a scenic chairlift ride above the vibrant canopy — and for the first time ever, climb the Conservation Tower for even more breathtaking views as part of your tour ticket.
Bay Beats Music Festival
Thought we’d miss out on music? Absolutely not.
Bay Beats 2026 is bringing the rhythm back to North Bay on September 19 with a festival that celebrates live music, artists, culture, and the creative energy of the region.
Whether you’re a die-hard indie-rock fan, a lover of contemporary soul, or just looking to experience the best of our regional cultural scene, there’s plenty to look forward to.
All the things you love about a summer festival, just with a little more sweater weather.
North Bay Farmers’ Market — Fall Fair
It doesn’t stop just because summer’s over. On September 19th, the North Bay Farmers’ Market will host its 6th Annual Fall Fair in Downtown North Bay, bringing thousands of people together to celebrate local food, farming, artisans, makers, and tradespeople — with live music, family activities, and interactive displays from local community organizations.
And the best part? It’s free to attend, so everyone can come out and enjoy it.
Pride Cruise aboard Chief Commanda II
As part of the Gateway Pride Festival, the Chief Commanda II will set sail for a Pride Cruise on September 19. Join in for an evening of dining, entertainment, and community on the water, with a meal included with your ticket and a licensed bar available on board.
The event is 19+ (IDs will be checked), and guests are asked to arrive before 6 p.m. for departure. It’s a fun way to celebrate Pride with a little North Bay waterfront magic.
Leisure Farms — Pumpkin Patch & Fright Night
About 30 minutes west of North Bay, Leisure Farms turns into fall headquarters for the season, starting on Saturday September 26th and running through till Sunday 25th of October.
Bounce on the giant pillow, wander through the corn maze, brave the haunted barn, fire off the pumpkin cannon, and, of course, find the perfect pumpkin to take home and decorate.
It’s part-classic fall day out, part Halloween fun, and completely worth the drive. So yes, you can absolutely make a whole afternoon out of pumpkins.
OCTOBER
By the time October rolls around, North Bay gets a little spookier — and there are plenty of ways to get into the Halloween spirit.
Haunted Hike at the North Bay Museum
Every Friday in October, starting at 6 p.m., the North Bay Museum’s Haunted Hike takes you through downtown with a mix of true crime stories, ghost tales, and haunting local history.
The 60-minute walking tour begins at the museum, the old Canadian Pacific Railway Station, before making its way through downtown and past some of North Bay’s historic landmarks. Recommended for ages 10 and up, it’s a spooky way to see the city from a completely different perspective.
Fright Week at the Capitol Centre
From October 29th to the 31st, the Capitol Centre is bringing three iconic horror stories to the stage: Frankenstein, The Wolf Man, and Dracula. Each night features a different stand-alone story, so you can pick your favorite or catch all three for a full weekend of fright.
Tricks & Treats Halloween Market
On October 31st, The Maker’s Market is hosting a Tricks & Treats Halloween Market from 10am to 2pm. This free, family-friendly event features trick-or-treating from vendor to vendor, Halloween-inspired goodies, music, activities for kids, and a free magic show at 11am. Costumes are totally encouraged.
Stay a Little Longer
With so much happening throughout September and October, why not make a weekend of it?
From downtown hotels & motels to cozy cottages and lakeside stays; there are plenty of ways to turn your fall visit into a colourful getaway. Come for the events, stay for the season.