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Crisp weather and clear skies make spending time outside a joy in the fall. While apple picking and pumpkin carving are autumn classics, why not find something different to do? Festivals are the perfect place to support your community, spend time with friends and enjoy time outdoors. If you’re looking for seasonal activities both family-friendly and adult-exclusive, check out our list of the top 10 Texas festivals in October.

Family fun

41st Annual Fall Butterfly Festival Oct 21, Downtown Jasper (Admission: Free!)

Downtown Jasper’s Fall Butterfly Festival is an event the whole family can enjoy. Located on the historic County Courthouse Square grounds, grownups can shop local crafts and home-made specialties while the kids participate in fall games and activities. Then, head over to the Jasper Arboretum Butterfly House and gardens for plant sales, live music and special butterfly releases! Visit JasperCOC.org for more information.

Annual Ennis Autumn Daze Oct 21, Downtown Ennis (Admission: Free!)

Join the residents of Ennis as they celebrate their annual Autumn Daze festival. This family-friendly celebration features activities such as pumpkin painting, a hay maze, pony rides and more. While the kids play, adults can browse locally made crafts, delicious treats, and listen to live music courtesy of the Chaz Marie Band. Attendees will also have access to the Ennis Railroad and Cultural Heritage Museum.

Hamilton County Dove Festival Oct 28, Hamilton (Admission: $10, free for kids 10 and under)

Visitors of all ages will love the countrified events at the 46^th annual Dove Festival, hosted by the Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce. Watch or participate in a lineup of activities like the chicken cookoff challenges, bull riding, parades and more. Little ones can have even more fun with a Kid Zone wristband, which gives them access to the bounce house, rock wall, hamster ball races and obstacle course. With live music and entertainment all day long, there’s always something new to do or see! To enter an event or buy tickets, visit HamiltonDoveFest.com.

Festival of Pumpkins Oct 28, Downtown Paris (Admission: Free!)

It isn’t fall without pumpkins! The city of Paris is hosting a festival honoring everyone’s favorite autumnal icon with various events and activities for all age groups to enjoy. Community members and travelers alike are welcome to partake in festival favorites like the pet pageant, costume competition and of course, pumpkin decorating. Local vendors will also be there for your seasonal snack-related needs. To apply to be a vendor or learn more about the Festival of Pumpkins, visit ParistTexas.gov.

Main Street Fright Fest Oct 31, Temple (Admission: Free!)

If you’re looking for some treats without the tricks, bring the whole family to Temple’s Fright Fest. This event is a scare-free space, with activities like ring toss, face painting and more. Visitors can wander Main Street while chowing down on local fare and shopping the arts and crafts vendors. Don’t forget to come dressed to impress for the costume contest! Admission is free but a suggested donation of two canned goods per family will go towards Food for Families. Learn more about this festival at TourTexas.com.

No kids allowed

Zest in the West Oct 18, Houston (Admission: $65+)

This month, Houston’s Zest in the West festival is celebrating a decade of decadence with 3 exclusive events highlighting a luxurious selection of wine and food. Starting with Bubbles & Brews, patrons can enjoy premiere sparkling wines and specialty craft brews while listening to live music. The Grand Zesting comes next, featuring more fine wines, culinary creations and an auction benefiting the West Houston Leadership Institute. The night ends at the Chateau Crystale VIP Luxury Lounge for food, drinks and gaming tables. To purchase individual tickets or the Total VVIP Experience package, visit ZestInTheWest.com.

FiestaJAM Oct 20-22, Lake Marble Falls (Admission: $25+)

This year’s FiestaJAM features a lineup of talented musicians from across Texas. Visitors can expect to hear a range of genres, from rock ‘n roll to singer/songwriter and classic country. In addition to musical performances, FiestaJAM is also hosting a wine and chocolate tasting, which will showcase the area’s wines and artisanal chocolates. The goal of FiestaJAM is to nurture a passion for arts and music in the local community, so head to scenic Lake Marble for a dose of fun and relaxation among fellow music-lovers. Visit FiestaJAM.org to purchase tickets.

Bacon Bash Oct 21, Cranfills Gap (Admission: $50)

What’s better than bacon? Bacon with a cause! This year, the nation’s largest Bacon Cook Off is helping raise money for children with Type 1 diabetes and Niki Warms the Cold, an organization that helps fight homelessness. Join thousands of other bacon-enthusiasts and indulge in award-winning bacon dishes and craft brews while listening to a stellar lineup of Texas country artists. Visit BaconBashTexas.com to learn more and purchase tickets.

The United States of Texas Wine Festival Oct 22, Florence (Admission: $25)

The Vineyard at Florence is hosting this years United States of Texas Wine Festival for vino-lovers across the state. Visitors can sip special-release wines as they stroll through vendors’ booths and talk with local vintners. The price of tickets also includes a tote bag, a souvenir glass and 12 wine pours to enjoy throughout the day. Visit the Vineyard at Florence to purchase your tickets today.

Fredericksburg Food & Wine Fest Oct 26-28, Downtown Fredericksburg (Admission: $25+)

Located in Historic Downtown Fredericksburg, this October’s Food & Wine Fest offers incredible wines and craft beers from more than 30 Texas vineyards and breweries. Visitors can sample food and drinks from local vendors, participate in cooking class demonstrations and partake in gourmet meals in beautiful outdoor settings. All the events also include live entertainment and exciting activities, so drop the kids off with a babysitter and head to Fredericksburg for a weekend you won’t forget. To purchase tickets or become a patron, visit FBGFoodAndWineFest.com.