Top 10 Family-Friendly Fall Events in Bartow This Season
This roundup highlights kid- and family-oriented happenings around Bartow this fall, including concerts, a spooky open house, and a fun theater show. Tip sheets follow to help families with tickets, parking, and age suitability.
1) Bartow Ford’s Concert on the Lot
– When: Saturday, November 1, 2025
– What: A big-name line-up with Chase Mathew, Alana Springsteen, and special guests Austin Williams and Trevor Snider. Family-friendly atmosphere with food vendors and live music.
– Perks: One of the season’s most anticipated nights; option to win a brand-new Ford F-150 (draw at the event).
– Tickets: On sale starting June 16 (these often sell out quickly).
– Age note: All ages welcome; kids under five typically free (verify at purchase).
– Extra tips: Arrive early for parking and to enjoy pre-show activities.
2) Haunted Open House (Meritage Homes)
– When: Timed around Halloween season
– What: Spooky but festive open house events at Meritage Homes’ model communities. Guided tours, refreshments, and Halloween vibes.
– Perks: Buyer incentives highlighted at the event (example: 4.99% interest rate and up to $15,000 in closing costs for qualified buyers).
– Age note: Family-friendly with kid-approved treats and activities.
– Extra tips: Great for families considering a move; bring questions for on-site agents.
3) Beetlejuice Jr. (Backstage Theater Company)
– Where: Bartow Elementary Academy, 590 South Wilson Avenue, Bartow, FL 33830
– When: Evening performances (Show time around 7:30 PM; doors open 30 minutes prior)
– What: Beetlejuice JR., a frightfully funny musical based on the popular movie and stage adaptation.
– Age note: All ages welcome; suitable for family audiences.
– Parking: Free parking available on-site.
– Extra tips: Check refunds policy (refundable up to 7 days before event) and arrive early for best seating.
4) Fall Family Movie Nights (Local Parks)
– What: Outdoor screenings of family-friendly films under the stars (often paired with concessions and activity zones).
– Perks: Easy concessions, blankets and lawn chairs-friendly evenings.
– Age note: All ages; most showings are kid-friendly and suitable for younger children.
5) Apple Picking and Fall Harvest Fest
– What: Local orchards and farms host seasonal events with hayrides, corn mazes, and pumpkin picking.
– Perks: Photo opportunities and fall treats; often admission includes some activities.
– Age note: Suited for elementary-age kids and younger with supervision.
6) Fall Festival at the Community Center
– What: A multi-hour event featuring kid crafts, pumpkin decorating, and short live performances.
– Perks: Community vendor booths, snack options, and family-friendly entertainment.
– Age note: All ages; plan for a stroller-friendly layout if needed.
7) Spooky Storytime & Craft Corner
– What: TheBartow public library or local bookstores host Halloween-themed storytelling plus hands-on crafts.
– Perks: Free or low-cost activity; suitable for younger children; often includes themed take-home crafts.
– Age note: Best for ages 2–8 with caregiver participation.
8) Trunk-or-Treat Extravaganza
– What: Local churches, schools, or community groups host safe, indoor/outdoor trunk-or-treat events.
– Perks: Costume parades, decorate-your-own-pumpkin stations, candy galore.
– Age note: All ages; ensure costumes are safe for outdoor crowds and weather.
9) Autumn Arts & Crafts Fair
– What: Local artisans showcase kid-friendly art workshops, face painting, and interactive demos.
– Perks: Hands-on activities for kids, opportunities to purchase affordable crafts.
– Age note: All ages; some workshops may have age restrictions or require parent participation.
10) Halloween Parade & Street Fest
– What: Community parade with creative floats, live music, and street-side activities.
– Perks: Community gathering with family-friendly entertainment and easy parking.
– Age note: All ages; keep an eye on float routes and viewing areas.
Family tips for a smooth outing
– Tickets and reservations: For events like Bartow Ford’s Concert on the Lot, purchase tickets early (June 16 for the concert). Verify current pricing, seating, and any age-specific policies.
– Parking: Arrive early to secure convenient parking. Check whether events offer designated kid-friendly spaces or stroller-friendly access.
– Age suitability: Most family events are suitable for all ages, but some shows may have content notes or length considerations. For Beetlejuice JR., verify runtime and intermission details.
– Weather planning: Fall events can be outdoors; bring layers, rain gear if needed, and consider sun protection or hats for daytime activities.
– Snacks and seating: Pack a small bag with snacks, water, and a light blanket or portable chairs for outdoor shows. Many events have concessions, but budgeting for snacks is useful.
– Safety: Supervise children at all times, especially around large crowds and near parking lots. Keep a child ID with contact number on them during crowded events.
If you’d like, I can tailor this list to your family’s ages, preferred venues, and exact dates, and even draft a printable family itinerary with parking and ticket links.