AUSTIN, Texas — October has arrived in Central Texas. Temperatures are down slightly, the aroma of pumpkin spice is in the air, and for many people it’s the best time of the year.

While the coronavirus pandemic has put a damper on holidays in 2020, there are still plenty of things to do to celebrate autumn and Halloween while remaining safe. Here are just a few suggestions:

Barton Hill Farms Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch

Looking for a scenic photo op the whole family can enjoy? Look no further than the annual Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch at Barton Hill Farms. Located in Bastrop, the event is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sunday from October 3 through November 15. You’ll also find a corn maze. Due to COVID-19, capacity is reduced to 50 percent this year and it is completely cashless. Click here for tickets.

Bruce Campbell at the Paramount Theatre

Looking for something a little spookier? The Paramount Theatre in Austin has reopened, and on October 31, Halloween, the landmark is hosting actor and all-around groovy guy Bruce Campbell. Campbell will host a screening of the cult classic Evil Dead, and that will be followed by a Q&A session. It’s probably best to leave the kids at home for this one.

one.

Austin Ghosts

While it’s available year-round, October is undoubtedly the best time to experience Austin Ghosts. Texas’ capital has its share of ghosts and legends. The website for the tour states: “Passion and misfortune find easy homes here along the Colorado River. The result is a city full of true tales of extraordinary lives, dramatic deaths and spectacular hauntings you will see if you take a tour with Austin Ghosts.

For tickets and more information, click here.

House of Torment Haunted Houses

This one is definitely not for young kids or the faint of heat. While a haunted house may seem a little risky during the pandemic, there will be safeguards in place, including temperature screenings, limited capacity, sanitization, and a mask requirement.

For tickets and information, click here. 

Vogel Orchard

Finally, why not take the family on a day trip out to Vogel Orchard in Fredericksburg and pick out your own pumpkin? This Hill Country gem features a pick-your-own-pumpkin patch as well as a wide selection of pies. For more information, click here.