---
title: "Things to Do: October 15 - 21"
description: Discover engaging family activities in Charlotte, including storytimes, play sessions, and educational events for children of all ages.
---

<https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog>

# [Things to Do: October 15 - 21](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21)

 Written by [Emily](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/author/emily) | Oct 14, 2026, 7:52:19 PM

#### Jump To:

[Thursday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Thursday)

[Friday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Friday)

[Saturday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Saturday)

[Sunday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Sunday)

[Monday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Monday)

[Tuesday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Tuesday)

[Wednesday](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21?hs_amp=true#Wednesday)

### All Week

**Mint Hill Madness**  
Mint Hill throws a town birthday party with carnival rides, a kids' market, battle reenactments, and fireworks on Saturday night at 9:30pm.  
📍 Mint Hill Veterans Park  
🕒 Thursday 4:00pm to 9:00pm, Friday 4:00pm to 10:00pm, Saturday 11:00am to 10:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Cannons go off throughout the day, so bring ear protection for babies and noise-sensitive toddlers. Thursday is the only day the $30 all-you-can-ride wristbands are sold.  
Cost: Free admission, pay for food, drinks, games, and rides  
[Plan Your Visit](http://minthillmadnessfestival.org/)

**Pineville Fall Fest**  
Carnival rides, food trucks, a dog show, and a pie eating contest all land at Jack D. Hughes Park for three days.  
📍 Jack D. Hughes Park  
🕒 Thursday 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Friday 5:00pm to 9:00pm, Saturday 10:00am to 9:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Saturday is the only day it opens at 10:00am, so that's the one to pick if your kid's good mood expires before dinner.  
Cost: Not listed on the town's page  
[See Details](https://www.pinevillenc.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation/fall-fest/)

**Carolina BalloonFest**  
The second oldest hot air balloon festival in the country takes over Statesville with balloon glows on Friday and Saturday evenings, a Kids Zone, and a drone show.  
📍 Carolina BalloonFest, Statesville  
🕒 Friday through Sunday, October 16 to 18 (daily hours are on the festival schedule)  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Online tickets for all three days are closed and parking is sold out, and the festival says gate admission isn't guaranteed. Skip this one unless you already bought a ticket.  
Cost: Sold out online  
[More Info](https://www.carolinaballoonfest.com/)

**Tricks and Treats at Carowinds**  
Carowinds runs a daytime Halloween with a trick-or-treat trail, a pumpkin patch, and a costume contest before the scares come out after dark.  
📍 Carowinds  
🕒 Saturday and Sunday, starting at 11:00am (select days only, closing time not listed)  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Buy online, since tickets start at $45 online and $80 at the gate. It only runs select days, so confirm your date on the calendar before you go.  
Cost: Park admission from $45 online, $80 at the gate  
[Get Tickets](https://www.sixflags.com/carowinds/events/tricks-and-treats)

**Charlotte Chalk Art Festival**  
Artists turn the pavement into a chalk gallery over two days, with music, DJs, and a community chalking area where your kid can add their own.  
📍 NoDa Brewing Company  
🕒 Saturday and Sunday, 12:00pm to 5:00pm each day  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Community chalking is the kid zone, so dress them in clothes you don't care about and expect chalk knees.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://charlottechalkartfestival.com/)

### Thursday, October 15

**Family Storytime: Celebrate Winnie the Pooh**  
The library is celebrating 100 years of Pooh and wants you to bring your own teddy bear to storytime.  
📍 Pineville Branch Library  
🕒 9:30am to 10:00am  
👶 Best For: Babies through preschool, ages 0 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Space is limited and tickets are handed out at the front desk 15 minutes before, so get there early.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a71ff15cca66c2f00a81921)

**Preschool Ballet Classes (Culture Blocks)**  
Free ballet for preschoolers from Ignite Dance Productions, sponsored by Culture Blocks, with games, music, and simple ballet steps.  
📍 Mallard Creek Recreation Center  
🕒 9:30am to 10:15am  
👶 Best For: Ages 3 to 6 (must have turned 3 by August 1, 2026)  
💡 Parent Tip: Your kid needs to be bathroom independent. You can drop in for one class or the whole series, and dance attire is encouraged but not required.  
Cost: Free  
[Book Now](https://www.ignitedanceproductions.com/freecommunityclasses)

**The Wiggle Squad**  
A free movement class for the two to four year old crowd, which is a good use of a Thursday morning.  
📍 Tuckaseegee Recreation Center  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 4  
💡 Parent Tip: Register online since it fills fast, and do it the second you read this.  
Cost: Free  
[Register Here](https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/mecklenburgparks/activity/search/detail/179367?onlineSiteId=0&locale=en-US&from_original_cui=true)

**Life Skills Through Theatre Skills (Culture Blocks)**  
The Children's Theatre of Charlotte teaches a free creative drama and art class for ages 2 to 5, sponsored by Culture Blocks, a Mecklenburg County partnership.  
📍 David B. Waymer Recreation Center  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: The same class runs on four different days at four rec centers, so pick the day that fits your week.   
Cost: Free  
[Learn More](https://ctcharlotte.org/Online/default.asp?BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::permalink=cultureblocks&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::context_id=)

**Reading with Rocky: Littles & Lit**  
The Outpost's raccoon mascot reads It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, then the kids do a craft and eat an allergy friendly snack.  
📍 The Outpost  
🕒 10:30am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Pay the $5 per child for supplies on the event page ahead of time.  
Cost: $5 per child  
[Register Here](https://theoutpostlkn.com/products/reading-with-rocky-story-time-october)

**Storytime in the Park @ Squirrel Lake Park**  
Matthews Library staff move storytime outside to the park, with stories, songs, and movement for the whole age range.  
📍 Squirrel Lake Park  
🕒 11:00am to 11:30am  
👶 Best For: Babies through preschool, ages 0 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Bring something to sit on. They cancel for bad weather, so call the Matthews branch at 704-416-5000 if the sky looks iffy.  
Cost: Free  
[Worth A Try](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a7cc193452bb101b574b75b)

**STEAM 101 Garden Sprouts**  
Preschoolers water and weed the library's deck garden, and they get to touch, smell, and taste the plants.  
📍 North County Regional Library  
🕒 11:30am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Preschoolers, ages 3 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: The deck doesn't unlock until 11:30am and closes promptly at noon, so don't plan a leisurely arrival. No registration needed.  
Cost: Free  
[See Details](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a0a0dd58360de907d878887)

**Toddler Time at Big Air**  
Big Air sets aside the trampoline park for ages 6 and under, with fewer big kids around so toddlers can jump at their own pace.  
📍 Big Air Charlotte  
🕒 12:00pm to 3:00pm  
👶 Best For: Ages 6 and under  
💡 Parent Tip: Grip socks are required. It's not available when local schools are out on break, so check the calendar on school holiday weeks.  
Cost: $12 per toddler, parent free, $5 for a parent who wants to jump  
[Plan Your Visit](https://www.bigairusa.com/programs/charlotte)

**KiddieCade Happy Hour**  
Two hours at The Kiddie Cade with lounge seating and Wi-Fi, so you can answer emails while they play.  
📍 The Kiddie Cade  
🕒 1:00pm to 3:00pm  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 and up  
💡 Parent Tip: Book ahead, since it's a set two hour block.  
Cost: $35 for 2 hours  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://thekiddiecade.com/)

**Pascuales Farm Night Market**  
Produce, eggs, goat and pork, craft vendors, and live music at the farm, rain or shine.  
📍 Pascuales Farm  
🕒 5:00pm to 8:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Bring a bag and cash. Updates are on Facebook, so in case of inclement weather confirm it's running before you drive out.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://www.facebook.com/pascualesfarm/)

 

### Friday, October 16

**Learning for Littles**  
A read-aloud story, puppets, and a nature activity outside the Trailhead Store at Daniel Stowe.  
📍 Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (Trailhead Store Picnic Area)  
🕒 9:00am to 9:45am  
👶 Best For: Ages 0 to 4 with a caregiver  
💡 Parent Tip: If it rains they move onto the Trailhead Store porch, so don't cancel for a drizzle. No registration needed.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://danielstoweconservancy.org/event/learning-for-littles-15/2026-10-16/)

**Betty Bookworms: Storytime + Coffee**  
Storytime and coffee at Betty by Moxie Mercantile on Thomas Ave.  
📍 Betty by Moxie Mercantile  
🕒 9:30am to 10:30am  
👶 Best For: Babies through preschoolers  
💡 Parent Tip: It runs a full hour, longer than most library storytimes, so you can actually finish the coffee.  
Cost: Free  
[Worth A Try](https://moxiemercantile.com/pages/events)

**Let's Play Pretend: Autumn at the Farmer's Market**  
Two hours of self-directed play set up like a fall farmers market, with toys, crafts, and stories.  
📍 Independence Regional Library  
🕒 10:00am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Ages 0 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: It's self-directed play, so you set the pace and nobody's herding you into a circle at 10:00am sharp.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa81656129d8e0031f2192f)

**Toddler Time at Two Little Acres**  
A weekly toddler class at the homestead with a theme that changes every week.  
📍 Two Little Acres  
🕒 10:00am start (end time not listed)  
👶 Best For: Ages 1 to 4  
💡 Parent Tip: Spots are limited, so register the second you see it.  
Cost: $25  
[Register Here](https://www.hisawyer.com/two-little-acres/schedules?schedule_id=all&slug=two-little-acres)

**Splash About and Explore**  
A free 30 minute Splash About and Explore session at Charlotte Aquatics for babies through preschoolers.  
📍 Charlotte Aquatics  
🕒 10:00am to 10:30am  
👶 Best For: Ages 6 months to 5 years  
💡 Parent Tip: Registration is required, so sign up early in the week. If this week looks full, you can still sign up for a future week.  
Cost: Free  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://app.jackrabbitclass.com/eventcalendar.asp?orgID=507458)

 

### Saturday, October 17

**Sensory Friendly Morning**  
The lights go low and the noisy stuff, including the air maze, gets turned off for an hour at Main Street Children's Museum.  
📍 Main Street Children's Museum, Rock Hill, SC  
🕒 9:00am to 10:00am  
👶 Best For: Kids with sensory sensitivities (no age range listed)  
💡 Parent Tip: This hour is reserved for guests with sensory sensitivities, so it's a different thing than regular open play.  
Cost: Free  
[Learn More](https://chmuseums.org/event/sensory-friendly-morning-2/)

**Daddy and Me: Culinary Exploration**  
A 30 minute kitchen themed class for babies and toddlers. Despite the name, any caregiver is welcome.  
📍 The Bunny Hive Charlotte  
🕒 10:00am to 10:30am  
👶 Best For: Babies and toddlers  
💡 Parent Tip: Bring socks and leave the nut snacks at home.  
Cost: $30 drop-in  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://www.thebunnyhive.com/schedule-walla)

**Kitty Time**  
Mac Tabby opens its NoDa cat lounge to families for a half hour before regular hours.  
📍 Mac Tabby Cat Cafe  
🕒 10:00am to 10:30am  
👶 Best For: Ages 0 to 6  
💡 Parent Tip: It runs before the cafe opens, so your kid gets the cats without the regular crowd. Reserve through their NoDa reservations page.  
Cost: $10 per person  
[Book Now](https://www.mactabby.com/noda-reservations/)

**Halloween Family Costume Walk**  
The Mom Walk Collective kicks off its October calendar with a costume walk at Park Road Park.  
📍 Park Road Park  
🕒 10:00am start (end time not listed)  
👶 Best For: Families  
💡 Parent Tip: The Mom Walk Collective has six events this month, four on weekdays, so this is a good way to find a walking crew.  
Cost: Not listed  
[RSVP Here](https://www.themomwalkcollective.app/event/324795f2-7de4-445c-a210-5a7f6accb1f8)

**Pumpkin Painting at West Boulevard Library**  
Drop in any time in a three hour window, paint a pumpkin, and take it home.  
📍 West Boulevard Library  
🕒 10:00am to 1:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: It's while materials last, so go early if you want a pumpkin guaranteed.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aac3e083dd190003e72b0ce)

**Young Entrepreneur Market**  
Kids sell what they've made and built, and you get to be a customer for people who still say "thank you" with their whole face.  
📍 The Outpost at Lake Norman  
🕒 10:00am to 1:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: If your kid has a business idea of their own, there's a vendor form on the event page for the next one.  
Cost: Free  
[More Info](https://theoutpostlkn.com/products/young-entrepreneur-market)

**Harvest at the Haven**  
Kids pull vegetables out of the garden beds, help get the beds ready for a winter crop, make seasonal crafts, and go looking for creepy crawlies.  
📍 Wing Haven Gardens (SEED Wildlife & Children's Garden)  
🕒 10:00am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Children ages 10 and under and their families  
💡 Parent Tip: Pricing is per family, so a two kid family pays once. Bring a non-perishable food item for the Second Harvest drive.  
Cost: $25 members, $30 non-members, per family  
[Register Here](https://winghavengardens.org/events-calendar/harvest-at-the-haven)

**Owl-O-Ween**  
Costumes, a trick-or-treat trail along the Raptor Trail, and costume contests for Best Bird Costume, Best Non-Bird Costume, and Best Group Costume.  
📍 Carolina Raptor Center  
🕒 10:00am to 3:30pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Bring your own bag for trick-or-treating. The Meet a Raptor programs (11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm) have limited seating that opens 15 minutes before, first come, first served.  
Cost: Included in admission: $16 adults, $12 ages 3 to 12, free ages 0 to 2. Advance tickets recommended.  
[Get Tickets](https://carolinaraptorcenter.org/owloween/)

**Donkey Meet & Greet**  
The Greenway's donkeys get a 90 minute fan club.  
📍 Anne Springs Close Greenway  
🕒 10:30am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Toddlers and up  
💡 Parent Tip: Grab lunch at the Greenway Canteen after.  
Cost: Not listed  
[Plan Your Visit](https://www.ascgreenway.org/event/donkey-meet-greet-11/2026-10-17/)

**Spooky Saturdays: Nature's Disappearing Acts**  
Learn how animals from leaf insects to copperheads vanish into the background, then make a camouflage craft and handle specimens from the museum's collection.  
📍 Museum of York County, Rock Hill, SC  
🕒 11:00am to 2:00pm  
👶 Best For: Kids and families (no age range listed)  
💡 Parent Tip: It runs three hours, so it fits around a nap.  
Cost: Not listed  
[See Details](https://chmuseums.org/event/spooky-3/)

**The Great Costume Swap**  
Bring a clean costume your kid has outgrown and leave with a new-to-you one, no money involved.  
📍 Innovation Barn  
🕒 11:00am to 4:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Leave anything stained or damaged at home. No costume to swap is fine, you can still browse, and Change Please Coffee is on site.  
Cost: Free  
[Worth A Try](https://www.facebook.com/events/1118192427551150)

**Yoga with Your Baby**  
Gentle baby yoga and caregiver stretching, then open playtime for babies who have not started walking yet.  
📍 SouthPark Regional Library  
🕒 11:15am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Babies 6 weeks to 17 months who aren't walking yet  
💡 Parent Tip: Register only the adult, since baby is included. Bring a mat or towel, plus a blanket for baby.  
Cost: Free, registration required  
[Register Here](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a95f18529a7dd0d67481154)

**Frank's Chili Fest**  
A Plaza Midwood street festival with chili, music, and beer, and the money goes to unexplained pediatric death research and family grief support.  
📍 Plaza Midwood, Commonwealth Ave. & Thomas St.  
🕒 12:00pm to 4:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: It gets super crowded, so get there early. Save your vote for the very end (my favorite was the first one I tried, but still), and don't skip the random entries. Workman's Friends is an Irish pub and I loved their chili.  
Cost: $20 donation for a chili tasting wristband  
[Show Up](https://frankmcleanforever.org/plaza-midwood-chili-festival)

**Montford Park Block Party**  
A neighborhood block party with two live bands, food trucks, local vendors, and giveaways.  
📍 Montford Park (Park Road Top Lot)  
🕒 1:00pm to 6:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Drinks from Wicked Weed, Liquid Death, and Michelob Ultra are for purchase, so this one has a grown-up side too.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://www.montfordpark.org/events)

**Lake Norman Diwali**  
A Diwali celebration with a festive ride through the park, a giant bouncy house, cultural performances, and a diya lighting ceremony with a light show at the end.  
📍 Veterans Park, Huntersville  
🕒 1:30pm to 6:30pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: The Indian outfit try-on (sarees, ghagras, sherwanis, and turbans) uses sign ups, so ask about it as soon as you arrive.  
Cost: Free  
[Learn More](https://www.facebook.com/events/3044162155779625)

**Pickin' on the Porch**  
Free live music on the Trailhead Store porch, with LorieAnn Dalley playing this week.  
📍 Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (Trailhead Store porch)  
🕒 2:00pm to 4:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: It's weather permitting, so check the event page before you drive to Belmont.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://danielstoweconservancy.org/event/pickin-on-the-porch/2026-10-17/)

**13th International Fall Festival**  
OurBridge for Kids puts global cultures on stage with live music and dance, then adds pumpkin carving, soccer, bounce houses, and horse rides.  
📍 OurBridge for Kids  
🕒 2:00pm to 6:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Come hungry, because food from around the world is the move here.  
Cost: Free, donations appreciated  
[More Info](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/13th-international-fall-fest-tickets-1992057913845)

**Fort Mill Fall Festival**  
Touch-A-Truck with town vehicles, costume contests for every age, live music, and roving entertainment.  
📍 Walter Elisha Park, Fort Mill, SC  
🕒 2:00pm to 6:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Touch-A-Truck is the big draw for toddlers, so head there first.  
Cost: Free  
[Plan Your Visit](https://www.fortmillsc.gov/486/Fort-Mill-Fall-Festival)

**Make-A-Wish Trunk or Treat**  
The Make-A-Wish Central and Western NC Young Professionals group is bringing decorated trunks, candy, raffle prizes, and family activities, and your visit supports granting wishes for local kids with critical illnesses.  
📍 6324 Fairview Road, Suite 500  
🕒 3:00pm to 5:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Costumes are encouraged, and it wraps up at 5:00pm, which is exactly when Idlewild's Trunk or Treat starts if your kids want a second round of candy.  
Cost: Free  
[RSVP Here](https://www.facebook.com/events/1058275636827430/)

**Charlotte Aquatics Fall Festival**  
Charlotte Aquatics celebrates its 30th anniversary with a parking lot festival that has games, prizes, a kids' craft station, and a bounce house.  
📍 Charlotte Aquatics  
🕒 3:30pm to 5:30pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: It's only two hours, so it works as a quick stop before dinner.  
Cost: Free  
[See Details](https://www.facebook.com/events/3163406643866923)

**Idlewild Fall Fair & Trunk or Treat**  
Hayrides, inflatables, games, and free hot dogs, with Trunk or Treat kicking off at 5:00pm.  
📍 Idlewild Baptist Church  
🕒 4:00pm to 7:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Trunk or Treat doesn't start until 5:00pm, so use the first hour for hayrides and hot dogs.  
Cost: Free, all activities and food included  
[Check It Out](https://idlewildbaptist.org/events/fall-fair-trunk-or-treat/)

**Mischief and a Movie**  
Roaming characters, a DJ, a coloring wall, and balloon twisters, ending with The Addams Family (2019) on the lawn.  
📍 Rea Farms  
🕒 4:00pm to 9:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Line up on the lawn at 5:30pm for the 5:45pm costume parade. The candy at participating retailers runs 6:00pm to 7:00pm, right before the 7:00pm movie.  
Cost: Free  
[Worth A Try](https://www.reafarmsclt.com/events/mischief-and-a-movie-6ckx7-rjh6j-7gx4a)

**Nature at Night Festival**  
Live animals, night hikes, wagon rides, and s'mores after dark at the nature preserve.  
📍 McDowell Nature Preserve  
🕒 5:00pm to 9:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages, kids 2 and under get in free  
💡 Parent Tip: Registration is required and space is limited, and food trucks sell meals on site, so plan dinner here.  
Cost: $7 per person  
[Register Here](https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/mecklenburgparks/activity/search/detail/167406?onlineSiteId=0&locale=en-US&from_original_cui=true)

**DEAFinitely Movie Night**  
A free outdoor night for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing families with Giant Jenga, cornhole, and Minecraft and Deaf culture trivia before A Minecraft Movie.  
📍 The Green at Prosperity Village  
🕒 6:00pm start, movie at about 7:00pm (end time not listed)  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: The movie starts after sunset with an ASL interpreter shown at the bottom of the screen, so use the 6:00pm start for the games.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://www.deafinitelyfun.com/events)

### Sunday, October 18

**Toddler Time at Big Air**  
Big Air sets aside the trampoline park for ages 6 and under, with fewer big kids around so toddlers can jump at their own pace.  
📍 Big Air Charlotte  
🕒 9:00am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Ages 6 and under  
💡 Parent Tip: 9:00am to 11:00am is exclusively for ages 6 and under. Siblings 7 and up are welcome for $20 and have to follow the toddler rules and jump gently. Grip socks are required.  
Cost: $12 per toddler, parent free, $5 for a parent who wants to jump  
[Plan Your Visit](https://www.bigairusa.com/programs/charlotte)

**Boo Goo! Slime-Making Baby Animal Event**  
Kids make slime from scratch with Halloween colors and gross mix-ins, then cuddle baby chicks, ducklings, and bunnies and meet a baby goat named Boo.  
📍 Two Little Acres  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 3 to 13, though the description says 2 and up  
💡 Parent Tip: Each reservation covers one child and one adult, extra adults are $12, and everything is nonrefundable (cancel 24 hours ahead for a makeup code).  
Cost: $39 per reservation plus fees, 10% sibling discount  
[Register Here](https://www.hisawyer.com/two-little-acres/schedules/activity-set/2024519?source=all-activities)

**Pumpkin Painting Design Studio**  
Little artists paint their own pumpkin to take home, in a session put together with The Party Palette.  
📍 Grow Cafe  
🕒 11:00am to 12:30pm  
👶 Best For: Little artists (no age range listed)  
💡 Parent Tip: The painted pumpkin comes home with you, so clear a spot in the car.  
Cost: $25 plus a $0.63 ticket fee  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://www.growcafeclt.com/event-details/pumpkin-painting-design-studio)

**Autumn ComicFest**  
Free comics, manga, and graphic novels at the library's second annual fall celebration.  
📍 Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library  
🕒 1:30pm to 4:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Costumes are welcome, so your kid's Halloween outfit gets an early debut.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a9c795060ccaf01c023aa28)

**Autumn ComicFest Costume & Décor Swap**  
Trade your old Halloween costumes, accessories, and decorations for new-to-you ones, during ComicFest.  
📍 Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library  
🕒 1:30pm to 4:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: Registration is required and capped at 25 households, with a maximum of 5 swap tokens each. Advance drop-off is open through Saturday, October 17.  
Cost: Free  
[Register Here](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa03278a3fb9722897af97b)

**Trunks, Treats & Tails**  
A trunk or treat for kids and dogs, with free treats for both, a pet costume contest, and raffle prizes.  
📍 One Lucky Pup Pet Resort & Spa (Charlotte and Northlake locations)  
🕒 6:30pm to 7:30pm  
👶 Best For: All ages, dogs included  
💡 Parent Tip: Both locations run the same hour, so pick whichever is closer: Springbrook Road in Charlotte or Reames Road in Northlake.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://www.facebook.com/oneluckypupclt/)

### Monday, October 19

**Mini Mozarts**  
Babies and toddlers move and groove with instruments and popular songs.  
📍 Independence Regional Library  
🕒 9:30am to 10:00am  
👶 Best For: Babies and toddlers, ages 0 to 3  
💡 Parent Tip: It's only 30 minutes, so it works as a quick morning stop and not a whole outing.  
Cost: Free  
[Learn More](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa8177ef9ed2e0038508467)

**Babies on the Boardwalk**  
Library staff lead a walking group on the University City boardwalk, built for chatting, meeting other parents, and getting fresh air.  
📍 University City Regional Library  
🕒 9:30am to 10:15am  
👶 Best For: Babies ages 0 to 2 with a parent or caregiver  
💡 Parent Tip: Meet outside the front of the library, since walking starts at 9:35am. If you're running late, catch up with the group on the boardwalk. Weather permitting.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa2e406f9ed2e00384f95a5)

**Little Chickadees**  
A nature class for the youngest explorers in the Nature Space at Eastway.  
📍 Nature Space at Eastway Regional Recreation Center  
🕒 10:00am to 10:45am  
👶 Best For: Birth to 4 years, siblings welcome  
💡 Parent Tip: Each week needs its own registration, so signing up once doesn't cover the series.  
Cost: Free  
[Register Here](https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/mecklenburgparks/activity/search/detail/180170?onlineSiteId=0&locale=en-US&from_original_cui=true)

**Nature Book and Look**  
Each week brings a new book, paired with a craft, an activity, or a short hike.  
📍 McDowell Nature Preserve (Four Seasons Trail Picnic Area)  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Preschoolers and families  
💡 Parent Tip: Pre-registration is required and adults stay for the whole hour, so this isn't a drop-off.  
Cost: Free  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://apm.activecommunities.com/mecklenburgparks/Activity_Search/mdnp-nature-book-and-look/180569?locale=en-US)

**Life Skills Through Theatre Skills (Culture Blocks)**  
Same free Children's Theatre of Charlotte creative drama and art class, this time on Mondays at Tuckaseegee.  
📍 Tuckaseegee Recreation Center  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: This Monday and October 26 are both on the calendar, but November 2 isn't.  
Cost: Free  
[See Details](https://ctcharlotte.org/Online/default.asp?)

**Buds & Bubbles**  
Half the group tends the library's deck garden while the other half has a bubble dance party, then everyone switches.  
📍 North County Regional Library  
🕒 11:30am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Babies through school age  
💡 Parent Tip: It's a rotation, so kids get both either way and it doesn't matter which line you start in.  
Cost: Free  
[Worth A Try](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a7ce625452bb101b574c33c)

**Crafty Stories: Rock What Ya Got**  
The library reads Samantha Berger's Rock What Ya Got, then everyone paints garden rocks.  
📍 West Boulevard Library  
🕒 3:30pm to 4:15pm  
👶 Best For: Ages 3 to 8  
💡 Parent Tip: You'll leave with a painted garden rock, so it doubles as an after-school project that's already finished.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa81aef65abe8002a791552)

**Story Explorers: Paper Bag Scarecrow**  
The library reads The Scarecrow's Hat by Ken Brown, then everybody makes a paper bag scarecrow to hang in the window or on the fridge.  
📍 Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library  
🕒 4:00pm to 5:00pm  
👶 Best For: Preschool and school age kids, ages 3 to 11  
💡 Parent Tip: 4:00pm is one of the few library programs that works after school pickup, so it's a good one for a sibling pair.  
Cost: Free  
[See Details](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa59f84f9ed2e0038502225)

### Tuesday, October 20

**Waxhaw Toddler Time**  
A structured hour for two to five year olds at the Waxhaw Recreation Barn.  
📍 Waxhaw Recreation Barn  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Registration closes Sunday and caps at 20 kids, and this is a real program, not a drop-in.  
Cost: Included with registration  
[Register Here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/townofwaxhaw/shop/activities/6492898?date=2026-10-20&view=month&scrollToCalendar=false)

**Life Skills Through Theatre Skills (Culture Blocks)**  
Free creative drama and art from the Children's Theatre of Charlotte, Tuesday edition at Eastway.  
📍 Eastway Regional Recreation Center  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Eastway skips November 3, so catch this week or next.  
Cost: Free  
[More Info](https://ctcharlotte.org/Online/default.asp?)

**Toddler Time at Two Little Acres**  
A weekly toddler class at the homestead with a theme that changes every week, part of a 14-week series through December.  
📍 Two Little Acres  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 1 to 4  
💡 Parent Tip: Park to the left of the driveway. Entry opens 5 minutes before class.  
Cost: $25, sibling discounts available  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://www.hisawyer.com/two-little-acres/schedules?schedule_id=all&slug=two-little-acres)

**Storytime in the Park @ Jack Hughes Park: Visit from the Pineville Fire Department**  
Storytime goes outside to Shelter #1, and you get to say hello to a firefighter and walk around a fire engine.  
📍 Jack D. Hughes Memorial Park  
🕒 10:30am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Babies through preschool, ages 0 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: The fire engine visit could come before or after the stories, and an emergency call can pull the firefighters away early, so don't show up late. Bad weather cancels it by 9:15am.  
Cost: Free  
[Show Up](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa963a8101eb7003f3039a0)

**Strollers, Swedish Meatballs & Spooky Shopping**  
MESH moms meet at IKEA to shop for Halloween finds with strollers in tow and lunch in the middle.  
📍 IKEA  
🕒 12:30pm to 1:30pm  
👶 Best For: Moms with kids in strollers, members, non-members, and pregnant mamas welcome  
💡 Parent Tip: Meet outside IKEA at 12:30pm sharp, since the group walks in together.  
Cost: Not listed  
[RSVP Here](https://www.meshmoms.com/event-details/strollers-swedish-meatballs-spooky-shopping-ikea-charlotte)

**VisArt Puppet Tuesdays**  
Actor's Shadow Puppet Company performs "A Midnight Dreary: From the Mind of Edgar Allan Poe" every Tuesday in October, with the last show on October 27.  
📍 VisArt  
🕒 4:00pm start (end time not listed)  
👶 Best For: Elementary kids and up  
💡 Parent Tip: It's family-friendly, but it's Poe, so you decide how spooky is too spooky. Cafe VisArt is open for snacks and drinks.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://visartvideo.org/visart-calendar-of-events/)

**Milk and Cookies Pajama Storytime**  
The whole family comes in pajamas for a special snack and gentle bedtime stories.  
📍 South Boulevard Library  
🕒 6:15pm to 7:00pm  
👶 Best For: Babies through school age  
💡 Parent Tip: This happens monthly with a different snack, so missing it just means a repeat next month.  
Cost: Free  
[Learn More](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a68f7ffe1bf262b511641bd)

 

### Wednesday, October 21

**Learning for Littles**  
A read-aloud story, puppets, and a nature activity outside the Trailhead Store at Daniel Stowe.  
📍 Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (Trailhead Store Picnic Area)  
🕒 9:00am to 9:45am  
👶 Best For: Ages 0 to 4 with a caregiver  
💡 Parent Tip: Sessions alternate Wednesdays and Fridays, so your next one after this is Friday, October 30.  
Cost: Free  
[Plan Your Visit](https://danielstoweconservancy.org/event/learning-for-littles-16/2026-10-21/)

**Camp Outpost: Halloween Fun**  
Kids make creepy-cute spider friends out of colorful beads and bendy legs, then mix up a silly monster brew.  
📍 The Outpost  
🕒 9:30am to 11:30am  
👶 Best For: 3+  
💡 Parent Tip: It's a paid, ticketed morning, so sign up on the event page ahead of time instead of showing up and hoping.  
Cost: $5 per child  
[Book Now](https://theoutpostlkn.com/products/monstermash)

**Family Storytime at Lake Park**  
South County Regional Library staff take stories, songs, and movement outside to Lake Park.  
📍 Lake Park, Pineville  
🕒 9:30am to 10:00am  
👶 Best For: Babies through preschool, ages 0 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Bring a blanket or chair. They cancel for rain, so check the library site or call 704-416-6600 ext 2.  
Cost: Free  
[See Details](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6ab2b593a5dbde002aa66eb3)

**Sprouts at Stowe**  
A nature hour for two to four year olds with songs, movement, and a hands-on craft.  
📍 Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (The Farmhouse Garden Center)  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 4 with an adult  
💡 Parent Tip: Most of the craft happens standing at tables with only a few chairs, so bring your own if you want to sit.  
Cost: $10 per child  
[Register Here](https://danielstoweconservancy.org/event/sprouts-at-stowe-3/)

**Life Skills Through Theatre Skills (Culture Blocks)**  
The Wednesday edition of the free Children's Theatre of Charlotte drama and art class, at Mallard Creek.  
📍 Mallard Creek Recreation Center  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 2 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: The next Wednesday after this one is October 28, so you get two shots in a row.  
Cost: Free  
[Check It Out](https://ctcharlotte.org/Online/default.asp?)

**Little Learners**  
A weekly outdoor class at Wildwoods with a new theme each week.  
📍 Wildwoods at the Whitewater Center  
🕒 10:00am to 11:00am  
👶 Best For: Ages 1 to 5  
💡 Parent Tip: Online registration closes at 5:00pm the day before, so sign up by 5:00pm on Tuesday. It moves indoors if it rains, but wear shoes that can get muddy anyway.  
Cost: $5 per child, adults free, free with an Annual, Day, or Single Activity Pass  
[Register Here](https://whitewater.org/little-learners/)

**Mini Monster Art Studio**  
Little artists make their own friendly monster masterpieces in a session put together with The Party Palette.  
📍 Grow Cafe  
🕒 10:30am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Little artists (no age range listed)  
💡 Parent Tip: No scary monsters here, so it works for kids who flinch at skeletons. Spots are limited.  
Cost: $20 plus a $0.50 ticket fee  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://www.growcafeclt.com/event-details/mini-monster-art-studio)

**Littlest Artist: Toddler Art**  
Hands-on art activities made for the one and two year old crowd.  
📍 University City Regional Library  
🕒 11:30am to 12:00pm  
👶 Best For: Ages 1 to 2  
💡 Parent Tip: Spots are limited and tickets are handed out at the Children's Desk 15 minutes before, so don't arrive at 11:29am.  
Cost: Free  
[Worth A Try](https://cmlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a8dae5a29a7dd0d67467883)

**Halloween Music**  
A not-so-spooky music class where littles and their grownups sing, dance, and play instruments to Halloween tunes.  
📍 The Bunny Hive Charlotte (The Classroom)  
🕒 5:00pm to 5:30pm  
👶 Best For: Prewalkers, toddlers, and preschoolers  
💡 Parent Tip: Intro offers are available, so check them before you pay the $30 drop-in price.  
Cost: $30 drop-in  
[Reserve Your Spot](https://www.thebunnyhive.com/schedule-walla)

**Wednesday Night Live**  
Free evening programming at the Levine Center for the Arts museums and venues, with a lineup that rotates every week.  
📍 Levine Center for the Arts  
🕒 5:00pm to 9:00pm  
👶 Best For: All ages  
💡 Parent Tip: The lineup changes weekly and the Mint's page doesn't list this Wednesday's, so check that week's schedule before you bring little ones.  
Cost: Free  
[Plan Your Visit](https://www.mintmuseum.org/program/wednesday-night-live/)

[View full post](https://www.thecharlottesprout.com/the-charlotte-sprout-blog/things-to-do-october-15-21)

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