Weekly roundup
Hey Parents! 👋
October’s first weekend is here, and it’s packing spooky sunsets, free fall fun downtown, pumpkin art, and skate thrills. Friday evening, you can sip mocktails (or cocktails) above the city at Burritt’s Spirits at the View, then Saturday morning, Fall for All takes over Big Spring Park before a charcoal pumpkin class at Lowe Mill. Sunday wraps with the Snake Run & Ride challenge at Get-A-Way Skate Park. Pack the water bottles and let’s go!
Friday, October 2 | 5 PM
Spirits at the View — A Haunted Cocktails at the View Event
Burritt on the Mountain
Burritt on the Mountain transforms into an atmospheric autumn gathering spot for Spirits at the View, where families can enjoy sunset cocktails, mocktails, and live music high above Huntsville. This free-admission event blends spectacular mountain views with seasonal entertainment—mocktails ensure younger guests can join in the themed fun while parents sample the spooky handcrafted cocktails. The Mathis Mountain Band provides a soundtrack spanning multiple decades, creating a relaxed evening vibe perfect for families with older children and teens who appreciate live music and scenic overlooks.
What to expect: While admission is free, cash and credit bars will be available, along with limited snacks for purchase.
Perfect for: Families ready to relax and take in some great views!
Pro tip: For those seeking something more adventurous, ticketed Spirit Walks with ghost hunter Melissa Pollick explore the historic mansion and grounds at 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM ($15 per person), complete with investigative equipment and local legends—this add-on works best for brave tweens and teens who won't be spooked by tales of lingering spirits.
Cost: FREE!
Saturday, October 3 | 10 AM- 1 PM
Fall for All
Big Spring Park
Fall for All brings good old-fashioned autumn fun to the heart of downtown Huntsville each year. Hosted by the city's Parks & Recreation department, this free festival transforms Big Spring Park into a celebration of the season with interactive fall-themed activities and games designed for young children. It's the kind of low-key community gathering where families can relax on a Saturday morning, let the kids run around, and soak up that crisp October weather without the pressure of admission fees or long lines.
What to expect: Everything is free to attend, and kids can participate in various activities with prize giveaways available while supplies last.
Perfect for: This event is particularly well-suited for children ages 3 through 12, with activities geared toward that elementary school crowd.
Pro tip: Since it's outdoors in early October, dress in layers and bring sunscreen—Huntsville autumns can surprise you with warm afternoons
Cost: FREE!
Saturday, October 3 | 2 PM
Let’s Draw! Pumpkin Edition
Lowe Mill
Your budding artist can celebrate the arrival of pumpkin season with a hands-on charcoal drawing class designed specifically for beginners. Led by instructor Yuri Ozaki at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, this workshop introduces kids to the moody, expressive medium of charcoal while creating seasonal artwork they'll be proud to display. No prior drawing experience is necessary — just a willingness to get a little messy and experiment with shading, blending, and capturing the curves of everyone's favorite fall gourd.
What to expect: Each session runs about an hour, giving kids ages 5-14 plenty of time to work through the drawing process without losing steam.
Perfect for: All artists!
Pro tip: Plan to arrive a few minutes early to find parking and navigate Lowe Mill's hallways. Since charcoal can be smudgy, consider dressing kids in clothes you don't mind getting marked.
Cost: $27
Sunday, October 4 | 10 AM
2026 Snake Run & Ride Skateboard Challenge
Get-A-Way Skate Park
Young skaters in Huntsville will have their moment to shine at the Snake Run & Ride Skateboard Challenge, a free competition where kids ages 5-14 can show off their skills alongside riders from across the country. Hosted by Huntsville Parks & Recreation and The Skatepark Project, this event welcomes skateboarders of all abilities — whether your child is just learning to drop in or already mastering kickflips. The relaxed, encouraging atmosphere makes it ideal for young riders looking to challenge themselves and connect with the local skating community.
What to expect: The park's snake run feature — a flowing, bowl-style course — provides a dynamic terrain that rewards both technical tricks and smooth, creative lines.
Perfect for: It's a chance to see skateboarding's welcoming side and maybe inspire your young rider to keep pushing their boundaries.
Pro tip: Plan to arrive early if your child wants to compete, and bring sunscreen, water, and a helmet (required for all riders).
Cost: FREE!
💡 My Weekend Picks
If I had to narrow it down…
Fall For All - This should be an amazing way to kick off the season! Fun Fall game are always a hit and this cooler weather has me craving all things Fall!
Let’s Draw! Pumpkin Edition - A few hours of crafting and creating is always a great thing! We have been decorating the house and a new creation is always welcome!
2026 Snake Run & Ride Skateboard Challenge - While I am not a professional skateboarder, I think I would enjoy watching some awesome tricks!
That’s it for this week.
📝 Before You Head Out:
Friday at Burritt is free admission… cash/credit bars and limited snacks on site; Spirit Walks are a $15 add-on at 5:30 and 6:30 if your tweens/teens want the haunted mansion tour. Saturday’s Fall for All runs 10 AM - 1 PM and is geared toward ages 3-12… layers and sunscreen help. The Lowe Mill pumpkin drawing class is $27 (about an hour; ages 5-14), so dress for charcoal smudges and arrive a few minutes early for parking. Sunday’s skate challenge is free for ages 5-14… helmets required, and early arrival helps if your kid wants to compete.
Know about something we missed? Hit reply and tell me. If you catch me at Big Spring Park or cheering from the skate park rail, come say hi! I’ll be the dad pretending I’m only there for the “community vibes”… while negotiating who gets the last prize sticker.
Happy adventuring,
Ryan 🚀