As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to turn, Utah becomes a hub of festive fall activities that are perfect for date nights or outings with friends. Whether you're looking to embrace the cozy fall vibes with seasonal festivals, experience spooky thrills, or indulge in culinary delights, there's something for everyone. From mountain resorts offering Oktoberfest celebrations to cultural events and even haunted adventures, Utah has no shortage of ways to get into the fall spirit. And the best part? These experiences don’t have to be reserved for date nights—they can be just as enjoyable solo or as part of a fun night out with friends. So grab your favorite sweater, High West Distillery and Saloon Golden Label, and start planning your next night out on the town!
Soldier Hollow
Annual Schutzenski Festival @ Soldier Hollow (October 3-5)
Looking for a fall-themed date that combines a race at a past and future Olympic venue plus delicious Bavarian food? This lively Bavarian-inspired festival starts with either a 5 or 10k running race (or even a 1k option if you're going to bring little athletes with you), then brings authentic alpine traditions to Soldier Hollow. Indulge in hearty German fare, a beer garden, dancing to live music, and "Wild West: shooting competitions. It’s an ideal place for a unique date to watch cross-country ski racers, roller ski and do biathlon, or a night out with friends, celebrating under the crisp autumn skies.
Snowbasin Resort
SnowWiesn Oktoberfest @ Snowbasin Resort (Weekends through October 12)
Enjoy mountain views at Snowbasin Resort as you sip local brews and enjoy German-inspired cuisine at Snowbasin’s Oktoberfest celebration. This event is held every Saturday and Sunday through October 12 and offers live music, games, and even a keg toss! It’s a fun atmosphere to bond with someone special or simply soak in the festive fall colors with friends. For more info on How to Oktoberfest - check out our blog here.
Haunted Basin @ Snowbasin (October 10-14 & October 17-21)
If you’re up for a spooky twist on your traditional haunted house, Snowbasin Resort offers a bone-chilling adventure in the mountains. Try to survive the hike through the haunted forest or challenge yourself to escape a round of spooky black light-enhanced minigolf. This thrilling experience is perfect for a Halloween-themed date night, where you can enjoy spooky-themed drinks with delicious floating eyeballs in them at the Snowbasin Cinnabar Lounge together before seeing how truly brave your partner is in the haunted forest. This is also great for a friend group outing to embrace the spooky season and see exactly who can scream the loudest.
Big Cottonwood Canyon
Murder on the Mountain @ Brighton Resort (Every Friday & Saturday throughout October)
Brighton hosts an interactive murder mystery experience with "Murder on the Mountain." This immersive evening, including dinner and non-alcoholic drinks, encourages you to solve clues while enjoying the mountain setting. Perfect for couples who love a good mystery or a group looking for an adventure!
Not Oktoberfest @ Brighton Resort (Weekends until October 12)
Looking to switch it up from your typical Oktoberfest tradition? Brighton offers a unique mix of "Foodie Wars", family-style games, live music, and craft beers. While you're at it, check out their two new mountain biking trails, Moose Tracks and Wasatch Wiggle!
Big Cottonwood Winter Welcome @ Solitude Resort (September 28)
Solitude Mountain Resort Winter Welcome is a festive event featuring a DJ, swag giveaways, and a screening of TGR’s movie Pressure Drop. A great date or night out for those excited about the upcoming winter season, this event celebrates outdoor culture and winter sports.
Solitude Bike Park Closing Day (October 5)
For an active bike date with friends or a significant other, don't miss Solitude Mountain Resort closing day! Dress up in spooky costumes and enjoy riding with live music serenading you from the base in the background. Enjoy ice cream sundaes, arts and crafts booths, and a discount on food for those who show up in costume!
Sundance Mountain Resort
Sundance Resort Oktoberfest (September 20, 21, 27, 28 & October 4, 5)
Sundance Mountain Resort Oktoberfest is an intimate event featuring live music, artisan vendors, and German-inspired food. This laid-back mountain setting is a beautiful backdrop for a relaxed and enjoyable evening with loved ones.
Little Cottonwood Canyon
Snowbird Oktoberfest (Weekends through October 12)
A fall classic in Utah, Snowbird Oktoberfest brings together locals and visitors for a traditional German celebration. Enjoy the scenic views, polka dancing, and plenty of Bavarian eats and drinks. If you're feeling up to it, take the tram up to Hidden Peak to listen to the Alpenhorns play in the beautiful mountain setting. It's a fun and lively atmosphere to enjoy with a date, a group of friends, or family.
Park City
Park City Wine Fest (October 2-4)
For wine lovers, Park City Mountain Wine Fest is a multi-day event featuring tastings, educational sessions, and culinary pairings. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a sophisticated outing with friends, this event is sure to impress.
Park City Annual Shot Ski (October 11)
Join in on a community tradition with Park City’s Annual Shot Ski, where participants attempt to break the record for the largest shot ski. It’s a fun and quirky experience perfect for a group of friends looking for a memorable night out.
Park City has always been full of creepy stories, dating back to its mining roots and stories of The Man in the Yellow Slicker, and Park City Ghost Tours is ready to take you through all of Park City's creepy history. Book a tour with another couple or some friends (minimum of 4 guests) and explore the eerier side of Park City. You'll never look at Main Street the same after doing this tour!
Brian Head Ski Resort
Brian Head Oktoberfest (Weekends through October 21)
Celebrate autumn in the mountains at Brian Head Ski Resort, where crisp air, golden aspens, and alpine views set the stage for a Bavarian-inspired weekend. Every September weekend features live bands, a mountain beer garden with local brews, and plenty of family-friendly fun. It’s the ultimate high-elevation escape to soak up fall before winter arrives.
Daytime Stargazing (September 20)
Discover the sky in a whole new light with Cedar Breaks National Monument’s Daytime Sky Tours. Using powerful telescopes, rangers guide guests through celestial wonders usually seen only at night, no darkness required. This free, drop-in event offers a rare chance to explore the science of stargazing by day, with traditional evening programs continuing each weekend through mid-October.
Salt Lake City
Red Butte Garden's Garden After Dark (October 16-30)
This fall, Red Butte Garden and Arboretum brings back its beloved fall festival under its original name, Garden After Dark. With over 25 years of history, the event blends Halloween spirit with immersive storytelling, glowing artistry, and magical landscapes. This year’s theme, Trouble in Oz, invites guests of all ages on an illuminated journey down the yellow brick road for a one-of-a-kind seasonal adventure.
Ski Movie Premieres (Various Dates)
Fall is the perfect time to get stoked for the ski season by attending one of Utah’s many ski movie premieres. These high-energy events bring together the ski community to watch jaw-dropping footage of athletes tackling extreme terrain and showcasing their skills. Whether you're going with your significant other, a group of friends, or just soaking it in on your own, these premieres are a fantastic way to get into the winter spirit. Find the full lineup of 2025 ski movie premieres here.
So whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a fun night out with friends, or a solo escape, these fall date ideas offer something for everyone! From Oktoberfest celebrations to murder mysteries and cultural excursions, there’s no shortage of fun this season.
