Return to Site | View Calendar | Mobile Version

to   


Wednesday October 14, 2026
7:00 AM - 11:00 PM    Tuff Nutterz
 
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM    Park and PLAY - Park and PLAY - Pumpkin Games
Get off your couch, get out of your house! Join Zionsville Parks and Recreation for some fun outdoor activities, sports, games and more! Drop-in and stay as long as you’d like. Each month we will PARK and set up free activities so you can PLAY! In 2022 the Zionsville Parks launched its first Outreach vehicle, The Creekstomper. Looking for a unique addition to your business or community event? Let us bring the Zionsville Parks to you! The Creekstomper is available for Zionsville based businesses, organizations and HOAs to help provide information and experiences to your community. Whether a church or school function, the neighborhood block party, or a promotional event at your business let the Zionsville Parks help create memories. Request your reservation HERE.
 
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM    Outdoor Escape Room - The Enchanted Forest
Something strange is happening in the forest. Mysterious creatures, peculiar potions, hidden messages, and a touch of magic are waiting among the trees. Venture into the woods with your family and work together to solve puzzles, complete challenges, and uncover the secrets of the enchanted forest before time runs out! This family-friendly program is best suited for ages 6 and up. Younger siblings are welcome to join the fun with help from family members. Please register one adult per team or family. You will be able to list family members participating at checkout. Program fee includes materials and small take-home prizes.
 
Thursday October 15, 2026
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM    Discover Your Backyard - Leaves
Join us each month as the Trailhopper, our mobile Nature Center, visits one of our local parks and discover what’s happening in our backyard with hands-on activities and adventures. Drop-in and stay as long as you’d like!About the TrailhopperThe Community Outreach Program aims to increase the scope and programming potential for the Parks Department through meeting residents at their doorstep through recreation and education. In 2022 the Zionsville Parks launched its first Outreach vehicle, the Creekstomper. In 2024, with APRA fund support, the Department expanded outreach with the Trailhopper, a mobile Nature Center. Looking for a unique addition to your business or community event? Let us bring the Zionsville Parks to you! The Creekstomper and Trailhopper are available for area businesses and organizations to help provide information and experiences to your community. Whether a church or school function, the neighborhood block party, or a promotional event at your business let the Zionsville Parks help create memories. Request your reservation HERE.
 
Friday October 16, 2026
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM    Shelter Reservation
 
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM    Night Hike - Night Hike
It may be spooky season, but there is nothing to fear on our trails! Learn how our native nocturnal animals find their way in the dark and test your own senses as we explore the park after dark.
 
Saturday October 17, 2026
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM    Naturally Messy - Pumpkin Guts & Spiders
Did you know nature is full of mess makers? From slimy slugs and sticky spider webs, the outdoors is full of messy, sensory-filled fun! Join us for a hands-on program where we’ll learn about some of nature’s messiest creatures. Then we’ll mix, scoop, pour, and explore different textures inspired by the natural world. Dress for the mess!
 
Sunday October 18, 2026
3:00 PM - 10:00 PM    Shelter Reservation
 
Monday October 19, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Tuesday October 20, 2026
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM    Shelter Reservation
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Wednesday October 21, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    Pop-Up PEEPs - Not-So-Scary Creatures
Not ready to commit to a 3-week series or looking for a Wednesday morning option? Join us for Pop-Up PEEPs once a month throughout the fall! These one-day programs focus on a single nature theme and invite preschoolers and their caregivers to dive into hands-on play and outdoor discovery. If you are already registered for this month’s 3-week PEEPs series, please note that Pop-Up PEEPs will include similar activities and content and is intended as an alternative one-day option.
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Thursday October 22, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    PEEPs - Not-So-Scary Creatures
PEEPs: Preschool Environmental Education Program Series Let curiosity lead the way! PEEPs is a playful, hands-on nature program for preschoolers and their caregivers. Each week, we encourage exploration through outdoor adventures, sensory play, and discovery-based learning. Together, we’ll follow the seasons, explore local wildlife, and support early development through movement, creativity, and connection with nature. Register monthly to join a themed 3-week series. Come ready to play, explore, and get a little messy!Younger siblings are welcome to attend, but activities will be geared towards ages 3 – 6.  Parents/Adults are required to stayZionsville Parks and Recreation's Youth Nature Education Programs are made possible by the generous support of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. 
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Friday October 23, 2026
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM    Shelter Reservation
 
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    Toddler Trek - Fall Leaves
Toddler Treks are a perfect way to introduce our youngest audience to nature! Each month toddlers and their caregivers will meet at a different park to explore a theme through play, hands-on activities, and outdoor experiences. Older siblings are welcome to attend, but activities are geared towards 4 and under. Dress for the weather and be prepared to get moving!Zionsville Parks and Recreation's Youth Nature Education Programs are made possible by the generous support of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. 
 
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM    Fright Nights - Friday Oct 23 Fright Nights
Your spooky experience begins at the frightening Mulberry Fields Concession Stand. Board a haunted hayride through the park to the legendary Fright Barn at Maplelawn Farmstead, where your courage will truly be tested. Enjoy spooky encounters, campfire and other nightly surprises. Enter at your own risk... if you dare. Timed entry, and space is limited. This event is held rain or shine. Tickets are $15 night of event.Ages: 8+ recommendedTicket sales OPEN September 15Tickets are TIMED so be sure you are purchasing the correct day and time you need. The Fright Barn Experience (Warning: This attraction is designed to scare) Our haunted house is a fully immersive experience featuring: Dark, enclosed spaces and sudden jump scares, theatrical fog, strobe effects, and low to no lighting, graphic scenes of gore and horror, uneven flooring and tight passageways, live actors and intense sound effectsChildren under 12 years of age will not be admitted into Fright Barn without an adult.
 
Saturday October 24, 2026
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM    Trick or Trees - Trick or Trees - 9 am Entrance
Saturday, October 249 am - 12 pm (timed ticket entry)Don’t miss Zionsville’s most popular fall tradition, where families return year after year for spooky, festive fun in the great outdoors. Dress up in your favorite family-friendly costume and journey along the Trick-or-Treat Trail to collect goodies from local partners while enjoying the crisp autumn air.Gather around a crackling firepit experience, roast marshmallows, and make lasting memories. Kids can enjoy hands-on fall activities, science experiments, games, and a walk down the Pumpkin Path. Businesses and organizations are invited to join our Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Scarecrows will be placed along the backside of the park leading into the Pumpkin Pathway, where kids will vote for their favorite. Advanced registration encouraged as spots fill fast! You must register each child participating for a time slot. Children under 2 years are FREE to attend but do need to be registered.Trick or Trees tickets are non refundable.Please keep your registration email for your reservation slot.Please note - online registration will close at end of business day (4 pm) on Friday, October 23. Day of admission will be limited and $7/child (under 2 years free) cashless transaction ONLY.Last check-in/ticket will be issued at 11:30 am to allow time for everyone to enjoy the trail and visit all the activities.
 
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM    Trick or Trees - Trick or Trees - 9:30 am Entrance
Saturday, October 249 am - 12 pm (timed ticket entry)Don’t miss Zionsville’s most popular fall tradition, where families return year after year for spooky, festive fun in the great outdoors. Dress up in your favorite family-friendly costume and journey along the Trick-or-Treat Trail to collect goodies from local partners while enjoying the crisp autumn air.Gather around a crackling firepit experience, roast marshmallows, and make lasting memories. Kids can enjoy hands-on fall activities, science experiments, games, and a walk down the Pumpkin Path. Businesses and organizations are invited to join our Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Scarecrows will be placed along the backside of the park leading into the Pumpkin Pathway, where kids will vote for their favorite. Advanced registration encouraged as spots fill fast! You must register each child participating for a time slot. Children under 2 years are FREE to attend but do need to be registered.Trick or Trees tickets are non refundable.Please keep your registration email for your reservation slot.Please note - online registration will close at end of business day (4 pm) on Friday, October 23. Day of admission will be limited and $7/child (under 2 years free) cashless transaction ONLY.Last check-in/ticket will be issued at 11:30 am to allow time for everyone to enjoy the trail and visit all the activities.
 
10:00 AM - 10:30 AM    Trick or Trees - Trick or Trees - 10 am Entrance
Saturday, October 249 am - 12 pm (timed ticket entry)Don’t miss Zionsville’s most popular fall tradition, where families return year after year for spooky, festive fun in the great outdoors. Dress up in your favorite family-friendly costume and journey along the Trick-or-Treat Trail to collect goodies from local partners while enjoying the crisp autumn air.Gather around a crackling firepit experience, roast marshmallows, and make lasting memories. Kids can enjoy hands-on fall activities, science experiments, games, and a walk down the Pumpkin Path. Businesses and organizations are invited to join our Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Scarecrows will be placed along the backside of the park leading into the Pumpkin Pathway, where kids will vote for their favorite. Advanced registration encouraged as spots fill fast! You must register each child participating for a time slot. Children under 2 years are FREE to attend but do need to be registered.Trick or Trees tickets are non refundable.Please keep your registration email for your reservation slot.Please note - online registration will close at end of business day (4 pm) on Friday, October 23. Day of admission will be limited and $7/child (under 2 years free) cashless transaction ONLY.Last check-in/ticket will be issued at 11:30 am to allow time for everyone to enjoy the trail and visit all the activities.
 
10:30 AM - 11:00 AM    Trick or Trees - Trick or Trees - 10:30 am Entrance
Saturday, October 249 am - 12 pm (timed ticket entry)Don’t miss Zionsville’s most popular fall tradition, where families return year after year for spooky, festive fun in the great outdoors. Dress up in your favorite family-friendly costume and journey along the Trick-or-Treat Trail to collect goodies from local partners while enjoying the crisp autumn air.Gather around a crackling firepit experience, roast marshmallows, and make lasting memories. Kids can enjoy hands-on fall activities, science experiments, games, and a walk down the Pumpkin Path. Businesses and organizations are invited to join our Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Scarecrows will be placed along the backside of the park leading into the Pumpkin Pathway, where kids will vote for their favorite. Advanced registration encouraged as spots fill fast! You must register each child participating for a time slot. Children under 2 years are FREE to attend but do need to be registered.Trick or Trees tickets are non refundable.Please keep your registration email for your reservation slot.Please note - online registration will close at end of business day (4 pm) on Friday, October 23. Day of admission will be limited and $7/child (under 2 years free) cashless transaction ONLY.Last check-in/ticket will be issued at 11:30 am to allow time for everyone to enjoy the trail and visit all the activities.
 
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM    Trick or Trees - Trick or Trees - 11 am Entrance
Saturday, October 249 am - 12 pm (timed ticket entry)Don’t miss Zionsville’s most popular fall tradition, where families return year after year for spooky, festive fun in the great outdoors. Dress up in your favorite family-friendly costume and journey along the Trick-or-Treat Trail to collect goodies from local partners while enjoying the crisp autumn air.Gather around a crackling firepit experience, roast marshmallows, and make lasting memories. Kids can enjoy hands-on fall activities, science experiments, games, and a walk down the Pumpkin Path. Businesses and organizations are invited to join our Scarecrow Decorating Contest. Scarecrows will be placed along the backside of the park leading into the Pumpkin Pathway, where kids will vote for their favorite. Advanced registration encouraged as spots fill fast! You must register each child participating for a time slot. Children under 2 years are FREE to attend but do need to be registered.Trick or Trees tickets are non refundable.Please keep your registration email for your reservation slot.Please note - online registration will close at end of business day (4 pm) on Friday, October 23. Day of admission will be limited and $7/child (under 2 years free) cashless transaction ONLY.Last check-in/ticket will be issued at 11:30 am to allow time for everyone to enjoy the trail and visit all the activities.
 
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM    Fright Nights - Saturday October 24 Fright Nights
Your spooky experience begins at the frightening Mulberry Fields Concession Stand. Board a haunted hayride through the park to the legendary Fright Barn at Maplelawn Farmstead, where your courage will truly be tested. Enjoy spooky encounters, campfire and other nightly surprises. Enter at your own risk... if you dare. Timed entry, and space is limited. This event is held rain or shine. Tickets are $15 night of event.Ages: 8+ recommendedTicket sales OPEN September 15Tickets are TIMED so be sure you are purchasing the correct day and time you need. The Fright Barn Experience (Warning: This attraction is designed to scare) Our haunted house is a fully immersive experience featuring: Dark, enclosed spaces and sudden jump scares, theatrical fog, strobe effects, and low to no lighting, graphic scenes of gore and horror, uneven flooring and tight passageways, live actors and intense sound effectsChildren under 12 years of age will not be admitted into Fright Barn without an adult.
 
Sunday October 25, 2026
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM    Photography
 
Monday October 26, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Tuesday October 27, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Wednesday October 28, 2026
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM    After-School Nature Club - Bones & Skulls
Are you ready for an after-school adventure? Join our After-School Nature Club! Each month, we’ll uncover the wonders of the natural world through outdoor exploration, fun games, and hands-on activities. This club is perfect for curious kids who love exploring, creating, and playing. Come discover the magic of nature - adventure awaits!This is a drop-off program, but parents are welcome to stay nearby. 
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Thursday October 29, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    PEEPs - Not-So-Scary Creatures
PEEPs: Preschool Environmental Education Program Series Let curiosity lead the way! PEEPs is a playful, hands-on nature program for preschoolers and their caregivers. Each week, we encourage exploration through outdoor adventures, sensory play, and discovery-based learning. Together, we’ll follow the seasons, explore local wildlife, and support early development through movement, creativity, and connection with nature. Register monthly to join a themed 3-week series. Come ready to play, explore, and get a little messy!Younger siblings are welcome to attend, but activities will be geared towards ages 3 – 6.  Parents/Adults are required to stayZionsville Parks and Recreation's Youth Nature Education Programs are made possible by the generous support of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. 
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM    Nightmare at Elm Street: A Luminary Walk - Luminary Walk
Experience Elm Street Green like never before during this eerie nighttime adventure! Follow a glowing trail of luminaries as you make your way around the park under the cover of darkness. Keep your eyes peeled for mischievous skeletons hidden along the route, and stroll through the enchanting Pumpkin Pathway after sunset for a whole new perspective. This self-guided walk is perfect for families looking to enjoy a not-too-spooky evening outdoors and celebrate the Halloween season together.
 
Monday November 2, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Tuesday November 3, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Wednesday November 4, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    Pop-Up PEEPs - Leaves, Seeds, and Trees
Not ready to commit to a 3-week series or looking for a Wednesday morning option? Join us for Pop-Up PEEPs once a month throughout the fall! These one-day programs focus on a single nature theme and invite preschoolers and their caregivers to dive into hands-on play and outdoor discovery. If you are already registered for this month’s 3-week PEEPs series, please note that Pop-Up PEEPs will include similar activities and content and is intended as an alternative one-day option.
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Thursday November 5, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    PEEPs - Leaves, Seeds, and Trees
PEEPs: Preschool Environmental Education Program Series Let curiosity lead the way! PEEPs is a playful, hands-on nature program for preschoolers and their caregivers. Each week, we encourage exploration through outdoor adventures, sensory play, and discovery-based learning. Together, we’ll follow the seasons, explore local wildlife, and support early development through movement, creativity, and connection with nature. Register monthly to join a themed 3-week series. Come ready to play, explore, and get a little messy!Younger siblings are welcome to attend, but activities will be geared towards ages 3 – 6.  Parents/Adults are required to stayZionsville Parks and Recreation's Youth Nature Education Programs are made possible by the generous support of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. 
 
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM    Discover Your Backyard - Mammals
Join us each month as the Trailhopper, our mobile Nature Center, visits one of our local parks and discover what’s happening in our backyard with hands-on activities and adventures. Drop-in and stay as long as you’d like!About the TrailhopperThe Community Outreach Program aims to increase the scope and programming potential for the Parks Department through meeting residents at their doorstep through recreation and education. In 2022 the Zionsville Parks launched its first Outreach vehicle, the Creekstomper. In 2024, with APRA fund support, the Department expanded outreach with the Trailhopper, a mobile Nature Center. Looking for a unique addition to your business or community event? Let us bring the Zionsville Parks to you! The Creekstomper and Trailhopper are available for area businesses and organizations to help provide information and experiences to your community. Whether a church or school function, the neighborhood block party, or a promotional event at your business let the Zionsville Parks help create memories. Request your reservation HERE.
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Saturday November 7, 2026
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM    Hanson Financial LLC event
 
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM    Fall Birding Series - November Fall Birding
Join us at a different park each month on a Saturday morning to look for resident and migratory birds. Our Naturalist staff will lead the walk with tips and techniques to identify birds by sight and sound. All birding levels welcome. Bring binoculars if you have them but we will have a few to borrow.
 
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM    Smashin' Pumpkins - Smashin' Pumpkins
Smash it, don't trash it! Join Zionsville Parks and Recreation for Smashin' Pumpkins, our annual Pumpkin Smash & Compost Bash! Help us keep pumpkins out of landfills by bringing your carved pumpkins and jack-o'-lanterns to be smashed and composted into nutrient-rich soil. Be sure to review our composting guidelines before you arrive.Bring your own pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns to smash and compost! Or purchase one from us with a $2 donation. (While supplies last)Highlights include: Smashin’ Station  The Epic Pumpkin Drop – Courtesy of Zionsville Fire Department’s ladder truck Composting Education & Demos More Food Trucks + More Games – Something for the whole family
 
Monday November 9, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Tuesday November 10, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Wednesday November 11, 2026
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Thursday November 12, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    PEEPs - Leaves, Seeds, and Trees
PEEPs: Preschool Environmental Education Program Series Let curiosity lead the way! PEEPs is a playful, hands-on nature program for preschoolers and their caregivers. Each week, we encourage exploration through outdoor adventures, sensory play, and discovery-based learning. Together, we’ll follow the seasons, explore local wildlife, and support early development through movement, creativity, and connection with nature. Register monthly to join a themed 3-week series. Come ready to play, explore, and get a little messy!Younger siblings are welcome to attend, but activities will be geared towards ages 3 – 6.  Parents/Adults are required to stayZionsville Parks and Recreation's Youth Nature Education Programs are made possible by the generous support of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. 
 
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM    ZYFL All Stars
 
Friday November 13, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM    Toddler Trek - Squirrels & Chipmunks
Toddler Treks are a perfect way to introduce our youngest audience to nature! Each month toddlers and their caregivers will meet at a different park to explore a theme through play, hands-on activities, and outdoor experiences. Older siblings are welcome to attend, but activities are geared towards 4 and under. Dress for the weather and be prepared to get moving!Zionsville Parks and Recreation's Youth Nature Education Programs are made possible by the generous support of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. 
 
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM    Owl Prowl - Owl Prowl
Late fall is one of the best times of the year to spot owls. Come learn about the different owls that make their home in Zionsville and head out with a Naturalist to hopefully observe some in the wild. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots. You may bring a flashlight, but you will be required to cover it with a red wrap to protect our night vision and the vision of the owls.
 
Saturday November 14, 2026
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM    Love Lincoln: Lincoln's Legacy - Love Lincoln: Lincoln's Legacy
Love Lincoln: Lincoln's Legacy is a community-centered celebration marking the grand reopening of Lincoln Park in downtown Zionsville, following a major revitalization in 2026 that added new accessible pathways through the park, updated plantings, and a new centerpiece gazebo and fountain. The event is rooted in the park's historic role as the original location of the town's railway depot and the site of Abraham Lincoln's 1861 whistle-stop remarks in Zionsville. Lincoln Park is the oldest park in the town and the project commemorates both the transformation of the space and the celebration of American history with Lincoln and the America 250 milestone. Opening Day Celebrations Enjoy live period-appropriate 19th-century American music.  A respected Lincoln impersonator will offer interpretive storytelling about Lincoln’s life, values, and historical connection to the site.  The event also includes a ribbon cutting with local leaders Raising of the American flag by a local boy scout den 358 Community booths Welcoming remarks from the Zionsville Mayor and other notable individuals that highlight the park’s transformation and its place in America’s broader story.  All activities will take place in Lincoln Park, inviting residents to gather, learn, create, and commemorate Lincoln’s Legacy in Zionsville.