Fall Festival at the Original Farmers Market

Every October the Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax turns part of its grounds into a small-town harvest fair, and this year's Fall Festival lands on Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18. It is free to attend, which keeps it near the top of any list of things to do in Los Angeles with kids this month.

When: Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18, 2026, starting at 11 a.m. both days Where: The Original Farmers Market, Third and Fairfax Cost: Free to attend

What to expect

The listing promises two days of a petting zoo, a pumpkin patch, fall-themed games, live music, kids crafts and photo opportunities. In past years the festival has put farm animals in a pen for small hands to pet, a pumpkin patch for picking and decorating, and a stage with local performers. Treat the specific lineup as a moving target and check the market's own page for the schedule as the weekend gets close.

It is a family event first. Toddlers and grade-schoolers get the most out of the animals and crafts, while adults can split their time between the music and the market's food stalls. If you are putting together plans for LA events this weekend, this one pairs easily with brunch or a long lunch, since the market's restaurants, bakeries and counter stands are all open around the festival.

Planning your visit

The market is a long-running Fairfax District landmark with a clock tower, shaded patios and dozens of food vendors, so you can eat well without leaving the festival grounds. Activities like pumpkin decorating have sometimes carried a small fee in past years, so bring a little cash or a card for extras. Admission itself is listed as free.

Parking can fill up on festival weekends. Arrive early, expect lines for the animals and crafts around midday, and consider rideshare or a nearby garage if the market's lot is full. The adjacent shopping center, The Grove, is a short walk away if you want to make a day of it.

Wear comfortable shoes, since the grounds are mostly walking on pavement, and bring sunscreen or a hat for the patio seating. Kids in costume tend to fit right in, and the photo setups make a good spot for a family autumn picture.

Why it is worth going

Plenty of fall events in the city ask for a ticket and a long drive. This one asks for neither: it is a free neighborhood tradition at one of LA's oldest public markets, and it fits easily into a Saturday or Sunday. For more upcoming events in Los Angeles, browse the festivals category and the neighborhood guides.