Fall is officially back on the calendar, and that means there are tons of festivals going on! One of our favorites is the annual Fall Festival at Sonny Acres Farm in West Chicago, which kicks off this weekend, September 19.
The festival runs through October 30, 2026, and features amusement rides, a petting zoo, live music, seasonal food, a haunted hayride, a full bar, and more.
During the day, families have plenty of options. The rides include the Wacky Worm Roller Coaster, Tilt-A-Whirl, Giant Slide, Frog Hopper, and a Giant Jumping Pillow, among others. Kids can also visit the petting zoo and take a hayride.
For adults, Sonny’s Bar offers a variety of beverages, including spiked hot apple cider and apple cider slushies, plus TVs everywhere to watch football games.
The fall festival features free weekday admission
Admission is free Tuesday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. During these days, unlimited ride wristbands for kids are available for $28.
From Friday to Sunday, admission costs $10 for guests aged 13 and older, while children 12 and under can enter for free. Each paid ticket also includes a complimentary ride ticket valued at $6. Parking is free, and shuttle service is provided for overflow lots.
After-dark haunted attractions return in October
Once the sun goes down, the farm shifts gears.
Starting October 2, it’s officially spooky season at Sonny Acres Farm. On Haunted Nights, the farm will have a haunted barn and a haunted hayride, featuring dozens of live actors in both attractions.
Haunted Nights will take place on the following weekends: October 2–4, 9–11, 16–18, 22–25, and 29–30. On Fridays and Saturdays, haunted hours run from 7 to 10 p.m., while Sunday hours are from 7 to 9 p.m. Additionally, Thursday nights on October 22 and 29 will have extended evening hours.
Tickets for the haunted hayride are $25 per person, while admission to the haunted barn is $20 per person. A combo ticket for both attractions is available for $38 per person and can be purchased in advance. If you want to skip the line, a fast pass is available for an additional $10.
If you’re looking for Halloween plans, DJ Gizep will perform at Sonny’s Bar on October 30, along with a costume contest and Halloween party.
