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Fall Fun in Hastings, MN: Celebrate the Season with Family-Friendly Activities and Healthy Vision

Updated: Nov 2

As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air settles in, Hastings, MN transforms into a hub of fall activities and festivals. There are a variety of exciting (and cozy!) things to do, despite the dropping temperatures. Whether you're soaking up the vibrant colors on a scenic walk or attending one of the many community events, there's plenty on the calendar this fall in Dakota and Washington County. Plus, as we prepare for cooler months, it’s the perfect time to check in on your family’s vision & eye health. Rivertown Eye Clinic is here to help ensure your eyes are well-protected and your vision stays sharp as the seasons change.


fall in hastings, mn
Fall in Hastings, MN

Explore Fall Activities in Hastings: Fun for All Ages

Hastings is known for its strong sense of community, and the fall season is packed with events that bring everyone together. Here’s a look at some family-friendly fall activities in Hastings that you won’t want to miss:


1. Historic Hastings Car Show

The Historic Hastings Car Show is back with its final show of the year on Sunday, September 17, 2024. Head downtown to enjoy a showcase of classic cars, live music, and local vendors. Bring the whole family for a fun afternoon of nostalgia and entertainment.

100 Second St. East, Hastings, MN (Free to attend)



classic cars on an autumn day
Classic cars galore at the Hastings Car Show

2. LeDuc History Book Group

Perfect for history buffs, the LeDuc History Book Group meets on Thursday, October 3rd 2024, at the LeDuc Historic Estate. This event offers an engaging experience for older kids and adults to explore history in a relaxed, intimate setting.

LeDuc Historic Estate, 1629 Vermillion Street, Hastings, MN

First Thursday of each month, 6:30 - 7:30PM (free to attend)


3. Oktoberfest Celebration

Looking for some fall adult-sized fun, but with a festive twist? The annual Oktoberfest Celebration is happening on Saturday, October 14, 2024. Enjoy German music, traditional food, and fun activities for kids, including face painting and games. It’s a great way to introduce your family to the joy of local fall festivals.

Canterbury Park, 1100 Canterbury RD Shakopee, MN 55379


4. Harvest Fest at Carpenter Nature Center

One of the most anticipated events of the season, Harvest Fest at Carpenter Nature Center on October 12 & 13th, 2024, offers a full day of autumn-themed activities. Families can explore nature trails, participate in a pumpkin hunt, enjoy hayrides, and savor warm apple cider. It’s an ideal way to spend a weekend in the heart of fall.

Carpenter’s Minnesota Campus, 12805 St. Croix Trail South, Hastings, MN 55033 


a family hay ride in autumn
Apple Festival (photo from CNC website)

5. Apple Orchards, Pumpkins Mazes, and More 

There are many farms & orchards in Minnesota that open their arms to visitors during the fall months, offering fall-favorite activities like apple picking, train, horseback & hay rides, pumpkin patch mazes, and much more! Check out the full list, and dive into autumn to your heart’s desire!


a farm with a pumpkin patch
Dakota & Washington County farms celebrating fall

6. Signature Scent Candle-Making Studio

Experience the joy of creating your own signature candles at the Signature-Scent Candle-Making Workshop. In this hands-on event, you'll craft two custom candles by blending your favorite fragrances and essential oils to design scents that are uniquely yours. All materials are provided, and to top it off, snacks and beverages will be available to enjoy throughout the workshop.

Impressive Windows & Interiors , 113 2nd Street East Suite 101 Hastings, MN 55033

($70/participant)

candle making class
Signature Scent Candle-Making classes


Keep Your Eyes & Vision Healthy This Fall

As you partake in all the wonderful fall activities in Hastings, it’s easy to forget that the changing seasons can affect your vision. The cool, dry air of autumn can cause dry eyes, and with the sun lower in the sky, your eyes may be exposed to more direct sunlight. Here are a few eye health tips to keep in mind as you and your family enjoy the season:



a woman in the snow wearing sunglasses
Keep your eye and vision health a priority this season

Sunglasses aren’t just for summer - protect your eyes year-round. 

UV rays can be just as damaging in the fall, so make sure you and your family are equipped with sunglasses that offer 100% UV protection when heading out to pumpkin patches or outdoor festivals.  


Combat dry eyes and keep your vision healthy. 

With the cooler, drier air, you may notice your eyes feeling more irritated or dry. Eye drops can help relieve this discomfort. If you find your eyes are persistently dry, it may be time to consult with the professionals at Rivertown Eye Clinic.


Update your prescription. 

Fall is a great time to ensure your vision prescription is up to date. Whether you're driving to a weekend festival or helping the kids with homework as the days get shorter, clear vision is crucial. Rivertown Eye Clinic offers comprehensive eye exams for the whole family, ensuring that everyone’s vision is sharp and healthy as we head into the holiday season.


Fall into Fall Fashion with new frames.

Updating your eyewear as the seasons change will make sure that your lenses are aligned with the rest of your look. Our outfits change with the weather, as we wear heavier, more textured clothing. Our optometrists often moonlight as style gurus to make sure that your frames match your fall & winter style!


frame fitting at an eye clinic
Picking out the perfect fall frames - Rivertown Eye Care can help!

Book Your Fall Eye Exam at Rivertown Eye Clinic

As you prepare for the busyness of the upcoming holiday season, don’t forget to schedule an eye exam for you and your family at Rivertown Eye Clinic. The fall is an excellent time to check in on your eye health, especially before the hustle and bustle of winter arrives. The team at Rivertown Eye Clinic provides personalized care for both children and adults, making sure your vision is ready for whatever fall and winter have in store.


From ensuring you have the right prescription lenses to recommending the best protective eyewear for outdoor activities, the team at Rivertown Eye Clinic is here to help. Don’t wait—book your family’s appointments today at Rivertown Eye Clinic and enjoy everything Hastings has to offer this fall, with clear, healthy vision.



Hastings in the fall is a special time filled with community-centered events that bring families together. Whether you’re visiting a local festival, exploring nature, or enjoying the harvest season, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. And while you’re out enjoying the season, take a moment to prioritize your family’s eye health with an appointment at Rivertown Eye Clinic. Here's to a fun, safe, and healthy fall in Hastings!


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