Free Things to Do in Hendricks County This Fall and Winter

If you’re looking for free things to do in Hendricks County, you’re in for a treat!

From seasonal events to unique local experiences this fall and winter, there’s no shortage of fun that won’t cost you a dime! Here are a few highlights you won’t want to miss!

Free Outdoor Activities in Hendricks County

Visit Avon Haunted Bridge: With its chilling folklore, this must-see local legend is especially fun during the spooky season. You can drive under the bridge via County Road 625 East or explore it on foot by parking at Washington Township Park. Aside from the bridge’s haunted story, it also offers beautiful scenery in the fall as the leaves change color!
Explore Arbuckle Acres: Known for being a great place to take photos of fall foliage; Arbuckle Acres also includes a children's playground, a wooded area with a creek, and various nature trails. The park also has basketball courts and baseball diamonds for group play.
Find a Sledding Hill: Once the snow falls, there are some great sledding options in Hendricks County, including Bible Church of Brownsburg, W.S. Gibbs Memorial Park in Danville and Washington Township Park in Avon.
Play in Hummel Park: Located in Plainfield, this outdoor space offers playgrounds, an easy hiking trail over a bridge and a seasonal splash pad (spring and summer only).

Free Indoor Activities in Hendricks County

Stroll Through the Hendricks County Winter Farmers Market: Beginning in early October and running through March, the Winter Farmers Market moves to the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds. Twice a month on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m., you can browse a selection of fresh fall produce, homemade baked goods, farm-raised products and handcrafted items. It’s a great way to support local vendors and enjoy seasonal offerings in Hendricks County.
Visit Hendricks County Historical Museum & Old County Jail: This beautiful structure is known for its storied past and unique architecture. Step back in time as you explore fascinating artifacts from the 1800s and discover intriguing stories about Indiana’s early settlers.

Free Seasonal Festivals: Fall and Winter

Volktoberfest: Held at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex, this festival is the largest event of its kind in the Midwest. It brings Volkswagen enthusiasts of all ages together with a car show, food trucks and a kiddie car parade.
Hendricks County International Festival: Held at The Shops at Perry Crossing, this festival brings together various cultures with food trucks, live dancing and musical performances.
Hope Community Church Fall Festival: This free annual event in Brownsburg includes hayrides, inflatables, face painting, games, s'mores, hot chocolate and a glow trail.
Fall Colors Festival at McCloud Nature Park: Celebrate the stunning fall foliage at this 232-acre nature park’s annual celebration. Try your luck at finding your way through the McCloud Prairie Maze and enjoy various activities for the whole family, from hayrides to ax throwing!
Christmas Under the Stars: This annual night-time parade in Brownsburg gets everyone into the holiday spirit with twinkling light displays, hot cocoa, seasonal treats and more. Bonus: Santa Claus will be in the parade and available to visit with afterward!

Free Halloween Events in Hendricks County

During October, you’ll find many free Halloween events throughout Hendricks County. The Smiley Morning Show Pumpkin Drop includes bounce houses, balloon artists, costumes, and other entertainment. There’s also Scares on the Square in Danville, Sat-Terror Day in Plainfield, and Trail & Treat at Williams Park in Brownsburg.

Stay tuned to our events calendar for more details on free things to do in and around Hendricks County this fall and winter. You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy all that the county offers!