7 fall events around Pittsburgh this October

Leaves are changing. The air's cooling. Fall is here. From haunted walks and pumpkin festivals to crisp hikes and colorful views, Pittsburgh has an overwhelming number of ways to celebrate October. Here are some free events and activities to keep you busy.

From Bavaria to the 'Burgh

Oct. 2-12

Downtown will host this annual celebration of German culture during Oktoberfest Pittsburgh. Expect live polka and oompah bands, carnival games, a 60-foot Ferris wheel on the Sixth Street Bridge, Stein-holding contests and dachshund races.

Where: Fort Duquesne Boulevard and Sixth Street Bridge, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

A party and a show

Oct. 16-26

The Pittsburgh Playhouse's Fall Fest is back, this year with a free street party. Head to Forbes Avenue in downtown for local vendors, arts and crafts, games and more. You can also pick up a ticket for one of the company's "Boo's Halloween House Party " performances for only $20.

Where: Point Park University's Pittsburgh Playhouse, 350 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

Pumpkin overload

Oct. 18-19, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Pittsburgh Monster Pumpkins Festival makes its return to the Strip District this month. Don't miss its signature Pumpkin Pool Drop, giant pumpkin displays and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Where: The Stacks at 3 Crossings, 2875 Railroad St., Pittsburgh, PA, 15222

Medieval madness

Oct. 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Join the spectacle at Hartwood Acres' ninth annual Punkin Chunkin, where Allegheny County Parks and SHARP Robotics from the Sarah Heinz House will collaborate to launch pumpkins with a full-sized trebuchet. You can also enjoy activities like sword fighting, face painting and balloon art and purchase food and drinks from local food trucks and vendors.

Where: Hartwood Acres Park Amphitheater, 4000 Middle Road, Allison Park, PA, 15101

Ghostly local lore

All October, times vary

Explore the city's spookier side by taking a do-it-yourself tour through these public Haunted Pittsburgh locations, including Church Brew Works, Allegheny Cemetery, The Frick Mansion and more. Looking for a guided experience? Various walking tours will spin ghostly stories as you stroll through haunted neighborhoods, cemeteries and historic landmarks - are some are even free or "pay what you can."

Radical days abound

All year

The city's RAD Pass has expanded beyond the summer. Now, Allegheny County library cardholders can use the program year-round to reserve free or discounted admission to many local museums, theaters and attractions across Pittsburgh's cultural institutions. This month brings many events for art enthusiasts, including the Pittsburgh Opera song shop on Oct. 4 and Contemporary Craft's community day on Oct. 11.

Finally, leaf-peeping

Don't forget that Pittsburgh and the surrounding region offer a brilliant natural color show. Stroll through Schenley Park near campus or climb to Grandview Avenue in Mount Washington for sweeping views of the city framed by fiery foliage. For a spookier stroll, visit Blue Mist Road in North Park, a spot long wrapped in fearsome folklore.

Photography by Aimee Obidzinski