Plan a Family Day at BBG Fall Harvest Festival

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden Fall Harvest Festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last entry at 4:30 p.m. This annual, ticketed event at 990 Washington Avenue in Prospect Heights features live music, hands-on family activities, pumpkin decorating, a cider and beer garden, and a festive costume parade.

Families planning to attend should check the Garden’s official website for ticket tiers, entry slots, and any updates on programming or weather-related changes. Members typically attend for free, but all visitors should confirm admission details and optional activity costs before arrival.

What’s Included With Admission—and What’s Extra?

Admission to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden Fall Harvest Festival covers entry to the Garden and access to scheduled festival activities like live music, family crafts, and the costume parade. Some activities, such as pumpkin decorating, may require an additional fee or advance sign-up, depending on supplies and demand. The cider and beer garden, as well as any food or drink vendors, are not included in the base ticket price. Families should bring a payment method for optional purchases and check the event page for updates on included activities as details are finalized.

When Should Families Arrive and How Long Should You Stay?

The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last entry at 4:30 p.m. Arriving earlier in the day can help families enjoy more activities before crowds peak and ensure participation in hands-on crafts, which may have limited supplies. The costume parade is scheduled for the afternoon, but the exact time has not been announced; families interested in the parade should plan to stay through mid- to late afternoon. Allow at least two to three hours to explore the festival, enjoy the gardens’ fall foliage, and participate in multiple activities.

How to Get There: Transit, Parking, and Entrances

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is located at 990 Washington Avenue in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. The Garden is accessible by subway (2/3 to Eastern Parkway–Brooklyn Museum, 4/5 to Franklin Avenue, or S to Botanic Garden), and several bus lines stop nearby. Limited street parking is available, but public transit is recommended due to event crowds. The Garden has multiple entrances, including at 150 Eastern Parkway, 455 Flatbush Avenue, and 990 Washington Avenue. Event-day entrance instructions may vary, so check your ticket and the Garden’s website for updates on which gates will be open for the festival.

Is the Festival Stroller-Friendly and Accessible?

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is generally stroller-friendly, with paved paths and ramps throughout most areas. During the Fall Harvest Festival, expect increased foot traffic, especially near activity stations and the parade route. Accessible entrances are available at 150 Eastern Parkway and 455 Flatbush Avenue. Families with sensory needs should note that live music and crowds may create a lively atmosphere; quieter garden areas are available for breaks. Accessible restrooms and changing tables are located throughout the Garden.

What Should You Wear and Bring?

Costumes and flannel are encouraged for the Fall Harvest Festival, especially for families planning to join the parade. Dress in layers to accommodate October weather, which can be cool and unpredictable. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking on garden paths and lawns. Bring water bottles, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate gear (such as rain jackets or hats). If you plan to participate in pumpkin decorating or other crafts, check the event page for any supply requirements or restrictions.

How to Check for Weather, Cancellations, and Updates

The Fall Harvest Festival is a rain-or-shine event, but severe weather may affect programming or cause cancellations. Before heading out, check the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s official event page and social media for real-time updates on weather, schedule changes, or entrance instructions. If you purchased tickets in advance, review the Garden’s refund or rescheduling policies in case of cancellation.

Before you go

Confirm your ticket type, entry time, and event-day entrance before leaving home. Dress for the weather and bring essentials for a comfortable day outdoors. Check the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s website for last-minute updates, and plan to arrive early for the best selection of activities and a relaxed festival experience.