423 Weekend Guide: October 15–18, 2026

The third weekend of October offers Southeast Tennessee families a choice of festivals, outdoor outings, and seasonal activities, with options extending from downtown Chattanooga to Cleveland in Bradley County.

Here are verified events in chronological order, with practical details to help you plan.

Thursday, October 15: Fall Family Canoe

The City of Chattanooga lists Fall Family Canoe from 5 to 7 p.m. as part of its parks and recreation programming.

The event is an opportunity to explore the outdoors with family, but prospective participants should confirm the meeting point, age rules, equipment arrangements, and whether registration is required before attending.

Thursday, October 15: ODDtober Night Hike

The city's calendar also lists an ODDtober Night Hike with the Tennessee Aquarium from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Check the organizer's current event details for location, accessibility, and advance sign-up instructions.

Friday, October 16: Boo in the Zoo

Chattanooga Zoo continues its seasonal Boo in the Zoo program on Friday, October 16, from 4 to 8 p.m.

The family-oriented experience includes trick-or-treating and Halloween-themed activities while visitors explore the zoo.

Tickets are sold online only, with reserved entry windows, and the special event requires a ticket separate from regular zoo admission.

The zoo closes at 3:30 p.m. before reopening for the event.

Another Boo in the Zoo session is scheduled for Saturday, October 17, from 4 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, October 17: Chattanooga Oktoberfest

The 25th annual Chattanooga Oktoberfest opens Saturday at the First Horizon Pavilion beside Finley Stadium.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, with a second day scheduled Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visitors can expect Oompah music, Bavarian-style food, artisan shopping, market vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Admission to the festival is free, although food, merchandise, and other purchases cost extra.

The venue is at 1801 Reggie White Boulevard in Chattanooga.

Festival-specific merchandise and beverage purchases are card-only, so visitors planning to shop should bring a suitable payment method.

Saturday, October 17: Cleveland Apple Festival

For a regional outing, the Cleveland Apple Festival begins at 10 a.m. Saturday on the Bradley County Courthouse Square at 155 North Ocoee Street.

The event runs until 6 p.m. Saturday and returns Sunday from 1 to 6 p.m.

The festival includes vendors, stage entertainment, and a Saturday afternoon apple dessert contest.

A one-day adult ticket costs $8, with reduced prices for seniors and children; children under three enter free.

Admission at festival gates is cash-only, and the organizer says only trained service animals are permitted.

Free parking is available in the downtown area, although close spaces may fill early.

Saturday, October 17: History by Kayak

Chattanooga's parks calendar lists History by Kayak: Chief Dragging Canoe from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This program offers another way to explore the Tennessee River region and its history.

Because it involves kayaking, check the event listing for registration requirements, paddling experience, safety rules, and launch location.

Sunday, October 18: Fall Colors Hike

The city also lists a Fall Colors Hike at Shakerag Hollow from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Participants should review the planned route, difficulty, meeting place, and any required reservation before setting out.

Make a Plan Before You Go

Event times, outdoor conditions, capacities, and availability can change, particularly for activities that require reservations or involve weather.

Confirm final details with the organizer before leaving home, and allow extra travel and parking time for the larger weekend festivals.

Whether you choose a seasonal celebration downtown, a family evening at the zoo, or a trip to Cleveland, this weekend offers plenty of reasons to explore beyond your usual routine.