Family events in Washington County, MN

This family-friendly evening at Faith Lutheran features a meal, hands-on craft activities, and candy collecting from festively decorated car trunks. Plans call for everything to take place in the parking lot, with a move indoors if weather requires, using the North Lobby and gym. Hosted by Faith Lutheran and Lake Area Discovery Center, the event also welcomes decorated vehicles and donations of individually wrapped candy. Collection tubs are set up in the Narthex near Door 1.

Enjoy a relaxed, sensory friendly pumpkin carving party where creativity is encouraged. Pumpkins are provided along with carving tools and decorating supplies, and there is time to play and snacks to enjoy. Cleanup is taken care of so you can focus on creating, and every child leaves with a finished pumpkin. Cost is $20 per child.

Celebrating its 10th year, this annual Fall Bonanza Craft & Vendor Show fills M Health Fairview Sports Center, formerly HealthEast Sports Center, with arts, crafts, an indoor flea market, antiques, home décor, local businesses, sporting goods, and more. Over 150 crafters and vendors present a wide variety of unique, quality products and gift ideas. Festive touches and Halloween fun create a family friendly atmosphere, whether planning a full shopping outing with loved ones or a day with friends.

Celebrate the second year of trick or treating at Gammelgården Museum with a family-friendly outing across its historic grounds. Children can test out their costumes in the daylight while moving from building to building to collect candy, and simple Halloween crafts designed for kids will be available. Capture photos of costumed kids by the many Dala horses around the property, and feel free to tag the museum when sharing. The setting offers a charming glimpse of the past and a chance to enjoy the crisp autumn air together.

This costume hike welcomes people of all ages to explore the Lake Elmo Park Reserve trails with the Wild Wanderers Hiking Club. Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costume and enjoy a guided walk through landscapes that showcase the St. Croix and Namekagon Riverway. The club focuses on building a love of the outdoors and creating connections with nature and one another through shared experiences. The hike is led by members of the Wild Rivers Conservancy team. Wendy, the Community Engagement Manager since 2021, brings more than two decades of environmental education experience and five years as a hiking guide and regional leader with She Ascends Hiking and Wellness. Owen, the Outdoor Program Coordinator since 2024, has guided canoe and backpacking expeditions throughout North America, taught adaptive skiing in Colorado, and holds Wilderness First Responder certification with training in outdoor risk management. October, the Conservancy's Outdoor Program Specialist, is an avid outdoorsman with years of guiding along the Riverway, extensive paddling and fishing experience, and adventures spanning the coast from Washington to Alaska. A Washington County Parks vehicle permit is required for parking at this location. Wear comfortable, weather appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. For safety, the program may be canceled due to inclement weather or hazardous conditions and notifications will be sent by email if plans change. There are no refunds for participant initiated cancellations.

A weekly chess get together featuring relaxed, casual play for everyone. All ages and experience levels are welcome, from beginners to seasoned players. The gathering takes place at R H Stafford Library Woodbury in St Paul.