Each October, Conner Prairie transforms into a world of mystery, laughter, and legend during the Headless Horseman Festival. This beloved Indiana tradition blends Halloween thrills with wholesome fall fun for all ages. Whether you're visiting for the haunted hayride, exploring the corn maze, or sipping warm apple cider under the stars, this event promises memories your family will talk about for years to come.
What Awaits You at the 2025 Festival
The Haunted Hayride: The Haunted Hayride is the centerpiece of the Conner Prairie Headless Horseman Festival. As your wagon winds through the dark woods, you'll relive the legend of Sleepy Hollow while fog, sound effects, and live actors bring the tale to life. When the Headless Horseman makes his appearance, the excitement in the air is electric.
The Corn Mazes: Test your sense of direction in one of two corn mazes. Choose between a shorter, family-friendly route or a more challenging maze for guests looking to get completely turned around. As night falls, the glow of lanterns lights the path and adds an extra layer of fun to the adventure.
Live Entertainment and Carnival Thrills: Each year brings something new to the midway. Watch as fire becomes art with Circle City Fire, enjoy live music, or catch an illusionist who seems to bend the laws of reality. Guests can also experience the Eerie Illusions Magic Show or the Sleepy Hollow Marionette Show, both long-time favorites for families.
Seasonal Treats and Local Flavors: No fall festival is complete without warm cider and seasonal goodies. The air is filled with the scent of caramel apples, roasted nuts, and fresh popcorn. Be sure to stop by the Apple Store to celebrate their 40th anniversary with homemade treats and fall-inspired gifts as well.
Fun for Every Age: Enjoy a wide variety of attractions designed for kids and adults alike, including:
- Barrel Train Ride through a musical pumpkin patch (riders must be under 48" tall)
- Perilous Plunge dry tubing hill
- Trail of Terror haunted maze for brave souls
- Face painting, fortune telling, and other family-friendly entertainment
What's New in 2025
The 2025 edition of the Headless Horseman Festival brings new thrills and surprises. Guests can look forward to enhanced lighting effects, immersive storytelling updates, and an expanded carnival area. Expect new performers, updated haunted scenes, and creative touches throughout the grounds that make this year's festival bigger and brighter than ever!
To make the most of your visit here are some pro tips to prepare:
- Arrive early to enjoy the attractions before the evening crowd builds.
- Dress warmly, as Indiana nights in October can be crisp and cool.
- Bring a flashlight for little ones if you plan to explore the corn maze after sunset.
- Make your visit effortless with nearby lodging. Prairie Guest House is steps away and easily walkable.
- The festival runs Thursdays through Sundays from October 2nd through the 26th, 5 to 10 p.m.
Stay Within Walking Distance with the Headless Horseman Package
Set on two peaceful acres and just a short walk from Conner Prairie, Prairie Guest House offers guests an authentic country escape with all the comforts of a boutique inn. The property features a rustic barn, colorful gardens, and charming outdoor spaces ideal for a morning stroll or an evening wind-down after the festival. Inside, you'll find spacious suites, cozy common areas, and warm Hoosier hospitality from innkeepers John and Karen. Each morning begins with a fresh, homemade breakfast, perfectly rounding out your fall getaway. Relax after your night of adventure in cozy accommodations at our Noblesville bed and breakfast just steps from the excitement and enjoy the full festival experience without worrying about the drive home! This special package includes:
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Admission for two to the Headless Horseman Festival at Conner Prairie ($36 Per Person)
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Two tickets for the Sleepy Hollow Hayride
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Access to all evening attractions, from corn mazes and tubing hills to live shows and music
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Comfortable lodging at Prairie Guest House, located directly across the street
Contact us for details and booking information, or click here to view the Headless Horseman Package and secure your room for this spooky Halloween spectacle!
FAQs for Your Fall Escape
When does the Headless Horseman Festival take place at Conner Prairie?
The 2025 Headless Horseman Festival at Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana runs Thursdays through Sundays, October 2 through 26, from 5 to 10 p.m. each evening. Guests can arrive early to enjoy the crisp fall air and explore Conner Prairie’s beautiful historic grounds before the festival begins—the museum closes at 4 p.m. on event days. As dusk settles over the prairie, the property transforms into a glowing landscape of pumpkins, lanterns, and carnival lights. Each weekend features something new, from live music and magic shows to spooky surprises hidden along the festival trail, making every visit an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Is the Headless Horseman Hayride at Conner Prairie scary for kids?
The Haunted Hayride is exciting but family-friendly, designed to delight guests of all ages. Younger children may find the suspense thrilling but not overwhelming—especially during earlier time slots when there’s still daylight. The Headless Horseman makes a dramatic appearance, but the focus is on fun, not fear. For kids who prefer something lighter, Conner Prairie offers plenty of gentle attractions like the Barrel Train Ride through the Musical Pumpkin Patch, Perilous Plunge tubing hill, and interactive shows that keep everyone smiling.
What other attractions are at the Headless Horseman Festivall in Fishcers, Indiana?
The fun goes far beyond the hayride. Guests can explore two corn mazes, try axe throwing, enjoy the Eerie Illusions Magic Show, and be amazed by Circle City Fire, where sparks and artistry light up the night. Don’t miss the Sleepy Hollow Marionette Show, the One-Man Show, and live bands performing under the stars. For a taste of Indiana’s favorite fall flavors, stop by the Apple Store to celebrate its 40th anniversary with handmade treats, gifts, and hot cider. Every corner of the festival grounds offers something unique, from carnival thrills to cozy fireside relaxation.
Where should visitors stay when attending the Conner Prairie Headless Horseman Festival?
For the easiest and most comfortable experience, stay right across the street at the Prairie Guest House, a charming Fishers bed and breakfast near Noblesville, Indiana. Set on two scenic acres, the inn offers spacious suites, peaceful gardens, and a delicious homemade breakfast each morning. Guests can book the Headless Horseman Package, which includes admission for two to the festival, tickets for the Sleepy Hollow Hayride, and access to all evening attractions from corn mazes to live performances. After a night of adventure, you can stroll back under the stars and unwind just a short walk from Conner Prairie.
How do tickets work for the Conner Prairie Headless Horseman Festival in Indiana?
Festival tickets are offered for select evenings from October 2 through 26 and popular time slots sell out quickly. Members typically receive benefits, and the Haunted Hayride is a separate timed ticket. Nonmembers can buy festival admission and hayride tickets by purchasing the Headless Horseman Package on our website.