Upcoming Fall Events in Ames You Won't Want to Miss

September 23, 2025

Fall is in the air, and there’s no better time to get out and enjoy all that Ames has to offer.

From farmers markets to art festivals and pumpkin patches, Ames has plenty of family-friendly events and activities lined up this season. Here are some fun things happening in September and October you’ll want to mark on your calendar!


Ames Farmers Market

Every Saturday in September (8:00 am – 12:30 pm)
Every Saturday in October (9:00 am – 12:30 pm)
Downtown Ames
Learn more here


The Ames Farmers Market is the perfect Saturday morning activity. Stroll through downtown, grab fresh produce, local goods, and homemade treats while enjoying the crisp fall air.


Oktoberfest

September 27–28, 2025

Torrent Brewing Co. Event Details


Celebrate the season with Oktoberfest fun—complete with food, drinks, contests, and plenty of lively entertainment. Gather your friends, put on your best fall flannel, and enjoy the festivities!


Octagon Art Festival

Sunday, September 28, 2025 at 10:00 am
Downtown Ames
Event Details


One of the largest art events in the area, the Octagon Art Festival features visual art, live performances, food vendors, and a children’s art area. It’s a great way to spend a fall Sunday while supporting local and regional artists.


Lucky Star Fall Market

Sunday, October 5, 2025 Event Details

This market brings together 40+ local makers, vintage collectors, food trucks, and live music. Admission is free, it’s family-friendly, and the first 100 shoppers receive a free tote bag!


Pumpkin Patches

  • Center Grove Orchard Plan Your Visit
    A f
    all favorite for families with apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and delicious fall treats.

  • Storybook Orchard (Story City) Event Info
    Don’t miss their
    Annual Great Pumpkin Adventure on September 28, 2025—with free admission!


Whether you’re shopping local, sipping cider, or picking pumpkins, Ames has no shortage of fall fun this season. Gather your family and friends and make the most of the beautiful autumn months right here in our community!


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At Elite Property Management, we know that pets are more than just animals — they’re family! Whether you’re cuddling up with a cat or walking your energetic pup, having a pet brings so much joy to everyday life. Apartment living with pets can take a little extra planning, but with a few helpful habits, you and your furry friend can thrive together. 1. Know and Follow Pet Policies Before bringing a new pet home, take a moment to review your community’s pet policies. These include important details like breed or weight limits, pet fees, and leash rules. If you have questions, our team is always happy to help you understand what’s allowed at your specific property — we want both you and your pet to feel right at home! 2. Choose a Pet That Fits Your Space Some pets naturally adjust better to apartment life than others. Think about your home’s size, noise levels, and schedule when choosing the right companion. Low-energy pets or breeds that don’t need a large yard can often adapt beautifully to apartment living. 3. Create a Pet-Friendly Zone Designate a cozy corner for your pet’s essentials — food and water bowls, a soft bed, and a few toys. Having a dedicated space helps them feel secure and keeps your home organized. It’s also a great way to protect furniture and flooring from wear and tear. 4. Keep a Routine Consistency is key for pets! Try to feed, walk, and play at the same time each day. A reliable routine helps your pet feel more relaxed and can prevent boredom or anxiety-related behaviors. 5. Keep Things Clean A tidy space makes apartment living more enjoyable for both you and your pet. Vacuum regularly to keep shedding under control, wash bedding often, and use pet-safe cleaners for any messes. A lint roller and an odor-neutralizing spray can quickly freshen up your space when guests visit! 6. Be a Good Neighbor We love seeing pets around our communities, and part of being a great neighbor is keeping things courteous. Always clean up after your pet, respect leash requirements, and try to minimize barking or noise when possible. Small acts of consideration go a long way toward keeping our communities friendly for everyone. 7. Get Outside Together Ames is full of pet-friendly places to explore! Whether you’re walking your dog or enjoying a sunny afternoon with your cat on a harness, these local spots are perfect for fresh air and fun: Ames Dog Park – A 10-acre off-leash park with separate areas for large and small dogs. Visit Ames Dog Park Ada Hayden Heritage Park – Beautiful lakeside trails perfect for on-leash walks. Learn more about Ada Hayden Park Discover Ames: Pet-Friendly Guide – Explore even more local pet-friendly businesses and activities. 8. S tay on Top of Pet Health Regular vet visits, vaccinations, and grooming keep your pet happy and healthy. It’s also a good idea to make sure your pet’s ID tag or microchip information is up to date in case they ever wander off. Final Thoughts At Elite Property Management, we’re proud to offer a variety of pet-friendly homes across Ames and surrounding communities. With a little care, consistency, and love, apartment living with pets can be just as comfortable and rewarding as living in a larger home. Looking for your next pet-friendly apartment? 👉 View our available listings here !
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