Seven ways to embrace the fall season at the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum
Fall is just around the corner, and the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum is getting ready with a lineup that has a little bit of everything, from seasonal family fun and local history to ghost stories and Halloween scares.
If you’re looking for something to add to your autumn calendar, the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum has shared seven events and activities happening throughout October and into November.
1. Take a stroll through Hillcrest Cemetery
History and superstition unite during the museum’s Hillcrest Cemetery Tour, where visitors can explore the oldest section of the cemetery while learning about some of Smiths Falls’ earliest residents.
Along the way, guides will take guests through the cemetery grounds while sharing cemetery traditions, symbolism and the stories behind the graves. For more information or to register contact: 613-283-6311, heritagehouse@smithsfalls.ca or visit: https://hillcrestcemeterytour.eventbrite.ca.
Adult tickets are $15 per person and youth tickets (ages 12-17) are $10 per person.
2. Celebrate the season at Fall Fest
The museum’s annual Fall Fest is the perfect chance to enjoy the leaves changing colours while taking part in a variety of family-friendly activities.
Taking place October 4, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the event will feature a community barbecue, games, a vendor market, and horse-drawn wagon rides.
Visitors can also explore the museum’s displays, including the Rideau Artist of the Year art show, Forged in the Falls Manufacturing History exhibit and Smiths Falls: Heart of the Rideau Canal.
Admission is by donation.
3. Get ready to be scared at the Haunted Heritage House
If your ideal fall activity involves some spooky vibes and letting out a few screams, the popular Haunted Heritage House is back for several nights in October with more than 40 volunteers helping bring the haunted house to life.
The event will take place Oct. 16, 17, 23 and 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. at 11 Old Slys Road, transforming the 1860s home into a spooky experience filled with actors and ghosts.
According to the museum, groups are sent through individually so guests can partake in the experience without knowing exactly what’s coming next.
Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased online through Eventbrite, with a limited number also available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. Hear some ghost stories by candlelight
For those who prefer their spooky season with a little less screaming, the museum is offering Museum Ghost Tales.
The candlelit tours will explore ghostly rumours and stories connected to the museum and surrounding area.
A tour is scheduled for Oct. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m., with private tours also available by appointment throughout October and November. Tickets are $10 per person.
5. Explore Smiths Falls after dark on a Downtown Ghost Walk
The museum’s final Downtown Ghost Walk of the season is set for Oct. 9, taking visitors through the historic streets of Smiths Falls in search of some of the town’s darker side.
Experienced guides will share tales of Smiths Falls’ haunted and mysterious past while leading guests through historic streets and spooky alleyways.
The walk will begin at 7 p.m. at Town Hall, 77 Beckwith St. N. Guests can reserve their spot in advance by calling 613-283-6311.
6. Pumpkin-carving fun
Do you think you can create the best jack-o’-lantern in town? The museum is inviting the those with an artistic side to take part in its Community Pumpkin Carving Contest.
According to museum officials, pumpkins can be dropped off at the museum on Oct. 23, after which they’ll be displayed on the museum grounds through until Halloween night.
The Smiths Falls community will get to decide the winners, with a voting drop box available on site for visitors to cast their votes for their favourites.
7. Make the Heritage House your fall history stop
Even when there’s no special event or activity happening, the Heritage House Museum offers plenty to explore for anyone interested in the town’s past.
The museum, located at at 11 Old Slys Road, is open every Wednesday through Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For more information about upcoming fall events, to book a private tour or to ask about programming, contact the Smiths Falls Heritage House Museum at 613-283-6311 or heritagehouse@smithsfalls.ca.