October brings a cozy, peaceful charm to Old Orchard Beach, making it a perfect time to experience the beauty of the fall season. It’s incredible because it is quiet with empty shorelines that gives a romantic and tranquil state of mind. The air might be chilly but it’s such a serene time of year where there are no crowds. The sunrises that sneak up over the horizon of seven miles of beach are simply amazing this time of year. There is something about being on a beach alone, in the quiet, listening to the waves crashing upon the shore. With the beauty of the season in full swing, I’m excited to share some great activities to enjoy this October in the Old Orchard Beach area.
Sunrises In the East
I think one of the most enjoyable things to do is photograph the sunrises, no crowds, just ocean, sky and space. Old Orchard Beach faces the east so you can experience front-row seats to it all. There is just something about October sunrises. And then throw in the iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier and you have yourself an incredible picture or two. While walking along the beach you could beachcomb as well and find all sorts of treasures. Since it is quiet you have more of a chance to find unique fortunes as well!
Hiking and Birdwatching
Hiking is also very fun! Grab your flannel and take a walk or bike on one of the many trails in the area. Old Orchard Beach is uniquely positioned near wooded trails, marshlands, and walkable trails. The Eastern Trail which is part of the East Coast Greenway runs near OOB. this is a beautiful trail for leaf peeping and strolling along and feeling nature all around you. For a complete look at what trails, such as the Eastern Trail, we have around the Old Orchard Beach area, click here. While out maybe take your binoculars and birdwatch as well. Old Orchard Beach has a ton of birds and is great for picture taking as well.
Where to Get Your Pumpkin
Since it is October you’ll need to attend a festival, corn maze, a hayride or pumpkin patch of some kind. There are a few that occur this month all around the area, such as the Pumpkin Harvest Festival, in Saco. This is where you can grab a pumpkin from their enchanting pumpkin patch, participate or watch the annual pie-eating contest. Listen to live local music, do a pony ride, enjoy a thrilling ride in the carnival area, or enjoy more than 60 vendors to choose from. Harvest on the Harbor in Portland, showcases craft seasonal Maine-made gins, vodkas, bourbons, rums, and more and hosts fun competitions as well. It’s an annual event to be enjoyed by many.
The Maine Maple Fall Fest is truly a treat in autumn. Nearby farms participate in a state wide celebration of fall in Maine. They offer such things as maple donuts and maple flavored coffee and great maple products on sale including, maple syrup, maple whoopie pies, maple candies, and maple cotton candy. They also show how maple syrup is made from start to finish. Pumpkin Valley Farm is a superb place to visit for a wagon ride and pumpkins galore. They also have a corn maze and goats, bunnies, and chickens to name a few that you can visit with.
Spooky Season
Another great activity to do is to attend a spooktacular theater production. The City Theater in Biddeford checks off all the boxes for this activity to do in October. It’s vintage, classy and on the National Register of Historic Places. This month they will be showcasing Deathtrap October 10th-26th which is sure to be suspenseful and thrilling.
Nothing better than walking along the small city of Biddeford in fall with your warm fleece on, looking for gifts or something for the home. There is the Maine Craft Weekend in Biddeford where crafters come together and showcase their products for sale. Potters, jewelers, weavers, painters, beer crafters, and much more will be in attendance!
Events
So, as you can see there is plenty to do in October in the Old Orchard Beach area and this only scratches the surface. For a complete list of area events please visit our event extensive calendar here! Hope to see you strolling on the beach, during one of my favorite times of the year, when you stay here at the Alouette! In fact, take advantage of our special this month where you stay three nights and get the fourth free, with breakfast included!
Till next month!
