Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie
Fall festival · Indiana
Conner Prairie's living-history grounds north of Indianapolis turn over to the Headless Horseman after dark, with hayrides and lantern-lit trails through the same fields costumed interpreters work by day. The 2026 run is Thursdays through Sundays, October 1 through 25, five to ten at night.
Don’t miss
Plan your visit
Thu-Sun, 5-10pm; museum grounds close at 4pm on festival days
Dates from the official announcement — always confirm before you go.
Color nearby peaks: October 23–October 27
Color builds from October 10 · mostly bare by November 16
Method: daily ERA5 temperatures drive a photoperiod + chilling phenology model, sampled at Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie’s own coordinates and elevation (240 m) rather than a regional average. Estimates, not promises — check locally before you plan a trip around it.
Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie on the map
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Plan from a city
Frequently asked
- When is Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie open in 2026?
- The 2026 season runs Oct 1 – Oct 25. Thu-Sun, 5-10pm; museum grounds close at 4pm on festival days. Dates can shift, so check the official site before you go.
- When does Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie peak in 2026?
- Peak color is predicted for October 23–October 27 (best estimate October 25). Color starts around October 10 and is mostly bare by November 16.
- What is Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie best for?
- Fishers and Indianapolis families wanting a themed night out.
- How do I get to Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie?
- The closest city is Indianapolis, about 17 mi away (it's right in town). It's part of Indiana's fall lineup.
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