When October arrives in Murray, the city transforms into a patchwork of pumpkins, performances and playful scares. From mystery plays on the newly reopened Murray Theater stage to a hip hop pumpkin stroll at City Hall, residents have a full month of autumn celebrations to choose from.

Sept. 26-Oct. 31: Pumpkin Days at Wheeler Historic Farm

Wheeler Historic Farm kicks off the season with Pumpkin Days, running daily from Sept. 26 through Oct. 31. For many families, this has become a beloved fall tradition. Admission is $12 per person ($10 on Tuesdays) and includes a hay maze and a choice of wagon or cow-train ride. Pumpkins, starting at $3, can be picked directly from the patch, allowing children to choose their own Jack-o’-lantern canvas.

Murray Wheeler Farm’s Pumpkin Day’s brings all sorts to the pumpkin patch. (Photo courtesy of Wheeler Farm)

Special features give each week a different flavor. The Pumpkin Boo-tique artisan market on Oct. 11 showcases local vendors with handmade crafts and seasonal goods. Owl-o-ween brings live raptor demonstrations every Wednesday evening, offering families a chance to see owls and hawks up close. On Friday nights, a rotation of local food trucks sets up shop, making Wheeler Farm a weekend destination.

Wheeler Historic Farm is located at 6351 S. 900 East. More details:
www.saltlakecounty.gov/wheeler-farm/.

Oct. 3-4 and Oct. 10-17: “WKLL Radio Murder Mystery Hour”

The newly restored Murray Theater celebrates its reopening with the “WKLL Radio Murder Mystery Hour.” The play is staged like a live radio broadcast from the 1930s, complete with period costumes, microphones and sound effects performed in front of the audience. Patrons are invited to take part in the mystery, helping the “radio cast” unravel the plot.

Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 3-4 and Oct. 10-17. The theater itself adds to the experience. Built in 1938 in the Art Moderne style, the venue sat vacant for years before the city’s extensive restoration. 

The Murray Theater is located at 4961 S. State St. Event listings:
www.murraytix.com.

Oct. 11: Halloween Howl 3K/5K Run/Walk

The annual Halloween Howl 3K/5K will take place on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 11 a.m. in Murray Park. Unlike most races, costumes are encouraged—not just for runners but for their dogs as well. Awards will be given not only to the fastest finishers but also for creative costume entries, with categories for both people and pets.

Families and casual walkers often join the event, giving it a festive, parade-like atmosphere. Fees range from $5 to $13, depending on residency and whether participants bring a dog.

The Park Center, Murray’s recreation complex, also hosts a full menu of October traditions. Families can look forward to its Trunk or Treat, the lighthearted Pumpkin Plummet races, the water-based Pumpkin Plunge, and even a Puppy Pool “Paw”ty. Details and registration are available through the city’s recreation site.

Murray Park is located at 296 E. Murray Park Ave. Registration info:
www.murray.utah.gov/720/The-Park-Center.

Oct. 20-22: Haunted Woods at Murray Park

The Haunted Woods fundraiser, now in its 51st year, returns Oct. 20-22. Families can choose between the Silly Trail (5-7 p.m.), which is geared for younger children, or the Spooky Trail (7-9 p.m.) designed for older kids and adults who want more scares.

Tickets and info: www.murrayhauntedwoods.com/buy-tickets.

Oct. 24: Dine & Dance – Hip Hop Night and Pumpkin Stroll

Wheeler Farm will again feature its famous hay maze at Pumpkin Days. (Photo courtesy of Wheeler Farm)

Murray City Hall Plaza will take on a lively glow on Friday, Oct. 24, during the Dine & Dance: Hip Hop Night and Pumpkin Stroll. The free event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. and begins with hip hop dance instruction by Salt Lake-based group 1520 Arts. Residents of all ages and skill levels are invited to join in.

Alongside the dancing, families are encouraged to bring carved pumpkins to line the plaza walkways. Visitors can stroll the display and vote for their favorites, with contest winners announced at 7:30 p.m. Food trucks will also be stationed nearby, making it a full night out in the city center.

Murray City Hall Plaza is located at 10 E. 4800 South. Event info: www.murray.utah.gov.

Oct. 28: Autism-Friendly Trunk or Treat

The final event of the month is designed for inclusion. On Tuesday, Oct. 28, the Autism Council of Utah will host its Autism-Friendly Trunk or Treat from 6 to 7 p.m. The event is quieter and sensory-considerate, providing children and families affected by autism with a safe, welcoming Halloween alternative.

The event will be held at 6232 S. 900 East. More information: www.autismcouncilofutah.org.