Cleveland Metroparks Announces Return of Touch-a-Truck and FallFest

Cleveland Metroparks announced today the return of two signature fall events. The 14th annual Touch-a-Truck presented by CrossCountry Mortgage returns to Brookside Reservation on Sunday, September 21! Kids can get behind the wheel of approximately 50 vehicles, including construction trucks and equipment used to maintain and preserve Cleveland Metroparks at this free outdoor event.

Families can see and explore big machines and vehicles, including bucket trucks, front-end loaders, bulldozers, excavators, backhoes, dump trucks, police cars and more. Kids can also explore additional nature play opportunities at a 40-ton sandbox, ride the trackless train presented by Whistle Express Car Wash, and interact with costume characters. Touch-a-Truck runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 21. Free parking is available.

Guests attending Touch-a-Truck also receive $5 discounted admission the same day to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/touchatruck for more information.

FallFest Returns to Brecksville Reservation

On Sunday, September 28, guests of all ages are invited to FallFest at the Meadows Picnic Area in Brecksville Reservation. Connect with history at this 18th Century Festival featuring candle making, a magic show, folk music, and more. Food and souvenirs will be available for sale.

FallFest runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is free on-site, and a shuttle will be available to transport guests from the Brecksville Nature Center parking lot.

Fall Clambakes Along the Cuyahoga 

Clambakes return to Merwin’s Wharf this fall from October 3 through October 25, offered Fridays and Saturdays beginning at 4 p.m. Guests can enjoy this Cleveland tradition along the Cuyahoga River with a seasonal menu and stunning waterfront views. Reservations are required and can be made online at clevelandmetroparks.com. 

Save the date for Oktoberfest at The Chalet!

Join us this fall for the inaugural Oktoberfest at The Chalet, a free family-friendly celebration featuring live polka music, dancing, games, festive photo areas, and a traditional Biergarten with German-inspired food from the Cleveland Metroparks Food Truck.

Guests can also enjoy tractor-drawn hayrides through the autumn landscape, available on a first-come, first-served basis every half hour. Wagons are ADA accessible and operate rain or shine. Hayrides are $12 for adults (12+), $10 for children (ages 3–11), and free for children under 2 (must sit on an adult lap). Oktoberfest takes place Saturday, October 4 and 18, 2025, from 3–7 p.m. at The Chalet in Mill Stream Run Reservation.

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