From archaeology and stargazing to a chance to make a feathered fashion statement, Montgomery Parks brings a full slate of ways to engage and get into the spirit of the season
WHEATON, Md. – October is bringing cooler temperatures and shorter days, but Montgomery Parks is filling the month with plenty of reasons to get out and about. Our lively lineup of programs invites guests to hike beneath the stars, paddle beneath the full moon, dig into local history, and even steal a bird’s look. There’s fun for every kind of autumn enthusiast.
October events include (registration required for all programs unless indicated):
Afternoon on the Pontoon | Wednesdays, October 7 and 28; Saturday, October 10 | Various times
Black Hill Discovery Center, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds
Enjoy a leisurely cruise on our pontoon boat on Little Seneca Lake looking for local wildlife such as beavers, deer, otters, herons, and osprey. $7 ($6, Friends of Black Hill).
Autumn Fest | Saturday, October 10 | 4–7 p.m.
Maydale Nature Classroom, 1638 Maydale Drive, Colesville
Join us for a cozy autumn celebration filled with community creativity, and seasonal fun for all ages. Highlights will include pumpkin painting, a cozy campfire, dog costume contest and other doggy games, a native tree and shrubs sale, and more. No registration required. Free.
When the Stars Led the Way: Woodlawn Manor Guided Twilight Trek | Saturday, October 10 | 6–8 p.m.
Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, 16501 Norwood Road, Sandy Spring
Learn historical context and techniques used to navigate the way North to freedom including the challenges and opportunities nighttime travel presented. Traverse the trail with the help of stars and moonlight while learning which plants were helpful along the journey. The Gaithersburg Community Museum Latitude Observatory will be onsite with a telescope to view the night sky before the hike begins. Woodlawn Museum admission included; please arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of the hike to explore the museum. $8-10.
Wheaton Passport to Sports Day | Sunday, October 11 | 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Wheaton Regional Park—F. Frank Rubini Athletic Complex, 11715 Orebaugh Avenue, Wheaton
It’s community sports day at Wheaton Regional Park. A ticket confers a wristband and passport to attend events in the Wheaton Ice Arena, Wheaton Indoor Tennis, and Wheaton Sports Pavilion. Participants who fill their passports will be entered to win fun prizes. Schedule of events and program information available on the website. $10.
History Hour: Queens and Kings of History | Thursday, October 15 | 6–7 p.m.
Josiah Henson Museum and Park, 11410 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda (Parking located at Wall Park, 5900 Executive Boulevard)
Presenter Shera Higgs Thompson will discuss the many unrecognized queens and kings of history from the 1800s whose countless achievements in all industries, from entertainment to finance, will encourage you to dive deeper into the subjects and educate others. Doors open at 5pm to allow visitors to enjoy the museum prior to the presentation. Admission includes light refreshments $5.
International Archaeology Family Day | Saturday, October 17 | 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Josiah Henson Museum and Park, 11410 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda
In celebration of International Archaeology Day, Josiah Henson Museum and Park will feature hands-on activities and archaeology tours highlighting the archaeology done at the site and how it tells the story of Rev. Josiah Henson and others that lived on the historic Riley Plantation. At 1 p.m., there will be a “Meet the Archaeologist” talk by historian, author, and archaeologist, Dr. Cheryl LaRouche. No registration required. Free with paid admission to Josiah Henson Museum and Park.
Lake Tour by Kayak: Full Moon Paddle | Friday, October 23 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Black Hill Discovery Center, 20926 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds
On this full moon paddle enjoy the sunset and full moon from the waters of Little Seneca Lake. Boats, paddles, and PFDs are supplied, but guests can bring their own PFD (Type III or V). Basic paddling experience is necessary. This event isn’t a lesson. Lights for the kayaks will be provided. $30 ($29, Friends of Black Hill).
Steal Their Look: A Birdy Fashion Show | Friday, October 23 | 7–9 p.m.
Meadowside Nature Center, 5100 Meadowside Lane, Rockville
Birds might have done it first, and now you, too, can slay on the flyway. Feminist Bird Club DMV and Montgomery Parks call all fashionistas to “Steal Their Look,” a call to dress as a bird of choice using everyday clothing and accessories. Those up to the task are invited to strut their feathers on an ADA-accessible “runway” with a flock of volunteer judges offering their eyes for bird style. Winners will earn a prize for their birdy threads. Besides looks, light refreshments, snacks, and music will also be served. (Registration is encouraged at least one week in advance to coordinate the fashion show.) $10.
More ways to explore and enjoy
- Check out the Park Academy Series for fitness, wellness, and learning classes.
- See our special programs for 55+.
Go to Montgomery Parks event calendar for a complete list of special events and programming and to learn how to sign up using ActiveMontgomery. Visit the Fall 2026 Montgomery Parks Program Guide.
Montgomery Parks manages 417 parks and more than 37,000 acres of parkland. Our parks, programs, and facilities promote physical activity, social connection, and environmental stewardship. As part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Montgomery Parks is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible park experiences. M-NCPPC has been stewarding public lands since 1927 and has been nationally recognized for its high-quality parks and recreation services. MontgomeryParks.org
Accessibility at Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Program Access Office at 301-495-2581 (Voice/TTY), MD Relay 7-1-1 or 800-552-7724 or ProgramAccess@MontgomeryParks.org to request a disability modification. Visit Montgomery Parks Program Access for more information.
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