Things to Do This October at Ohio’s Sauder Village

Pioneer charm reigns supreme at Archbold’s Sauder Village — Ohio’s largest living-history destination — this October, with weekly opportunities for visitors to experience its 1920s Main Street in new ways.

Week of Sept. 29
This month of festivities in the village opens with Sport and Play Week. Guests can participate in both on-the-lawn and tabletop games and even play with a variety of toys from yesteryear. The week culminates on Oct. 4 with the Vintage Base Ball Tournament, featuring three local teams — the Sauder Village Windmills, the Elkhart County Railroaders and the Black Swamp Frogs — playing using rules from the 1800s. Don’t leave without celebrating National Cinnamon Roll Day, where massive, gooey cinnamon rolls will be available at Doughbox Bakery in seven specialty flavors.

Week of Oct. 6
Apple Week runs Oct. 8 through 11 and features hands-on activities like old-fashioned cider pressing and traditional apple recipe demonstrations. Partake in celebrating the harvest, then stick around for Scout Day. Kids are invited to wear their uniforms for discounted admission.

Week of Oct. 13
While there are no scheduled events for this week, Sauder Village is still ripe for fall fun. Take a stroll on the 1920s Main Street, dig into homestyle fare at the Barn Restaurant or even plan an overnight trip. The Sauder Heritage Inn offers 98 guest rooms, amenities and an indoor pool, while the Sauder Village Campground hosts both tent and RV campers alike. Those interested should act fast as the campground closes for the season on Nov. 1.

Week of Oct. 20
This week brings three exciting events: the BBQ Buffet (Oct. 24) and Eerie Nights and the Woodcarver’s Show and Sale (Oct. 24 and 25). The weekend kicks off with juicy pork, brisket and ribs served with savory sides at the Barn Restaurant’s BBQ Buffet. Across both days, find the best in wood artistry at Founder’s Hall during the Woodcarver’s show, and stay for Eerie Nights, a not-so-spooky after-hours event that highlights Halloween traditions of the 20th century. Visitors are also encouraged to trick-or-treat in costume along the village’s 1920s Main Street.

Week of Oct. 27
From Oct. 31 to Nov. 1., step back in time to the Roaring Twenties at the village’s Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre. Themed as a dinner party, the Archbold Community Theatre will present “Funeral for a Gangster,” a participation-based event where guests are encouraged to test their sleuthing skills. The immersive experience includes a buffet-style meal and a prize for best-dressed.

For more information, visit saudervillage.org.

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