The Fall Color 5K Run & Walk on Sunday, Oct. 2 kicks off the month-long Fall Color Festival at Morton Arboretum in Lisle. (Photo courtesy of Morton Arboretum)

The Morton Arboretum will showcase trees in their fall grandeur from more than 40 countries, surrounded by 16 miles of scenic hiking trails to explore, along with an array of events celebrating the season.

This October, the month-long Fall Color Festival kicks off with the Fall Color 5K Run & Walk on Oct. 2. Follow a beautiful course through the woodlands during this fun race, which includes a kid’s dash and post-race party.

Just as colorful leaves are a hallmark of the season, so too are the many pumpkins displayed throughout the Arboretum’s grounds. See real pumpkins of all sizes and then marvel at the thousands of glittering and gleaming glass orbs for sale during the sixth-annual Glass Pumpkin Patch, Oct. 12-16.

This fall favorite includes demonstrations by professional glassblowers from around the country and one-of-a-kind pieces available for purchase.

What’s fall without a little thrill? The Morton Arboretum delivers with the Mystery Dinner at Thornhill Mansion. Journey to 1977, the height of the disco era, and help detectives solve a crime at Thornhill, the historic Morton family mansion. Come attired in groovy garb and enjoy a delicious dinner while the caper unfolds, Oct. 20, 27 and 29.

On Oct. 22, enjoy the beauty of the season and the flavors of fall with the Cider and Ale Festival featuring dozens of craft breweries.

Families can have fun at BOO Breakfast, complete with costumed characters, Oct. 29-30. All month long, kids are welcome to take part in games and crafts in the Trick or Trees program found in the award-winning four-acre Children’s Garden.

Throughout October, visitors to the Arboretum can also enjoy the Scarecrow Trail. Designed by local scout troops, the handmade creations encircling beautiful Meadow Lake add a sense of whimsy and fun to the natural surroundings. Every weekend, visitors can enjoy seasonal fare including taffy apples and kettle corn.

— Morton Arboretum showcases fall with variety of events —