Headless Horseman Festival returns to Conner Prairie for 42nd year

By HERNAN GUTIERREZ
WISH-TV |
wishtv.com

Sleepy Hollow is set to come to life in Fishers for the month of October. Conner Prairie opened its annual Headless Horseman Festival on Thursday, Oct. 2.

It’s the 42nd edition of the fall tradition. This year’s festival will again tell the story of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman throughout a hayride.

Other activities include a small midway with carnival-themed rides, a live fire art show and plenty of seasonal treats.

Public Relations and Communications Manager Hyacinth Rucker says the museum is also celebrating the 40th anniversary of its iconic Apple Store.

“I like them to cut my apple and then pour the warm caramel on top,” Rucker mused. “It is so good.”

New to the festival this year is axe-throwing. Anarchy Axe Throwing is hosting a booth for free during the first two weekends of the festival.

The Corn Maze and the Trail of Terror make a full return to the festival after a small hiatus. Last year, only part of the maze was open due to some storm damage. Rucker says there is a circus theme this year.

“When you come in here, you’re going to be [haunted] by those that died in the train wreck,” Rucker said. “They are here to try … definitely scare you. It’s creepy … It’s a great time for those that want to be scared.”

The Headless Horseman Festival runs Thursdays through Sundays until Oct. 26. It’s open from 5 to 10 p.m. every night.

Admission is free for Conner Prairie members. For non-members, tickets are $26.

This story was originally published by WISH-TV at wishtv.com/news/local-news/headless-horseman-festival-2025.