Fall is that sweet spot between sweltering summer days and frigid winter nights. And what better way to enjoy these comfortable temperatures than by spending a day outdoors supporting local artists, taking in scarecrow and pumpkin displays and squeezing in one last carnival ride?

To get you started, here’s a curated list of events that celebrate the cozy magic of fall.

LUMENAURA — Oct. 10–26, Aurora

Returning for a second year, LUMENAURA transforms downtown Aurora into an immersive light-and-sound playground. Fest Weekend, Oct. 10–12, features live entertainment and opportunities to create your own art. The full immersive experience runs through Oct. 26.

Scarecrow Weekend — Oct. 11–13, St. Charles

More than 110 handmade scarecrows will line downtown during the 40th annual Scarecrow Weekend. Enjoy live entertainment, a Family Zone, festive photo ops, Scarecrow-to-Go, and the Autumn on the Fox Craft Show at Pottawatomie Park. Hours: 12–6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday.

Burgoo Festival — Oct. 11–12, Utica

Celebrating its 55th year, Utica’s Burgoo Festival is one of northern Illinois’s largest and longest-running fall parties. Street vendors, live music and artisans abound. The star is burgoo—a hearty stew slow-cooked 12 to 18 hours over a wood fire alongside the historic I&M Canal, and ready to be served at 9 a.m. Sunday.

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival — Oct. 22–26, Sycamore

This 64th annual festival fills downtown Sycamore near Main and State streets. The week-long celebration includes a pumpkin check-in and public art display, an opening giant cake cutting ceremony, a parade on Oct. 26, a house walk, carnival, craft shows and a “Pumpkins at the Movies” theme.