Five Things To Do In Oxford This October
5th Oct 2026
October has arrived. The leaves are falling, the nights are drawing in… and Oxford is looking just a little more suspicious than usual. Luckily, there's plenty to keep you occupied before the darkness descends completely.
From centuries-old stories to ghosts, ghouls and things that go bump in the night, we've rounded up five things worth getting up to in Oxford this October.
Just don't blame us if your perfectly innocent day out takes a turn for the sinister.
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Get Spooked at Ghost Fest
23-31 October | Oxford Castle Prison
If you're looking for something a little different this Halloween, head behind the bars of Oxford Castle Prison for Ghost Fest 2026.
Explore the prison after dark, hear chilling stories and uncover the legends and reported hauntings connected to one of Oxford's most atmospheric historic sites.
There are also Potion Making Experiences for younger visitors and Spooky Tours for those looking for a more frightening night out.
Perfect for: Halloween fans, couples, groups and brave explorers.
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Oxford International Song Festival
9-24 October | Various Oxford venues
The 25th Oxford International Song Festival takes over Oxford from 9–24 October, with this year's festival exploring the highs, lows and complications of love through an eclectic programme of music.
From medieval Armenian songs and Romantic masterpieces to choral music, chamber performances, dance and newly commissioned works, there's plenty to discover across the 16-day festival.
Perfect for: Culture lovers, music fans and anyone who likes their October evenings with a little more romance than ritual.
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Explore Oxford's Musical History
10 & 11 October
Oxford has a rich musical heritage - and this October, you can explore it for yourself.
The Museum of Oxford's Sounds of the City programme includes guided walks exploring the city's past and present music venues, including areas around Jericho, St Clement's and Cowley Road.
It's a great way to see a different side of Oxford while discovering some of the stories behind the city's music scene.
Perfect for: Music fans, culture lovers and anyone who likes exploring on foot.
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Oxford Food & Drink Festival
9–18 October | Oxford city centre
After all that exploring, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite.
Fortunately, Oxford is serving up 10 days of food, drink and general culinary temptation this October, as the Oxford Food & Drink Festival returns to the city centre.
Expect street food, artisan treats, sweet things, independent makers and plenty of reasons to have just one more. The festival takes over Broad Street from 9-18 October, bringing food, culture and a lively autumn atmosphere right into the heart of Oxford.
Perfect for: Foodies, hungry explorers and anyone whose idea of sightseeing involves finding out what's for lunch.
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Dancing Oxford Festival
October | Various Oxford venues
Dancin’ Oxford Festival brings dance performances, workshops and events to venues across the city, offering a chance to experience everything from contemporary dance to more unexpected performances.
It’s a great excuse to step away from the usual Oxford sightseeing route and discover something a little different — whether you're a seasoned dance fan or simply curious about seeing what happens when the city's stages start moving.
Perfect for: Culture lovers, curious visitors and anyone who likes their Oxford experiences a little less predictable.
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