In St. Louis, fall means mild weather, gorgeous foliage and a slew of things to do. From art to apples and beer to music, our area’s fall festivals and events have it all. So, whether you live here or you’re planning to visit, make sure you add these to your calendar.
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September
Paint Louis
September 4 to 6
The world’s largest graffiti festival returns to the Mississippi River floodwall. Paint Louis, which initially ran from 1996 to 2001 and was later revived in 2013, is an annual gathering of over 400 graffiti writers from across the U.S. and world in celebration of the four elements of hip-hop: graffiti, breakdancing, rapping and DJing. Each year, the world-renowned event welcomes legendary names in the graffiti and contemporary art worlds, as they paint a one-mile stretch of the floodwall in their unique artistic styles. During this two-day event, attendees can watch these dynamic artists at work, as well watch performances by national and local acts. And if you can’t make it this year, no worries. The Paint Louis wall is a year-round attraction loved by locals and tourists alike.
Japanese Festival
September 5 to 7
The richness of Japanese culture is on full display against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Missouri Botanical Gardens during the annual Japanese Festival. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, this robust cultural celebration is one of the largest and longest-running events of its kind in the United States. Visitors are in for an immersive sensorial experience with festival highlights including taiko drumming, Bon Odori festival dancing, martial arts and sumptuous culinary offerings. If you want to further enrich your experience, consider taking an enchanting stroll through the Japanese Garden or exploring the private Teahouse Island on a guided public tour, one of many offered in conjunction with the festival.
Art Outside
September 11 to 13
St. Louis’ love of art and beer marry beautifully during the Art Outside Art Fair, hosted by Schlafly Beer. The festival, taking place at Schlafly Bottleworks in Maplewood, was created to raise awareness and appreciation of the intentionally crafted art, music and beer that is created in the St. Louis region. This year’s festival features work from over 60 local artists specializing in an array of mediums including acrylic, ceramics, glass, jewelry, metalwork, oil, photography, stonework, woodworking and so much more. Grab your favorite people – and a cold one if you imbibe – and get to know art without pretense.
Brookdale Farms Fall Festival
September 11 to November 8
If you crave the signature fall activities the season is known for, look no further than Brookdale Farms. During its fall festival, wander through the 17-acre corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin at the pumpkin patch, take a ride on the mechanical bull, or challenge friends and family to one of the farm’s giant outdoor games. Between moments of fun, enjoy classic fall treats, enjoy live music and take a commemorative photo at one of the fall-themed photo ops.
Oktoberfest at Grant’s Farm
September 11 to 13 and 18 to 20
Raise a toast to cheer and good times at Grant’s Farm during Oktoberfest! A spirited celebration of the beloved attraction’s German heritage, the event features a selection of traditional German fare and cold beer served in commemorative steins, live German music and dancing, and access to your favorite animal exhibits. Oktoberfest is part of Grant’s Farm’s exciting lineup of fall events, which also includes Fall Fest and Halloween Nights.
Tacos & Tequila Festival
September 12
Tacos, tequila and throwbacks are on the menu at this year’s Tacos & Tequila Festival. The touring throwback hip-hop festival, which made its St. Louis debut in 2025, is returning to CarShield Field in O’Fallon with authentic tacos and craft margaritas from a variety of vendors. Attendees can also expect exciting lucha libre wrestling matches, art installations, a chihuahua beauty pageant, and performances from headliners including Rick Ross, Yung Joc, Ginuwine, Fat Joe and more.
2026 St. Louis Renaissance Festival
September 12 to October 25
Travel back in time to the 1520s and the village of Petite Lyon for the 28th annual St. Louis Renaissance Festival. Come and find what strikes you merry, as armored jousting, aerial acts, lively music, fine foods and vintage wares invite unbridled joy, imagination and whimsy! The festival will take place on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 12 to Oct. 25, as well as Mon., Oct. 12, and festivities will proceed, rain or shine.
Fright Fest
September 12 to November 1
This spooky season at Six Flags, you’re in for a thrill – and not just on the rides! Fright Fest returns for fear-filled evenings where ghosts and ghouls are guaranteed to run amok! During the day, the whole family can get in on the fun during Boo Fest featuring trick-or-treat trails, fall-themed photo ops, character meet and greets, and kid-friendly entertainment. Then, once the sun sets, the ghastly creatures that go bump in the night disperse across the park’s chilling haunted attractions and hair-raising scare zones, delivering screams around every corner. Other highlights include live entertainment, seasonal bites and sips, and your favorite rides operating in the dark.
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Concert on Art Hill
September 16
Pack your lawn chairs and blankets, and find the perfect spot on Art Hill for this year’s St. Louis Symphony Orchestra Concert. A beloved tradition for STL music lovers, this free concert sets the tone for an exciting 26/27 concert season at Powell Hall. Sit back and enjoy the music, from classical tunes to modern scores, all while enjoying the company of friends, family and fellow St. Louisans. The event also includes fare from local food trucks for purchase and a stunning firework show. If you like what you hear, join the celebration during Opening Weekend at Powell Hall on Sept. 26 and 27.
Tennessee Williams Festival
September 17 to 27
The life and timeless work of Tennessee Williams is the inspiration for the aptly named Tennessee William Festival at the Berges Theatre. For the first time in the festival’s history, the landmark production will expand beyond the artistic scope of Williams’ work to explore “The Tennessee Williams Effect.” A phrase coined by festival organizers, this year’s event aims to highlight the influence and legacy of Williams’ work on the generations of playwrights that came after him. This year's headlining production is The Appropriate by two-time Tony Award-winning playwright Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. Driven by the goal to enrich the cultural life of St. Louis by celebrating the work and influence of Tennesee Williams through art and education, the Tennessee William Festival is a rich expression of St. Louis’ prevailing love of the theater.
Hispanic Festival
September 18
In 1996, the Hispanic Festival was born out of a desire to empower and elevate the Hispanic community through the arts, education and meaningful connections across St. Louis. Today, nearly 30 years later, the one-day gathering in Soulard has grown into one of the largest cultural celebrations in the St. Louis region – all while staying true to its founding mission. The Hispanic Festival features the beauty of Hispanic culture, best exemplified by traditional food from a variety of vendors, handmade jewelry and crafts from local artisans, and live music from dynamic bands.
Greentree Festival
September 18 to 20
Celebrate the spirit of community during Kirkwood’s Greentree Festival. First held in 1961 in an effort to replace the trees lost to Dutch elm disease, today’s festival honors the past and its founding mission of community-powered environmental stewardship. This family-friendly event features a parade, food, entertainment, arts and crafts and contests. A can’t-miss element of the festival are the folklife artisans who will be hosting live traditional craft demonstrations throughout the weekend.
The Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race
September 18 and 19
A St. Louis fall is incomplete without a visit to Emerson Fields for the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow and Race. The Balloon Glow kicks off the event on Friday, featuring live music, food trucks, concessions, games and activities. As the sun sets, the giant balloons light up the night sky in a scene that is nothing short of magical. On Saturday, the balloons are launched and the race officially begins! Event organizers say that it’s the oldest and best-attended hot air balloon race in the world. Our advice? You might want to scope out the perfect viewing area for you and your family ahead of time.
Saint Louis Art Fair
September 18 to 20
Whether you’re looking for a piece of fine art to fill your home or a fun-filled day in the sun, the Saint Louis Art Fair is a primo event for enthusiastic art lovers. Known to attract a variety of high-quality artists from across the country, visitors can peruse one-of-a-kind works from nearly 200 visual artists, eat delicious food from some of St. Louis’ best restaurants, and enjoy live performances from local musicians.
Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival
September 19
Twenty-six years ago, a small group of neighbors – passionate about music and their neighborhood – decided to throw a grand party in their historic downtown district. Today, that party, the Old Webster Jazz & Blues Festival, has amassed well over 12,000 annual attendees celebrating their love of music. Offering nonstop jazz and blues on two stages, the free, family-friendly event showcases St. Louis’ most talented performers in addition to the area’s irresistible restaurants and unique small businesses. Street entertainers also amuse spectators with balloons, juggling and face-painting. Everyone is invited to the party, where folks of all ages get on their feet and dance like no one’s watching!
Frizz Fest
September 19
Frizz Fest returns to Tower Grove Park for its ninth year celebrating and uplifting the Black community. The natural beauty festival, which welcomes nearly 10,000 attendees every year, was created with the primary goal to foster a safe, inclusive and vibrant space where the Black community – in all of its beauty, culture and creativity – is able to thrive. This year’s festival sees the return of festival mainstays including music and entertainment by local DJs and dancers, an art garden featuring murals and art installations, a designated creative space for kids, a vendor market, and a hair show. The 2026 iteration is also introducing a new event, Passport Wine Tasting, in collaboration with Passport Craft Cocktail & Wine Bar. The event, taking place in the inaugural Frizz Fest Wine Garden, includes a commemorative tasting cup, wine tastings curated by Sommelier Javia Gilliam-Sanford and Kaje Sanford of Passport Craft Cocktail & Wine Bar, the opportunity to purchase your favorite sips by the pour or bottle, and exclusive access to the Wine Garden.
Chuseok Korean Harvest Festival
September 19
Held at Half Moon Circle in Tower Grove Park, the Chuseok Korean Harvest Festival centers on traditional Korean performing arts. In Korean culture, Chuseuk – sometimes referred to as Korean Thanksgiving – is a time for families to gather and express gratitude for their ancestors and newly harvested crops. The Gateway Korea Foundation honors this tradition with a spirited celebration that includes traditional Korean foods, music performances, a martial arts demonstration, games, and so much more. This year’s event introduces a partnership with the American Cancer Society, as well as a “K-pop vs Cancer” dance competition benefiting the organization.
Maplewood Route 66 Celebration
September 26
Get your kicks at the Maplewood Route 66 Celebration! Soak up the nostalgia and celebrate 100 years of the iconic Mother Road during this lively street fest. Explore retro vendors and fun throwback finds at Vintage Row, check out the classic cars during the car show, enjoy live music, feast on delicious eats and shop Maplewood’s local businesses. An event designed for the whole family to enjoy, the Maplewood Route 66 Celebration is the perfect way to cruise into fall.
Tower Grove Pride
September 27 and 28
Tower Grove’s annual Pride festival returns for another year of community-powered festivities, including the People’s Joy Parade, outdoor story time, arts and crafts and live entertainment on three separate stages. Taking place at Tower Grove Park, Tower Grove Pride aims to support and promote social justice for every disadvantaged and undervalued community.
October
Brewed Arts Festival
October 3
What do beer, kombucha, coffee and tea all have in common? They’re all brewed! This beverage production method is the theme of Cherokee Street’s Brewed Arts Festival, which celebrates artfully brewed beverages of all kinds and the art that brings life to Cherokee Street. Stretching one mile long, Brewed Arts Festival features tastings of locally-made brews – including non-alcoholic spirits, tea, and beer – live performances, indoor and outdoor painting, shopping and more.
Clayton Jazz Festival
October 3
The Demarius Hicks Quartet, Bach to the Future, St. Louis Jazz All-Stars and a John Coltrane tribute by four of St. Louis’ finest musicians are among the lineup of the sixth annual Clayton Jazz Festival. Let the improvised melodies take you on a spontaneous journey through the free event, which also offers first-rate food and drinks for purchase.
GroveFest
October 3
Party on Manchester Avenue during the Grove’s annual community celebration, GroveFest. The vibrant festival, which launched over 18 years ago, highlights the unique spirit of the Grove and the proud residents who call the neighborhood home. Attendees can expect libations and samplings from the Grove’s local bars and restaurants, entertainment by local musical acts, a fierce drag show and more.
St. Louis Bourbon Festival
October 9
Spirits abound at the St. Louis Bourbon Festival – and not just the drinking kind! Hosted by the St. Louis Bourbon Society, this frighteningly fun festival returns to the storied Lemp Mansion and expands its reach across four city blocks of Cherokee Street and Demenil Place. The area’s historic buildings are transformed into eerie tasting lounges and wicked VIP haunts, where brave imbibers can enjoy more than 500 whiskies from around the world. Spine-tingling live music, street performers, food trucks and a scotch and cigar patio round out this ghoulishly-good event. Don your finest fall attire and embrace the Halloween vibe at this spooky soirée where bourbon flows and spirits rise.
Soulard Oktoberfest
October 9 to 10
Raise your stein and celebrate in Soulard during the neighborhood’s Oktoberfest at Soulard Market Park. This family-friendly festival combines the spirit of old-world Germany with the lively soul of St. Louis. Enjoy German fare including juicy bratwursts, chewy pretzels, and other classic eats before washing it all down with an ice cold beer. The vibrant event also features live music – from polka to brass bands – and the beloved Stein Holding Competition. Bring your favorite people and your appetite – this is an event you don’t want to miss.
Best of Missouri Market
October 9 to 11
This fall, the Best of Missouri Market returns to the Missouri Botanical Garden with more than 150 vendors, offering unique handicrafts, locally produced eats, custom jewelry, native plants, craft spirits and more. Kids will also have a blast with fall-inspired activities such as sustainable pumpkin decorating.
Brew in the Lou
October 10
Sample libations from local, regional and national craft breweries, distilleries and wineries during the 14th annual Brew in the Lou. Each general admission ticket includes unlimited beer, wine, spirits and food (while supplies last), along with a commemorative tasting glass. Hosted by Lutheran Elementary School Association (LESA), the festival in Francis Park is one of the largest and most important fundraisers for the organization with proceeds benefitting LESA’s 34 member schools, which serve approximately 9,700 students and 600 educators.
Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration
October 10
Mary Meachum and her husband, Reverend John Berry Meachum, were staunch abolitionists who dedicated their lives to educating and freeing enslaved people. Mary, one of St. Louis’ most prominent conductors on the Underground Railroad, attempted to help a small group of enslaved people cross the Mississippi River to freedom in Illinois on the night of May 21, 1855. At least five enslaved people were caught, and Mary was arrested and charged in criminal court for assisting the “fugitives.” In 2001, the National Park Service recognized the site of the escape – which is now included in the Mississippi River Greenway – as part of the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. Every year, Great Rivers Greenway celebrates the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing with a reenactment at the site. The free event – held at the Mississippi Riverfront under the Gateway Arch – includes food, drinks, children’s activities, local artists and makers, live music from various eras and skits that showcase historical scenes from Black communities in St. Louis.
Historic Shaw Art Fair
October 10 and 11
After discovering the best of Missouri at the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consider heading to the Historic Shaw Art Fair. The beloved fine art fair returns to the intersection of Flora Place and Tower Grove Avenue and features 120 artists showcasing their ceramics, paintings, pastels, photography, sculptures, woodwork and more, while food and music supplement the art.
St. Louis VegFest
October 11
Powered by plants, St. Louis VegFest has grown to include approximately 70 vendors, expert speakers and entertainers and thousands of attendees, all advocating for a way of living that excludes animal cruelty. This year’s festival returns to the World’s Fair Pavillion in Forest Park, where you’ll enjoy “veganized” versions of non-vegan eats, yoga sessions, kid-friendly activities and learn more about the thriving vegan community in the region. St. Louis VegFest 2026 will happen rain or shine, so dress accordingly!
Wolf Fest
October 17
Party with the pack during Wolf Fest! Hosted by the Endangered Wolf Center, this annual event celebrates all things conservation, wildlife! Visit wild canids such as red wolves, Mexican wolves, painted dogs and fennec foxes during an open house-style tour before enjoying food trucks, live music and kids’ activities with the whole family. Centered around the Endangered Wolf Center’s goal to protect these special creatures, Wolf Fest is one of the best times to experience this unique attraction.
Harvest Festival at Tower Grove Park
October 18
Ring in the fall season at Tower Grove Park during the Harvest Festival. This single-day event brings together the region’s best food trucks, craft breweries, vendors and artisans for a wholesome day of immaculate fall vibes. Complete with live music and engaging activities for the whole family, Harvest Festival is a prime example of a St. Louis fall event at its best.
GalaxyCon
October 23 to 25
GalaxyCon returns to St. Louis for the ultimate three-day festival of fandom! Get ready to hang out with fellow fans at America’s Center as you celebrate your favorite comic books, anime, video games, TV, movies and more. This year’s convention features appearances from George Takei, Brian Austin Green and the cast of Twilight.
Apple Butter Festival
October 24 and 25
Nothing says fall like a homemade, decadently spiced batch of apple butter. A mutual love for this thick, caramelized applesauce is at the core of the Apple Butter Festival in Kimmswick, which attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year. Ahead of the festival, the Kimmswick Historical Society gathers to peel and prepare the apples on Friday. Then, the apples are cooked in a kettle over a wood-burning fire until the fragrant spread is thick enough to seal in jars. Come Saturday morning, visitors can enjoy the small-town ambiance, live entertainment and between 500 and 600 food, drink and craft vendors, including those selling the deliciously decadent treat. Don’t leave the festival without a jar (or two) to enjoy smeared on toast, swirled into yogurt, or added to baked goods. After one taste of the apple butter, you’ll want to stock your pantry with the indulgence.
November
St. Louis International Film Festival
November 5 to 15
Grab your popcorn and a movie-watching buddy because the St. Louis International Film Festival is returning for a landmark year. The festival, which launched back in 1992, is turning 35. This year’s theme, “Declaration of Independents,” is a celebration of the passion, blood, sweat and tears required to get an independent film off the ground and onto the big screen. In addition to the films that best exemplify this idea, SLIFF is also taking a walk down memory lane by highlighting special moments and archival gems from the festival over the past 35 years.
Free 4 All STL
November 6 to 8
After a successful inaugural year hosted at Grand Center, Free 4 All music showcase is back for year two – with a few changes. The showcase’s 2025 iteration saw 100 diverse local musical acts command nine stages over the course of two days. While the number of acts and locations are staying the same, organizers have opted for a smaller pre-show at The Key STL on Friday Nov. 6; an all-day performance marathon on Nov. 7, featuring the bulk of the acts; and a matinee wrap-up show at The Key STL on Nov. 8. Free to attend and perfect for diehard music appreciators, Free 4 All is a vibrant reflection of the city’s diverse music scene and endlessly talented creatives.
Laumeier After Dark
November 7
For one night only, Laumeier Sculpture Park comes alive at nighttime. Laumeir After Dark gives the public a unique opportunity to explore Laumeier Sculpture Park after sundown. The annual event features illuminations of the sculpture park’s most iconic pieces, as well as temporary installations that add to the evening’s ambiance. Laumeier After Dark also includes a night market with local makers, food and beverage vendors and live music.
Cherokee Street Jazz Crawl
November 7
The first Saturday in November can only mean one thing: the return of the Cherokee Street Jazz Crawl. This event is designed to have you dancing in the street, with music at every turn. The vibrant celebration features free music sets from morning to happy hour and a ticketed Jazz Crawl Finale to cap off the night. Other highlights include a second line parade and dance lessons at Love Bank Park.
St. Louis Storytelling Festival
November 8 to 15
Experience the expansive history of storytelling during the 47th annual St. Louis Storytelling Festival. This free event, hosted by the St. Louis County Library, is rich in programming focused on the breadth of storytelling devices, history and genres including international folktales, live music-infused storytelling, and compelling personal narratives that celebrate our shared human experience. The festival also includes a stacked lineup of storytellers seeking connection and truth by way of poetry, spoken word, song, American Sign Language and more.
Flyover Comedy Festival
November 11 to 15
It’s time for a comedy invasion. Flyover Comedy Festival is back for another four days of laughs across 12 stages with more than 150 comedians performing at more than 50 shows and parties. This year, national headliners, regional standouts and rising locals will fill venues from Stifel Theatre to The Duck Room and Fitz’s to The Pageant, showcasing the best in comedy and proving that “flyover country” brings the funny.
December
Print Bazaar on Cherokee Street
December 5
In search of a new print? Look no further than the Print Bazaar on Cherokee Street. One of the largest print sales in the Midwest, the annual event showcases more than 100 local and regional artists whose work embodies the ever-evolving creative energy of the neighborhood. Expect everything from lithographs to woodcuts and etchings to screen prints. Add a cup of hot coffee or a tasty taco and this might become a new tradition for you.
Missouri Bridal & Wedding Expo
December 13
Calling all brides, grooms and bridal industry pros! The Missouri Bridal & Wedding Expo returns to America’s Center Convention Complex on Dec. 13. The convention features everything you need as you begin your journey to “I do,” including an amazing selection of wedding professionals who can help you find the perfect gown, reception venue, invitations, photographer, music, menu, honeymoon destination and so much more.
